Looking for a Fun Indoor Activity During Winter Break?

Issue #729

15 Dec

In this Knoxville Insider Issue…

🌤️ Weather | Sunny with a High of 37

📰 Story Time with Santa Brings Holiday Cheer

🗓️ Kids Christmas Bingo Brings Holiday Fun to Orange Hat West

🛍️ Shop Local

🗓️ Upcoming Events 

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Today’s Record High: 73 in 1971 — Record Low: 5 in 1914

Looking for a Fun Indoor Activity During Winter Break? Try B&B Indoor Foam Dart Arena

If you’re searching for a high-energy, weather-proof activity to keep kids (and adults) moving this winter break, B&B Indoor Foam Dart Arena (6709 Maynardville Pike) is a great local option. This Knoxville-grown business offers fast-paced, referee-led foam dart games in a fully indoor, climate-controlled arena—making it perfect for cold or rainy days when outdoor play isn’t an option. Designed for ages 6 and up, the experience is safe, structured, and surprisingly popular with adults, too.

During winter break (December 19th–January 4th), B&B will be open extended hours, giving families plenty of flexibility to drop in for open play or plan a group outing. With enforced safety rules, protective eyewear, and trained staff on the floor, parents can feel comfortable while kids burn off energy in a fun, active environment. It’s a great alternative to screens and a welcome change from the usual winter routine.

B&B Indoor Foam Dart Arena also offers gift cards—an experience-based gift that’s perfect for the holidays and clutter-free. In addition to open play, they host birthday parties, private events, and group outings throughout the year. If winter break has you looking for something different to do indoors, this locally owned arena is well worth adding to your list.

Story Time with Santa Brings Holiday Cheer

Santa Claus is making a special stop for a festive and family-friendly afternoon that’s sure to delight little ones and adults alike. On December 19th, from 4:00 to 6:00 PM, families are invited to enjoy FREE Story Time with Santa at 102 N Campbell Station Road in the cozy courtyard shared by Park + Alley and 35 North Farragut Bar & Grill.

This holiday gathering features storytelling with Santa, cheerful seasonal music, and a beautifully staged Christmas backdrop that’s perfect for photos. Families are encouraged to bring their own cameras and dress in their favorite holiday attire to capture memorable moments with the big man himself. The event is designed to be welcoming, relaxed, and fun for all ages, making it a great way to slow down and enjoy the spirit of the season together.

No tickets or reservations are required—this first-come, first-served event is open to the public and completely free to attend. In addition to story time and photos with Santa, guests can enjoy the festive atmosphere and take advantage of specials at Park + Alley and 35 North Bar & Grill. If you’re looking to create a new holiday tradition or simply share a joyful moment with your family, this charming Santa visit is a wonderful way to kick off the weekend.

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A Very Jazzy Christmas Brings Smooth Holiday Sounds

Celebrate the season with a fresh musical twist at A Very Jazzy Christmas, happening December 21st at Harvest Church (6720 Kern Road). This special holiday concert begins at 6:30 PM, with doors opening at 6:00 PM for seating.

Featuring The Mark Boling Quintet, the evening promises 90 minutes of smooth jazz infused with holiday classics and festive flair. It’s a relaxed, uplifting way to enjoy the sounds of the season—perfect for music lovers looking for something a little different from traditional Christmas concerts. Complimentary refreshments will be available as guests settle in and enjoy the performance.

This concert is free and open to the public, making it an easy and inviting addition to your holiday plans. Whether you’re a jazz enthusiast or simply looking for a cozy, music-filled evening, A Very Jazzy Christmas offers a warm and welcoming way to celebrate the holidays in Knoxville.

Kids Christmas Bingo Brings Holiday Fun to Orange Hat West

Families are invited to celebrate the season with a festive evening just for kids at Kids Christmas Bingo at Orange Hat West. Taking place on December 22nd at 6:00 PM, this cheerful event is hosted by Orange Hat Brewing (10246 Hardin Valley Road).

The night is designed especially for little ones, featuring Christmas-themed bingo games, fun prizes, and classic holiday treats like cookies and milk. It’s a relaxed, joyful way for kids to enjoy some seasonal fun while parents gather with friends and family in a welcoming community setting.

Open to the public and family-friendly, Kids Christmas Bingo is a great way to keep the holiday excitement going just days before Christmas. If you’re looking for an easy, festive outing that kids will love, this merry bingo night is sure to be a hit with your little elves.

Help Fill Micheal’s Christmas with Cards, Love, and Community

This Christmas season, we’re asking our community to rally around a young man whose love for life—and for Christmas—has always shined brightly. Micheal is remembered by his family as an adventurous, generous-hearted boy who loved hunting, fishing, football, and baseball. He was happiest outdoors or spending time with people, and he never hesitated to help someone in need. Micheal especially loved Christmas—the lights, Santa, the reindeer, the hugs, and the feeling of togetherness. He always tried to convince his parents to put the tree up early and leave it up well past the New Year.

On July 9, 2017, just after turning 15, Micheal was tragically injured while helping a family friend work on a car. A sudden mechanical shift caused the vehicle to roll, pinning him beneath its weight and depriving him of oxygen for several minutes. First responders worked tirelessly to save his life, and after weeks in the trauma ICU and months of specialized care, Micheal returned home. Today, he is a quadriplegic and non-verbal, communicating through facial expressions and presence. Though his body has changed, the heart of the boy who loved people so deeply is still very much there.

