The turkey’s been cooked, the potatoes’ been mashed, the corn’s been hashed and the feast has come. It was another wonderful Thanksgiving for us and many others for 2018 and now the only thing we have left to think about there is the last of the cleanup. Now we put our attention towards the Christmas celebrations in the Smokies, and the first real activities that bring the Christmas spirit to life in December will be the handful of parades that we can look forward to.

In this article, we’ll introduce you to 2018’s schedule of Christmas parades within a reasonably short driving distance from our cabins in the Smokies. Get ready, folks, here they come!

* Sevierville 56th Annual Christmas Parade *
12/1/18

“The 56th Annual Sevierville Christmas Parade (Dec. 1) has it all this year – baton twirlers, marching bands, pageant winners and all kinds of floats. Of course, this is all leading up to the appearance of the parade’s Grand Marshal – Santa Claus!

This year, the parade will begin at 11 am. For those looking for a premium spot, the parade can best be viewed by finding a spot along Forks of the River Parkway and Court Avenue in historic downtown Sevierville. The Sevierville Christmas Parade will originate in the parking lot of the First Baptist Church, exit the parking lot and travel west on Honey Street, turn right (north) on Forks of the River Parkway, right (east) on Main Street, right (south) on Court Avenue and continue back to the First Baptist Church parking area.” – Inside Sevierville (Paraphrased from the 49th Annual Sevierville Christmas Parade article.

* Gatlinburg Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade *
12/7/18

“Gatlinburg’s most enchanting holiday tradition returns! Presented by Ole Red, the 43rd Annual Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade promises to be a spectacular celebration filled with marching bands, large balloons, dancers, and of course, Santa Claus. It all happens on December 7 at 7:30 p.m. from Baskins Creek Bypass to traffic light #10 in downtown Gatlinburg.

More than a dozen marching bands, full-scale balloons, and glimmering floats will take part in this year’s Fantasy of Light Christmas Parade, grand marshaled by celebrity barbecue chef Myon Mixon of “BBQ Pitmasters” fame.” – https://www.gatlinburg.com

See event and more at Gatlinburg’s website.

* Townsend Christmas Parade *
12/2/18

“On the Parkway in Townsend.” – https://www.abouttownsend.com/festivals.html

See this event and more on the Townsend website.

* Seymour Christmas Parade *
12/8/18

“The parade route begins at Valley Grove Baptist Church and will head east following the southbound lanes of Chapman Highway, where it ends in the Seymour Kroger parking lot. Spectators can view the parade at any point along the south side of Chapman Highway.

This year judging will take place along the parade route instead of before the parade. The Seymour Christmas Parade is sponsored by the Seymour Volunteer Fire Department and is a not-for-profit community event. All the proceeds of the parade will benefit needy families in the Seymour area. If you have any questions, please contact SVFD at (865) 573-7475 or stop by station one.” – Seymour Area Chamber of Commerce Facebook page.

See this event and more here.