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Downtown Knoxville Festivals + Events

We love events in Downtown Knoxville! On almost any weekend, and on many weekdays and weeknights, we've got something special going on. Here are some of the big things we're celebrating.

Nov 12-15
Film Fest Knox View Event Website Annual event featuring screenings hosted at the Regal Riviera. In addition to three full days of film programming, the fest features regional and local filmmaking competitions, workshops, and social events.
Nov 23-29
Fantasy of Trees Knoxville Convention Center View Event Website A magical forest of beautifully decorated trees, holiday accessories, and more. Santa, Gingerbread Village, live bands and musical entertainment throughout the event, all benefitting ETCH.
Nov 27 - Jan 3
Holidays on Ice Market Square View Event Website Adults and children skate day and night, seven days a week, at the open-air ice rink nestled under twinkling lights in Market Square. Admission includes skate rental. Find pricing, weather updates, and hours on the website.
Nov 27 - Jan 3
Peppermint Trail various downtown locations View Event Website Downtown restaurants, coffee shops, bars, and boutiques feature peppermint specials throughout the season. Follow the peppermints on the sidewalks of Downtown Knoxville.
Nov 27 - Jan 3
The Elf on the Shelf® Adventure various downtown locations A fun-filled scavenger hunt for children of all ages at dozens of Downtown Knoxville businesses. Pick up a North Pole Pass at Mast General Store or Knoxville Visitors Center to guide you through the adventure.
Nov 27 5:00pm
Regal Celebration of Lights Krutch Park Extension, Market Square View Event Website Tree lighting, live music, photos with Santa in Market Square, children's activities and more.
Dec 4-6
Santa at the Sunsphere Sunsphere View Event Website Come see Santa! Visit Knoxville will be hosting photo reservations with Santa on the 4th Floor Observation Deck; reservations must be made in advance.
Dec 4 4:00pm
First Friday ArtWalk various downtown locations View Event Website On the first Friday of each month, the streets of Downtown Knoxville come alive for a casual evening of experiencing art in all forms. Explore galleries, roam through shops hosting open houses, and much more.
Dec 4 7:00pm
WIVK Christmas Parade Gay Street View Event Website Parade down Gay St including floats, decorated vehicles, bands, majorettes, dancers, and Santa.
Dec 12 3:30pm
Tour de Lights Mary Costa Plaza; Knoxville Civic Coliseum View Event Website Bikes, lights, garland and tinsel. Holiday Market and Expo 3:30 - 7:30 pm. Bike ride at 5:30 pm starts and ends at Mary Costa Plaza and winds through downtown and Gay St.
Dec 31 - Jan 1 9:00pm
New Year's Eve at the Sunsphere World's Fair Park View Event Website Traditional ball drop, fireworks, and music at family-friendly New Year's Eve event.
Apr 1-4 2027
Big Ears Festival various downtown locations View Event Website Big Ears is a four-day celebration of musical and artistic adventure and discovery, transforming downtown Knoxville, TN into an immersive playground for the senses.