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Step Inside History at Historic Old North Knoxville’s Annual Victorian Holiday Home Tour

Issue #715

30 Nov

In this Knoxville Insider Issue…

🌤️ Weather | Light Rain with a High of 48

📰 Knoxville Jr. Ice Bears Learn to Play Hockey Program for Kids Ages 5–12

🗓️ Jingle & Mingle: Atlas Title Group Celebrates the Season & Grand Opening

🛍️ Shop Local

🛍️ Local VIP Passes - No App, No Signup, Just Perks

🗓️ Upcoming Events 

📣 We Want to Spotlight Your Business! Apply Here

✅ Advertising Opportunities
 

Today’s Record High: 75 in 1991 — Record Low: 8 in 1929

Step Inside History at Historic Old North Knoxville’s Annual Victorian Holiday Home Tou

One of Knoxville’s most beloved holiday traditions is back as Historic Old North Knoxville hosts its Annual Holiday Home Tour featuring the beautifully restored Bertha Clark House. This year’s tour takes place on December 6th from 4 PM–9 PM and December 7TH from 1 PM–5 PM, giving visitors a rare opportunity to explore this stunning Eastlake Victorian home fully decorated for the season.

Built in 1889 by the Baumann Brothers, the Bertha Clark House later became home to Bertha Clark, a former Knoxville resident and founder of the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra. After an extensive restoration, the home now showcases its rich history and original architectural details while finally standing fully furnished as a true home. Tour organizers note that during last year’s event the house was still undergoing major improvements - making this year’s completed transformation especially exciting to see.

Guests can enjoy festive décor, architectural craftsmanship, and the charm of Old North Knoxville during this self-guided holiday tour experience. Tickets are available online, and advanced purchase is encouraged. This event is a perfect way to celebrate the season, support local preservation efforts, and experience one of Knoxville’s historic gems dressed in holiday splendor. Get Tickets

Knoxville Jr. Ice Bears Learn to Play Hockey Program for Kids Ages 5–12

The Knoxville Jr. Ice Bears are inviting young athletes to hit the ice with their popular Learn to Play Hockey program for Winter 2026. Designed especially for beginners ages 5–12, this fun, introductory program helps new players build confidence while learning the fundamentals of the game in a positive, supportive environment.

Participants will focus on core skills including skating, stick-handling, passing, shooting, and teamwork during the 14-session program, all led by experienced coaches. The program fee is $199, making it an affordable way for families to introduce their children to the fast-paced world of hockey. Sessions are held on Wednesdays at the Ice Chalet (100 Lebanon St.) and Saturdays at Pro Vision Hockey Academy (665 Gladstone Rd., Lenoir City), offering flexible options for busy families.

Registration is now open, and spots are expected to fill quickly. Parents interested in giving their child a fun, active winter sport experience can learn more and sign up here.

It’s a perfect opportunity for kids to learn new skills, make new friends, and fall in love with hockey this winter!

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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.

Local VIP Passes - No App, No Signup, Just Perks

Zoom Room - Indoor Dog Training
Specials, Events, & Announcements

Knoxville Insider
Giveaways, Announcements, & Exclusives

Mae Larue - Clothing Boutique
Specials, Events, & Announcements

💼 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.

Build Your Own Tea-rarium with Plush Moon Terrarium Co. at The Kraken’s Cup

Get creative and cozy at one of Knoxville’s most charming hands-on workshops when Plush Moon Terrarium Co. returns to host a Build Your Own Tea-rarium experience at The Kraken’s Cup on December 3rd, from 6:00–8:00 PM. This unique class combines plants, creativity, and tea as participants design a living terrarium inside a beautiful teacup—perfect for the holiday season or as a one-of-a-kind gift.

Led by Kiana of Plush Moon Terrarium Co., this beginner-friendly workshop provides step-by-step guidance as you craft your own personalized tea-rarium using a wide selection of plants, mosses, decorative rocks, and design elements. Whether you’re an experienced plant lover or trying terrarium-building for the first time, this relaxed, social class is designed to be both fun and rewarding.

Each ticket (starting at $63) includes all materials, plus tea and cookies to enjoy during the class. The event takes place at The Kraken’s Cup (4815 N. Broadway, Suite 107). Space is limited and this is a popular event, so early registration is encouraged. If you’re looking for a creative night out with friends—or a unique way to kickoff your holiday crafting—this tea-rarium workshop is a perfect pick. Get Tickets

Jingle & Mingle: Atlas Title Group Celebrates the Season & Grand Opening

Kick off the holiday season in style at Jingle & Mingle, a festive grand opening and networking celebration hosted by Atlas Title Group on December 1st, from 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM. The event takes place at Atlas Title Group’s new location at 10215 Technology Drive, and the community is invited to stop by, mingle, and experience what the Elevated Title Experience is all about.

Guests will enjoy a warm and welcoming holiday atmosphere complete with coffee from Refill Coffee Cart, mimosas, sweet treats, and plenty of good company and seasonal cheer. Whether you’re a real estate professional, business owner, or community partner, this is a wonderful opportunity to connect, celebrate, and build new relationships in a relaxed, joyful setting.

Presented in partnership with First Choice Lending Services, LLC, Jingle & Mingle is designed to be both a celebration and a thank-you to the community for its support. Come sip, sparkle, network, and help Atlas Title Group mark this exciting new chapter during a morning filled with holiday vibes and elevated connections.

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 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 - 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.
Add to Calendar

🗓️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 5th - January 5th - The Knoxville Smokies are bringing the magic of the season to downtown with the debut of the Smokies Winter Wonderland Light Show 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. Hours are Sun-Thurs 6 PM–10 PM | Fri–Sat 6 PM–11 PM. More Info

🗓️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 - at 3:00 PM, First Presbyterian Church, 1051 Oak Ridge Turnpike, Oak Ridge. 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.

🗓️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 - at 3:00 PM, Cokesbury United Methodist Church – South Campus, 9908 Kingston Pike. 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.

🗓️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 one of Knoxville’s brightest holiday traditions—Tour de Lights, presented by Visit Knoxville and Bike Walk Knoxville, 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. Pre-registration is required for the ride and costume contest. Full details and registration are available at:
https://www.visitknoxville.com/tour-de-lights/

🗓️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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