There are tons of fun things to do in Pigeon Forge in July! In this Pigeon Forge vacation guide, we give some of the most exciting activities, attractions, and unique festivals to enjoy at this time of the year
No matter what your summer vacation itinerary entails this year, you’ll find that Pigeon Forge is the perfect place to enjoy some time away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.


Whether you’re planning the perfect family-friendly fourth of July getaway or traveling to experience a new summer outdoor adventure, July Pigeon Forge is filled with plenty of things to do and see.
Here are the best things to do in Pigeon Forge in July!

What Is Going On In Pigeon Forge in July?
Patriotism abounds in Pigeon Forge as July kicks off with special events like the annual Patriot Festival which happens every 4th of July at Patriot Park.
There are plenty of family-friendly activities and games throughout the afternoon and evening. Concluding the festival is the 4th of July fireworks show.
Aside from the Patriot festival, other top July events include Rainbow National Dance Competition and Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration.
Festivals and Events in Pigeon Forge in July
- Pigeon Forge Patriot Festival– July 4, 2022
- Dollywood’s Summer Celebration: Jun 18, 2022 – Aug 7, 2022
- ALCATRAZ EAST – JULY CRIME ANNIVERSARIES: July 1, 2022-July 31, 2022

Pigeon Forge, TN heats up in the summer, both with the rising temps and a hot lineup of attractions, festivals, and events to enjoy. Check them all out below!
Things To Do in Pigeon Forge in July
Whether you're looking for exciting attractions or want to cool of this summer, these 8 amazing things to do in Pigeon Forge in July will surely make for an epic summer adventure!
Hiking through The Great Smoky Mountains is a great way to see and experience its many natural wonders.
With 16 trails to different stunning waterfalls including:
- Laurel Falls trail
- Abrams falls trail
- Rainbow Falls Trail, and the famous
- Grotto Falls trail
Here are some of the best dinner shows in Pigeon Forge to check out in July:
You’ll have so much fun at Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration.
This annual celebration features family fun rides and entertainment.
This year would be extra fun with the return of everyone’s favorite Sweet Summer Nights drone & fireworks show which you can expect to be bigger, brighter, and more beautiful than ever!
If you’re looking for something more thrilling to do in Pigeon Forge in July, then whitewater rafting is the perfect activity for you. When you go white water rafting, no need to worry about anyone missing out on the fun because of height or age requirements.
Even kids as young as 3 years old can ride the mild Lower Pigeon River, which features mainly class 1 and 2 rapids. And for the adrenaline junkies, you can take a whitewater rafting trip on the Upper Pigeon River rafting which has the exciting class 3 and 4 rapids.
Dollywood's Splash Country is a great place to cool down in summer! This wildly popular attraction is bursting with family fun and wet adventures that kids and adults will surely enjoy.
With over 16 exciting rides and attractions, plenty of great food and dining options, and entertainment for the whole family, you can never go wrong with a trip to this amazing waterpark in Pigeon Forge, Tn.
Renting a cabin is always a good idea when visiting the Smoky Mountains and Pigeon Forge area. With great amenities and scenic views, what else could one want?
If you don’t like to plan an entire vacation while knowing that privacy will not happen when you stay in a hotel or inn, then renting a cabin is perfect for you!
Whether you’re looking for a cabin that’s more secluded or prefers one that is a short distance away from the best attractions, you'll be able to find a Pigeon Forge cabin that suits your needs.
You can’t leave Pigeon Forge without visiting the Island in Pigeon Forge. This unique attraction is a one-stop shop for all things fun. Featuring over 60 retail stores, plenty of food and dining, and family-friendly rides. There is no charge to get in, and you can choose to spend as much as you'd like. Here are the must-try attraction in the area:
- The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel
- The Island’s state-of-the-art show fountain
- Island Mirror Maze
- Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen
- The Island Rope course
One of the best ways to beat the summer heat is by spending some time relaxing by the water. Or in this case, on the water.
There are quite a few tubing outposts in the Smokies, which you can leisurely cruise down the river beside friends and family. And if you also love camping, you’ll be able to find a handful of campgrounds that have lazy rivers too!
Can’t Afford a Family Vacation? Think Again!
- Would You Like An Easy Way to keep track of your travel expenses?
- Do you ever feel like you have no idea what you spend on your vacation?
- Wouldn’t it be nice to keep your travel plans and confirmation numbers AND track your spending all on your phone and in ONE place?
If you answered YES to any of these questions, then The Travel Expense Tracker™️ can help you.
Gain control of your travel budget so you can travel more NOW and in the future!
Accessible from your tablet, laptop, or smartphone.

Get Your FREE Summer Packing List For The Smoky Mountains
Recommended Pigeon Forge Resources
- Smoky Mountains Vacation Guide
- Gatlinburg Vacation Guide
- Pigeon Forge Discount Tickets
- Great Smoky Mountains Family Vacations Facebook Group
MORE RELATED RESOURCES
If you’re dreaming of a family summer getaway in Pigeon Forge but worried about your budget, you’d be happy to know that there are plenty of amazing things to do in Pigeon Forge for free!
And if you’re planning a trip to Dollywood this summer, here are helpful Dollywood parking tips you should know.