Autumn is in the air once again in the Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee.
It can be hard to choose from Gatlinburg’s wide range of attractions, but it’s difficult to find a place that captures the beauty of the Smokies better than Anakeesta.
This year, Anakeesta is bringing back its annual fall event with Hallow Mountain.
During the fall season, guests will be able to experience the many colors of autumn at Anakeesta, Gatlinburg’s award-winning outdoor family theme park.
The event features seasonal food, live music, enhanced nighttime lighting and a variety of Halloween-themed family fun.
Plus, this fall marks the debut of Anakeesta’s newest feature, Astra Lumina.
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When does Anakeesta’s fall event begin?
Hallow Mountain, Anakeesta’s fall event, will run from Sept. 16 through Oct. 31, 2022.
The beautiful Anakeesta theme park will be open from 9 am until 8 pm most evenings.
After a scenic chondola ride to the top of the mountain, guests will be greeted by the sounds of the season as the park welcomes the best bands in Tennessee with the best views of the Smokies.
Remember, if the ride isn’t your jam, you can always take the Ridge Rambler vehicle ride instead.
Carved pumpkins will be on display throughout Vista Gardens and seasonal decor will be found throughout the mountaintop park.
Visitors will also be able to enjoy a bird’s eye view of the fall leaves transforming into yellow and orange colors of from the tallest point in Gatlinburg, the AnaVista tower.
The tower is downtown Gatlinburg’s highest point, where visitors will see 360-degree mountain views and a unique look at beautiful Gatlinburg.
What can you do at Anakeesta?
Most of Anakeesta’s activities are included with the price of your admission ticket.
This includes Chondola or Ridge Rambler rides, the AnaVista Observation Tower, the Treetop Skywalk, the TreeVenture Challenge Course, Treehouse Village and the BearVenture Challenge Course.
Access to specialty stores and restaurants is included as well.
However, there are some add-ons available. Add-on adventures include gem mining, the Rail Runner mountain coaster and the Dueling Ziplines.
The zipline tour offers a thrilling ride for the more adventurous guests.
Wear close-toed shoes if you plan on doing this type of adventure. Also, an admission ticket is required to make a zipline reservation.
Read Also: Anakeesta vs. Ober Gatlinburg: Which attraction is better?
Fall food and drinks at Anakeesta
Guests will once again enjoy the unique flavors of fall with the changing of the season at the park this year.
Sweet treats will be available at Pearl’s Pie in the Sky.
Foodies will love the wonderful foods and specials from Cliff Top Restaurant. Also, Tap House Bar will be offering a taste of autumn with seasonal cocktails. For a tasty snack with my drink, I personally love the pork nachos.
Notably, the park will have Bavarian-themed food and drinks in Black Bear Village.
But the best part of Autumn at Anakeesta is the fall experience in the Smokies.
There’s no better place to enjoy the fall foliage in Tennessee or the Appalachian mountains than at the park.
With all-day admission, guests will want to return for an evening sunset, relax around a fire pit, and enjoy the thousands of sparkling lights.
Read Also: Tennessee fall foliage prediction map, an interactive tool
What’s new at this year’s event?
In the past, Anakeesta has hosted Halloween events. For example, they hosted a Halloween movie night with films like “Frankenweenie”, “Hocus Pocus”, “Hotel Transylvania” and “Halloweentown”. The movie events do not appear to be on the schedule this year.
Instead, we have something even more magical to look forward to. On Oct. 21, the Astra Lumina Night Walk experience is making its debut at the park.
This event is the first of its kind in the United States. It will feature illuminating encounters of lighting, projection and sound so guests can connect with the stars.
Also, live musical performances featuring music selections like bluegrass and more will perform throughout the event.
Read Also: Anakeesta announces $34 million expansion, the largest yet
The schedule currently includes live entertainment from performers such as Shaun Abbott, Monroeville and The Kincaid Band.
For full details on live performances, check Anakeesta’s calendar.
How much is admission to Anakeesta?
Adult admission is currently $34.99. Seniors (60 and up) are $27.99, and children 4-11 can get admission for $22.99.
Children under 3 years of age are free. Check Tripster for discounts when you book.
Live music is included with the price of admission. Astra Lumina tickets are sold separately.
Locals may enjoy an annual pass, which would pay for itself after only two visits.
Anakeesta is located in the heart of downtown Gatlinburg TN, nearby the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
To learn more about Anakeesta or for further questions about Astra Lumina, visit them online.
Is Anakeesta on your list when you visit Gatlinburg this fall? Let us know in the comments.
