Knoxville, Tennessee, transforms into a festive wonderland during the holiday season, offering an array of activities that capture the spirit of Christmas. From dazzling light displays to festive markets, here are the top 20 activities to make your Christmas in Knoxville magical and memorable:

1. Fantasy of Trees:
   Kick off the season by exploring Fantasy of Trees, an annual event featuring elaborately decorated Christmas trees, entertainment, and holiday festivities, all in support of East Tennessee Children’s Hospital.
2. Knoxville’s Holidays on Ice:
   Lace up your skates and hit the ice at Knoxville’s Holidays on Ice, an outdoor ice skating rink located in Market Square. Enjoy the festive atmosphere and the joy of gliding on the ice.
3. Celebration of Lights at Chilhowee Park:
   Witness the enchanting Celebration of Lights at Chilhowee Park, featuring a drive-through light display that illuminates the night with thousands of twinkling lights.
4. WIVK Christmas Parade:
   Join the community in the annual WIVK Christmas Parade, where festive floats, marching bands, and Santa himself parade through downtown Knoxville, spreading holiday cheer.
5. Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas:
   Take a short drive to Pigeon Forge and experience the magic of Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas, featuring millions of lights, festive shows, and the charm of a Southern-style Christmas.
6. Knoxville Symphony Orchestra’s Clayton Holiday Concerts:
   Immerse yourself in the sounds of the season with the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra’s Clayton Holiday Concerts, showcasing classic Christmas tunes and joyful melodies.
7. Market Square Holiday Market:
   Explore the Market Square Holiday Market, where local vendors offer unique gifts, crafts, and festive treats, creating a cheerful atmosphere for holiday shopping.
8. The Polar Express Train Ride:
   All aboard The Polar Express Train Ride, departing from the Three Rivers Rambler station. This magical journey, inspired by the classic story, includes hot cocoa, caroling, and a visit from Santa.
9. Ijams Nature Center’s Holiday Lights:
   Enjoy the beauty of nature adorned with twinkling lights at Ijams Nature Center’s Holiday Lights event. Take a stroll through the illuminated trails and revel in the festive ambiance.
10. Knoxville’s Market Square:
    Experience the heart of Knoxville’s holiday spirit at Market Square, where festive decorations, twinkling lights, and local shops create a charming backdrop for seasonal celebrations.
11. Wreaths Across America at Knoxville National Cemetery:
    Participate in the Wreaths Across America ceremony at Knoxville National Cemetery, a touching event that honors and remembers veterans during the holiday season.
12. Knoxville Children’s Theatre’s A Christmas Carol:
    Enjoy a live performance of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol at the Knoxville Children’s Theatre, a heartwarming tradition for families and theater enthusiasts.
13. Holiday Tea at Crescent Bend House and Gardens:
    Indulge in the elegance of Holiday Tea at Crescent Bend House and Gardens, where you can savor seasonal teas and delectable treats in a historic setting.
14. Knoxville Opera’s The Trial of Ebenezer Scrooge:
    Delight in a unique twist on the classic tale with Knoxville Opera’s The Trial of Ebenezer Scrooge, a comedic courtroom sequel to Dickens’ beloved story.
15. Knoxville Botanical Garden’s Holiday Lights & Nights:
    Wander through the Knoxville Botanical Garden adorned with twinkling lights during Holiday Lights & Nights, creating a magical setting for a festive stroll.
16. Lights Over Gatlinburg:
    Head to Gatlinburg for Lights Over Gatlinburg, where millions of lights illuminate the city and set the stage for a charming holiday experience in the Smoky Mountains.
17. Christmas Candlelight Tours at James White’s Fort:
    Step back in time with Christmas Candlelight Tours at James White’s Fort, offering guided tours by candlelight that showcase historic holiday traditions.
18. Knoxville Zoo’s Zoolumination:
    Experience the Knoxville Zoo like never before with Zoolumination, featuring lantern displays, lighted pathways, and captivating scenes that bring the zoo to life after dark.
19. Christmas Arts and Crafts Show at the Knoxville Expo Center:
    Explore the Christmas Arts and Crafts Show at the Knoxville Expo Center, where local artisans showcase handmade treasures perfect for holiday gift-giving.
20. Knoxville’s New Year’s on the Square:
    Extend the festive spirit into the New Year by attending Knoxville’s New Year’s on the Square, a lively celebration featuring live music, fireworks, and a countdown to welcome the new year.

In conclusion, Knoxville offers a diverse range of festive activities that capture the magic of Christmas. Whether you’re enjoying the lights at Chilhowee Park, attending a holiday concert, or exploring the Market Square Holiday Market, these 20 activities promise to make your Christmas season in Knoxville joyful and full of cherished memories. Embrace the holiday spirit, share the joy with loved ones, and revel in the enchantment of Christmas in East Tennessee.