I love everything about Christmas, from the pumpkin recipes, cinnamon candles, and hot apple cider to the holiday music, green and gold paper and bows, and newly-fallen snow. But probably my favorite part of the holidays (other than spending time with family, of course) is the Christmas trees! I completely melt for the glittering lights, shiny glass ornaments, and the intoxicating smell of pine and fir needles.
The tradition in my home is to watch our favorite Christmas movie (Elf) and drink hot chocolate with tons of mini marshmallows as we decorate our tree! And while it’s always fun to decorate our own tree and create our own memories at home, I always love seeing how others have decorated theirs. Gatlinburg’s Festival of Trees is just the event for seeing a huge variety of Christmas trees, with decorations ranging from traditional to quirky.
Held at the Gatlinburg Convention Center this November, this Gatlinburg event is the perfect family outing for the holidays. Step inside the Festival of Trees to experience the magic of Christmas all around you. The event is a showcase of hundreds of festive Christmas trees, along
with a celebration of the holidays. Enjoy the sounds and smells of the holidays, enter the gingerbread contest, pick up beautiful handmade holiday gifts and décor, and dress up like a Christmas present in front of your favorite tree!
People of all ages will love browsing and playing at this FREE (entrance by donation) Gatlinburg event. And best of all, it’s for a great cause! All proceeds from Gatlinburg’s Festival of Trees benefit the Smoky Mountain Area Rescue Ministries. If you want to do more than just browse, download the sign-up form to participate in the Gingerbread House Competition. It will be fun for the family to put together, and houses can even be donated to help the cause. Another fun event at the Festival of Trees is the Send Out Cards. Guests can have a family or group photo taken, create customized cards, and send them for holiday cards and workplace greetings!
Schedule of Events
Gatlinburg’s Festival of Trees
November 25 – 29
Wednesday & Thursday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Friday & Saturday from 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Family and Friends Night
Tuesday, November 25 from 5 – 7 p.m.
- Gingerbread house judging
- Silent auction
Business after Hours
Tuesday, November 25 at 7 p.m.
- Pictures with Santa
- Send-out cards booth
Dot Egle Festival of Trees Luncheon
Tuesday, November 25 at 11:30 a.m.
Tickets: $25
- Gifts for attendees
- Door prizes
- Fashion show