Santa, Crafts & Christmas Cheer Await at Jingle Jam

Issue #717

In this Knoxville Insider Issue…

🌤️ Weather | Rain & Snow with a High of 43

📰 Santa, Crafts & Christmas Cheer Await at Jingle Jam

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Today’s Record High: 76 in 1982 — Record Low: 12 in 1876

Christmas Toy Drive to Benefit Isaiah 117 House hosted by Tim’s Fencing

Tim’s Fencing is spreading holiday joy across Knox County with its Christmas Toy Drive benefiting Isaiah 117 House, now underway through December 19th. The community is invited to donate new, unopened toys to help bring comfort and cheer to children who are entering foster care during the holiday season. Donations may be dropped off at Tim’s Fencing office at 4237 Greenway Drive during business hours, Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM. All collected items will be delivered to Isaiah 117 House on December 19 at 4:00 PM.

Isaiah 117 House has shared several current high-priority needs, including Barbies, Legos for older children, non-aerosol body sprays for boys and girls, and DoorDash gift cards, which allow kids and caregivers to make food choices during a stressful transition. Each donation helps transform what can be a frightening moment for a child into one filled with warmth, dignity, and hope.

Tim’s Fencing encourages the community to come together and build joy this season by participating in this meaningful drive. For questions or additional details, contact Tim’s Fencing at (865) 255-9634 or [email protected]. One simple donation can make a lasting difference for a child in need this Christmas.

Santa, Crafts & Christmas Cheer Await at Jingle Jam

Get ready for one of the most festive nights of the season as Covenant Life presents Jingle Jam, a free, family-friendly Christmas celebration happening on December 14th at 4:30 PM in Clinton. The event takes place at 151 Sycamore Place, and everyone is invited to come enjoy an evening packed with holiday cheer, laughter, and lasting memories.

Families can enjoy photo booths with Santa Claus, Elsa, the Grinch, and more, along with craft stations for kids and plenty of Christmas treats including cookies, popcorn, and cotton candy. Then at 6:00 PM, the fun continues with special live Christmas entertainment designed to bring the joy of the season to life through music and celebration.

This lively holiday gathering is the perfect way to make memories with friends and loved ones while celebrating the spirit of Christmas together. Admission is completely free, so bring the whole family and join the Clinton community for a joyful evening at Jingle Jam. More Info.

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5-Day Gold, Silver & Collectibles Buying Event in Lenoir City

If you’ve been holding onto gold, silver, coins, jewelry, collectibles, or antiques, now is your chance to turn those items into instant cash. Premier Gold, Silver, and Coin is hosting a FREE five-day buying event in Lenoir City from December 9th-13th at the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Knoxville Lenoir City/I-75 (330 Adesa Parkway).

This special roadside buying event offers on-site expert evaluations, instant payment, and no appointments are required—just walk in and be seen on a first-come, first-served basis. Please note that this is a strictly buying event only—no items will be sold on site. It’s a convenient and secure way to find out what your valuables are worth and get paid the same day. Event hours are Tue - Fri 10 am - 6 pm and Sat 10 am - 3 pm. More Info

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

🗓️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-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 - Get ready to swap sweets and spread holiday cheer at the Cookie Exchange at Talley Ward Rec Center (324 S. James Street, Morristown), happening 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. Spots are limited, so guests are encouraged to click “Going” ahead of time on the Facebook Event to reserve their place.

🗓️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 - 6th - Book lovers, bargain hunters, and library supporters won’t want to miss the Friends of the Library Used Book Sale, happening 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.

🗓️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 - The Winter Solstice Folk Dance takes place at 7:00 PM at the Knoxville Square Dance Center (828 Tulip Avenue). More Info

🗓️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 - The Ivan Racheff House & Gardens (1943 Tennessee Avenue) invites you to their annual Greens Tea Pre-Sale Event from Noon to 3:00 PM.

🗓️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 19th - 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 starts at 7:30 p.m., and will offer a beautiful blend of festive orchestral music, choral performances, and audience Christmas carol-singing. More Info & Tickets

🗓️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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