The city of Pigeon Forge honored its veterans with a special parade that kicked the beginning of Winterfest Tuesday. 

   More than 4,000 cheered as the parade made its way down the Parkway and ended at Patriot Park where city leaders kicked off Winterfest with the ceremonial lighting of the Winterfest lights.

   As darkness overtook the city more than five million lights were activated by Many-Bears Grinder, Commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Veterans Affairs, illuminating the night.
    The event began with local Cub Scouts presenting the Colors and leading attendees in the Pledge of Allegiance.
    Entertainers from the Grand Majestic Theater performed a special tribute for veterans followed by the Pigeon Forge Community Chorus and a performance by Dollywood entertainer James Rogers. The festivities concluded with a dazzling fireworks display

                       Photos by Bill Bloodworth 

   Winterfest kicked off with a parade honoring our nation’s veterans