The holidays have officially arrived in the Smokies — and so has one of the nation’s most beloved Christmas traditions. Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas presented by Humana has once again been nominated by USA Today 10Best for Best Theme Park Holiday Event, wrapping the Pigeon Forge park in more than 6 million twinkling lights, festive shows, and the unmistakable warmth of Appalachian holiday spirit.

It’s no wonder Smoky Mountain Christmas continues to shine among America’s top holiday celebrations. The fan-favorite festival has been a perennial contender for the top spot, and Dollywood is calling on its fans to help secure another win. Voting is open now through Monday, Dec. 1 at noon, with winners announced on Dec. 10. You can vote once per day, per device, at dollywood.com/vote.

Smoky Mountain Christmas runs now through Jan. 4, 2026, and every corner of the park sparkles with holiday magic — from awe-inspiring light displays to award-winning stage productions and cozy culinary creations. The festival’s long streak of wins at the Golden Ticket Awards even earned it “legend” status after 15 consecutive years being named the best Christmas event in the theme park industry.

This year’s entertainment lineup reads like a greatest-hits collection of Dollywood holiday favorites. The long-running “Christmas in the Smokies” returns to Celebrity Theater, celebrating 35 years of delighting audiences. Over at Dreamsong Theater, “Heidi Parton’s A Christmas to Remember” brings family stories and songs from Dolly’s own kin. Guests can also enjoy classics like “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas,” “Christmas with the Kingdom Heirs,” “O’ Holy Night,” and “Appalachian Christmas with the Smoky Mountain String Band.”

Of course, it wouldn’t be Dollywood without showstopping scenery. Glacier Ridge transforms Timber Canyon, Wildwood Grove, and beyond into a breathtaking Arctic wonderland, while Christmas Reflections bathes Rivertown in shimmering light that dances on the pond below. Over in Peppermint Valley, the red-and-white glow of candy-cane lights makes Country Fair feel sweeter than ever.

From lights and laughter to songs and smiles, Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas is where the season shines brightest. For details — and to cast your daily vote — visit dollywood.com/vote or check the Dollywood app for park hours and showtimes.

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