Easter holds different meanings for various groups of people and is celebrated in diverse ways. If you find yourself in the Smokies during this significant holiday, there are numerous ways to mark the occasion, no matter how you usually observe Easter. From special church services and exciting bunny encounters for children to wonderful brunches and cabin celebrations, commemorating Easter in the Smoky Mountains promises unforgettable memories to treasure forever! To ensure a truly magical Easter experience for you and your loved ones, we’ve compiled a brief but thorough guide exploring all the different experiences Easter in the Smokies has to offer.
Easter Sunrise Services
Begin your Easter Sunday with a spiritual experience amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Smoky Mountains.
Gatlinburg SkyPark Start your day with reverence and awe at the Gatlinburg SkyPark’s Free Easter Sunrise Service on March 31, at 7:00 am. Nestled atop Crocket Mountain, guests will be treated to a moving gospel service amidst nature’s grandeur. The view from the SkyBridge, the country’s longest pedestrian cable bridge, provides visitors with unfettered panoramic views from over 500 feet in the air. As the sun paints the sky with vibrant shades of gold and pink, take a moment to enjoy nature’s beauty and all the blessings in your life. Please note that guests will begin loading the SkyLift at 6:45am – be sure to show up on time so you don’t miss the main event!
Ober Mountain Alternatively, head to the peak of Mt. Harrison at Ober Mountain for their Annual Easter Sunrise Service, commencing at 6:30 am on March 31. Complimentary Aerial Tram rides to the mountain top will begin at 5:00 am, allowing you to ascend in time for dawn’s first light. However, if you prefer to drive yourself to the summit via Ski Mountain Road, complimentary parking will also be provided. This soul-stirring service, located amongst the clouds at 2,700 feet about Gatlinburg, will last just under an hour and is open to everyone. In the event of inclement weather, the service will be held indoors around the Ice Arena, ensuring a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all.
Easter Egg Hunts
No Easter celebration is complete without the thrill of a traditional egg hunt, especially when there are little ones involved.
Sevierville Commons Join in on the festivities at the Bruce Street Gazebo in the Sevierville Commons on Saturday, March 23 at 10:00 am for an Easter egg hunt that promises fun for the whole family. Little ones, aged 0 to 10, can scour the grounds for hidden treasures in the shape of colorful eggs – providing parents with the perfect photo opportunities. However, if you show up before the main event, you kiddos can enjoy the Kids’ Crafts and Storytime hosted by the King Family Library starting at 9:30 am.
Wear Farm City Park On Saturday, March 30, 2024, at 11:00 am, Pigeon Forge Parks and Recreation is hosting the annual Easter Egg Hunt and other festivities at Wear Farm City Park. With each of the four baseball fields designated for specific age groups, the hunt promises a fair and thrilling experience for all participants. The free event will also include inflatables, a free raffle and the opportunity for your children to get their picture with the Easter Bunny!
Easter Eats
Explore some of the wonderful Easter brunches, lunches, and feasts happening across the Smokies this year.
Easter Brunch at Maker Exchange in Knoxville On March 31, 2024, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, treat yourself to a sumptuous Easter Brunch at Maker Exchange in Knoxville. Though a bit out of the way, being a roughly hour-long drive from Pigeon Forge, this extravagant buffet offers the chance to be surrounded by wonderful dishes and even more fantastic artwork. Priced at $65 per person, the brunch features a delectable menu – including offerings such as Quiche Florentine, fresh pastries, and a smoked salmon display – complemented by the company of the Easter Bunny, who will be delighting kids with egg giveaways. Please note, reservations are required in order to attend this event.
Breakfast or Brunch with the Easter Bunny at Pottery House Cafe Join the Easter Bunny for breakfast at Pottery House Café at The Old Mill in Pigeon Forge on Saturday, March 30, 2024, from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm. In addition to a scrumptious breakfast or brunch, guests can partake in free activities including egg dying, crafts, and games, creating unforgettable memories for the whole family. If you haven’t made your reservations already, be sure to do so – they sell out quick!
Easter at Mama’s Farmhouse Celebrate Easter at Mama’s Farmhouse in Pigeon Forge, where delicious homestyle food meets good old Southern hospitality! From 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm, enjoy a hearty Easter dinner, complete with Egg Hunts at 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm, and Easter Bunny Photos from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm, ensuring a day filled with laughter and festive antics.
Great Smoky Easter Arts and Crafts Show
From March 28 to March 30, 2024, immerse yourself in the vibrant arts and crafts scene of Gatlinburg and the Smokies, at the Great Smoky Easter Arts and Crafts Show. Featuring unique handcrafted gifts and products produced by members of the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community, the show offers a perfect opportunity to find one-of-a-kind treasures to celebrate your Smoky Mountain Easter holiday.
Perfect Family Easter at Your Cabin
For a more intimate Easter celebration spent with those who mean the most to you, retreat to the comfort and luxury of your private cabin.
Embrace the Spirit of Easter Wake up to the soft glow of dawn as you witness an Easter sunrise from your porch, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Smoky Mountains and without even having to put shoes on.
Egg Hunt Extravaganza Hide eggs around your spacious cabin or the resort grounds for a thrilling egg hunt adventure. Let your little ones’ laughter fill the air as they search for hidden treasures.
Picnic and Play Gather the family for a delightful picnic at the covered Parkside Pavilion, followed by outdoor games, mini golf, and hiking. From cornhole to nature walks, enjoying quality time together amidst nature is a wonderful way to wrap up your Easter adventures.
Making Easter Unforgettable
Whether you prefer to start your day with a spiritual sunrise service, partake in a traditional egg hunt, or savor a mouthwatering Easter brunch, the Smoky Mountains offer an array of activities to celebrate the season. With its breathtaking beauty, myriad of experiences and unbeatable accommodations, the Smokies provide the perfect backdrop for creating special Easter memories with your loved ones.
Book your stay at Parkside Resort now and embark on an unforgettable Easter getaway in the heart of the Smoky Mountains. Experience the magic of Easter in the Smokies and create memories that will last a lifetime. So, pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and get ready for an unforgettable holiday in the Smokies!
Parkside Resort is the NEWEST luxury cabin resort in the Great Smoky Mountains!
