Gatlinburg kicked off the holiday season on November 7th by switching on the millions of LED lights which brighten the city each year with holiday cheer. The streets sparkle and shops smell of cinnamon, spruce and spices as Thanksgiving and Christmas are on their way. As always, Gatlinburg will celebrate in a big way. It is a really warm and inviting place to be during the holidays!
Lighted displays throughout the city will feature foxes, deer, dancing snowmen, fountains, a rocking horse, happy children, candles, Christmas trees and more. All of the lights in the more than $1.6 million custom display have been converted to LED, so the display is both crisp and energy efficient. Guests and locals will enjoy beloved characters as well as interesting new displays. The holiday lights are really fun and magical, and they are a great way to spend some time in the Smokies.
While you could walk or drive, Gatlinburg’s Trolley Ride of Lights is the perfect way to enjoy this beautiful display. You won’t have to bother with traffic and you’ll get around much more quickly and comfortably in the trolley. For only $5, you can enjoy a lovely ride through downtown Gatlinburg and along the adjacent Highway 321. Simply sit back, relax and watch the lights pass by.
Rides for the Gatlinburg Trolley Ride of Lights begin at 6:30, 7:30 and 8:30 pm each night during the Smoky Mountain Winterfest. Each night through December 30th, guests can ride the trolley. Exceptions include December 7th, which is the night of the city’s annual Christmas parade, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. During the month of January, trolley rides are available on Saturdays.
All trolley rides depart from the City of Gatlinburg’s mass transit center located at Traffic Light #5 next to Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies (88 River Road). Excursions often sell out, so it’s a good idea to make reservations ahead of time. These can be made online at the gatlinburg.com website. You can also get more information on the Trolley Ride of Lights by calling 865.277.8222.