Santa in the Smokies
Visitors gather around the cozy first-floor hearth for a festive Christmas book reading with Santa. Families can meet Santa by the fire to capture their own holiday pictures and craft ornaments to take home or display on the store tree. Guests can also browse seasonal shopping specials featuring outdoor brands, local crafts, and toys.
What to Expect
Free photos and cozy story time with Santa by the fireplace.
Event Details
Duration
Each family gets 5 minutes with Santa for photos.
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Nantahala Outdoor Center
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with children
Vibe
Festive and cozy
Energy Level
Low
Budget
Free
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
None
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Free photos with Santa.
- Hours: Event listing: 12:00 PM–4:00 PM; holiday shopping specials: all day; story time with Santa: 12pm; ornament decorating: 12–4pm; free photos with Santa: 12:15–4pm.
Tips & Advice
- Bring a personal phone or camera, since NOC does not provide a photographer for Santa photos.
- Keep photo poses simple because each family has five minutes with Santa to take their own pictures.
- Arrive in time for the noon story reading if your family wants to hear Santa read by the fire.
- Visit between noon and 4 p.m. to decorate an ornament, and decide whether to take it home or hang it on the tree.
- Browse the store during the event day to take advantage of the all-day holiday shopping specials.
Special Events & Promotions
- Holiday shopping specials are available all day on the event day.
- Story time with Santa takes place on the event day.
- Ornament decorating is available on the event day.
- Free photos with Santa are available on the event day.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Santa in the Smokies for?
It is a family-friendly event for children and families.
What activities are available?
There is story time with Santa, ornament decorating, photos with Santa, and holiday shopping specials.
What should I bring for Santa photos?
Bring your own phone or camera; NOC does not provide a photographer. Each family has five minutes with Santa.
Can I decorate an ornament to take home?
Yes. Decorate an ornament to hang on the NOC Gatlinburg tree or take home.
What can I find in the holiday shopping specials?
The store features outdoor brands, local crafts, and toys.
More Christmas Events near Maryville
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.