Gatlinburg East / Smoky Mountain KOA Holiday

The Mountain Music Festival

Starts: 08/21/2026 - Ends: 08/23/2026

The Mountain Music Festival in Gatlinburg, Tennessee is a high-energy three-day rock-and-roll celebration held at the Gatlinburg Convention Center and throughout the scenic Smoky Mountains region. Previously known as Monsters on the Mountain, the event features multiple stages, rock bands from across the spectrum of hard rock and metal, and a lively festival atmosphere. Attendees can expect large-scale concerts, a vendor marketplace themed around rock culture, VIP access options, and immersive experiences tailored to music fans who want more than just a show — it's a full weekend getaway in the mountains.

Gatlinburg Farmers Market

Starts: 05/16/2026 - Ends: 10/17/2026

Offering a taste of healthy mountain living, the Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., May through October, at 1222 East Parkway across from Food City.Featuring a variety of local producers, the market focuses on fresh, seasonal produce and handcrafted goods, all set in a welcoming, community-centered atmosphere.

Oktoberfest at Ober

Starts: 10/01/2026 - Ends: 11/01/2026

Experience the ultimate Oktoberfest in Gatlinburg at Ober Gatlinburg—home of the Original Oktoberfest celebration in the Great Smoky Mountains. This must-visit fall festival returns October 1 through November 1, 2026, bringing authentic Bavarian tradition to one of Tennessee's top mountain destinations.Celebrate Oktoberfest in Gatlinburg with festive blue-and-white décor, vibrant fall foliage, and picture-perfect photo ops throughout the resort. Guests can enjoy live Oktoberfest bands on the outdoor stage, along with crowd-favorite stein-holding competitions that capture the spirit of a true Bavarian celebration.Take in breathtaking Smoky Mountain views from the mountaintop biergarten while sampling a curated selection of German beers from Yee-Haw Brewing Company. Pair your drinks with classic Oktoberfest food favorites like chicken schnitzel, bratwurst, turkey legs, and oversized pretzels. Don't miss seasonal desserts, including apple strudel, pumpkin fudge, and other sweet fall treats.Plan your fall getaway around Oktoberfest in Gatlinburg and discover why Ober Gatlinburg remains one of the top Oktoberfest festivals in Tennessee.

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Smoky Mountain Sunrise

Starts: 10/03/2026 - Ends: 10/31/2026

Experience the best sunrise in Gatlinburg with a Sunrise Event at Gatlinburg SkyPark. Ticketed guests enjoy early access to the Gatlinburg SkyLift before dawn, ascending to breathtaking panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains and the city below.This exclusive Gatlinburg sunrise experience includes live music and a light breakfast featuring breakfast burritos, danishes, hashbrowns, coffee, tea, apple juice, and orange juice—plus a souvenir mug to take home. Your ticket also provides full-day access to top SkyPark attractions, including the Gatlinburg SkyBridge, SkyDeck, SkyTrail, SkyCenter, and Tulip Tower.Perfect for photography, special occasions, and proposals, this is widely considered one of the top things to do in Gatlinburg at sunrise. Tickets are limited and must be purchased online in advance. Enjoy the flexibility of all-day admission with the ability to leave and re-enter the park throughout operating hours.

(Week 3) Four Halloween Weekends, Four Chapters, 1 Legend

Starts: 10/23/2026 - Ends: 10/25/2026

Four weekends. Four Chapters. One unforgettable Halloween adventure.This October, the shadows grow longer, the campfires burn brighter, and the mysteries of the Smokies awaken. Join us at Gatlinburg Smoky Mountain KOA for an epic four-week Halloween journey where each Friday unveils a brand-new chapter in an interactive story unlike anything you've experienced before.Our adventure continues October 23rd–25th with "Ghosts Warn Campers" Search for legendary artifacts, solve clues, play themed games, and become part of the unfolding story as you help uncover the secrets hidden within the shadows.At the Camp Store, every adventurer can pick up an official Halloween Passport. Throughout the month, complete challenges, participate in activities, and collect stamps as you progress through each chapter. Finish a weekend's quest to earn a commemorative certificate, and complete all four adventures to become a true Guardian of the Smokies.But an even greater mystery watches from the darkness.For generations, the legend of the Wampus Cat has been passed down through Cherokee folklore. Known as the mysterious guardian of the forest, she is said to roam beneath ancient trees where the oldest secrets of the Smokies are kept. When twilight swallows the mountain ridges and moonlight paints the water like liquid silver, some claim to see her glowing eyes peering from the shadows.As each weekend passes, the story will draw you deeper into the mystery. The spirits of Shadow Creek, forgotten relics, and ancient legends all seem connected to a force hidden within the mountains themselves. With every clue uncovered and every challenge completed, you'll move one step closer to the truth.Will the Wampus Cat remain hidden among the ancient trees?Or by the fourth and final weekend, will she finally reveal herself?Gather your family, decorate your campsite, and prepare for a month filled with mystery, adventure, legends, and Halloween magic.The mountains are calling. The shadows are stirring. The adventure begins this October at Gatlinburg Smoky Mountain KOA.Do you dare answer the call?

