Christmas Day in Tennessee feels magical. Whether you’re waking up in the mountains, spending the holiday in a cozy small town, or celebrating in one of the state’s bigger cities, Tennessee offers endless ways for families to make memories together. From outdoor adventures to twinkling light displays and heartwarming traditions, there’s something for every style of celebration.

Here are some of the best Christmas Day activities for families in Tennessee to help you plan a festive, unforgettable holiday.

---

🎁 1. Start the Day With a Cozy Southern Breakfast

There’s nothing like waking up to a warm, homemade Tennessee-style breakfast on Christmas morning. Families often gather around the table for:

• Biscuits and gravy
• Cinnamon rolls
• Country ham or sausage
• Fresh eggs
• Hot chocolate or apple cider

It’s a simple tradition, but it sets the tone for a slow, joyful holiday.

---

🎄 2. Take a Scenic Christmas Day Drive

Tennessee’s landscapes are beautiful year-round, but winter gives everything a peaceful, storybook feel. Families love taking Christmas Day drives through:

• The Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• Cades Cove
• Foothills Parkway
• The rolling hills of Middle Tennessee
• Historic downtowns decorated with lights and garlands

With fewer crowds and crisp winter air, it’s a perfect way to relax after opening presents.

---

✨ 3. Visit a Christmas Light Display (Yes—Many Stay Open!)

Some of Tennessee’s most beloved light displays remain open on Christmas Day. If you’re looking for post-dinner fun, check out:

• Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge Winterfest Lights
• Chattanooga’s Enchanted Garden of Lights at Rock City
• Drive-through light shows in towns across the state
• Neighborhoods known for over-the-top Christmas decorations

Kids absolutely love ending Christmas night surrounded by millions of twinkling lights.

---

⛷️ 4. Head to Ober Mountain for Snow Fun

For a more active Christmas Day, families flock to Ober Mountain in Gatlinburg, where the slopes are often open.

Activities include:

• Skiing
• Snowboarding
• Ice skating
• Snow tubing
• Scenic aerial tram rides

Tennessee may not be known for heavy snow, but Ober brings the winter magic to life.

---

🌲 5. Take a Christmas Hike

If your family enjoys the outdoors, a Christmas hike is a refreshing tradition. Popular winter-friendly trails include:

• Laurel Falls Trail (Smoky Mountains)
• Cummins Falls (Cookeville area)
• Fiery Gizzard Trail (South Cumberland State Park)
• Radnor Lake (Nashville)

Bundle up, bring hot cocoa, and enjoy the quiet beauty of Tennessee’s winter forests.

---

🕯️ 6. Attend a Christmas Day Church Service

Many families in Tennessee begin Christmas Day with a church service or candlelight event. It’s a meaningful way to celebrate together and reflect on the season with:

• Carols
• Candle lighting
• Nativity plays
• Community gatherings

Even visitors often enjoy experiencing Tennessee’s warm, welcoming Christmas services.

---

🍿 7. Enjoy a Christmas Movie Marathon

After a busy morning, staying cozy at home is sometimes the perfect plan.

Family favorites include:

• Home Alone
• How the Grinch Stole Christmas
• Elf
• The Polar Express
• A Christmas Story

Pair it with snacks, Christmas pajamas, and a crackling fire for a relaxing holiday afternoon.

---

🥘 8. Make (or Share) a Tennessee Christmas Dinner

Food brings everyone together, and Tennessee families love adding Southern touches to their holiday meal:

• Baked ham
• Sweet potato casserole
• Cornbread dressing
• Green beans
• Pecan pie

Some families host potlucks with neighbors, while others cook together all day. Either way, it’s a highlight of Christmas in Tennessee.

---

🎶 9. End the Night With Music—The Tennessee Way

From Nashville to the Smokies, music is part of Tennessee’s DNA. Many families end Christmas Day with:

• Guitar playing
• Singing carols
• Local concerts (some cities hold Christmas night shows)
• Listening to holiday classics together

It’s a heartwarming tradition that brings a little Tennessee soul into the day.

---

Final Thoughts

Christmas Day in Tennessee is all about togetherness—whether you’re exploring the outdoors, creating new traditions, or simply enjoying the peaceful beauty of the season. With mountains, small towns, scenic roads, and welcoming communities, Tennessee offers countless ways for families to make the holiday magical.