Celebrate Independence Day in the Smokies at Patriot Festival 2026, Pigeon Forge’s largest Fourth of July celebration. In honor of America’s 250th Anniversary, this beloved annual event expands to a special two-night festival featuring free live concerts, family activities, food vendors, and a spectacular fireworks display.
Bring the whole family and enjoy two evenings filled with patriotic spirit, country music, and unforgettable entertainment in the heart of Pigeon Forge.
Live Entertainment
Friday, July 3
- LANCO opens the evening festivities
- Craig Morgan takes the stage at 8:00 PM
Country music star and Army Reserve soldier Craig Morgan returns to East Tennessee, where he once performed at Pigeon Forge’s renowned Country Tonite Theatre before launching his successful recording career.
Saturday, July 4
- Parmalee opens the concert
- Carly Pearce performs at 8:00 PM
Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Carly Pearce returns to the Smokies, where she began her entertainment career performing at Dollywood’s Country Crossroads show as a teenager.
Festival Activities
In addition to two nights of live music, guests can enjoy:
- Family-friendly children’s activities
- Food trucks and local vendors
- Live entertainment throughout the festival grounds
- Free concerts featuring nationally recognized country artists
- A spectacular Independence Day fireworks show on July 4
Know Before You Go
- Admission is free and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Guests are welcome to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and clear bags.
- Umbrellas, tents, and coolers are not permitted.
- Free parking is available at the Teaster Lane Municipal Parking Lot.
- Complimentary shuttle service runs approximately every 20 minutes between the parking area and Patriot Park.
The celebration concludes on the evening of July 4 with one of the area’s most anticipated fireworks displays, lighting up the Smoky Mountain sky in honor of America’s birthday. Make plans to join the community for this unforgettable Independence Day tradition in Pigeon Forge.
