Fall Events & Festivals in the Smoky Mountains - 2026 Guide

Autumn in the Smokies is one of the most magical times of year to visit East Tennessee. From vibrant fall foliage to seasonal festivals, family-friendly activities, and harvest celebrations, there is something for every type of traveler.
Below is your 2026 guide to fall events in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, Townsend, and the surrounding Smoky Mountains.

🍂 Dollywood Harvest Festival

September 14 - October 31, 2026
Official Website: https://www.dollywood.com/themepark/Festivals/Harvest-Festival

One of the Smokies’ most iconic fall celebrations, Dollywood’s Harvest Festival transforms the park into an autumn wonderland.
Highlights include:

Great Pumpkin LumiNights with glowing pumpkin displays
Live bluegrass and gospel performances
Seasonal food and harvest-inspired treats
Thousands of pumpkins and fall décor throughout the park

This is one of the most popular fall events in the region, so plan ahead.

🍁 The Island in Pigeon Forge Fall Festival

Late September - October 2026
Official Website: https://islandinpigeonforge.com/events/

The Island celebrates fall with:

Seasonal decorations
Live music in the evenings
Fall food specials
Family-friendly atmosphere

Admission is free, making this a perfect casual evening outing during your cabin stay.

🍂 Anakeesta Bear-Varian Fall Festival

Late August - Early November 2026
Official Website: https://anakeesta.com

Anakeesta’s fall celebration features:

Pumpkin displays throughout Vista Gardens
Scenic mountain views with fall foliage
Seasonal food and drink options
Evening lighting displays

This mountaintop park offers some of the most beautiful autumn views in Gatlinburg.

🛍️ Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair

October 8 - 28, 2026
Location: Gatlinburg Convention Center
Official Website: https://www.craftsmenfair.com
This long-running event features:

Over 180 booths of handmade arts and crafts
Live artisan demonstrations
Unique shopping for gifts and home décor

It is one of the largest and most respected craft fairs in the Southeast.

🌽 Kyker Farms Corn Maze

Late September - October 2026
Official Website: https://kykerfarms.com
Located in Sevierville, Kyker Farms offers classic fall fun:

Corn maze
Pumpkin patch
Hayrides
Farm activities for kids
Seasonal treats

This is a favorite for families visiting the Smokies in the fall.

🥃 Townsend Grains & Grits Festival

November 7, 2026
Official Website: https://www.grainsandgritsfest.com
Held near the quieter side of the Smokies in Townsend, this 21+ event features:

Southern-inspired gourmet dishes
Regional spirits and craft beverages
Live music

It is a perfect late-fall experience for couples and food lovers.

🍁 Fall Foliage in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Official Park Website: https://www.nps.gov/grsm

Peak fall color in the Smokies typically runs from mid-October through early November, depending on elevation.
Best scenic drives include:

Newfound Gap Road
Cades Cove Loop Road
Foothills Parkway

Higher elevations change first, with lower elevations peaking later in the season.

Tips for Visiting the Smoky Mountains in Fall 2026

Book cabins early - October weekends sell out quickly
Pack layers - mountain temperatures vary throughout the day
Plan weekday visits for popular attractions if possible
Allow extra time for scenic drives during peak foliage

Plan Your Fall Cabin Stay

Fall is one of the most popular seasons to visit the Smoky Mountains. After enjoying festivals and scenic drives, return to your private cabin to relax in a hot tub, gather around a fire pit, or take in mountain views.
For more seasonal planning ideas, explore:

Fall Events & Festivals in the Smoky Mountains - 2026