As 2025 is coming to an end, now is the time to begin planning your New Year’s Eve in the Smoky Mountains celebration! The Smoky Mountains are one of the most magical places to welcome in a brand new year. With twinkling lights, live entertainment, family-friendly attractions, all in a breathtaking mountain setting, New Year’s Eve in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge offers an unforgettable experience for all ages. Whether you want a lively countdown, a festive fireworks display or a relaxed celebration surrounded by mountain charm the Smokies deliver.
Here is your complete guide to Gatlinburg’s Annual New Year’s Eve Celebration, New Year’s at The Island in Pigeon Forge, and the Mountain Mile New Year’s Eve Celebration. These are three of the most popular ways to ring in the New Year in East Tennessee.
Gatlinburg’s Annual New Year’s Eve Celebration
One of the largest and most anticipated New Year’s events in the Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg’s Annual New Year’s Eve Celebration does not disappoint. This celebration transforms downtown Gatlinburg into a festive hub filled with music, energy, and excitement.
This special event typically features live music performances, street entertainment, and a thrilling countdown to midnight. Thousands of visitors gather near the Gatlinburg Space Needle to celebrate together, creating an electric atmosphere that is both festive and welcoming. The New York City ball drop is not the only one on New Year’s Eve. One of the biggest highlights is the iconic Gatlinburg ball drop and fireworks show. This show lights up the mountain skyline as the clock strikes midnight.
What makes the Gatlinburg New Year’s Eve celebration so special is the easy walkable layout. Guests can enjoy local restaurants like Howard’s Restaurant or Best Italian, shops, attractions, and distilleries (like Ole Smoky Moonshine, Sugarlands, and the Gatlinburg Wine Trail) throughout the evening before settling in for the countdown. While you are in the area be sure to pick up one of our Best Foods In The Smokies guides or our Spirit Trails magazine to find some of these great spots to visit.
Why it’s popular:
- Free to attend
- Live entertainment and music
- Fireworks over downtown Gatlinburg
- Festive, high-energy atmosphere
New Year’s at The Island in Pigeon Forge
If you are looking for a New Year’s Eve celebration that is in the heart of the Smoky Mountains which blends entertainment, dining, and family-friendly fun, New Year’s at the Island in Pigeon Forge is a perfect choice! The Island is known year-round for its lively atmosphere, and New Year’s Eve takes it to the next level. The celebration often includes live music, special performances, and a festive countdown centered around the Island Show Fountains and the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel. Ringing in 2026 will be no different with this year’s special performance from Emily Ann Roberts!
Emily Ann Roberts has earned millions of streams and has entertained audiences with her blend of traditional country and bluegrass. She has an amazing stage presence and has been on tour with Blake Shelton (who has the Ole Red Bar in Gatlinburg) and Cody Johnson. With Emily Ann Roberts being from East Tennessee this is a show you will not want to miss out on and the best part, it’s FREE! One of the biggest advantages of celebrating New Year’s Eve at The Island is convenience. With free parking, restaurants, shops, attractions, and entertainment all in one location this is an easy to enjoy night without extensive planning.
Why it’s popular:
- Family-friendly New Year’s Eve option
- Live music and fountain shows
- Dining and shopping in one location
- Festive but relaxed atmosphere
Mountain Mile New Year’s Eve Celebration
The Mountain Mile New Year’s Eve Celebration is one of the newer and fastest-growing events in Pigeon Forge. Known for its modern layout and wide-open spaces, Mountain Mile offers a fresh take on ringing in the New Year in the Smoky Mountains.
This celebration typically features live entertainment, special events at participating businesses, and a welcoming atmosphere that appeals to both locals and visitors. The spacious design of Mountain Mile makes it easy to move around, enjoy performances, and avoid overly crowded areas while still feeling part of the celebration.
Mountain Mile is a great choice for those who want a festive New Year’s Eve experience without the hustle of a packed downtown setting. Visitors can enjoy dining, shopping, and entertainment throughout the evening, then gather for a celebratory countdown that feels fun and comfortable.
Why it’s popular:
- Spacious, walkable venue
- Live entertainment and dining options
- Less crowded than downtown events
- Modern Smoky Mountain vibe
Start the New Year with Smoky Mountain Magic
From the excitement of Gatlinburg’s downtown celebration to the family-friendly fun at The Island and the relaxed charm of Mountain Mile, New Year’s Eve in the Smoky Mountains offers something for everyone. No matter where you choose to celebrate, you’ll be surrounded by festive lights, mountain scenery, and unforgettable memories.
Tips for Celebrating New Year’s Eve in the Smoky Mountains
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- Arrive early: Parking and crowds increase closer to midnight.
- Dress warmly: Winter temperatures can drop quickly in the mountains.
- Make dinner reservations in advance: Restaurants fill up fast on New Year’s Eve.
- Plan your lodging ahead of time: Cabins and hotels often sell out weeks in advance
- Pick up a local guide for Smoky Mountain Discounts: Best Read Guide, Best Foods in the Smokies, and Spirit Trails of the Smokies.
Check for special online discounts: with Smoky Mountain Coupons
