Among the restaurants and attractions in Pigeon Forge is Patriot Park. At 16 acres in size, it’s not a gigantic park. However, what it lacks in size, it certainly makes up for in charm. Whether you’re looking for a spot to get away from the commotion or you want to check out some of the popular activities held here, Patriot Park has what you need.
Patriot Park is the ideal place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. If you’d like to have a picnic outside, the park has a pavilion that doesn’t require reservations and is available on a first-come, first-serve basis. There’s also a gazebo in the park. While there’s no fee to use the gazebo, the city does require reservations. Finally, you can take a stroll along the half-mile walking trail in the park. Along the trail, you’ll see flags from all 50 states, as well as several memorials to the veterans from Pigeon Forge.
While Patriot Park is home to many festivals throughout the year, perhaps the most popular is the Pigeon Forge Patriot Festival held every year on the fourth of July. This daylong event is completely free to attend and includes concerts, a children’s carnival, games, and plenty of family-friendly activities. There are also food vendors who serve up burgers, hot dogs, ice cream, and other classic summer treats. The entertainment starts to wrap up at 9:30 p.m. so that the fireworks extravaganza can begin at 9:45.
Whether it’s summer or winter, the fun doesn’t stop at Patriot Park. Beginning in early November and running through the end of February, Patriot Park offers the largest collection of lights for the Winterfest light display. Keeping with the park’s dedication, the theme of the lights is distinctly American. You’ll see groupings that include a salute to the Armed Forces, the Liberty Bell, the rolling waves from “America the Beautiful,” and a paddlewheel-driven riverboat.
Every spring, the popular Smoky Mountain Spring Trout Tournament comes to the area. A few days before this two-day event, the river gets stocked with over 10,000 trout for some great fishing. There are divisions for adults, children, locals, and tourists, and over $10,000 in cash and prizes. Weigh-in happens at Patriot Park on both days, so stop by and see what the anglers hauled in.
Whether you’re stopping by to take part in one of the many festivals or you simply want to enjoy some peaceful time outside, Patriot Park is a popular destination you should make time to visit.
Insider’s Tip:
While the Pigeon Forge Patriot Festival offers fun for the entire family, just remember you’re not permitted to bring umbrellas, coolers, or pop-up tents to the festival. However, lawn chairs and blankets are welcome.