Celebrate the Season at the 25th Annual Messiah Sing-Along

Issue #714

29 Nov

In this Knoxville Insider Issue…

🌤️ Weather | Cloudy with a High of 47

📰 Tour de Lights Returns to Downtown Knoxville

🗓️ Upcoming Events 

📣 We Want to Spotlight Your Business! Apply Here

✅ Advertising Opportunities
 

Today’s Record High: 76 in 2001 — Record Low: 12 in 1929

Celebrate the Season at the 25th Annual Messiah Sing-Along

Music lovers and holiday enthusiasts are invited to take part in a cherished local tradition at the 25th Annual Messiah Sing-Along, led by longtime director Sandy Wells. Featuring a 27-piece all-volunteer orchestra and a chorus of nearly 50 singers, this beloved event is the only Messiah Sing-Along in the area, offering a truly special opportunity for both listeners and participants to experience Handel’s timeless masterpiece together.

Admission is free (donations are welcome), and a limited number of music scores will be available at the door for those who wish to join in singing. The community is encouraged to come participate or simply enjoy this powerful celebration of the Christmas season.

Performance Dates & Locations:

  • Saturday, December 6th at 3:00 PM
    First Presbyterian Church
    1051 Oak Ridge Turnpike, Oak Ridge

  • Sunday, December 7th at 3:00 PM
    Cokesbury United Methodist Church – South Campus
    9908 Kingston Pike, Knoxville

Whether you are a seasoned singer or a first-time listener, this inspiring, community-driven performance is a beautiful way to usher in the Christmas season with music, fellowship, and tradition.

Tour de Lights Returns to Downtown Knoxville

Get ready for one of Knoxville’s brightest holiday traditions—Tour de Lights, presented by Visit Knoxville and Bike Walk Knoxville, returns on December 13th, from 3:30 PM–7:30 PM at Mary Costa Plaza near the Knoxville Civic Auditorium & Coliseum. This free, family-friendly event blends festive cycling, live holiday music, and a lively Holiday Market featuring local makers, food trucks, and hot chocolate and beer for purchase. Families can also enjoy Peppermint Village, with face painting, balloon creations, marshmallow roasting, a coloring area, and a mailbox for Letters to Santa.

The illuminated bike ride kicks off at 5:30 PM, with participants decorating themselves and their bikes in creative holiday themes, while non-riders can enjoy the market and music. A fun costume contest includes categories like Most Creative Bike, Best Themed Group, and Most Festive Helmet, along with a prize drawing for one year of free bike service courtesy of Two Bikes. A secure, staffed Bike Valet will be available for convenience.

Pre-registration is required for the ride and costume contest. Full details and registration are available at:
https://www.visitknoxville.com/tour-de-lights/

Whether you ride or relax and enjoy the festivities, Tour de Lights is a glowing way to celebrate the season in downtown Knoxville.

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Celebrate “Local Business December” - Shop Local, Give Local, All Season Long!

This December, we’re inviting our community to join us in celebrating something truly special: Local Business December. It’s a month-long reminder that every time you choose to shop local, you’re investing directly in your neighbors, your community, and the heart of Knoxville. From unique gifts and cozy restaurants to personal services and hometown shops, our local businesses are what make our city vibrant, creative, and one-of-a-kind.

When you shop local, your dollars stay here—supporting local jobs, helping small business owners provide for their families, and fueling community involvement. You’re also far more likely to find meaningful, personalized gifts and experiences that simply can’t be matched by big-box retailers. This December, whether you’re buying gifts, dining out, booking services, or supporting holiday events, we encourage you to think local first.

💼 Are you a local business owner with a special December offer?
We’d love to help you get the word out! If you’re running holiday promotions, December discounts, or special events, reach out to us to get those featured in the Knoxville Insider. Let’s work together to make this the strongest season yet for our local business community—and the most memorable shopping season for our readers. Email: [email protected] or Call/Text: (865) 234-2421.

Knoxville Smokies Launch Inaugural Winter Wonderland Light Show

The Knoxville Smokies are bringing the magic of the season to downtown with the debut of the Smokies Winter Wonderland Light Show, opening December 5th and running through January 5th at Covenant Health Park (500 E. Jackson Ave). Presented by ORNL Federal Credit Union, this brand-new holiday attraction transforms the ballpark into a glowing winter escape filled with dazzling light displays, festive activities, and family-friendly fun. (The event will be closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.)

Stroll through illuminated displays, meet Santa during Friday and Saturday nights, decorate cookies and ornaments, write letters to Santa, and enjoy a charming kids’ train ride around the ballpark. The experience also includes local vendors, themed merchandise in the Smokies team store, and plenty of seasonal food and drinks, including make-your-own s’mores. It’s designed to be a joyful, interactive holiday destination for all ages.

