Country Tonite

Country Tonite has been our go-to show recommendation for families since we started running this site. The 2-hour variety show packs 1,500 people into their theater on Showplace Boulevard, and honestly, the energy from that crowd makes it even better. What makes this different from other Pigeon Forge shows is they mix kids with professional performers — sounds cheesy, but those youth performers are genuinely talented and add something special you won't find anywhere else in the area.

The show runs April through December, so if you're planning a winter trip in January or February, you're out of luck. They do this Christmas edition in November and December that's worth catching if you're here during the holidays.

We've seen it probably six times over the years, and it's not just country music despite the name — they throw in gospel, patriotic stuff, and even some pop hits. The comedy bits are hit or miss, but when they land, the whole place erupts. Fair warning though: this place sells out, especially on summer weekends and during the Christmas show season.

One thing that drives us crazy is the parking situation. You're basically fighting for spots along the Parkway, and it's about a half-mile walk from the main strip if you park there. Get there 30 minutes early if you want decent seats — they don't reserve everything. Oh and if you need handicap seating, call them directly at 865-453-2003 instead of booking online.

They bring in celebrity acts too, separate from the regular show. Diamond Rio's coming May 29th at 8pm, and the Oak Ridge Boys are back in September. Those tickets are totally separate and cost more, but we caught Tim Lovelace there last year and it was worth it.