As summer winds down and the Smoky Mountains begin to show their first hints of autumn, Pigeon Forge comes alive with exciting events. From classic car shows that line the Parkway with gleaming hot rods to festivals filled with music, food, and family fun, fall is one of the best times to experience the magic of the Smokies. Whether you’re a gearhead, a music lover, or simply looking for fall-inspired fun, here are the can’t-miss events happening this season in Pigeon Forge.
Bear-Varian Fall Festival at Anakeesta
August 29 – November 2
Celebrate autumn in the Smokies with the Bear-Varian Fall Festival at Anakeesta. The mountaintop park comes alive with vibrant fall décor, pumpkin displays, seasonal treats, and Bavarian-themed fun. Guests can enjoy craft beers at the BearVarian Biergarten, stroll through colorful fall foliage, and take in live entertainment while soaking up panoramic mountain views. It’s the perfect mix of Smoky Mountain charm and Oktoberfest spirit!
Fall Fun at Skyland Ranch
September 5 – November 1
Skyland Ranch is celebrating the season in a big way with not one, but three exciting fall festivals!
- Apple Harvest Festival – Kick off fall with all things apple. From tasty seasonal treats to family activities and mountain views, this festival captures the spirit of autumn in the Smokies.
- Moos & Boos – A family-friendly Halloween warmup! Enjoy not-so-spooky fun with the ranch’s resident animals, festive games, and themed activities that kids will love.
- Ghost Town – Step into a Western-style ghost town with themed entertainment, seasonal eats, and plenty of ways to get into the fall spirit.
With sweeping Smoky Mountain views, live entertainment, and seasonal treats, Skyland Ranch is the perfect spot to make September memories.
Pigeon Forge Fall Rod Run
September 11 – September 13
One of the most anticipated events of the year, the Pigeon Forge Fall Rod Run rolls back into town this September! Car enthusiasts from all over the country gather to show off their classic hot rods, custom builds, and vintage rides. The Parkway comes alive with gleaming chrome, roaring engines, and plenty of opportunities to admire unique cars up close.
Beyond the car displays, visitors can explore swap meets, vendor booths, and special showcases. Whether you’re a lifelong gearhead or just love the energy of a major Pigeon Forge event, the Rod Run is a September tradition you won’t want to miss.
Dollywood’s Harvest Festival & Great Pumpkin LumiNights
September 12 – October 27
Dollywood transforms into a fall wonderland with its award-winning Harvest Festival. This celebration of the season features artisans from across the country, live Southern gospel and bluegrass performances, and an abundance of seasonal flavors from apple dumplings to hearty fall favorites.
When the sun goes down, the park glows with the magic of Great Pumpkin LumiNights, where thousands of carved and glowing pumpkins light up Dollywood in whimsical displays. It’s a family-friendly experience that combines the charm of autumn with Dollywood’s signature hospitality and entertainment.
The Harvest Festival is the perfect way to celebrate the arrival of fall in the Smokies, and a must on any September itinerary!
Jack-tober Fest at Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud Supper Show
September 20 – October 31
Add a lumberjack twist to your fall celebrations at Jack-tober Fest! Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud Supper Show serves up an all-you-can-eat Bavarian buffet, complete with bratwursts, pretzels, and other seasonal favorites. Guests can sip on exclusive Jack-toberfest beer, cheer on the feuding lumberjacks, and even test their own skills in pre-show games and contests. With hearty food, high-energy entertainment, and a festive Oktoberfest vibe, this event is a true fall standout in Pigeon Forge.
Craveyard Nights at Crave Golf Club
September 21 – October 31
Get ready for some spooky fun with Craveyard Nights at Crave Golf Club! This family-friendly Halloween-themed mini golf experience kicks off in September, giving visitors the chance to enjoy glow-in-the-dark holes, festive decorations, and seasonal surprises.
Whether you’re looking for a fun night out with friends or a playful way to celebrate the start of the spooky season with the kids, Craveyard Nights offers a unique twist on Pigeon Forge’s classic mini golf experience. Don’t forget your camera! The glowing course makes for some perfect fall photo ops!
From apple festivals and pumpkin displays to classic cars and family-friendly Halloween fun, fall in Pigeon Forge is full of unforgettable moments. With so many ways to celebrate the season, there’s never been a better time to plan your Smoky Mountain getaway and make memories that will last long after the leaves have fallen.
