Each year, Gatlinburg hosts a large New Year’s Eve celebration filled with fireworks and fun activities. People come from all over the country to ring in the new year at the Annual New Year’s Eve Ball Drop and Fireworks Show right under the Gatlinburg Space Needle. Keep reading to learn more about New Years Eve in Gatlinburg TN 2025:
NYE in Gatlinburg Tennessee
The 2025 Gatlinburg New Year’s Eve ball drop and fireworks has been one of the most popular events in Gatlinburg, TN since it began in 1987. Festivities begin early, but at 11:50 pm, an exciting display of drone will light up the sky featuring displays that pay homage to the area. The drone show will lead directly into the fireworks performance.
When the clock ticks to midnight, fireworks will blast into the air choreographed with music in what is one of the biggest and brightest fireworks displays in the south! The Space Needle has added rhythmic LED lights to the tower, making for a spectacular display. Gatlinburg has become an incredibly popular destination for ringing in the new year with the fireworks, shops, attractions, restaurants, cabins, etc. If you’re looking for an exciting place to be on New Year’s Eve then definitely head to Gatlinburg, TN to celebrate the passing year and welcome the new one!
The area around the Space Needle will begin getting crowded during the evening, so plan ahead for parking, walking, eating, etc. If you’re fortunate enough to find a spot along River Road (which parallels the Parkway), most of those spots are free for parking. If there aren’t any open spots, there are a handful of privately-owned parking lots along River Road that typically charge a flat fee. There are also two city-operated parking garages, one at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies and the other at Traffic Light #3, the McMahan Parking Garage. Both of these parking garages provide numerous parking spots that should be available.
New Year’s Eve Lights of Wonder at Gatlinburg SkyPark
Ring in the New Year and watch the Gatlinburg fireworks and ball drop from the best view in town. This private event gives you VIP access to the entire Gatlinburg SkyPark and provides the best view of the NYE fireworks celebration in Gatlinburg. Get your tickets before they are all gone!
When: Dec. 31, 2025
Where: Gatlinburg Sky Park
Visit Gatlinburg SkyLift Park for more details.
There are numerous places to eat in downtown Gatlinburg, so be sure to check out our list of the best Gatlinburg restaurants to see our recommendations!
More NYE Events Nearby
If you will be in Pigeon Forge on New Year’s Eve, then be sure to check out our guide on Pigeon Forge New Years Eve Events as well!
Whether you spend New Year’s Eve in Gatlinburg, TN or somewhere else – HAPPY NEW YEAR!
