4th of July in the Smoky Mountains

The majestic Smoky Mountains, no matter the time of year, offer a breathtaking and thrilling destination for all kinds of getaways. But when summer arrives, this lush landscape comes alive with the vibrant spirit of Independence Day. If you’re searching for an unforgettable 4th of July experience filled with laughter, music, and fireworks, look no further than the Smokies! With its verdant backdrop of rolling mountaintops and dense greenery, it’s hard to find a more charming setting for your 4th of July celebration. From dazzling parades and jaw-dropping firework displays to outdoor festivals and live music, there’s something for everyone! Join us as we explore the wonder and excitement that awaits you during this Smoky Mountain 4th of July celebration.

The First Independence Day Parade in the Nation

When it comes to kickstarting the 4th of July festivities in the Smoky Mountains, nothing compares to the iconic 4th July Midnight Parade in Gatlinburg. As America’s first 4th of July parade of the year, this family-friendly event sets the stage for a day filled with excitement and patriotism. Downtown Gatlinburg comes alive as the clock strikes midnight on July 4th, with a burst of music, colors, and excitement. Enjoy vibrant floats decked out in patriotic gear, dazzling marching bands rocking the night away, and a community coming together for a lively celebration. Whether you’re waving a flag from the sidewalks or dancing along with the cheerful performers, the July Midnight Parade promises an unforgettable start to your Independence Day experience in the Smoky Mountains. Be sure to arrive at least 30 minutes early to secure a prime spot along the nearly 2-mile-long parade route, ensuring the best view of this captivating spectacle.

The 32nd Annual Pigeon Forge Patriot Festival

One of the most anticipated events during the 4th of July celebrations in the Smokies is the annual Patriot Festival in Pigeon Forge. This joy-filled festival offers a plethora of activities and entertainment for attendees of all ages. Enjoy performances by renowned musical guests, with country music sensation Sara Evans (known for songs like “Suds in the Bucket” and “Born to Fly”) headlining the stage and the exhilarating On The Border – The Ultimate Eagles Tribute band rocking the crowd. As the music fills your ears, indulge in delicious treats from local food trucks, get the family involved in interactive activities, and create new memories with your loved ones. As the night draws to a close, the 32nd Annual Pigeon Forge Patriot Festival concludes with a massive fireworks display that will leave you and other spectators in awe. After an afternoon of good food, great music, laughter, and fun, there’s no better finale to the day. Those cascading bursts of glitter and explosions illuminating the night sky make for the perfect ending to a magical and memorable day.

Gatlinburg’s Fireworks Finale

Every year on Independence Day, as the sun sets over the majestic Smoky Mountains, you can feel the excitement flooding the streets of downtown Gatlinburg in anticipation of the fireworks show. Before the sky becomes ablaze with vibrant colors, immerse yourself in the lively pre-fireworks events and activities found around town for an extra dose of festive fun. Join the crowds gathering along the bank of the Little Pigeon River for the Gatlinburg River Raft Regatta, a favorite local tradition. Tinkerers of all ages enter this spirited competition to test their handmade, unmanned rafts against the rushing river current and see whose creation comes out on top. The event is a blast for both spectators and participants alike. If you don’t have an invention of your own, you can even enter a rented rubber duck into the race.

As the evening continues, the enchanting sounds of the Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales fill the air, as local performers bring the region’s abundant musical heritage to life with charming tunes and captivating anecdotes. While waiting for dusk to settle, enjoy wonderful eats and treats from the myriad of shops and restaurants found in the center of town. However, be sure to find the optimal viewing spot for you and your loved ones before the real excitement starts. Once the sun goes down, the sky becomes a shimmering yet short-lived masterpiece with the splendid Smoky Mountains as the canvas. As is tradition, the 20-minute-long fireworks display takes place from the 407-foot-tall Gatlinburg Space Needle, ensuring that regardless of where you find yourself in town, you’ll have a great vantage point to enjoy the show. For a truly unparalleled view and unforgettable experience this Independence Day, we recommend snagging your 4th of July tickets to the Gatlinburg Skybridge. Perched high above the city, this iconic attraction offers panoramic views of the fireworks show, allowing you to witness the magic from an exciting new perspective.

Celebrating at Parkside Resort

Take your Smoky Mountain Independence Day celebration to new heights by choosing Parkside Resort as your ultimate retreat. Situated amidst the natural splendor of the Appalachians, Parkside offers a range of exceptional accommodations, unbeatable amenities, and top-rated customer service. With our commitment to providing a family-friendly atmosphere and unique experiences, our resort is the perfect mountain getaway to create lasting memories. From spacious cabins to cozy cottages and luxurious lodges, Parkside provides a variety of options to suit any group size and party’s needs. Have your own family 4th of July gathering surrounded by the serene, lush landscape of the Smokies. Enjoy a barbeque with all the fixings, cool down by slipping into one of two swimming pools, embark on a scenic hike via private on-property trails, partake in some friendly competition on our 18-hole putt putt course, and more! If you prefer a more laidback evening, grab some sparklers for the kiddos and enjoy warm breezes, chirping crickets, star gazing, and making memories. With Parkside Resort as your home base this Smoky Mountain 4th of July, you can rest assured your stay with us will be filled with comfort, relaxation, and memories you’ll cherish for a lifetime!

Call us today at 888-908-6066 or visit our website to learn more about our amazing accommodations!