FREE Concert & Christmas Tree Lighting

Celebrate Winterfest Kickoff with Darin & Brooke Aldridge, Paula Deen and Santa Claus!

Kick off the holiday season with an unforgettable day of Christmas cheer at The Island in Pigeon Forge! Join us Saturday, November 21, 2026, for a FREE Holiday Concert, family-friendly activities, and our annual Grand Christmas Tree Lighting featuring Paula Deen and Santa Claus.

Enjoy festive music, millions of sparkling Christmas lights, holiday shopping, delicious treats, and plenty of opportunities to make magical memories with family and friends. With FREE admission and FREE parking, there's no better way to welcome the Christmas season in the Smoky Mountains!

FREE Holiday Concert Featuring Darin & Brooke Aldridge

The holiday celebration continues at 6 PM with a special performance by the First Baptist Church Sevierville Children's Choir, followed by award-winning bluegrass and gospel duo Darin & Brooke Aldridge at 6:45 PM.

Known for their powerful harmonies and distinctive blend of bluegrass, country, and gospel music, Darin & Brooke bring their Appalachian roots and exceptional musicianship to The Island's Winterfest celebration.

Bring the whole family and enjoy an evening of live music as the excitement builds toward our Grand Christmas Tree Lighting!

Paula Deen & Santa Claus Light Up The Island!

At 8 PM, celebrity chef Paula Deen and Santa Claus will take the stage for one of the most magical moments of Winterfest!

Join the countdown as they flip the switch to illuminate The Island's spectacular 40-foot walk-through Christmas tree, officially kicking off the holiday season with a dazzling display of Christmas lights and holiday cheer.

Immediately following the tree lighting, enjoy The Island's beloved Winterfest Show Fountain performance, featuring dancing water, colorful lights, and festive holiday music.

Winterfest Kickoff Event Schedule

Saturday, November 21, 2026

• 10:00 AM – Alzheimer's Tennessee Donation Tent Opens

• 10:00 AM – Holiday Face Painting ($)

• 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM – FREE Kids' Christmas Crafts

• 6:00 PM – FREE Holiday Concert with the First Baptist Church Sevierville Children's Choir and Darin & Brooke Aldridge

• 8:00 PM – Christmas Tree Lighting with Paula Deen & Santa Claus

• Immediately Following – Winterfest Show Fountain Holiday Performance

FREE Kids' Christmas Crafts & Holiday Fun

Start your holiday celebration early! From 10 AM to 5 PM, kids can enjoy FREE Christmas crafts as part of our Winterfest Kickoff festivities.

Families can also explore The Island's holiday decorations, enjoy seasonal treats, shop for Christmas gifts, and capture festive photos throughout the property.

Celebrating the Spirit of Giving with Alzheimer's Tennessee

The Island is proud to support Alzheimer's Tennessee during this year's Winterfest Kickoff.

Stop by the Alzheimer's Tennessee donation tent to learn more about the organization's mission and support local families affected by Alzheimer's disease.

During the evening celebration, The Island will also present a special donation to Alzheimer's Tennessee to recognize the important work this organization does in our community.