I hope you had a great Thanksgiving. It’s always been my favorite holiday, though not for the reasons you might expect. The pilgrim story was great for me, until I got a bit older and learned more about it. And while I am truly appreciative that I have so many great family and friends in my life, it’s not really that part of it, either. For me, the day always represented the less-commercialized, less-pressurized version of a holiday that just precedes the steam-cooker holiday craziness that follows. I like the quieter things.
That said, there are tons of things to do in the city that don’t have to be about the commercial madness. Even the commercial part of it can be so much better, like how much better to stroll actual historical streets buying thoughtful gifts from people who own the business and truly care about their customers than, well, you know the alternative. But the best alternative is free fun with friends and family. Making memories, rather than simply buying gifts that will soon be forgotten.
With that in mind, downtown awaits. Some of the fun is a one-day-only sort of thing, while other bits last into January. Some of it started earlier, but today features the big launch for most of it.
Blow off the mall and come to downtown early today. You’ll find that the Fantasy of Trees, benefitting Children’s Hospital kicked off on Wednesday and runs through Sunday, benefitting Children’s Hospital. It’s beautiful and its for a good cause, with something for everyone in the family to enjoy. Doors open at 9:00 am.
What starts today? Well, Elf on a Shelf, a Knoxville tradition kicks off when the shops open – and it is free for everyone. Little kids love it and I’ve seen groups of college kids and older folks getting into it, as well. Not your thing? Well for something a bit more challenging, try ice skating (opens at noon today). Holidays on Ice is back on Market Square and the ice gods have given us actual cold weather as a launch. Not too shabby. It runs through January 5, and if you really like hitting the ice, the season pass is the bargain.
And lights? Beautiful Christmas windows? We have them and it is free. Spring for a hot chocolate and wander around for a beautiful, low-priced evening of joy in the city. Or at least pretty lights. Upwards of 200,000 lights have been deployed in Market Square and Krutch Park and further afield (don’t miss the candy-canes in the Old City) for your festive delight. Yeah, that may sound a little market-ee, but it really is beautiful.
The Peppermint Trail also launches today (it’s those stickers you see on the sidewalk) and runs into January. From free peppermints for the kids, to special peppermint beverages for the adults, it’s another fun way to explore downtown.
Today culminates with the Regal Celebration of Lights featuring tons of family-friendly, free events. The fun starts at 5:15 with music in Krutch Park by Milkman and the Big Band. (Pro-tips: Park in the Dwight Kessel Garage or the Coliseum Parking Garage and walk a few blocks to the event. It’s free parking and you won’t have to fight for a spot and lose your holiday spirit. And Gay Street closes at 4:30, so know where you are going before you confront that confounding fact.
Also, get there fairly early if you want to be close to the Santa action up front.) and runs to 9:00 pm. Kids can glimpse Santa (and send him a letter – just remember kids, it’s “Santa” with no “n” at the end. That would be the wrong guy.) The tree will light, fireworks will explode, lots of family fun like hot chocolate and open fire pits will ensue. Did I mention it’s free?
Anticipate great finding great gifts for friends and family at the wonderful Holiday Markets. Starting December 7 and running for three consecutive weekends in the Farmers’ Market footprint around Market Square and Krutch Park, you’ll find local arts, crafts, and absolutely unique items. The monthly Old City Market will host a special market on Small Business Saturday (tomorrow, November 30), and their regular monthly Market on Sunday, December 8.
This is just the beginning, of course. Lots of big events will follow, like next weekend’s Christmas Parade kicking off at 7:00 pm, Friday December 6 on Gay Street (also Free). The 7th and 8th Old North Knoxville presents their wonderful Victorian Holiday Home Tour, which is always amazing. The awesome Tour De Lights (free) hits the next weekend, on Saturday, December 14, with the fun starting with a special holiday market at 3:30 (on Mary Costa Plaza).
The list is in no way comprehensive. Follow along on the 10 Day Planner for all the details and also check out other official holiday guides like those by Downtown Knoxville, Visit Knoxville, and the City of Knoxville.
It’s all fun and there is something for everyone. My favorite moments will be the quiet ones, like a Tuesday night walk around the city when the excitement has ebbed and the lights seem to shine just for me. I’ll enjoy early morning coffee walks through the decorations, and watching children skate, fall, laugh, and try again. I’ll enjoy people watching generally as families and couples spend time recognizing each other and the beauty that does surround us.
Is all well with the world? No. Not close. But maybe we can grab a minute to forget all that and simply enjoy what’s here. I hope you find some joy whether you celebrate particular holidays or not and I’ll be out there with you hoping to find the same.