Kick Off the Holidays: Fun Things to Do This Thanksgiving Break
Whether you're packing up for a cozy trip home or simply savoring a few slower days in town, this week brings the perfect mix of rest, reflection, and festive cheer.
And if you’re itching to kick off the holiday magic a little early this year, you’re in luck! Knoxville and the surrounding areas are already lighting up—literally. Several parks and local spots have flipped the switch on their sparkling displays, inviting you to stroll, sip something warm, and soak in the glow. From twinkling tunnels to dazzling trees, the holiday spirit is ready when you are.
Aspirations in Lights - running nightly now through January 4th at Aspire Park in Clinton
Light the Park - nightly from November 25th to January 1st at Founder's Park!
Regal Celebration of Lights - Help countdown to light the Downtown Knoxville Christmas tree & kick off the holiday season in the best way! November 28th 5:15pm - 9pm at Krutch Park!
Light Up Lakeshore - nightly from November 29th to January 1st at Lakeshore Park!
Not sure where to start for what to do this weekend? The good news is you’ve got options. Start your break with a cold one and trivia at spots like Trailhead Beer, Xul - Hardin Valley, Hi-Wire, and Singo at Union Place. The Ice Bears hit the ice Friday night for a perfect dose of hometown excitement, and Printshop Beer Co. is hosting its festive Holiday Dog Market on Sunday—bring your pup and your holiday spirit.
And that’s just the beginning. There’s no end to the family-friendly fun around Knoxville and Knox County this season. November 28th marks the beginning of the holiday season in Downtown Knoxville. Dive into holiday-themed scavenger hunts like the Downtown Knoxville Peppermint Trail or the ever-popular Elf on the Shelf® Adventure, both running all December long. Afterward, lace up your skates for a spin around the Market Square ice rink, then warm up as you shop, dine, and enjoy the lights strung around downtown.
Need to get the little ones out of the house? Explore the activities below for kid-friendly fun to help you make the most of Thanksgiving break—without the cabin fever.
Gobble, Gobble, Ride & Wobble - free ride at Safety City Wednesday 9am-12pm! Helmet required to ride.
Campbell Station Skate - skate the rink at Mayor Ralph McGill Plaza 4-8pm Tuesday - Thursday and 1-8pm Friday - Sunday. Closed Thanksgiving Day
ETCH Fantasy of Trees - November 26th-30th at the Knoxville Convention Center
Smoky Night Lights - new nighttime experience at Zoo Knoxville running through March 16th!
Opt Outside - Guided Family Hike - 9am Friday at Ijams Nature Center.
Letters to Santa - Take the kids to Market Square to drop off their wishlists for express delivery to the North Pole!
