Festival of Lights at SkyLand Ranch
A Mountaintop Christmas Light Experience
SkyLand Ranch’s Festival of Lights brings the Christmas magic high above the Pigeon Forge Parkway. Take the open-air gondola to the mountaintop and explore more than 100 dazzling light displays, a magical light arch walkway, a holiday projection show, character meet-and-greets, seasonal treats, and panoramic views over the entire Smokies winter light display.
One of the most unique Christmas outings in the Smokies — easy from Smith Creek Resort.
Who It’s For: Families, couples, kids, photographers, and anyone wanting a memorable mountaintop holiday experience.
What to Expect: 100+ light displays, light arch walkway, holiday projection show, character meet-and-greets, mountaintop views, hot cocoa, and gondola rides included with admission.
Do’s: Dress warmly (the mountaintop is colder than the Parkway), book gondola tickets online for guaranteed entry, and arrive after sunset for full light effect.
Don’ts: Don’t expect a heated venue — most of the experience is outdoors. Don’t bring large strollers (gondola access is limited).
Information
Date and Timings
- Start Date: November 6, 2026
End Date: January 1, 2027
Hours: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM Nightly
What to Know
- Type of Experience: Mountaintop Christmas light walk, gondola attraction.
- Fun Fact: The Festival of Lights at SkyLand Ranch offers some of the best aerial views of the entire Smokies Winterfest light display from the gondola ride up — a perspective most visitors never see.
