Tennessee's 6 Most Festive Downtowns For The Holidays

There is a special kind of holiday charm that sweeps across Tennessee this time of year. Picture mountain towns glowing under thousands of lights, historic main streets filled with music, and celebrations that blend Southern warmth with timeless Christmas traditions. From Gatlinburg’s sparkling displays that light up the town to Jonesborough’s storybook downtown alive with themed weekends and caroling, the Volunteer State knows how to make the season shine. Here are Tennessee’s six most festive downtowns for a holiday you will not forget.

Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg transforms into a bright holiday destination each winter as downtown fills with glowing displays for its long-running Winterfest Celebration. Millions of twinkling lights line the streets, creating a cheerful setting best enjoyed by walking through town or driving past the sparkling exhibits. Visitors can use the Visit Gatlinburg app to follow a self-guided Winter Magic tour, take part in a lively snowpeople scavenger hunt, and track down each of the 43 unique figures placed throughout the area.

The season also brings friendly competition as local businesses aim for the Winter Magic People’s Choice Award, inviting guests to vote for their favorite decorations. Between light-filled pathways and creative storefronts, downtown feels especially vibrant. Along the main street, holiday shopping adds even more appeal, with artisan goods, mountain crafts, and ornaments filling the many boutique shops.

Jonesborough

Jonesborough embraces the season with a lively downtown atmosphere anchored by its annual lighted nighttime Christmas Parade, held on the second Saturday in December. Crowds line Boone and Main Streets to see floats, bands, classic cars, dancers, and Santa move through the historic district under the glow of holiday lights. The year’s theme, like “A Nutcracker Christmas,” in 2024 adds a charming touch to one of the region’s few nighttime parades, enhanced by music, illuminated displays, and the town’s small-town backdrop.

Holiday tradition deepens during the Colors of Christmas Holiday Dinner, a celebration inspired by Victorian-era customs. Historic buildings are adorned with handcrafted garlands, fresh greenery, pineapples, berry accents, and period décor researched and arranged by dedicated volunteers. With cedar trees, ornate mantels, and costumed interpreters, the event captures the warmth and elegance of a 19th-century Christmas, creating a memorable seasonal experience.

Columbia

Columbia ushers in the season with the Annual Columbia Christmas Parade, held in December. The procession follows its familiar path along West 7th Street, circles Columbia Square, and wraps up on East 7th Street. Visitors can enjoy glowing lights, cheerful music, and a welcoming crowd that fills downtown with holiday excitement. This long-standing tradition delivers an hour or more of pure seasonal charm, and with free admission, everyone can join the celebration.

The downtown district enhances the experience with festive storefronts, inviting restaurants, and cozy places to stay, all decorated in their holiday best. Whether you are discovering Colombia for the first time or returning for another visit, the atmosphere encourages meaningful moments and new memories.

Greeneville

Greeneville, once the home of President Andrew Johnson, combines deep presidential history with classic holiday spirit throughout its lively downtown. The Annual Christmas Parade draws crowds along Main Street as floats, bands, and The Auction Clydesdales move from the Bohannon intersection to Greeneville High School. Visitors can also enjoy Christmas in Downtown, which begins with the tree lighting and continues with pictures with Santa, carolers, live music, hay rides, festive décor, and seasonal treats throughout local shops and eateries.

Beyond the celebrations, Historic Main Street invites guests to stroll brick sidewalks past 1800s churches, preserved homes, and landmarks tied to Johnson’s legacy. A Historic Downtown Walk around the Andrew Johnson National Historic Site reveals garland-draped structures and period charm. For indoor entertainment, the Niswonger Performing Arts Center hosts holiday concerts and productions, adding another layer of winter cheer to Greeneville’s welcoming downtown.

Maryville

Maryville brings classic East Tennessee charm to the season with the Blount County Jaycees Christmas Parade, where the theme “A Country Christmas” shines through tractors trimmed in tinsel, glowing wagons, hay bales, flannel, and festive music. The route runs through Maryville and Alcoa, encouraging spectators to gather along Broadway as the community comes together to celebrate hometown pride during the holidays.

Seasonal cheer continues with the City of Maryville Tree Lighting, which closes out the bustling downtown Holiday Market. Held annually on Small Business Saturday, this market showcases talented local artisans and quality handmade gifts. New additions include free children’s activities along Broadway Avenue, creating an inviting atmosphere for families.

Paris

Paris shines during the season with its Holly Jolly Electric Christmas Parade, a nighttime spectacle filled with glowing floats, decorated golf carts, ATVs, tractors, commercial vehicles, and marching units. The route winds through downtown, passing the Henry County court square as participants compete for honors such as Most Christmas Spirit, Best Decorated Vehicle, Best Marching Unit, and the Clark Griswold Award. Staging takes place near First Baptist Church, and spectators line the streets to enjoy a bright, cheerful tradition that turns the town into a festive showcase of lights.

Holiday events continue with the Christmas Open House, where merchants offer extended shopping and fully stocked seasonal displays. The Festival of Trees brings more than 30 creative designs competing for Best in Show. The Advent Walk connects local churches, and Santa’s House opens on December weekends, adding warm family moments to Paris’s spirited downtown celebrations.

Tennessee’s Holiday Glow, All in One Place

Tennessee’s most festive downtowns each bring their own style, traditions, and seasonal character, creating a trail of holiday magic across the state. From Greeneville’s historic streets filled with carolers, parades, and presidential landmarks to Columbia’s glowing storefronts, lively procession, and welcoming community, every town offers its own version of charm and celebration. Together, these destinations highlight the warmth, creativity, and joy that define Christmas in Tennessee, inviting visitors to gather, explore, and make lasting holiday memories.