Gatlinburg Veterans Day Celebration
November 11, annually · Held since 2000
A community-wide tribute in downtown Gatlinburg, and one of a small number of ceremonies nationwide designated an official Regional Site for the Observance of Veterans Day — an affiliation that connects it directly to the national observance at Arlington. Free and open to everyone.
Gatlinburg's Veterans Day Celebration is a free, community-wide tribute held downtown every November 11 since 2000. It's an official Regional Site for the Observance of Veterans Day, a designation from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the Veterans Day National Committee that connects the ceremony to the National Veterans Day Observance at Arlington National Cemetery. Veterans, their families, and the community are all welcome.
When: 11:00 AM on November 11, every year
Where: traditionally at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies Plaza, 88 River Road
Free parking at 309 Reagan Drive
Free and open to the public; about an hour long
The ceremony
The ceremony begins at 11:00 AM on November 11, the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month, marking the 1918 armistice. The program runs about an hour and honors veterans of every branch and every conflict.
It's traditionally held on the Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies Plaza, with flags across the streets and a large flag as a backdrop. In some years it has moved to the Gatlinburg Convention Center, so check gatlinburg.com each November to confirm the location.
What to expect
The program changes each year but has typically included these moments:
Music
The Gatlinburg-Pittman High School Concert Band plays the armed services marches, and veterans of each branch are invited to stand as their song plays. Local singers perform the National Anthem and "God Bless America," along with choirs and groups from area schools.
Speakers and community groups
Local leaders, military officials, and veteran speakers address the crowd, with presentations from American Legion Post 202 and local Scout troops.
Quilts of Valor and the POW/MIA table
Quilts of Valor are presented to veterans, with recognition of Gold Star and Blue Star families. A POW/MIA table presentation honors prisoners of war and those still missing.
A live bald eagle and closing honors
In past years, the American Eagle Foundation has brought a live bald eagle, and some years have featured a military flyover. The ceremony closes with a moment of silence and Taps.
Check gatlinburg.com for this year's program.
What the Regional Site designation means
Each year, the Veterans Day National Committee and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs designate a small number of communities as Regional Sites for the Observance of Veterans Day, recognizing their ceremonies as exemplary. The designation connects Gatlinburg's ceremony to the national observance at Arlington National Cemetery.
Discounts for veterans and active military
Many Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge attractions offer free or discounted admission to veterans and active military on November 11, and local restaurants and businesses often have their own offers. Attractions that have taken part in past years include Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, Ripley's Believe It or Not!, Anakeesta, the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park, Dollywood, and Ober Gatlinburg. Offers change every year, so confirm with each attraction before you go.
Patriot Park in Pigeon Forge
After the ceremony, Patriot Park in Pigeon Forge is a fitting place to spend an hour. At 186 Old Mill Avenue beside the Little Pigeon River, it holds memorials to local veterans and a half-mile walking trail lined with the flags of every state. It's open year-round and is pet-friendly.
Tips for attending
Arrive by 10:30 — the ceremony starts right at 11:00 and draws a crowd.
Confirm the location — it's usually the aquarium plaza but sometimes the Convention Center.
Use the free lot — free parking for the ceremony is at 309 Reagan Drive.
Wear your uniform or medals — veterans are encouraged to, and many do.
Bring the kids — the program is meaningful and educational for all ages.
Veterans Day weekend in the Smokies
Early November is a calmer time in the mountains, often with late fall color still lingering. Dollywood's Harvest Festival typically runs into early November, the Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook offers free views over the valley, and Great Smoky Mountains National Park is free to enter and quiet for late-season hiking. On a rainy day, Ripley's Aquarium is all indoors. See all Gatlinburg events and things to do in Gatlinburg.
Frequently asked questions
When is the ceremony?
November 11 every year, starting at 11:00 AM. Check gatlinburg.com for this year's location and program.
Where is it held?
Traditionally at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies Plaza, 88 River Road. In some years it has moved to the Gatlinburg Convention Center.
Is it free?
Yes. It's free and open to the public.
Is there free parking?
Yes, at 309 Reagan Drive.
What is the Regional Site designation?
A recognition from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the Veterans Day National Committee for exemplary Veterans Day observances. It connects the ceremony to the national observance at Arlington National Cemetery.
How long has Gatlinburg held the ceremony?
Since 2000.
Are there Veterans Day discounts at attractions?
Many attractions offer free or discounted admission to veterans and active military on November 11. Confirm offers directly, since they change each year.
How long does the ceremony last?
About an hour.
Stay close to downtown with our Gatlinburg cabins, or bring the family with our family cabins and large cabins. Fireplaces are in season from October 1, so see our cabins with fireplaces for a cozy November stay. Book direct and the Stay & Play Pass includes free attraction tickets for every paid night.