Micheal continues to find joy in visits, familiar faces, and moments of connection. His family deeply misses being able to take him to places that once meant so much to him—especially church and the Bass Pro Shop, two of his favorite spots—but outings like those are no longer possible due to transportation limitations that make traveling with his medical equipment difficult. As a result, much of Micheal’s world now comes to him, and the love of others means more than ever.

That’s where you come in. A Christmas card—simple and heartfelt—can brighten Micheal’s days in a powerful way. Cards, notes, prayers, and drawings help bring the warmth, wonder, and connection of the season directly to him. If you’d like to help make Micheal’s Christmas brighter, please consider sending a card to:

Micheal Edmonds
1401 Misty Ridge Road
Lenoir City, TN 37772

This season, let’s surround Micheal and his family with reminders that they are not alone. Sometimes the smallest gestures—like a Christmas card—carry the greatest love.

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

Multi-Day Events that are ‘Now through a certain date are listed below the dated events.

🗓️December 16th - Celebrate the true spirit of Christmas with the Drive-Thru Live Nativity at Little Ponderosa Zoo (629 Granite Road in Clinton) from 6–8 PM. This beloved community tradition returns once again as a unique, family-friendly way to experience the story of Christmas—right from the comfort of your car.

🗓️December 18th - Let your creativity shine at the Stained Glass Canvas class from 6 PM – 8 PM at Painting Around (2917 W. Beaver Creek Drive, Powell). This relaxed, hands-on art night invites participants to create a beautiful 11x14 canvas designed to look like a glowing stained glass window, complete with bold outlines, vibrant colors, and light-inspired effects that feel perfect for the winter season. The class costs $28 per person. Space is limited, so early registration is encouraged for this cozy winter art experience. Get Tickets

🗓️December 19th - Celebrate the holiday season with a dose of nostalgia and creativity at the Snow Day Snoopy Painting Class from 6 PM–8 PM at Painting Around (2917 W. Beaver Creek Drive, Powell). This fun and festive class invites participants to create an 11x14 Snoopy-themed winter canvas, featuring everyone’s favorite beagle in a cozy, snow-day scene that’s perfect for seasonal décor or gift-giving. Get Tickets

🗓️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 19th-21st - The 39th Annual Clayton Holiday Concert at the Knoxville Civic Auditorium December 19th-21st has four performances to choose from — December 19th at 7:30 PM; December 20th at 3:00 PM and 7:30 PM; and December 21st at 3:00 PM — families and music lovers have plenty of chances to enjoy an evening full of holiday favorites, sing-alongs, show tunes, and festive surprises.

🗓️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 22nd - Get cozy, creative, and festive at the Living Ornament Workshop with The Plant Trolley, from 6 p.m.–9 p.m. at Barley’s Knoxville (200 E Jackson Ave) in the heart of Old City. This relaxed, holiday-themed workshop invites guests to craft a beautiful living ornament while enjoying a warm, welcoming night out filled with plants, paint, laughter, and seasonal cheer. Register/Tickets

🗓️December 22nd - Kids can wrap up the holiday season with a fun and creative craft experience at the Santa Gumball Machine event on December 22nd, from 6–8 PM.  Hosted by Painting Around (2917 W. Beaver Creek Drive in Powell), this festive class invites young artists to design and build their very own Santa-themed gumball machine to take home or give as a special handmade gift. This hands-on holiday activity is designed for children and includes all supplies for just $25 per child. Register

🗓️December 26th - at 6:00 p.m., Ancient Lore Village invites families to step into the whimsical holiday world of Elf for an immersive Christmas movie experience filled with laughter, lights, and festive fun. Tickets are limited and available for $59 for adults (10+) and $51 for youth (ages 3–9). The event takes place at Ancient Lore Village, 7107 Sevierville Pike, Knoxville, offering a one-of-a-kind way to celebrate the season with family and friends. Get Tickets

🗓️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.

🗓️Now through December 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.

🗓️Now through December 18th - Grab your friends and enjoy a festive evening of shopping, treats, and holiday cheer at Ladies Night Out at The Southern Market (5400 Homberg Drive). The popular event will be held from 5:00–8:00 PM, offering extended evening shopping hours in a cozy, holiday-inspired atmosphere.

🗓️Now through December 19th - 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. For questions or additional details, contact Tim’s Fencing at (865) 255-9634 or [email protected].

🗓️Now through December 20th - A Christmas Carol, live at the Clarence Brown Theatre (1714 Andy Holt Ave) More Info & Tickets

🗓️Now through December 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.

🗓️Now through January 4th - Downtown Knoxville is getting a festive dose of holiday fun with The Elf on the Shelf® Adventure, a citywide scavenger hunt that invites families, friends, and holiday explorers to see downtown in a whole new way. Santa has sent Scout Elves to more than two dozen Downtown Knoxville businesses, transforming storefronts and streets into a playful holiday adventure filled with surprises around every corner. More Info

🗓️Now through January 4th - Something bright and festive is once again lighting up Aspire Park (777 Aspire Drive) in Clinton. Aspirations in Light has returned for the season. More Info & Tickets

🗓️Now through January 4th - The Peppermint Trail invites you to stroll through the heart of downtown and enjoy peppermint-themed treats, drinks, décor, and shopping at dozens of participating local businesses. More Info

🗓️Now 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

🗓️Now 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

🗓️Now 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.

🗓️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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