KNOXVILLE, Tenn — For many families, Dec. 25 may not be for celebrating Christmas. It can be just another Monday. Some other families may simply want to avoid the hassle of the holidays, which can lead them to some local businesses.
Bravo restaurant in West Knoxville is just one of a handful of restaurants that have opted to stay open this Christmas in Knoxville. The business said that Christmas Eve and Christmas Day are the two busiest days of the whole year.
"The importance of us being open on Christmas is, this may be one of the only times that a family gets together for a meal during the year. We had about 300 last night and another 100 for lunch too," said Sean Lakos, the general manager at Bravo.
Some families look for something to do other than eat. One Knoxville family always watches a movie at the downtown theater every Christmas.
"We'll always open up some presents and then we decide which movie we want to come see," said a member of the family.
Oliver Royale Hotel's restaurant is the only Market Square restaurant open on Christmas. It's a tradition they hope to continue for future years.
"For people who aren't celebrating or maybe just don't have the kitchen to cook a meal today, we'll do that for them," said Katie Kennedy, a manager at Oliver Royale.
WBIR also wants to extend gratitude to employees working over the holiday season, so that others can feel a sense of belonging and celebration too.