Ringing in the new year has different meanings for different people. Some celebrate quietly at home. Some celebrate with parties, decorations and special food. Some choose to get out and celebrate with live music, friends and fireworks. Some celebrate with a good night’s rest. (Eh-hem. That might be me.) I grew up in a home that hosted NYE for friends and family. After we had our kids, we shifted to a New Year’s at Nine celebrations to get the kids in bed and friends off the roads early. Now that my kids are older, we haven’t re-established what ringing out the old and in the new looks like. Having options around town is an excellent solution for those looking for something new or just something out of their usual box.
As 2024 comes to a close, Downtown Knoxville is gearing up for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebration. From live music and dining to fireworks and family-friendly events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here’s your guide to making the most of New Year’s Eve in downtown Knoxville.
The Sunsphere Countdown
A hallmark of Knoxville’s New Year’s Eve festivities is the iconic Sunsphere Countdown at World’s Fair Park presented by Lowe’s. The park will be buzzing with excitement as attendees gather for live music performances, food trucks, and a dazzling fireworks display. The countdown to midnight will feature the Sunsphere lighting up the night sky, marking the start of 2025 in spectacular fashion. Admission is free for all. A silent disco (SO FUN!) and DJ will kick off the festivities at 9pm with the Mikki Norwood Band from 10-11:55pm with a ball drop from the Sunsphere at midnight. This is a family-friendly, rain or shine event and will be alcohol free. Feel free to bring your lawn chairs and blankets to get comfy for the show.
Dining Experiences
Downtown Knoxville’s vibrant culinary scene is offering special New Year’s Eve menus and celebrations. Many local restaurants, such as The Oliver Royale and The Kennedy, are hosting prix fixe dinners featuring seasonal dishes and creative cocktails. Oliver Royale is featuring at 4-course dinner by Executive Chef Darin Hoagland with a champagne toast, and The Kennedy will have a classic steakhouse style meal with live music throughout the evening. Reservations are highly recommended as spots fill up quickly.
Live Music and Entertainment
Knoxville’s live music venues and bars are getting in on the celebrations too:
- The Tennessee Theatre will host the touring Broadway hit, Shucked starting Dec 31 and running through Jan 5.
- Bars and clubs throughout the city, like Preservation Pub will feature DJs, live bands, and festive celebrations that go late into the night. Scruffy City Hall will be host to HiDaze and Joey’s Van starting at 7pm.
- Ebony and Ivory Brewing is partnering with Humble Hog to give guests a BBQ and Brew dinner pairing and a meet and greet with each company’s owners.
Ebony and Ivory Brewing Co with The Humble Hog, NYE 2024 - Mirage Knoxville invites you to ‘step into an evening of elegance with a five-course dinner and live jazz by East Montgomery, setting the perfect vibe to welcome the New Year in style.’
- Brother Wolf will have their festive “Miracle” pop-up bar through NYE and invites you to a Very SabrinaNew Year’s Eve featuring music by Sabrina Carpenter with DJ Lovechild spinning all your favorite girlie tunes with dancing, drinks and a menu of 13 different espresso martinis.
- Knox Brew Hub is doing a Fake NYE Countdown that will culminate with an 8pm celebration for the early-to-bed crowd.
Family-Friendly Fun
Ice skating on Market Square continues through Jan 5 and is $12 for adults and $9 for kids. It will be open until 9pm on NYE, featuring classic rock hits from the decades.
Don’t miss the “New Year’s at Noon” event at The Muse Knoxville earlier in the day, perfect for little ones who can’t stay up until midnight. The event runs from 9:30am to 12:30pm with a Countdown to Noon to celebrate the new year. This is a ticketed fundraising event that supports scholarships for Muse memberships.
Transportation and Parking
To make your evening stress-free, consider using public transportation or ride-share services. All city-owned downtown parking garages are free on NYE and New Year’s Day.
Stay Overnight
Turn your New Year’s Eve celebration into a mini-getaway by staying overnight in one of Downtown Knoxville’s boutique hotels. Options like The Tennessean and Hyatt Place offer special holiday packages, including champagne toasts and late check-outs. The Crowne Plaza Downtown is also hosting live music featuring Boys Night Out, food and special room rates for the evening.
Tips for a Safe Celebration
- Dress warmly, as temperatures can dip significantly at night.
- Stay hydrated and pace yourself if you plan to indulge in alcoholic beverages.
- Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.
Whether you’re looking to dance the night away, enjoy a romantic dinner, or celebrate with family, Downtown Knoxville has everything you need to start the new year on a high note.
What did I miss? Add other events in the comments!
Have a safe and Happy New Year!