(Week 4) Four Halloween Weekends, Four Chapters, 1 Legend

Starts: 10/30/2026 - Ends: 11/01/2026

Four weekends. Four Chapters. One unforgettable Halloween adventure.This October, the shadows grow longer, the campfires burn brighter, and the mysteries of the Smokies awaken. Join us at Gatlinburg Smoky Mountain KOA for an epic four-week Halloween journey where each Friday unveils a brand-new chapter in an interactive story unlike anything you've experienced before.Our adventure comes to the finale October 30th–1st with "The Halloween Finale" Search for legendary artifacts, solve clues, play themed games, and become part of the unfolding story as you help uncover the secrets hidden within the shadows.At the Camp Store, every adventurer can pick up an official Halloween Passport. Throughout the month, complete challenges, participate in activities, and collect stamps as you progress through each chapter. Finish a weekend's quest to earn a commemorative certificate, and complete all four adventures to become a true Guardian of the Smokies.But an even greater mystery watches from the darkness.For generations, the legend of the Wampus Cat has been passed down through Cherokee folklore. Known as the mysterious guardian of the forest, she is said to roam beneath ancient trees where the oldest secrets of the Smokies are kept. When twilight swallows the mountain ridges and moonlight paints the water like liquid silver, some claim to see her glowing eyes peering from the shadows.As each weekend passes, the story will draw you deeper into the mystery. The spirits of Shadow Creek, forgotten relics, and ancient legends all seem connected to a force hidden within the mountains themselves. With every clue uncovered and every challenge completed, you'll move one step closer to the truth.Will the Wampus Cat remain hidden among the ancient trees?Or by the fourth and final weekend, will she finally reveal herself?Gather your family, decorate your campsite, and prepare for a month filled with mystery, adventure, legends, and Halloween magic.The mountains are calling. The shadows are stirring. The adventure begins this October at Gatlinburg Smoky Mountain KOA.Do you dare answer the call?

(Week 2) Four Halloween Weekends, Four Chapters, 1 Legend

Starts: 10/16/2026 - Ends: 10/18/2026

Four weekends. Four Chapters. One unforgettable Halloween adventure.This October, the shadows grow longer, the campfires burn brighter, and the mysteries of the Smokies awaken. Join us at Gatlinburg Smoky Mountain KOA for an epic four-week Halloween journey where each Friday unveils a brand-new chapter in an interactive story unlike anything you've experienced before.Our adventure continues October 16th–18th with "Witches & Warlocks of the Smokies" Search for legendary artifacts, solve clues, play themed games, and become part of the unfolding story as you help uncover the secrets hidden within the shadows.At the Camp Store, every adventurer can pick up an official Halloween Passport. Throughout the month, complete challenges, participate in activities, and collect stamps as you progress through each chapter. Finish a weekend's quest to earn a commemorative certificate, and complete all four adventures to become a true Guardian of the Smokies.But an even greater mystery watches from the darkness.For generations, the legend of the Wampus Cat has been passed down through Cherokee folklore. Known as the mysterious guardian of the forest, she is said to roam beneath ancient trees where the oldest secrets of the Smokies are kept. When twilight swallows the mountain ridges and moonlight paints the water like liquid silver, some claim to see her glowing eyes peering from the shadows.As each weekend passes, the story will draw you deeper into the mystery. The spirits of Shadow Creek, forgotten relics, and ancient legends all seem connected to a force hidden within the mountains themselves. With every clue uncovered and every challenge completed, you'll move one step closer to the truth.Will the Wampus Cat remain hidden among the ancient trees?Or by the fourth and final weekend, will she finally reveal herself?Gather your family, decorate your campsite, and prepare for a month filled with mystery, adventure, legends, and Halloween magic.The mountains are calling. The shadows are stirring. The adventure begins this October at Gatlinburg Smoky Mountain KOA.Do you dare answer the call?

