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.
Top Fall Festivals in the Smoky Mountains
Dollywood’s Harvest Festival
USA Today’s readers voted Dollywood’s Harvest Festival as America’s #1 Fall Family Event! Dollywood transforms into a fall wonderland during the Harvest Festival. Think colossal pumpkins, weighing anywhere from 800 to 1,500 pounds, placed all over the theme park. Take pictures by the 40-foot-tall pumpkin tree or the beautiful sunflowers in Wildwood Grove. During the daytime, live entertainment is provided by Southern gospel, country, and bluegrass performers. And don't miss the Great Pumpkin LumiNights, when the park transforms with thousands of glowing pumpkins that will delight visitors of all ages.
Dollywood's Harvest Festival Dates: September 14 - October 21, 2026
Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival
This 12-week fall celebration is held each year in Downtown Gatlinburg and celebrates all things fall! You’ll see over-the-top autumn displays, including life-size 3D scarecrow people as part of the Scarecrow Scavenger Hunt. The gorgeous decorations provide the perfect backdrop for fall events such as Gatlinburg’s Chili Cookoff, which is Nov. 12. 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 mid-September through late November.
Autumn at Anakeesta
Visit Anakeesta from Sept. 8 through Nov. 1 for a wonderful fall experience. Anakeesta sits 600 feet above downtown, giving you one of the best vantage points of fall colors across Gatlinburg. The Anakeesta Bear-Varian Fall Festival transforms the village with a Bavarian twist! Snack on smoked pork and soft pretzels while listening to polka music as you walk through Black Bear Village. Featuring special events, a lush fall garden, Halloween family fun, and enhanced nighttime lighting, this fall festival is pulling out all the stops.
Wear’s Valley Fall Festival
Fall awaits in Wears Valley! This one-of-a-kind fall festival takes place October 16-18 and is a weekend filled with artisan crafts, autumn joy, live music, and spectacular mountain views. Explore 16 acres of unique handmade treasures great for holiday shopping or treating yourself. Dance along to regional performers and indulge in fall treats and Southern classic comfort food. There is so much to do for all ages so everyone in the family is sure to have a great time!
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. 25 through Nov. 1 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. 26-Oct. 31 for loads of fall fun!
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!