Easter Weekend Parking
By Leif Palmer
Posted on April 4, 2023
When it comes to public parking, Gatlinburg has more options than you might think, even in the heart of downtown. We offer seven different lots in the downtown area, with locations that span the length of the Parkway. Our rates are very competitive, and because of our convenient options, you can have peace of mind as you leave your vehicle behind for a day of good times in downtown Gatlinburg and beyond. In fact, thanks to the trolley systems in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, you can cover a lot of ground in the Smokies without having to remove your vehicle from your parking space.
If you're headed to Gatlinburg the weekend of April 7 through 9, keep an eye out for a number of different special events, most of which correspond with the celebration of Easter.
Gatlinburg Community Police Programs Easter Egg Hunt
This annual Easter weekend tradition takes place Saturday, April 8, beginning at noon. Hot dogs and refreshments are being served to everyone in attendance, and the egg hunt itself is scheduled to begin at 1 p.m. Start times are staggered depending on age groups. The Easter Bunny is also rumored to be making an appearance to greet the young ones. Kids ages 1 to 12 may participate in the egg hunt, and prizes will be given to those in each age group who collect the most eggs. Make sure your kids bring an Easter basket!
Early-Morning Easter Events
Several attractions in Gatlinburg are hosting Sunday-morning sunrise events. At Ober Mountain, they're having their annual Easter Sunrise Service beginning at 6:30 a.m. The 30-to-40-minute service will be led by local pastors. Guests can take free rides on the Aerial Tram from the downtown Parkway to the mountaintop, beginning at 5 a.m. For those who choose to drive to the top, parking is free. The service takes place inside, around the ice-skating rink.
Meanwhile, VIP ticketholders at Gatlinburg SkyLift Park are kicking off that attraction's Smoky Mountain Sunrise Events on Easter Sunday. Beginning at 6 a.m. that morning, VIPs may ride SkyLift to the top of Crockett Mountain and be greeted by complimentary donuts and coffee. Guests have access to the entire park all day, starting at 7:10 a.m. Those Sunrise Events will continue Wednesday mornings through mid-May.
Great Smoky Easter Arts & Crafts Show
This event kicked off on April 5 but continues through Saturday, April 8. Taking place at the Gatlinburg Convention Center, this annual show showcases the works and talents of members of Gatlinburg's Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community. Daily hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
About Leif Palmer
Leif Palmer loves residing in Gatlinburg. He is an avid outdoorsman: rowing for exercise on the lake, trail hiking, and free climbing rocks in the mountains. He indulges his arty side by periodically beating up pieces of marble by sculpting. He is always frustrated by his inability to sink long putts, and hates his curly hair (but his wife loves it). Leif has been known to muster enough courage to change a diaper, and hopes his son will become a chip off the old block.