One of the newest holiday events in the Smokies is Lights Over Gatlinburg, where Gatlinburg SkyLift Park is transformed into a winter wonderland complete with thousands of sparkling lights! This unique event is perfect for the entire family, so bring everyone from kids to grandparents to participate in this festive celebration of the holiday season! Here are the top 4 things to know about experiencing the Lights Over Gatlinburg event:
1. What to Expect
Lights Over Gatlinburg is a wonderful holiday event that takes place at Gatlinburg SkyLift Park, which is easily accessible from downtown Gatlinburg. The event features more than 40,000 twinkling lights that will brighten up the night sky, as well as a 300 foot tunnel of lights on the SkyBridge! As if that doesn’t sound impressive enough, Lights Over Gatlinburg also features a 30-foot-tall Christmas tree structure with lights animated to music! This event has quickly become the most popular holiday event in Tennessee, so be sure not to miss it during your Smoky Mountain vacation.
2. Dates, Times, and Location
The Lights Over Gatlinburg event starts in mid-November and runs daily through the end of January, giving you plenty of time to experience the gorgeous light displays! To access the event, simply take the Gatlinburg SkyLift from the heart of downtown Gatlinburg — just look for the yellow ski lift style chairs! Gatlinburg SkyLift Park is open daily from 9 AM to 10 PM, so come early to experience some of the other attractions on the mountain such as the SkyBridge and the SkyCenter.
3. Ticket Information
The awesome thing about the Lights Over Gatlinburg event is it is included with your SkyLift Park admission ticket. All SkyLift Park tickets include unlimited, all-day access to the SkyLift, SkyBridge, and SkyDeck until closing, weather permitting. You can visit during the daytime to enjoy the spectacular views of the Smokies, then you can return in the evening to experience the light displays. The tickets to Gatlinburg SkyLift Park can be purchased online or on site, and there are reduced rates for kids ages 4 to 11 and seniors 65 and over. Children who are 3 and under are admitted for free!
4. Where to Stay
Stay close to the Lights Over Gatlinburg event with a holiday getaway at our Gatlinburg hotel! Our affordable hotel is within easy walking distance to the Gatlinburg SkyLift so you don’t have to worry about the hassle of traffic and finding a parking spot in downtown Gatlinburg. We have a variety of comfortable room types to accommodate your needs, ranging from Deluxe King Rooms and Family Suites to our unique Penthouse Suites. While staying with us, enjoy amenities such as an indoor heated swimming pool, complimentary full hot breakfast, and free wireless Internet access.
Check out all of the rooms at our hotel in downtown Gatlinburg today to stay near Gatlinburg SkyLift Park, where you can enjoy the Lights Over Gatlinburg event this holiday season! We look forward to seeing you soon at the Black Bear Inn & Suites!