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4 Things to Do in the Smoky Mountains to Celebrate the New Year

New Year's fireworks
November 25, 2025

If you have never celebrated New Year’s Eve in the Smoky Mountains, then you are missing out! Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are home to so many fun things to do throughout the entire year, and when New Year’s Eve rolls around, there are even more activities to check out. From watching the area’s ball drop and firework celebration, to participating in festivities at area attractions, and more, here are some of the top things to do in the Smoky Mountains to celebrate the New Year:

1. Head to Downtown Gatlinburg for the Ball Drop and Fireworks

If you are looking to go big with your celebration for New Year’s Eve, then you won’t want to miss the ball drop at the Gatlinburg Space Needle! The ball itself is over 15 feet tall and close to 50 feet around, with tons of LED lights; plus, the ball drop is the longest in the world at around 200 feet. As for the celebration, you will get to enjoy an illuminating drone show, as well as tons of midnight fireworks! This event is completely free and open to the public.

2. Attend NYE Lights of Wonder at the Gatlinburg SkyPark

Gatlinburg Space Needle from SkyPark

Over at the Gatlinburg SkyPark, their NYE Lights of Wonder event is a great way to check out the downtown celebration from an entirely different perspective! You can watch the firework show from the Gatlinburg SkyBridge, while also enjoying exciting activities like a silent disco at Clayton’s Landing, a selection of local brews and domestic favorites, and lots more to love. Tickets to this event also include admission to the SkyPark on January 1st.

3. Check out New Year’s Eve at The Island in Pigeon Forge

Over in Pigeon Forge, there are even more festivities to enjoy, with the New Year’s Eve Celebration at The Island in Pigeon Forge! Families can spend the day having a blast with all of the rides, attractions, and shops that The Island in Pigeon Forge is known for. Then, in the evening, there is a free concert, as well as midnight fireworks to complete this celebration. There is no admission charge for this event.

4. Relax at Your Luxurious Smoky Mountains Cabin Rental

cabin in pigeon forge with movie room

In addition to the many exciting things to do in the Smoky Mountains to celebrate the New Year, you can also have a great time at one of our luxurious cabin rentals celebrating with family, friends, or both! We offer cabins in the Smoky Mountains that go above and beyond what you would expect from your lodging, including those with incredible amenities. For instance, you can kick off the New Year with a pool party at your cabin with an indoor pool, or by watching your favorite movie in a cabin with a home theater room!

As you can see, there are plenty of great things to do in the Smoky Mountains to celebrate the New Year! If you are ready to plan your own getaway to the area to celebrate the New Year here in the Smokies, you can browse our full selection of cabin rentals in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge right here to find the perfect accommodations for you. We can’t wait to welcome you soon!

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