(Week 1) Four Halloween Weekends, Four Chapters, 1 Legend

Starts: 10/09/2026 - Ends: 10/11/2026

Four weekends. Four Chapters. One unforgettable Halloween adventure.This October, the shadows grow longer, the campfires burn brighter, and the mysteries of the Smokies awaken. Join us at Gatlinburg Smoky Mountain KOA for an epic four-week Halloween journey where each Friday unveils a brand-new chapter in an interactive story unlike anything you've experienced before.Our adventure begins October 9th–11th with "The Dead Rise From Shadow Creek." Strange happenings have been reported near the creek, and whispers of long-forgotten spirits echo through the mountains. Search for legendary artifacts, solve clues, play themed games, and become part of the unfolding story as you help uncover the secrets hidden within the shadows.At the Camp Store, every adventurer can pick up an official Halloween Passport. Throughout the month, complete challenges, participate in activities, and collect stamps as you progress through each chapter. Finish a weekend's quest to earn a commemorative certificate, and complete all four adventures to become a true Guardian of the Smokies.But an even greater mystery watches from the darkness.For generations, the legend of the Wampus Cat has been passed down through Cherokee folklore. Known as the mysterious guardian of the forest, she is said to roam beneath ancient trees where the oldest secrets of the Smokies are kept. When twilight swallows the mountain ridges and moonlight paints the water like liquid silver, some claim to see her glowing eyes peering from the shadows.As each weekend passes, the story will draw you deeper into the mystery. The spirits of Shadow Creek, forgotten relics, and ancient legends all seem connected to a force hidden within the mountains themselves. With every clue uncovered and every challenge completed, you'll move one step closer to the truth.Will the Wampus Cat remain hidden among the ancient trees?Or by the fourth and final weekend, will she finally reveal herself?Gather your family, decorate your campsite, and prepare for a month filled with mystery, adventure, legends, and Halloween magic.The mountains are calling. The shadows are stirring. The adventure begins this October at Gatlinburg Smoky Mountain KOA.Do you dare answer the call?

Dollywood Harvest Festival

Starts: 09/14/2026 - Ends: 10/31/2026

Dollywood goes all-in on fall September 14 through October 31, 2026.
After dark, more than 12,000 hand-carved pumpkins glow for the award-winning Great Pumpkin LumiNights; by day, catch Southern gospel and bluegrass and grab a slice of pumpkin spice funnel cake. The biggest fall event in the region, and worth the drive out. About 40 minutes away (25 miles).

Fall Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair

Starts: 10/08/2026 - Ends: 10/28/2026

Experience the beauty of autumn in the Smoky Mountains at the October Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair, held at the Gatlinburg Convention Center. 
About a 25-minute drive from camp (16 miles) and runs daily from October 8 through 28, 2026. 10 AM - 5 PM.
The Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair is a popular fall event that features over 200 artisans showcasing handcrafted goods including pottery, woodwork, jewelry, paintings, seasonal décor, and more.
Enjoy live music (noon and 3 p.m), craft demonstrations, and a festive atmosphere perfect for all ages. Discover one-of-a-kind treasures and support American craftsmanship in the heart of Gatlinburg.
A rain-or-shine tradition and an easy pairing with a day exploring downtown Gatlinburg.

Dollywood's Smoky Mountain Christmas

Starts: 11/06/2026 - Ends: 01/03/2027

Christmas is a magical time at Dollywood!About 40 minutes away (25 miles), from November 6, 2026 through January 3, 2027.  Dollywood transforms into a 6-million-light winter wonderland for Smoky Mountain Christmas,
Peppermint Valley replaces the Country Fair, a towering tree anchors the nightly show, and indoor productions like Christmas in the Smokies keep you warm between displays.
Named America's Best Christmas Event for over a decade running, and worth every minute of the short drive

Anakeesta's Bear-Varian Fall Festival

Starts: 08/28/2026 - Ends: 11/01/2026

About 25 minutes away (16 miles) and 600 feet straight up, Anakeesta's Bear-Varian Fall Festival, August 28 through November 1, 2026, turns a mountaintop park into a genuinely offbeat autumn playground: stilt-walkers, polka trios, live bands mixed in with pumpkin-lined pathways and 360-degree foliage views from the chairlift. Add a craft beer tasting for the grown-ups; the kids will be busy hunting photo-worthy pumpkins around every corner.

Gatlinburg Chili Cookoff

Starts: 11/12/2026 - Ends: 11/12/2026

The Gatlinburg Chili Cookoff is a flavorful fall tradition where local chefs, restaurants, and talented home cooks compete to serve up their best chili recipes. About 30 minutes away (16 miles), Gatlinburg kicks off the holiday season with its Chili Cook-off and Winter Magic Celebration on November 12, 2026, along the Parkway between the Mountain Mall and Gatlinburg SkyPark. Local restaurants compete for chili bragging rights while the town's Winterfest lights flip on for the season. A genuinely fun way to mark the unofficial start of winter in the Smokies.

OktOBERfest at Ober Gatlinburg

Starts: 09/25/2026 - Ends: 11/01/2026

Ober Gatlinburg is celebrating October with a fantastic festival featuring Bavarian-style food, drink, and music, but you don't have to don your finest lederhosen or dirndls to be a part of the fun. Oktober at Ober is about 30 minutes from camp (17 miles) and runs from September 25 through November 1, 2026. A live band, in authentic costumes, will perform traditional Bavarian folk dances, oompah music, sing-a-longs, yodels, and more with daily shows and multiple performances every day during Oktoberfest. Special Oktoberfest Biers will be served along with traditional German wurst, schnitzel, sauerkraut, strudel, pretzels and more.