Millions of lights. Custom decorations. More than a mile of garland. Endless entertainment.

Winterfest at The Island in Pigeon Forge is unlike any experience in the Smokies with millions of lights, our 23-acre property lights up as the sun goes down to create a holiday ambiance you’re sure to love.

Tree Lighting With Paula Deen: Join us on Saturday, November 18, 2023 for an evening of music, lights and memories! Be ready at 6:00 pm to kick-off The Island’s Winterfest Show. As a bonus for 2023, special guests Paula Deen and Santa Claus will be on hand to flip the ceremonial switch and formally kick off the holiday season!

Live Music & More: The 2023 Winterfest event will be an evening packed full of activity, including a special performance by Stephen Goff and the Royals and other exciting surprises. As in past years, the evening will be highlighted by the lighting of The Island’s 40-foot, walk-through Christmas tree.

We’re very happy to host another exciting Winterfest event this year. Having Paula Deen and Santa on-hand to help ring in the season this year is a great addition to the evening’s festivities, and we’re looking forward to seeing Island guests having a great time as we move into this wonderful time of year!David Wear, Chief Operations Officer for The Island

Photos With Santa: In addition to the tree lighting and live entertainment, Island guests will have the opportunity to capture a photo with Santa between 5:00 and 10:00 pm, and he will be in his workshop several other dates in November and December for photo ops as well. All rides, shops, and restaurants on The Island will be open for guest enjoyment. There is no fee for parking, with tram service running from the parking lot on The Island Drive at regular intervals, and there is no cost to attend.

Fountain Show: The Island’s multi-million dollar fountain is choreographed with three 40-foot high, LED Christmas Trees to create a show that you are sure to love! The exciting Winterfest at The Island Show will continue to play every evening at 6:00 pm, 7:00 pm, 8:00 pm and 9:00 pm through Friday, January 5, 2024. Be sure to make plans to see this exciting Winterfest show at The Island in Pigeon Forge.