Preview: Knoxville December events

The holidays are here. Various events are open to the public, and some are free during this time of the year. Here are some events during the month of December.

Holidays on Ice presented by Home Federal Bank

Each year, Market Square becomes home to an outdoor ice skating rink. Adults and children can skate day and night, seven days a week from Nov. 23 through Jan. 6. Admission is $11 for adults and $8 for kids eight and under. Admission includes a skate rental and unlimited time on the ice.

The Elf on the Shelf® Adventure

On Friday, Nov. 23, Scout Elves from Elf on the Shelf were hidden all throughout Knoxville and will be there until Jan. 6. Pick up a North Pole Pass at any of the participating businesses, and this will help guide you through the adventure.

Peppermint Trail

Restaurants, coffee shops, bars and boutiques that feature peppermint specials throughout Nov. 23 to Jan. 6 will be marked with a special “Peppermint Trail” sticker outside on the sidewalk. Follow the “Peppermint Trail” with over seventy stickers on the sidewalks of Knoxville.

WIVK Holiday Parade

Held on Dec. 7 at 7 p.m., this parade will feature bands, dancers and characters parade down Gay St. in downtown Knoxville. The parade route is as follows: “The parade will step off onto Church Street and travel towards Gay Street, where the parade emcee will be positioned, announcing each unit as they pass. The parade will turn onto East Jackson Street and will disband in the Old City, past Barley’s.”

Jingle Bell Run

This holiday 5K run benefits the Arthritis Foundation and will be held at 9 a.m. on Dec. 8at World’s Fair Park. All the proceeds from the registration fees and fundraising efforts will go to the Arthritis Foundation. Runners are encouraged to put on their favorite holiday costumes and bring friends to walk or cheer the runners on.

Tour de Lights

This event is a holiday bike ride starting in Market Square on Dec. 14 at 7:30 p.m. Those participating are encouraged to decorate their bikes, and themselves, with lights and garland. The bike ride will happen through the Fourth and Gill area of downtown Knoxville.

“It’s a Wonderful Life”

A film screening of the classic holiday film, “It’s a Wonderful Life,” will happen on Dec. 16 at the Tennessee Theatre. The event is free for all. There is one screening at 2 p.m. and then another at 6 p.m. The doors open one hour before the start time, and seating is on a first come, first serve basis.

City People Holiday Tour of Churches

On Dec. 21 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., three downtown Knoxville churches will be open for you to enjoy the Christmas decorations and music. The public is also encouraged to tour the churches. Walk from church to church and experience a festive evening downtown. This event is free, and you are encouraged to bring friends and family.

New Years Eve on the Square

Starting at 10 p.m. on new years eve, celebrate the new year in Market Square ending with a ball drop at midnight. The Bicho Brothers will perform on stage at 10 p.m. to kick off the celebration.

Featured image from Ryan McGill/TNJN Archives

Edited by Chelsea Babin and Ainsley Kelso