Thanksgiving In The Smokies - 2007

Families and Thanksgiving celebrations go hand-in-hand, and you won't find a better place to relax and enjoy some quality time with your loved ones than the Smoky Mountains.

To get an authentic connection to the wooded, mountainous beauty of the Smokies, you'll find that a cabin retreat is the ideal accommodation that affords all the comfort and privacy you could want, and a fully-equipped kitchen to boot! But while you're waiting for that 20 pound turkey to thaw, why not take advantage of the local holiday activities?

The areas in and around the Smokies (Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg) are bustling around Thanksgiving, and whether you're looking for shows, crafts, or a fun-filled trolley ride around town, your family will have plenty to do to get everyone into the holiday mood!

November 7- 18th - Annual Winterfest Kickoff & Chili Cookoff - The City of Gatlinburg kicks off Smoky Mountain Winterfest by turning on over three million Gatlinburg Winter Magic lights including new displays making their debut in 2007. For a small donation, sample chili recipes from local restaurants and businesses and vote for your favorite. Event includes live entertainment and a magnificent fireworks display. Downtown Gatlinburg ($)

November 7 to 30 - 18th Annual Gatlinburg Winterfest featuring Gatlinburg Winter Magic - The City of Gatlinburg magically lights up the winter nights with over three million spectacular lights.

November 7 to 30 - Gatlinburg Winter Magic Trolley Ride of Lights - Enjoy a guided trolley tour of Gatlinburg's spectacular Gatlinburg Winter Magic lighting displays. Departure is from the Ripley's Aquarium Trolley Station. Group reservations are available. Trolley leaves at 6:30, 7:30 and 8:30. (GSE) Tickets on sale October 15 ($)

November 11 – Veteran's Day Celebration – Join the City of Gatlinburg in saluting the men and women of America who have served in our Armed Forces. Program includes stirring musical tributes, ceremonial words & recognition of Veterans in attendance.Ripley's Aquarium Plaza.

November 20 to 25 - The Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community Thanksgiving Show is being held at the Gatlinburg Convention Center. Since admission is free, you'll definitely want to stop by and view the handmade crafts and beautiful displays.

November 23 & 24 - The Nutcracker "Sweet"- Presented by the Smoky Mountain Dance Theater Company, enjoy this holiday classic presented in Gatlinburg. 7 p.m. in the W.L. Mills Auditorium. Call (865) 453-9702 for information and reservations.

November 23 & 24 - Gatlinburg's Festival of Trees - Dozens upon dozens of ornately decorated Christmas trees await visitors in this winter wonderland at Gatlinburg Convention Center's W.L. Mills Conference Center.

Gatlinburg , Smoky Mountains