Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade
Spectators gather along the Parkway in downtown Gatlinburg to watch a festive procession featuring illuminated floats, balloons, and banner carriers. The event is hosted by country music artist Mark Wills and television host Nan Kelley. Viewers can watch from spots along the street or view the procession from designated grandstand bleachers.
What to Expect
Annual downtown holiday parade featuring floats, balloons, and celebrity hosts.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Gatlinburg
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
City of Gatlinburg
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and holiday parade fans
Vibe
Festive and lively
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
Free
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Public parade admission is free. Grandstand VIP seating is $50 per person and includes bleacher seating, a commemorative Santa Hat, and prime parade viewing at either traffic light #3 or the Gatlinburg Convention Center. One child under age 5 may sit on a ticket holder’s lap without a ticket. – Get tickets
- Hours: Parade: 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM; grandstand seating begins at 5:30 PM.
- Parking: The page gives no event parking instructions. Parking for strollers will not be provided in grandstand seats.
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early to claim a good spot along the Parkway route, since the parade is free and open to everyone.
- Leave the stroller in the car if you have grandstand tickets, because strollers aren't allowed in the seats and there is no stroller parking.
- Plan your drive around the afternoon lane changes on East Parkway, because traffic on the whole route shuts down before the parade begins.
- Stay aware of your surroundings in the crowd, and look for the officers and EMS posted along the route if you need help.
- Watch the TV broadcast on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day if you can't make it to Gatlinburg on parade night.
Special Events & Promotions
- Grandstand VIP seating, sold separately, includes bleacher seats, a commemorative Santa hat and viewing at traffic light #3 or the Gatlinburg Convention Center.
- This year's hosts are country artist Mark Wills and TV host Nan Kelley.
- The parade airs on TV on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day for anyone who can't make it in person.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there reserved seating?
Yes. Grandstand VIP seating is sold separately. It includes bleacher seats, a commemorative Santa hat and viewing at either traffic light #3 or the Gatlinburg Convention Center.
Can I bring a stroller or a small child to the grandstand?
Strollers aren't allowed in the grandstand, and there is no stroller parking. One child under 5 can sit on your lap without a ticket.
Which roads close for the parade?
In the afternoon, the outbound lanes of East Parkway drop to one lane for float staging. The inbound lane closes later, and then all traffic on the parade route shuts down shortly before the parade starts.
Who hosts the parade?
Grand Ole Opry member and country artist Mark Wills hosts alongside TV host and producer Nan Kelley.
How can I volunteer?
Volunteers of all ages are needed as balloon handlers, banner carriers, judges and more. Sign up through Gatlinburg's volunteer page.
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