Top 3 Smoky Mountains Events You Won’t Want to Miss This February

With Winterfest wrapping up in the middle of the month, you might think that the off-season in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg isn’t a great time to visit; however, there is always something fun and exciting going on in the Smokies! This February the excitement is kicking it up a notch or three with these must-do Smoky Mountains events you and your family will not want to miss:

1. Pancake Week in Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is celebrating National Pancake Week with a delicious extravaganza showcasing an iconic Smoky Mountain specialty – warm and fluffy pancakes! From the thick, buttery griddle cakes at Crockett’s Breakfast Camp and the wild blueberry pancakes at the Pancake Pantry to the hearty buckwheat pancakes at Log Cabin Pancake House, there are numerous places to satisfy your pancake cravings; plus, you can participate in challenges and giveaways when you visit multiple locations. 

2. Valentine’s Day

Of course, Valentine’s Day in the Smokies isn’t technically an event, but this romantic holiday is the perfect excuse for you and your sweetheart to spend a couple of days tucked away in the Smoky Mountains. When you’re not cuddled up in front of the fireplace or soaking in the hot tub at your secluded Smoky Mountains cabin rental, here are some ideas of things to include in your itinerary for a romantic getaway:

• Enjoy an all-you-can-eat buffet and high-action show at Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud. 
• Shop at The Island and ride the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel.
• Sip back and relax at a Smoky Mountain winery. 
• Take the Horizon SkyRide chairlift up to SkyLand Ranch or ride their Wild Stallion Mountain Coaster. 
• Indulge in a romantic carriage ride or scenic helicopter tour. 
• Go ice skating, snow tubing, or skiing at Ober Mountain. 
• Plan a scenic drive through Cades Cove or a winter hike in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. 
• Have a romantic dinner for 2 at one of the top 10 downtown Gatlinburg restaurants with a view. 

3. Love is in the Air at Gatlinburg SkyPark

One specific Smoky Mountain event in February you must do during your romantic trip is the Love is in the Air event at Gatlinburg SkyPark. During the day, enjoy the scenic chairlift ride, walking trails, panoramic views, great food and drinks, and a live caricature artist on select days. There are several observation decks and lounge areas with firepits, including the new Clayton’s Landing expansion with a new smash burger restaurant! Then come back at night (included in your general admission ticket) to experience the SkyBridge lit up in beautiful pink lights! The photo opportunities are abundant and would also make for a fantastic proposal location– February is the month of love after all! 

Want to learn about other exciting events in the Smoky Mountains coming up? Check out our Smoky Mountain events calendar! With the ability to find all the unique Smoky Mountains events headed to the area for whatever month you decide to plan your vacation, our local events calendar is just one of the many vacation planning tools we offer visitors to the Smokies.