Illustration of Santa in a sleigh-shaped chair in a shopping arcade with a child holding a letter (The Island Tree Lighting & Winterfest Show)

The Island Tree Lighting & Winterfest Show

Visitors can wander through a 23-acre holiday destination illuminated by millions of lights and over one mile of garland. Guests can admire choreographed light shows featuring 40-foot LED trees and The Island Show Fountain, or explore a 40-foot walk-through Christmas tree. Families can also meet Santa Claus near The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel or view the holiday displays from 200 feet in the air on the observation wheel.

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Plan Your Visit

When

Tickets

Free admission. The Kick-Off concert is free. No other prices are stated.

Hours

Kick-Off on November 21: Santa photos beginning at 5 PM; free holiday concert at 7 PM; tree lighting at 8 PM. Holiday display and light show: nightly at 6 PM, 7 PM, 8 PM, and 9 PM.

Ages

All ages

Parking

Free parking is stated for The Island.

Going?

Location

The Island in Pigeon Forge · 131 The Island Drive, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families looking for a festive light display

Vibe

Bright and festive

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate

Tips & Advice

  • Check Santa’s schedule before visiting if meeting Santa is part of your plans, as photo visits are available only on select days.
  • Make time to walk through the Christmas tree display and see the lights, garland, LED trees and fountain.
  • Consider the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel for elevated views of Winterfest and the surrounding mountains.
  • If attending the November 21 Kick-Off, plan to see Santa, the holiday concert and the Christmas tree lighting.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Admission is free.
  • The Winterfest Kick-Off, with a free holiday concert and tree lighting, takes place on November 21.
  • Santa photos are available on select days, including at the November 21 Kick-Off.
  • Sign up for the monthly newsletter to receive exclusive deals and discounts.

Links & Contact

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their website.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can visitors see during Winterfest?

The display includes millions of lights, over a mile of garland, a 40-foot walk-through Christmas tree, choreographed LED trees and the Island Show Fountain.

Is Winterfest suitable for families?

Yes. The Island describes Winterfest as a family-friendly holiday event.

Can visitors meet Santa and take photos?

Santa visits on select days for photos near The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel; consult Santa’s schedule to find those dates.

Is parking available at The Island?

Yes. Parking at The Island is free.

What can visitors see from the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel?

The observation wheel offers views of Winterfest at The Island and the surrounding Great Smoky Mountains from 200 feet above.

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Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

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