Autumn is a wonderful time to visit the Smoky Mountains. The green leaves are transitioning into vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows; and the clean, crisp mornings add a little pep to your step each day.
There is no shortage of seasonal activities around the area during the fall months. While you’re enjoying the gorgeous changing weather, be sure to check out one of these fun autumn events.
Dollywood’s Harvest Festival
USA Today’s readers voted Dollywood’s Harvest Festival as America’s #1 Fall Family Event!
You’ll be amazed by their colossal pumpkins, which weigh anywhere from 800-1,500 pounds. Take pictures by the 40 ft. tall pumpkin tree or the beautiful sunflowers in Wildwood Grove.
And be sure to check out Great Pumpkin LumiNights- At night, the park transforms into a glowing, fall wonderland. What a unique experience! Be sure to check out this exciting harvest festival Now-Oct. 30, 2022.
Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival
This 12-week fall celebration is held each year in Downtown Gatlinburg. You’ll see over-the-top autumn displays including life-size 3D scarecrow people!
The gorgeous decorations provide the perfect backdrop for fall events such as Gatlinburg’s Chili Cookoff, which is Nov. 11. Sample different kinds of delicious chili and enjoy live music. There are so many interesting things to do during the harvest festival, which runs from Sept. 16 through Nov. 21.
Autumn at Anakeesta
Visit Anakeesta from Sept. 8 through Oct. 31 for a wonderful fall experience. Featuring special events, a lush fall garden, Halloween family fun, and enhanced nighttime lighting, this fall festival is pulling out all the stops.
Enjoy live music from Corey Trio or Monroeville at Black Bear Village each day of the week. Taste a delicious fall-themed chef special or sweet treat. Or take in the autumn sights on a thrilling Chondola ride. You’ll have the time of your life!
Ober’s 12th Annual Oktoberfest
This iconic event celebrates many of the incredible traditions from the original Oktoberfest in Germany. Make time to visit from Sept. 24 through Oct. 31 for amazing, mouth-watering food including schnitzel, bratwurst, and salted pretzels.
Also enjoy German beer, Bavarian folk dances, sing-a-longs, unique souvenirs, and more when you check out Ober’s Oktoberfest.
Fall at Kyker Farms
Pumpkins, mazes, and hayrides, oh my! For an authentic farm adventure this fall, check out Kyker Farms.
This extraordinary farm offers a total of five corn mazes to keep you entertained for hours! The kids will enjoy playing in the tunnel slides and Kyker's Korn Hopper (bouncing pillow). Visit the farm Sept. 25-Oct. 31 for loads of fall fun!
Wear’s Valley Fall Festival
This one-of-a-kind fall festival takes place Oct. 15-17, and you don’t want to miss it. Sample delicious food such as grilled corn on the cob, barbecue, and gourmet candy apples. Various artisans with traditional and contemporary crafts will also be on site.
You’ll enjoy musical entertainment as well as free kid-friendly activities like games and obstacle courses. The whole family will have a blast!
Be sure to check out one (or more!) of these exciting Smoky Mountain fall festivals. With so many great seasonal activities, you’re sure to find one that the whole family will love. Happy fall!