If you’re not from the Midwest, Tennessee can seem like a pretty run-of-the-mill state. You probably think of it as flat and boring with not a lot going on, except in Nashville, or Music City, home to Vanderbilt University and more musicians than you can count. Yes, we admit that Nashville is a pretty cool city, but the state has many other lesser-known gems to offer. Tennessee has tons of beautiful wilderness areas, but that’s a story in and of itself, so we’ll have to save that for another blog post. One city that we particularly enjoy is Knoxville — it was the first capital of Tennessee, so it’s got some great history to discover. If you’re looking to get the most out of your trip to Knoxville, Tennessee, look no further (and yes, these count even if you are just passing through). We’ve got a few cool events and festivals that you are going to definitely want to check out.
LIGHTS UP 2019
Starting on November 22, Knoxville will ring in the Christmas season in style with its very own light show! Lights Up is a family-friendly event hosted by Waffley Good at the Pinnacle at Turkey Creek that is bound to feature delicious eats from local food trucks (like Waffley Good itself — you’re gonna wanna sample those delightful chicken and waffles!), holiday crafts for the kids, a variety of performances, and of course, a cameo from Santa Claus himself. Don’t miss this one!
ELF ON THE SHELF ADVENTURE
Beginning on November 29 and until January 5, some of Santa’s scout elves will be in downtown Knoxville for a great, family-friend Elf on the Shelf adventure! What is Elf on the Shelf, and why is Knoxville’s so special? This holiday scavenger hunt consists of Santa’s elves hiding themselves sneakily all around the city of Knoxville, and lucky for us, he sends the most to Knoxville out of anywhere in the US. This is a great event for the kiddos, so be sure to check this one out.
PEPPERMINT TRAIL
Coming to Knoxville alongside the elves is something everyone can get on board with — a little holiday magic! Following the peppermints that dot the sidewalks of downtown Knoxville, you’ll find all sorts of treasures. Restaurants, coffee shops, bars, and boutiques will all have candy cane-inspired treats that are sure to give you a little extra Christmas cheer.
Word on Candy Cane Lane is that there will be tons of other Christmas activities in downtown Knoxville. Visits from Santa Claus, cookie decorating classes, and even more events surrounding peppermints are sure to pop up, so keep your elven ears open! And, of course, you can always take a stroll around downtown and admire the storefronts and doorways decked out in holiday decor… including more than 200,000 lights!
And, if you weren’t aware, Cascade Outdoors is just an hour and a half drive from Knoxville! If you’re in Knoxville for Christmas activities, you may need a chance to get out of the city and into nature. Come visit us here in Ocoee! You don’t have to go out onto the river (we love it, but we also know it can be pretty chilly!), but we have great hiking trails nearby that are just what the doctor ordered. Come by after Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner for a nice walk out in nature and remember what the season is all about: gathering with friends and family and being thankful.