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December and January are hardly the time for hibernation. In Kentucky and Tennessee, chilly temperatures never hinder a good time.

 

Every winter, the Volunteer State comes alive with its world-famous Smoky Mountain Winterfest taking over Sevierville, Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. One of the most unique and popular Winterfest events, Wilderness Wildlife Week, will be held January 7 through 14, 2012 in Pigeon Forge.Each year, the celebration attracts thousands of visitors eager to get back to nature. Small wonder, since the hills of Tennessee are the perfect winter playground. In addition to 50 popular guided hiking excursions suited for varying ages and skill levels, there's a wide array of programming to help you explore the great outdoors. More than 100 wildlife experts share their knowledge across a series of lectures, workshops and seminars. If you’d prefer to skip venturing into the frosty air, there are plenty of indoor attractions at Music Road Hotel & Convention Center celebrating the music, history and folklore of the Smoky Mountains. Take part in some of the rich traditions of the region while tapping your toes to the sounds of AppalachiaFest; hear the Carolina Bluegrass Boys and try clogging with the Appalachian Cloggers. New in 2012, the event will also feature a photography contest. Categories include Amateur, Professional, Wildlife, Great Smoky Mountain Landmarks and Nature's Wonders in Black & White. For more information, visit www.smokymountainwinterfest.com.

 

Louisville, Kentucky’s Lights Under Louisville brings the “only underground holiday light show of its kind on the planet” to life through January 1, 2012. The MEGA Cavern is transformed into a mesmerizing spectacle featuring 500 lit characters with over one million points of light, making the display a one-of-a-kind winter experience. Pack up the car for a thrilling 40-minute drive through more than 17 miles of the limestone cavern's subterranean passageways. For more information, visit www.louisvillemegacavern.com.

 

If you’re the active type, don’t missOwensboro, Kentucky’s Winter Wonderland Downtown ice skating rink, the perfect place to enjoy an outdoor delight only the coldest season can afford. With specials such as Free Admission Mondays, onsite skate rentals and movie screenings of your holiday favorites projected right at the rink, this is no ordinary skating experience. Refuel with hot chocolate before taking another loop around the rink. Little ones will enjoy the Beginning Blade designated skate time, when children six years old and younger, and their parents, have the rink to themselves to work on skating skills. Whether you're a kid or just young-at-heart, you'll find Winter Wonderland lives up to its name. The rink stays open through January 2, 2012. Check out http://riverparkcenter.com/events/winter-wonderland.html for prices and additional information.

 

Don’t miss out on the wintertime fun that awaits you in Kentucky and Tennessee.