take a scenic drive in pigeon forge for thanksgiving
November 4, 2025

If you’re planning a Thanksgiving vacation to the mountains, you’re in luck! There is so much to do during this exciting time of year and Pigeon Forge is booming with entertainment! From one-of-a-kind festivals to delicious meals and gorgeous views, it’s hard to beat the Smokies during this season. Here are 5 unique things to do in Pigeon Forge for Thanksgiving:

1. Attend a Seasonal Pigeon Forge Show

Known for all the award-winning shows, Pigeon Forge is a great place for entertainment on the stage. From singing and dancing to comedies and magic shows, there is something for everyone in Pigeon Forge for Thanksgiving. During the fall and winter months, Pigeon Forge theaters host a plethora of fun, seasonal shows that are loved by locals and visitors alike. Check out the Christmas Show at Country Tonite or head into Dollywood for all the Smoky Mountain Christmas festivities.

2. Enjoy a Smokies Thanksgiving Dinner

pigeon forge for thanksgiving meal

Believe it or not, there are tons of Smoky Mountain restaurants open on Thanksgiving Day! From pizza to seafood, you can get just about anything you’re craving. There are also restaurants that prepare special Thanksgiving dishes for their holiday customers. While you’re in Pigeon Forge, visit places like Calhoun’s, J.T. Hannah’s, the Old Mill Restaurant and more to enjoy a mouth watering meal. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional turkey and stuffing or you feel like branching out, these restaurants will have what you’re looking for.

3. Explore Winterfest

One of the most unique things to do in Pigeon Forge for Thanksgiving or the holidays is explore all that Winterfest has to offer! As you make your way into Pigeon Forge, you’ll notice all the holiday lights strung throughout the Parkway. With over 5 million of these LED lights bringing the Smokies alive at night, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a winter wonderland! In addition to the twinkling lights, there are also various events happening throughout Pigeon Forge, including Winterfest at The Island. Here, you can enjoy a choreographed light and fountain show and have the chance to meet Santa himself!

4. Watch Your Favorite Holiday Movies

watch a movie in your cabin in pigeon forge for thanksgiving

After a day of exploring Winterfest and all the other excitement in the Smokies, you may want to have a peaceful evening in your cabin in Pigeon Forge for Thanksgiving. Luckily for you, our Pigeon Forge cabins offer quality amenities that we know you’ll love, including home theaters. When you stay in a cabin with your own theater, you can spend an afternoon kicking back enjoying your favorite holiday films. Grab some popcorn or Thanksgiving leftovers and get cozy as you watch your movies on the big screen.

5. Take a Fall Hike

As November draws to a close, the last of the beautiful fall leaves will have changed and will begin to fall in preparation for winter. This is a great time to venture into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and enjoy a crisp fall hike! There are plenty of trails that offer great views to the remainder of the colors of the Smokies, including Mount LeConte and Chimney Tops.

Plan Your Stay in Pigeon Forge for Thanksgiving

Now that you know about a few of the unique things to do in Pigeon Forge for Thanksgiving holiday, you can begin planning your trip. Are you looking to save a little bit of money on your holiday activities? Check out our discounted tickets to a few of these places and stay entertained at a reasonable price!