⏰ Hours: Sun–Thurs 6–10 PM | Fri–Sat 6–11 PM
🎟 Tickets: Starting at just $9.99 | Kids 3 & under free

Please note the CLEAR BAG POLICY will be enforced for all guests. For group reservations or special group experiences, contact [email protected]. Gather your family, bundle up, and make new holiday traditions at the Smokies Winter Wonderland Light Show—a sparkling new tradition for Knoxville this Christmas season! More Info

Discover all upcoming events on our Community Events page

Coming Soon….a new Knoxville Insider community calendar experience!

Upcoming Events:

🗓️Through November 30th - Knoxville’s favorite holiday tradition, the Fantasy of Trees, returns to the Knoxville Convention Center (701 Henley St). Friday, Saturday from 9am-9pm, Thanksgiving Day from 3pm-8pm and Sunday fron noon-6pm. Get Tickets

🗓️November 29th - A heartwarming Appalachian twist on a timeless holiday story is taking the stage this season! The Clayton Center for the Arts (502 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy in Maryville) presents Dolly Parton’s Smoky Mountain Christmas Carol — a spirited musical retelling of Dickens’ classic, featuring original songs by eleven-time GRAMMY Award winner Dolly Parton. More Info & Tickets

🗓️November 29th - Get ready to ride for a great cause! The 2nd Annual East Tennessee Toys for Tots Motorcycle Ride, hosted by The Knox VetNet and Bootlegger Harley-Davidson, beginning at 12:00 PM. This festive ride brings together motorcyclists and community members to support the Marine Corps Toys for Tots Foundation, ensuring that every child gets to open a gift on Christmas morning. The rally kicks off at Melton Lake Park in Oak Ridge (37830) with registration from 9–10 AM, followed by the Blessing of the Bikes at 10:05 AM. Kickstands go up at 10:15 AM, and the group will ride together to Bootlegger Harley-Davidson (605 Lovell Road, Knoxville), where the event will continue until 2 PM.
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🗓️November 30th - Get a head start on your holiday shopping at the Holiday Vintage & Craft Market, happening from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM at the Karns Community Center (7708 Oak Ridge Highway). This indoor market will bring together local makers, vintage vendors, and holiday shoppers for a festive day of browsing and buying.

🗓️November 30th - Let’s go, Buffalo!! Keep the spirited cheers up and join the Buffalo Bills Backers during game days at Clancy’s Pub and Whisky House (602 Gay Street). The game starts at 4:25 PM.

🗓️November 30th - Families are invited to indulge in a deliciously fun experience at the Family Chocolate Adventure, happening from 1 PM to 3 PM at The Cutting Edge Classroom (150 N. Martinwood Road, Suite 402). This hands-on class is the perfect way for kids, parents, and chocolate lovers of all ages to come together for an afternoon of learning, laughter, and irresistible desserts. Get Tickets

🗓️November 30th - Buffalo Bills Fans - at 4:25pm vs Pittsburgh. Don’t forget, too, Labatt’s is on tap!! All are welcome to join us on Bills game days at Clancy's Tavern and Whisky House, 602 S. Gay Street. Clancy's provides a family-friendly, non-smoking environment with a large TV and reserved space just for Bills supporters.
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🗓️December through March - The Winter Farmers Market by Nourish Knoxville is back for the 2025–2026 season, bringing fresh, local food and artisan goods to Market Square every Saturday from December through March, 10 AM–2 PM EXCEPT December 27th, January 3rd, and January 10th.

🗓️December 1st - Get into the holiday spirit with a fun and festive creative night! Painting Around (2917 W. Beaver Creek Drive, Powell) is hosting a Santa Gnome Paint Night from 6 PM–8 PM. Cost: $25 per person (includes all supplies) Payment Link

🗓️December 1st-15th - Brighten a Senior’s Christmas Morning! Holiday gift bags are needed for Mobile Meals, who will be delivering hot, delicious meals to over 700 homebound seniors in Knox County on Christmas morning. Donate gifts backs at one of these locations: L.T. Ross Building, 2247 Western Ave, Mon-Fri 8am-4:30pm; Grayson Suburu, 8729 Kingston Pike, Mon-Fri 9am-8pm, Sat 9am-6pm. See knoxseniors.org, page 6 under the Holiday Donation Drives button, for info about what to include in the gift bags.

🗓️December 4th - Navigating Difficult Conversations workshop, Pellissippi State, Blount County Campus (2731 W Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Friendsville), 5:30–8:30 PM | West Building, Room 121, $69 Course Fee | Registration is open now at www.pstcc.edu or by calling 865-694-6400.

