Sweaters, scarves, apple cider and pumpkin lattes. That’s how we like to spend our fall in the Smoky Mountains. Wouldn’t you love to be in Pigeon Forge, surrounded by the fall colors and sweet sounds of the mountains?

If you’re anything like us, you’re patiently waiting for the dark green colors to change into bright reds and oranges across the mountains. In the meantime, though, you can visit the National Southern Gospel and Harvest Celebration at Dollywood if you’re looking for a fall experience.

(Also Popular: Top 4 Places in Pigeon Forge to See the Fall Foliage of the Smoky Mountains)

Everyone usually plans a visit to Dollywood when they visit Pigeon Forge, so there’s really no better time of year to visit than now! The National Southern Gospel and Harvest Celebration began on September 22 and runs through November 1.

If you enjoy fall festivals, Dollywood’s will thrill you and your family. With everything from harvest foods to beautiful decorations throughout the park, there’s something the entire family can enjoy.

In years past, the festival has only ran from October 1 through November 1, so Dollywood is opening up for a few extra days to enjoy the fall this year! And here’s a little bit of what you can expect when you arrive at the park:

When You Arrive

When you arrive at the front gates of the Dollywood Harvest Festival, you will notice all of the trees and colors in the distance. Often times, this is a great place to take photos because there is a large Dollywood display outside.

Inside the Park

In the park, guests will find dozens and dozens of harvest decorations spread throughout the park. From pumpkins to scarecrows, Dollywood hasn’t missed a single detail!

To start the day off right, step inside the Spotlight Bakery right after you enter the park. They always have the best variety of pastries, cakes and breakfast items. During the harvest celebration, they will have special items in their bakery cases, too, so keep your eyes open for pumpkin treats and apple spice cakes! They always have yummy sweets like sticky buns and coffee cakes, too!

Rides and Attractions

From atop many of the rides and attractions at Dollywood are perfect for seeing fall colors in the Smokies. When you ride on some of the high-flying rides like the Tennessee Tornado and Thunderhead roller coasters, you will be above the trees and seeing the fall colors.  The reds, yellows and oranges across the treetops are sure to have you in awe of the beauty.

Free Shows

There’s hundreds of free shows available to park guests during the National Southern Gospel and Harvest Celebration. In fact, there’s over 300! You won’t want to miss the great shows by some of the most popular gospel artists, like The Perrys and The Talleys.

The weather has finally cooled down into the fall temperatures, so pack up your sweaters and get to Pigeon Forge for an exciting fall vacation. The Dollywood Harvest Festival is waiting for you!

Take a look at all of our Pigeon Forge condos, only a couple of short minutes from the Dollywood theme park. When you stay with us, you can leave your car parked at Cherokee Lodge, then catch a trolley ride over to Dollywood. This way, you can avoid paying the parking cost at Dollywood.