Bryson City Nights of Lights
Each holiday season, Bryson City celebrates Nights of Lights, bringing its best-loved Christmas traditions together in one small mountain town. Ride a train to the North Pole, drive through a glowing light show, skate under the stars, and stroll a downtown lit up for the season, all in the shadow of the Great Smoky Mountains. Enjoy free cocoa, cookies and letters to Santa all holiday season at the Visitor Center and Heritage Museum! See the full Nights of Lights calendar on Explore Bryson City's website.
THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride
Bryson City's most famous holiday tradition sells out fast, so book well ahead. The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad train leaves the Bryson City Depot for a trip to the North Pole. On board, the story comes to life with music from the movie, dancing elves, and hot chocolate. Plan to arrive at the depot one hour before your train leaves to check in and take photos. Read more about THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride.
Smoky Mountain Christmas Lights
Stay warm in your car as you drive past giant LED displays and through glowing arches at the Great Smoky Mountains Event Park. The show runs Nov. 6, 2026–Jan. 2, 2027, on select nights in November and nightly after that. See dates, prices, and tips for pairing the lights with the train.
Downtown Christmas Lights
Downtown Bryson City glows all season. Walk through a tunnel of lights, look for wreaths on the light poles, and pose with a life-size Santa's sleigh and reindeer outside the Swain County Heritage Museum and Visitor Center. Photo spots are everywhere. Downtown Tree Lighting The season kicks off at the Swain County Visitor Center and Heritage Museum. The evening starts at 5 PM with a live nativity, strolling carolers in Dickens-era costumes, and Southern Gospel music from the Troy Burns Family. At 6 PM, the mayor lights the 24-foot tree on the front lawn. Hot cocoa and cookies are free, and kids can write and mail letters to Santa.
More Bryson City Things to Do
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Fishing in the Smokies, Bryson City
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Downtown Christmas Parade
Local businesses, churches, and schools build floats for this hometown parade. Watch for marching bands, fire trucks, classic cars, the local animal shelter's walking group, and Santa himself. Breakfast with Santa Kids decorate their own pancakes at a topping bar and visit with Santa at Rivers End Restaurant. The breakfast buffet includes eggs, bacon, sausage, home fries, and fruit. Adults order from the breakfast menu.
The North Pole Down South & Merry Market
Shop local artisans for handmade gifts at the Outfitter's Store, and get a free photo with Santa. Adults and pets can join in too. Sip free hot cider and decorate ornaments and picture frames to take home. Letters to Santa Stop by the Swain County Visitor Center for hot cocoa, cookies, and a chance to write and mail a letter to Santa.
More Holiday Fun
- Darnell Farms: Take a Christmas hayride under the lights at this working farm.
- The Yard: Lace up your skates at this outdoor ice rink.
- Downtown: Warm up with cocoa at local cafés, and shop for gifts in downtown stores.
Learn more and plan your trip on the Explore Bryson City website.
