KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Ready to embrace the holiday spirit? The Downtown Knoxville Alliance invites you to 'deck the halls' downtown this season and join the city for the most wonderful time of year!
This year's holiday festivities will kick off on Friday, Nov. 29 and continue through Sunday, Jan. 5. Read below for all the things you can do to take part in the holiday fun!
Walk the Peppermint Trail
While you're walking downtown this season, you can follow the trail of peppermint decals to discover candy-cane-flavored goodies at businesses in Market Square, including candy cane coffees, seasonal cocktails, peppermint-themed t-shirts and more. The decals will remain on display throughout the holiday season.
Participate in the Elf on the Shelf scavenger hunt
There's an elf on the loose, and you can join the search! Over two dozen Downtown Knoxville businesses will be participating in this year's Elf on the Shelf scavenger hunt. You can pick up a North Pole Pass at Mast General Store or the Knoxville Visitors Center to guide you through the search with family and friends. The first 5,000 participants will receive a holiday stamp for their passes. Find 20 or more elves to win a prize!
Go ice-skating in Market Square at the Holidays on Ice rink
Grab a friend for some ice skating at the Holidays on Ice open-air rink in Market Square, which opens for the season on Friday, Nov. 29. Tickets can be purchased online. The rink will be open to children and adults M-Thu from 4 to 9 p.m.
Write a letter to Santa Clause
Children of all ages can drop off wishlists for Santa Claus this year at Market Square's holiday mailbox. Coloring pages will be available for writing down wishes. Get your letters in by Christmas Eve for express delivery to the North Pole!
Attend weekend holiday markets
Market Square will host a variety of outdoor markets this winter. The Old City Market will take place every weekend from Nov. 30 through Dec. 8, showcasing Knoxville artists, crafters and creative makers. The Market Square Winter Farmers Market will also return on Dec. 7 and take place every Saturday from Jan. 20 through March 30.
Check off your holiday shopping list
You can join the fun and get your holiday shopping done at any of Market Square's local shops downtown! Visit the Downtown Knoxville website for a complete directory of open shops.
Go to the WIVK Christmas Parade
The 51st annual WIVK Christmas Parade will take place on Gay Street this year on Dec. 6. Festivities will kick off at 7 p.m. and will include floats, decorated vehicles, bands, majorettes, dancers and a Santa appearance.
For more information about upcoming holiday events, visit the Downtown Knoxville website.
