17 of the Best Things to Do in Tennessee During the Holidays
Merry Christmas!
Tennessee becomes its own winter destination during December. The Smokies glow with millions of lights, small towns feel warmer than ever, and Nashville comes alive with concerts, Christmas pop-ups, and festive nights out.
Whether you’re planning a seasonal getaway or searching for things to do close to home, here are the best holiday experiences across the state.
1. Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas – Pigeon Forge
One of America’s most beloved Christmas festivals, Dollywood transforms into a glowing holiday village with millions of lights, seasonal shows, festive treats, and Christmas atmosphere around every corner.
2. Smoky Mountain Winterfest – Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge & Sevierville
The entire region turns into a winter wonderland with light tunnels, decorated streets, and festive displays throughout the mountains.
3. Anakeesta’s Enchanted Christmas – Gatlinburg
A mountaintop Christmas experience with fire pits, light displays, winter-themed décor, and sweeping panoramic views after dark.
4. Holiday Train Rides – Chattanooga
The Tennessee Valley Railroad’s North Pole Limited is a nostalgic Christmas ride complete with cocoa, cookies, caroling, and Santa. There are other rides available as well.
5. Opryland Hotel
This place can get pretty crowded but plan ahead and enjoy walking through this stunning venue! If you’re looking to stay for a weekend, book a room.
6. Winter Hiking & Waterfall Trails
Winter is one of Tennessee’s most underrated hiking seasons. Trails are quieter, views are clearer, and waterfalls flow strong after winter rains. Bundle up and get outdoors this season!
7. Book a Secluded Vacation Rental or Cozy Cabin
Whether you prefer a lakeside cabin near Center Hill Lake or a modern mountain retreat further east, December is perfect for slowing down.
Think: mornings by the fire, quiet woods, holiday baking, and crisp winter air.
8. Book a Nice Dinner Out
The holidays are a great time to reserve a special night out. Nashville especially shines this time of year. Consider:
Classic steakhouses
Chef-driven restaurants
Seasonal tasting menus
Holiday-decorated hotel restaurants
Pair dinner with a show or a stroll through downtown lights for a full holiday evening. You need another place to wear that holiday dress any way! Things always feel a little more glitzy this time of year.
9. Explore Nashville’s Holiday Pop-Up Bars
Nashville goes all out with Christmas pop-ups — expect over-the-top décor, themed cocktails, and festive energy. A quick online search will show you a number of bars in downtown!
10. Catch a Holiday Show in Nashville
From ballet to symphony to iconic venues, Nashville is full of holiday performances. Consider:
Nashville Ballet
Nashville Symphony
Ryman Auditorium
Seasonal performances at TPAC
11. Browse a Local Bookstore or Coffee Shop
What’s better than spending a rainy or cloudy day in a warm coffee shop sipping seasonal drinks or reading a good book in the corner of a cozy bookstore?
12. Stay in Downtown Nashville for a Festive Weekend
A holiday staycation downtown gives you walkable access to seasonal attractions:
Ice skating at Ascend Amphitheater
Holiday markets at Assembly Food Hall & the Farmer’s Market
Rooftop bars + igloos
Concerts & shows
Festive hotel lobbies
Riverfront lights
Perfect for couples, friend trips, or a quick winter reset.
13. Shop Local
There’s something special about doing your Christmas shopping close to home—where every purchase supports a small business, a local maker, or a family working hard to keep their dream alive.
From handcrafted goods and locally roasted coffee to boutique clothing and artisan home décor, browsing your favorite local shops is both meaningful and fun. Plus, exploring neighborhoods decked out in their seasonal best turns your shopping day into a holiday outing all on its own.
14. Christmas Tree Farms
There are plenty of farms around Tennessee and some offer Christmas trees! Plan a family photoshoot or go cut down your own tree - or both! A fun Christmas tradition for friends or family.
15. Go to Your Local Christmas Parade or Festival
Small-town Tennessee does Christmas right. Almost every community hosts its own parade with floats, bands, local businesses, and classic festive traditions. It’s simple, nostalgic, and genuinely heartwarming.
Holiday markets are always fun too! Shop from a number of local artists and find unique gifts! Franklin, Tennessee in particular has a very popular Christmas event.
16. Drive Thru Light Shows or Nativity Scenes
Check your local Facebook group for city or county sponsored light shows or tours. Churches also host living nativity scenes you can drive through.
17. Celebrate the Reason for the Season
And of course, celebrate Christmas and the birth of Christ! Most churches host special services during this time.
Merry Christmas!
Tennessee in the Winter
From mountaintop lights and cozy cabins to festive city nights and quiet winter hikes, Tennessee offers a surprisingly broad range of holiday experiences. Whether you’re exploring the Smokies, wandering through downtown Nashville, or finding beauty in your own hometown, the Volunteer State feels its most charming in December.