In this Knoxville Insider Issue…

🌤️ Weather | Light Rain with a High of 46

📰 Holiday Cookie Exchange at Talley Ward Rec Center

📰 Cyber Monday Deals from Local Businesses

🗓️ Treasure Hunt for Book Lovers - Friends of the Library Used Book Sale Hits Bearden

🗓️ Cathedral Christmas Festival featuring Scruffy City Orchestra

📣 Business Spotlight on Advanced Computing of Knoxville

🛍️ Shop Local

🗓️ Upcoming Events 

📣 We Want to Spotlight Your Business! Apply Here

✅ Advertising Opportunities
 

Holiday Cookie Exchange at Talley Ward Rec Center

Get ready to swap sweets and spread holiday cheer at the Cookie Exchange at Talley Ward Rec Center (324 S. James Steet, Morristown), happening Friday, December 5, 2025, from 5:30–7:30 PM at the Talley Ward Recreation Center in Morristown. Hosted by Brittani’s Home Creations Sourdough Microbakery, this fun, community-driven event is the perfect way to celebrate the season with fellow cookie lovers.

There is no cost to attend - participants simply bring 2–3 dozen of their favorite cookies to exchange with others. Attendees are also asked to bring a copy of their recipe or a list of ingredients so everyone can recreate their new favorite treats at home. In addition to the cookie swap, a limited number of full-size sourdough loaves will be available for purchase while supplies last.

Spots are limited, so guests are encouraged to click “Going” ahead of time on the Facebook Event to reserve their place. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just love sampling festive treats, this cozy holiday gathering is a delicious way to kick off December with community and cheer.

Cyber Monday Deals from Local Businesses

Incredible Towns - 50% OFF Lifetime Local Marketing Plans — Pay once, get found forever. No subscriptions, no tech headaches, just permanent local visibility. Cyber Monday only — discount disappears at midnight. More Info

Knoxville Insider - 3 months of Sponsorship Visibility to 17,000+ readers daily with either of these purchases for your business - One year VIP Wallet pass [instant, direct, visible, branded communication with all your clients and potential clients] OR One year of ads on a Giant 9×12 postcard [print, delivered 4x/year into 40,000 homes (10,000 each mailing)]. Email [email protected] or text/call (865) 234-2421 for details.

LifeWave - Save 25% on the Y-Age System; Save up to 25% on X49, IceWave, and Energy Enhancer when you bundle them together; Save up to 25% on X39/X49 Performance Bundle and Energy Enhancer. More Info

💼 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.

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

Treasure Hunt for Book Lovers - Friends of the Library Used Book Sale Hits Bearden

Book lovers, bargain hunters, and library supporters won’t want to miss the Friends of the Library Used Book Sale, happening Friday and Saturday, December 5th and 6th, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM at the Bearden Branch Library Meeting Room (100 Golf Club Rd). This popular community event offers an incredible selection of used books, movies, and music for readers of all ages—children, teens, and adults alike.

Most items are priced at $2 or less, making it the perfect opportunity to stock up on winter reading, holiday gifts, or classroom and homeschool materials without breaking the bank. Best of all, every purchase directly supports improvements at local library branches and benefits the Knox County Public Library system, helping strengthen access to learning and literacy across the community.

Whether you’re searching for hidden literary gems or simply want to support a great cause, this two-day used book sale is a must-stop for Knoxville readers this December.

Cathedral Christmas Festival featuring Scruffy City Orchestra

Get ready for a magical musical night as the Cathedral Christmas Festival returns to the Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus (711 S. Northshore Dr.) — this year featuring the talented Scruffy City Orchestra. The concert is set for December 19th at 7:30 p.m., and will offer a beautiful blend of festive orchestral music, choral performances, and audience Christmas carol-singing.

The evening will include performances by cathedral cantors, the Cathedral Youth Choir, instrumentalists from the Diocese, and the orchestra — making it a rich, collaborative celebration of holiday music and community spirit. In typical tradition, everyone in attendance is invited to join in singing beloved carols like “O Come, All Ye Faithful” and “Sing to the Lord.” 

Admission is free (donations welcomed), and tickets can be reserved online through Eventbrite (spaces limited — groups up to 20 may reserve together). Doors will open one hour before the performance. Guests are asked to respect the sacred space — no food, drink, or gum permitted.

If you’re looking for a beautiful, uplifting way to welcome the holiday season, this concert offers something special — a chance to come together, share music, and celebrate the spirit of Christmas with fellow members of the community.

Business Spotlight on Advanced Computers of Knoxville

Harnessing Technology with Expertise - At Advanced Computers of Knoxville, they combine technical proficiency with the latest innovations to deliver top-notch services in computer repairs, hardware upgrades, and software troubleshooting. Established in 2013, they have become a trusted resource within the Knoxville area, dedicated to resolving a wide range of technological challenges with professionalism and efficiency.

The team at Advanced Computers, led by Deanna Goulding, brings over twenty-five years of collective know-how in the tech world. They specialize in both business and consumer services, ensuring that every client, from tech-savvy enthusiasts to those less familiar with digital tools, receives the guidance they need in a language they understand.

What truly sets Advanced Computers apart is their commitment to customer-friendly service. The staff prides themselves on their ability to translate complex technical jargon into understandable terms, ensuring that clients fully grasp the solutions provided. This approach not only demystifies technology but also empowers customers, fostering a trusting and respectful client-service provider relationship.

Whether you're a business looking for reliable IT solutions or a consumer in need of urgent hardware repairs, Advanced Computers of Knoxville stands ready to exceed your expectations. With a focus on professionalism and client education, they make every tech challenge a chance for growth and learning.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, reach out to Deanna Goulding at [email protected] or call (865) 443-9034. Explore their offerings online at Advanced Computers of Knoxville and discover how they can assist you in navigating your personal or business technologies.

Discover all upcoming events on our Community Events page

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

Upcoming Events:

🗓️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 - 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.

🗓️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 3rd - 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 (4815 N Broadway St #107) 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. Get Tickets

🗓️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 - 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. Get Tickets

🗓️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–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-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 1:00 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:

See Recurring Weekly & Monthly Networking Events

🗓️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

Become a Knoxville Insider Sponsor

Are you a new or established business looking to become known in our Knoxville Insider community? We are looking for locally-owned businesses that would like to become a Knoxville Insider sponsor! Sponsorships can include:

• Hero or section banners

• Logo

• Video

• Print

• Spotlight Directory

• and more…

Reach out to us at [email protected].

We Want To Spotlight Local Businesses!

Would you like us to spotlight your local business in front of thousands of Knoxville area residents in an upcoming issue of Knoxville Insider? Apply Here. Not a business owner, but love a local business? Tell us all about it - send us an email at [email protected]!