🗓️December 5th - The 52nd Annual WIVK Christmas Parade rolls through Downtown Knoxville along Gay Street starting at 7:00 PM. Known as the largest Christmas parade in the city, this magical evening will feature dozens of festive floats, lively local school bands, and a special appearance by Santa himself. Adding to the excitement, University of Tennessee Coach Josh Elander and his family will serve as this year’s Grand Marshals. More Info 

🗓️December 5th - Female entrepreneurs, creatives, and business professionals across Knoxville are invited to gather for the next First Friday Coffee Chat from 11:30 AM to 1 PM at The Hub Pro Studio (1104 Merchant Drive, Suite 103).

🗓️December 5th - Experience the magic of music, community, and the holidays in an entirely new way at A Soundwalk Through the City, a free, family-friendly outdoor music event where you become part of the performance! Join Nief-Norf for Unsilent Night, an immersive soundwalk created by composer Phil Kline. Participants meet at 5:00 PM; For full details and schedule, visit www.niefnorf.org/unsilentnight.

🗓️December 5th - Enjoy Phil Kline’s Unsilent Night hosted by Nief-Norf and preview performances from Circle Modern Dance’s Modern Dance Primitive Light at The Emporium Center (100 S. Gay Street).

🗓️December 6th - Pygmy Harbor Farm is bringing in holiday magic with its exclusive Santa Experience, a limited-ticket event designed to create warm, personal, and unforgettable Christmas memories for families. Tickets may be purchased during two windows only: Sessions are from 11 AM–Noon and 2 PM–3 PM. Be sure to secure your tickets early—this festive celebration fills quickly! Get Tickets for 11AM-Noon or Get Tickets for 2 PM - 3 PM.

🗓️December 6th - Pinball fans are invited to Pins & Pints Pinball Pub (1336 E. Emory Road) for a fun-filled Charity Pinball Event benefiting East Tennessee Children’s Hospital. The event runs from 2:00–5:00 PM and promises an afternoon of silver-ball action for players of all skill levels.

🗓️December 6th - Join Davis Studio in Bearden (9 Mohican Street, Suite 2) for a festive milestone celebration! The beloved art and frame shop will host its 20th Anniversary Celebration and Holiday Open House from 11 AM to 5 PM.

🗓️December 6th - Get ready for a high-energy, community-driven event as Hero Athletics and Hello Market team up for It’s a Tap — Jiu-Jitsu Tournament & Vendor Fair at Hero Athletics (11214 Outlet Drive). Whether you're a martial arts fan, a local-market shopper, or just looking for a fun family outing, this full-day event has something for everyone. Athletes can secure their spot now through Smoothcomp:
https://smoothcomp.com/en/event/25566. Hello Market is accepting vendor applications. Apply here:
👉 https://form.jotform.com/252414024677051

🗓️December 6th–7th and December 13th–14th - Get ready to experience a festive favorite this December as the Holiday Market comes to the World’s Fair Exhibition Hall in downtown Knoxville for the first two weekends of the month—(Saturdays: 10 AM – 5 PM & Sundays: 11 AM – 5 PM). More Info

🗓️December 6th-7th - Celebrate the season at GermanFest’s inaugural Christkindlmarkt, a festive holiday market designed for all ages, to be held December 6th from 4pm-8pm and December 7th from 1pm-4pm at First Lutheran Church (1207 N. Broadway). More Info

🗓️December 6th-20th - Step into a true winter wonderland at the Jackson Square Christmas Market in Oak Ridge (100 Broadway St.) from 5:00–8:00 PM. This festive outdoor market transforms the historic square into a glowing holiday destination filled with shopping, sipping, music, and seasonal cheer.

🗓️December 7th - Let’s go, Buffalo!! Keep the spirited cheers up and join the Buffalo Bills Backers during game days at Clancy’s Pub and Whisky House (602 Gay Street). The game starts at 4:25 PM.

🗓️December 7th - Get ready to sip, savor, and celebrate—A Very Kraken Christmas Party at The Kraken’s Cup (4815 N Broadway, STE 107) is returning, from 11 a.m.–2 p.m., and it’s shaping up to be one of the most festive events of the season! More Info & Tickets

🗓️December 7th - Kick off the holiday season with joy, music, and community spirit at the Knoxville Community Band’s annual Christmas Spectacular! This free concert will take place at 3 pm at Bearden Middle School (1000 Francis Rd), and promises an afternoon filled with festive favorites and heartwarming holiday classics.

