The next time you're looking for a great place to spend your holiday vacation, consider destinations that extend holiday events and specials well into the new year. This way, you can avoid the before-Christmas crowds and take advantage of postholiday discounts. Additionally, look for vacation spots that offer many choices of things to do.
For example, in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., the 17th Annual Winterfest begins in November and lasts until February, allowing four months for you and your family to head to the Smokies for this award-winning event. Pigeon Forge is exciting year-round, but during Winterfest, the city really comes alive. From shows to shopping, Pigeon Forge just about has it all.
If your family enjoys seeing delightful displays of twinkling lights, you can visit Pigeon Forge anytime from Nov. 9 to Feb. 28 to find more than 5 million lights illuminating the city. Hop aboard a Fun Time Trolley for the best view of the stunning displays.
Pigeon Forge is also home to the closest thing to the North Pole in Tennessee: The Incredible Christmas Place. Practically anything you could need to decorate or celebrate the holiday season can be found at The Incredible Christmas Place, which is open year-round.
There are six different outlet malls to help you take advantage of postholiday sales and discounts. Or stock up for next Christmas with unique gifts at one of more than 100 specialty shops.
If you are eager to get outside and breathe the mountain air, then plan to attend Winterfest in January, during the 17th Annual Wilderness Wildlife Week (Jan. 13-21). This family-friendly event features classes and workshops, hikes and field trips and plenty of music. The classes and workshops will help even the youngest explorers learn valuable information, such as how to properly pack for a hike. Additionally, there are plenty of activities planned just for children. Kids can enjoy a live animal show or participate in an easier hike. For outdoor enthusiasts, a variety of hikes along with informative workshops and slide shows will make a trip to Wilderness Wildlife Week memorable. There may be no better way to hike off the holiday pounds than to visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park with your family.
However your family chooses to celebrate the holidays, a trip to Pigeon Forge can be a great way to kick off the new year.
Author: Stacey Moore
Author Bio:
Products that earn the ENERGY STAR prevent greenhouse gas emissions by meeting strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. EPA and DOE. For more information about ENERGY STAR, visit www.energystar.gov. Using energy efficiently at home can be as easy as changing a light bulb.
