There are no liquor stores in Pigeon Forge primarily because Sevier County, where Pigeon Forge is located, is considered a dry county. A dry county is an area where the sale and consumption of alcohol is restricted or prohibited. However, there are some exceptions to this general rule.
Sevier County has a city option that allows for the sale and service of liquor and/or beer within the city limits, in accordance with state law. This means that while the county as a whole may be dry, certain cities within the county have the option to allow the sale of alcohol.
In the case of Pigeon Forge, the city has chosen to exercise this option and permit the sale of liquor by the drink and beer sales in restaurants. This means that visitors to Pigeon Forge can still enjoy alcoholic beverages with their meals at various restaurants in the area.
It’s worth noting that the decision to remain a dry county or allow the sale of alcohol is often influenced by local laws, cultural attitudes, and the preferences of the community. In the case of Pigeon Forge, the city likely weighed the potential economic benefits of allowing alcohol sales against the potential social and cultural implications.
While Pigeon Forge may not have liquor stores, there are likely nearby areas where residents and visitors can purchase alcohol. For example, the neighboring city of Sevierville, also located in Sevier County, does allow for the sale of packaged liquor and beer in stores.
The absence of liquor stores in Pigeon Forge can be attributed to the fact that Sevier County is considered a dry county. However, the city of Pigeon Forge has chosen to exercise its city option and allow for the sale of liquor by the drink and beer sales in restaurants.