November 6 is gearing up to be a busy day in Pigeon Forge, TN. On the calendar is the 2nd annual Salute to Veterans parade followed by the kickoff to Winterfest 2012. Both events are expected to draw large crowds so scout out your parade spot now and get ready to witness one of the premier Christmas displays in the Smoky Mountains.

Salute to Veterans
Pigeon Forge honors veterans during the 2nd annual Salute to Veterans parade. The parade begins at 4:30 at the south end of town and travels along the Parkway to Patriot Park. There you'll be able to view a display of vintage and current military vehicles. Stick around Patriot Park for the Winterfest kickoff celebration.

Pigeon Forge Winterfest Kickoff
After the parade, Winterfest will officially begin at Patriot Park. The Pigeon Forge Community Chorus will provide live entertainment leading up to the ceremonial lighting of the holiday displays. This year Winterfest is made up of over five million lights.

The kickoff is just the beginning. Winterfest runs through February 28, 2013 so there will be plenty of time to see all the lights, take a ride on the Trolley Tour of Lights, and attend special events like Wilderness Wildlife Week and Saddle Up.