Get ready for an exhilarating start to Independence Day! At the stroke of 12:01 a.m. on July 4th, downtown Gatlinburg will ignite with the electrifying parade, hailed as one of the "Top 10 Parades to see in the US" by National Geographic Traveler Magazine! Beginning at the vibrant Baskins Creek Bypass on East Parkway, the parade will dazzle with festive floats, patriotic bands, and colossal balloons, setting the stage for an unforgettable celebration.
But the excitement doesn’t end there! As the sun climbs higher, the River Raft Regatta kicks off at 11 a.m. at the former Christ in the Smokies Museum parking area. Decorate your boats in whimsical or classic styles and embark on a thrilling journey down the Pigeon River. The race launches at 1 p.m., culminating in a thrilling finish at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. Don’t forget to grab your rubber duck for a chance to win big in the competition!
And what’s Independence Day without fireworks? Gatlinburg’s Fireworks Finale promises an explosive display that will light up the night sky from the iconic Gatlinburg Space Needle. This free event, open to all, starts at 11 p.m. Be sure to arrive early to secure your spot and beat the road closures!
Gatlinburg’s First Independence Day Parade in the Nation has captured the nation’s imagination, earning accolades such as the "Top Ten Parade to see in the US" by National Geographic Traveler Magazine and recognition from Livability.com as one of the "Five Best Fourth of July Celebrations in Smaller Cities." Plus, it’s a multiple Grand Pinnacle Awards winner by the International Festivals and Events Association! Get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime.
