New Years Celebrations For 2025 (Some With Fireworks!)
December 17, 2025
Pigeon Forge Chuckwagon Cookoff For 2026
January 24, 2026
Barely two weeks into the new year and we’re already thinking ahead for the Spring season. It could be because half the days of January so far have been close to or over 60 degrees so that it feels like early April, it could be because the post-holiday Winter is when businesses and visitors alike start planning for the Spring Break getaway season for places that include the Great Smoky Mountains.
And, of course, there’s no reason it can’t be both.
So, to help visitors who would like to consider our little part of the world for their Spring Break college or family trip, here are some suggestions for nearby fun to enjoy while in Dandridge!
Let’s take a look:
Briarwood Ranch Safari Park
255 Briar Thicket Rd, Bybee, TN 37713
(865) 919-5072
https://briarwoodsafari.org/
From their website:
“Briarwood Ranch Safari Park features animals from around the world. On your scenic, four-mile safari through beautiful hills and pasture lands, you will experience animals from six continents. Take plenty of time to study their behavior from the safety of your own car. Be sure to bring your camera. You may want to ride on tractor pulled wagons or enjoy a lazy afternoon in our petting zoo.”
Forbidden Caverns
455 Blowing Cave Rd, Sevierville, TN 37876
(865) 453-5972
https://forbiddencavern.com/
From their website:
“The Greatest Attraction Under the Smokies! 58 Degrees All Year Long! Tennessee is home to the most caves in the United States, with over 8,350 caves registered to date. Forbidden Caverns, located in Sevierville, Tennessee is one of America’s most spectacular caverns. Visitors are provided with an entertaining and educational tour past sparkling formations, towering natural chimneys, numerous grottos and a crystal clear stream. Special lighting effects and well-trained tour guides combine to make this a most enjoyable experience. The trails are well-lighted, with handrails at all necessary points. So what are you waiting for?! Come on by and check out Forbidden Caverns!”
MyFlight Tours Smoky Mountains
1101 Winfield Dunn Pkwy, Sevierville, TN 37876
(844) 644-3541
https://www.myflighttours.com/smoky-mountain-helicopter-rides/
From their website:
“Each rider will experience what it’s like to fly the Smokies even before stepping into the aircraft! Great for families and adventure enthusiasts alike! All rides take off and touch down at MyFlight Smoky Mountains located at 1101 Winfield Dunn Parkway, Sevierville, TN 37876. Our facility is the closest heliport to the Smoky Mountains, ensuring you get immediate, awe-inspiring views for the best price!”
Skydive East Tennessee
1640 W Dumplin Valley Rd, New Market, TN 37820
(865) 223-5155
https://www.skydiveet.com/
From their website:
“The Smoky Mountains – #1 Skydiving Center. Experience skydiving in full view of the Smoky Mountains. Friendly staff, panoramic views, and heart-pounding excitement. Come have a once-in-a-lifetime adventure! Learn to skydive and experience the world from a whole new perspective. It’s safe, exhilarating, life changing, and absolutely unforgettable. Learn from certified instructors and learn to fly. We’re proud to support the skydiving community at every level. Our drop zone offers the facilities, gear, rigging and camaraderie you need to make every jump count. Come enjoy our beautiful views, friendly vibe, and top-notch support for experienced skydivers.”
Smoky Mountain H2O Sports, LLC
1955 Chestnut Hill Rd, Dandridge, TN 37725
(865) 484-9026
https://smokymountainh2osports.com/
From their website:
“The perfect way to enjoy the Lakeside of the Smokies with the most variety of speed options on Douglas Lake. Our 200, 250, and 300 HP Tritoon rentals are the only ones you’ll find on Douglas Lake. East Tennessee boat and Waverunner headquarters. We also have your paddle products! Since we specialize only in boat and Waverunner rentals in East Tennessee, you are guaranteed your best rental experience possible!”
Godspeed Raceway
738 Deep Springs Cemetery Rd, Dandridge, TN 37725
(865) 317-4167
https://www.godspeedraceway.com/
See https://forestgrovervresort.com/godspeed-raceway/.
BONUS:
B.A.S.S. Nation Fishing Tournament
April 10-12, 2026
Cherokee Lake, Jefferson City
https://www.bassmaster.com/b-a-s-s-nation/news/b-a-s-s-announces-2026-b-a-s-s-nation-schedule-featuring-iconic-fisheries/
From their website:
“The 2026 B.A.S.S. Nation Regional Championship schedule brings together some of the most iconic and competitive fisheries in the country,” said GL Compton, B.A.S.S. Nation tournament manager. “Each regional will not only test our anglers’ skills in different conditions, but also create great opportunities for our host communities to showcase their passion for bass fishing.
The trail begins April 10-12 on Cherokee Lake in Jefferson City, Tenn., a deep, clear reservoir nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. Known for its strong populations of both largemouth and smallmouth bass, Cherokee offers challenging conditions that reward versatility and precision.”
