Gatlinburg’s cherished holiday tradition returns to the heart of the city as the 36th Annual Gatlinburg's Winter Magic Kickoff & Chili Cookoff! This year’s event marks a long-awaited return to downtown on the Parkway, bringing even more sparkle and celebration to the very center of town. The evening will come alive with the official launch of Gatlinburg’s Winter Magic, featuring the stunning illumination of more than one million LED lights. With this event returning to the Parkway, the expanded light displays, and the unbeatable combination of community, music, and chili, Gatlinburg’s Winter Magic Kickoff & Chili Cookoff promises an unforgettable start to the winter season. Join us as we flip the switch and kick off winter with warmth, flavor, and magic.
Adding to the "magic" is the beloved Chili Cookoff, where local chefs, restaurants, and civic groups compete for bragging rights as they serve up steaming bowls of homemade chili—from classic recipes to fiery, creative twists.
