Fall in Love with Autumn’s GLOW

Autumn’s GLOW at The Island September 21 – November 15, 2026

There is no place quite like the Great Smoky Mountains during autumn. As the leaves begin their stunning color transformation across the ridges, The Island in Pigeon Forge is introducing a brand-new seasonal celebration: Autumn’s GLOW!

Running from September 21 through November 15, 2026, Autumn's GLOW combines the rich natural beauty of autumn in the Smokies with vibrant visual entertainment, picturesque photo spots, seasonal shopping and dining, and exciting fall events. Best of all? Admission and parking at The Island are always 100% free!

Here is what you can look forward to during this unforgettable seasonal experience:

Mesmerizing Nighttime Water & Light Displays

As the sun dips below the mountains, The Island transforms into an enchanted autumn wonderland.

• A Symphony of Light on the Water: The Island Show Fountain will debut Autumn’s GLOW: A Symphony of Light, set to a captivating fall soundtrack. Custom floating Maple Leaf lanterns cast a warm, radiant harvest glow across the water while water jets dance to the music.

• Illuminated Views on The Wheel: The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel features vibrant new harvest-themed light shows. Take a daytime spin in an enclosed gondola for breathtaking 200-foot views of peak fall foliage, then ride at night to see the illuminated fountain and floating lanterns shining from above!

Fall Flavors, Spooky Finds & Seasonal Shopping

Beyond our outdoor light shows, shops and eateries across The Island are joining in on the autumn fun with limited-time treats, drinks, and merchandise:

• Sip & Sample Fall FavoritesWarm up with returning fall specialty beverages at Starbucks, or stop by Beef Jerky and Peanut Butter Experience to try seasonal favorites like "Bigfoot Bait Jerky."

• Seasonal Merchandise & MoonshineDiscover new autumn collections at Ole Smoky Moonshine, and visit Build-A-Bear Workshop to create spooky Halloween friends like plush bats, kitties, and bears.

• Light Up the NightStop by The Island Gift Shop for exclusive Island fall apparel, along with glowing pumpkin necklaces, light-up wands, and bubble swords for the kids to enjoy around the fountain!

• Plus much more! 

Signature Fall Events

Mark your calendar for two special signature celebrations during Autumn’s GLOW:

• Saturday, September 26: Autumn’s GLOW Kickoff featuring Chalkfest Watch artists transform the sidewalks into living storybooks during our "Once Upon a Sidewalk" chalk art contest, enjoy a free kids’ craft tent, and get your face painted!

• Saturday, October 31: Halloween Night Bring the whole family out for free trick-or-treating throughout the property, a family-friendly dance party, and our annual costume contest.