Who says Christmas can’t come early?
Join the residents of Gatlinburg as they celebrate a tradition 30 years in the making. Known as the Festival of Trees, this delightful celebration of all things Christmas warms the hearts of everyone that comes. This year, Hospitality Solutions sponsors the wonderful event yet again, enthusiastically aiding the festival in its preparations for the holiday spirit.
To make the celebration even more magical, the Gatlinburg Festival of Trees donates all of its proceeds to the Boys & Girls Club of the Smoky Mountains. Founded in 1989 with only one branch in Knoxville, TN, it quickly expanded to the now over 1,600 branches that are a part of it today. At these wonderful sites, kids are treated to customized programs specifically designed to aid in the safe and positive growth of the community’s children.
The event kicks off with Candy Canes & Cocktails on November 22 complete with a silent auction. Following this, Santa makes his appearance a few days later on November 25. During this, kids are invited to come and have their pictures taken with Jolly Old St. Nick. Luckily, though, if Friday is busy, Santa is at the event for an extended stay. Picture times will continue through Sunday. If, however, you’re hoping for a much more one on one time with the jolly old elf, there is a Santa breakfast the morning of November 26. Be sure to act fast, though, as it is a ticketed event with limited seating.
Beyond Santa is a collection of festivities for those of all ages. Children can enjoy a themed craft area as well as entertainment geared for them throughout the week. For the older visitors, the conference center is adorned with countless Christmas trees all decorated in different ways to celebrate the season. Tour the myriad of evergreens with the sounds of the season surrounding you, including local musicians invited in to both sing and play holiday favorites.
Enjoy Gatlinburg in all of its holiday splendor at the Festival of Trees. Free for all to attend, there’s no better way to invite the holiday spirit into your heart as we get closer to another Christmas. Fun, festive and for a great cause, nothing speaks to the spirit of Gatlinburg more so than the Festival of Trees.
When: November 23 – 27th
Wednesday – Saturday: 10 am – 7 pm
Sunday: 12 pm – 5 pm
Where: W. L. Mills Conference Center, Stoplight #8
Historic Nature Trail, Gatlinburg, TN
Price: Free