🗓️December 10th - Get ready to glow this holiday season at Merry, Bright and Beautiful, a festive evening hosted by Drip into Wellness and Skintentional Beauty Spa at 318 Erin Drive, Suite 5 from 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm! This special event combines relaxation, self-care, and holiday cheer — the perfect way to unwind and treat yourself before the season’s rush. Space is limited — reserve your spot 

🗓️December 11th - Navigating Difficult Conversations workshop, Pellissippi State, Strawberry Plains Campus (7201 Strawberry Plains Pike), 1:30–4:30 PM, Room 1418, $89 Course Fee, Registration is open now at www.pstcc.edu or by calling 865-694-6400.

🗓️December 12th - Celebrate the season with live music by Nick Horner Family at The Emporium Center (100 S. Gay Street).

🗓️December 12th-13th - Step back in time this December as Blount Mansion, the Birthplace of Tennessee and Knox County’s only National Historic Landmark, opens its doors for Holiday Candlelight Tours. The event will take place at the Blount Mansion Visitors Center (200 W. Hill Ave). Guests will enjoy guided candlelit tours showcasing American holiday traditions through history, accompanied by live music, cookies, and cider. Tours begin at 5 PM, with the last tour departing at 7 PM. Tickets are $20. Get Tickets. Learn more about the site’s history and preservation efforts at www.blountmansion.org.

🗓️December 13th - Get ready for a festive morning full of holiday cheer at the Tennova Family YMCA (7540 Dannaher Dr) in Powell! The YMCA will host its first-ever Holiday Craft Market from 9 AM to 1 PM — right alongside its beloved Breakfast with Santa event happening from 9 AM to 11 AM.

🗓️December 13th - The magic of the season is coming to Halls once again! Mark your calendar from 10 AM – 2 PM as the beloved Halls Christmas Market transforms Black Oak Plaza (6931B Maynardville Pike) into a bustling winter marketplace filled with local artisans, festive activities, and holiday spirit.

🗓️December 13th - Collectors, comic fans, and pop-culture enthusiasts—get ready! The Collective Trading Co. is hosting its Monthly Showcase at Pellissippi State Community College (10915 Hardin Valley Rd) from 9am-3pm.

🗓️December 14th - Let’s go, Buffalo!! Keep the spirited cheers up and join the Buffalo Bills Backers during game days at Clancy’s Pub and Whisky House (602 Gay Street). The game starts at 1:00 PM.

🗓️December 14th - Get ready for holiday cheer, sparkling floats, and a joyful community celebration—the 6th Annual Christmas Parade at The Pointe at Lifespring Senior Living is happening, and everyone is invited to join the fun! This magical tradition brings friends, families, and neighbors together for an afternoon filled with laughter, festive sights, and Christmas spirit. The parade lineup begins at 2:00 PM at Arlington Baptist Church (4383 Lifespring Lane), with the parade officially starting at 2:30 PM and making its way to The Pointe at Lifespring (4371 Lifespring Lane).

🗓️December 21st - Let’s go, Buffalo!! Keep the spirited cheers up and join the Buffalo Bills Backers during game days at Clancy’s Pub and Whisky House (602 Gay Street). The game starts at 1:25 PM.

🗓️December 28th - Let’s go, Buffalo!! Keep the spirited cheers up and join the Buffalo Bills Backers during game days at Clancy’s Pub and Whisky House (602 Gay Street). The game starts at 1:25 PM.

🗓️Through January 4th - Get ready to kick off the holiday season in spectacular fashion — Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland is back at Soaky Mountain Waterpark in Sevierville (175 Gists Creek Rd), bringing one of East Tennessee’s most dazzling drive-through light shows to life! This beloved family tradition runs nightly from 6–10 PM. More Info & Tickets

🗓️Through March 15th - Experience the Smoky Mountains like never before with Smoky Night Lights, a brand-new 360° immersive music and light show debuting after dark at Zoo Knoxville. This captivating event invites guests to step into the spirit of the Smokies through a multi-sensory, multimedia experience that blends nature, sound, and light in stunning harmony. More Info & Tickets

🗓️A Night Out with New Friends | Dinner with Strangers - Looking to expand your social circle and enjoy a memorable evening in great company? A Night Out with New Friends: Knoxville | Dinner with Strangers 2025 offers just that—a unique dining experience designed for mingling, connection, and making new friends over a delicious meal. These events turn the usual dinner out into something far more exciting and meaningful. More Info

Networking:

🗓️December 19th - Bonfire Fridays with 2 Brothers Services. - Gather at 188 Hill Road in Knoxville from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM for a night of laughter, conversation, and cozy fireside vibes. Families are encouraged to bring a snack, a drink, and a chair, and settle in for an evening where kids can play while adults network in a laid-back, welcoming environment.

Veterans:

🗓️Free Veterans’ Breakfast: The United Veterans Council of East Tennessee presents 14 free breakfasts for Veterans and guests on four Saturdays, monthly. Coffee line starts at 8am, Chow line starts at 8:30am. Locations and Dates

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