In this Knoxville Insider Issue…

🌤️ Weather | Sunny with a High of 50

📰 Santa Corgi Races Bring Holiday Cheer and Canine Cuteness

🗓️ Christmas Bingo Morning at Chick-fil-A Hardin Valley

🗓️ Cozy Polar Bear Painting Class For Some Post-Christmas Creativity

📰 Capricornucopia Returns to Barley’s with a Food & Clothes Drive for CareCuts of Knoxville

🛍️ Shop Local

🛍️ Give the Gift of Loco this Season

🗓️ Upcoming Events 

📣 We Want to Spotlight Your Business! Apply Here

✅ Advertising Opportunities
 

Santa Corgi Races Bring Holiday Cheer and Canine Cuteness

Get ready for one of the most adorable holiday events of the season — Santa Corgi Races! Barrelhouse is hosting this festive and fast-paced spectacle on December 20th at 2:00 PM at 621 Lamar Street in the Fourth & Gill neighborhood, and it’s shaping up to be a tail-wagging good time.

Decked out in their finest holiday attire, corgis will race for the coveted (and very cute) title of Fastest Santa Corgi. Whether you’re bringing your own low-riding, high-energy pup to compete or simply showing up to cheer from the sidelines, this event promises nonstop smiles, laughter, and plenty of photo-worthy moments. Expect festive drinks, tasty treats, and lots of holiday cheer as these fluffy racers dash toward glory.

The event is free to attend, and corgi owners can register their pups to race ahead of time. Even if you don’t have a corgi of your own, this is the perfect excuse to gather friends, enjoy the brewery atmosphere, and soak up some pure holiday joy. If you love dogs, Christmas spirit, or just a good excuse to get out and smile, the Santa Corgi Races are not to be missed. Register your Corgi here

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

Turn every customer’s phone into your personal billboard. With a VIP Wallet Pass, your business can send instant, lock-screen notifications straight to your customers -no apps, no social media algorithms, no email clutter. Announce sales, last-minute openings, events, emergencies, or VIP-only offers and be seen immediately.

If you already text, email, or post on social… this is the missing piece that gives you guaranteed visibility when timing matters most.

Interested in learning about how a VIP Pass can help your business? Reach out to [email protected] for more information!

Give the Gift of Loco this Season

If you’re looking for a festive, crowd-pleasing gift this holiday season, Loco Burro Knoxville has you covered with a gift card deal that’s as fun as it is flavorful. Located at 7600 Kingston Pike, Loco Burro is spreading extra cheer by rewarding gift card purchases with bonus value all month long.

Here’s how it works: purchase a $50 Loco Burro gift card and receive a $10 bonus card, or go big with a $100 gift card and get a $20 bonus card. It’s an easy way to stretch your holiday budget while giving friends, family, teachers, coworkers, or hosts a gift they’ll genuinely enjoy.

Loco Burro is known for its lively atmosphere, bold Mexican-inspired flavors, and margaritas that feel like a mini vacation. A gift card means the recipient can enjoy everything from tacos and enchiladas to festive drinks and good vibes—perfect for post-holiday get-togethers, date nights, or family outings.

This holiday promotion runs all month, making it a great last-minute gift option that doesn’t feel last-minute at all. Stop by Loco Burro Knoxville, grab a gift card (and a bonus!), and give the gift of great food, fun, and a little LOCO holiday cheer.

Christmas Bingo Morning at Chick-fil-A Hardin Valley

Families looking for a cozy, festive way to kick off winter break are invited to Christmas Bingo at Chick-fil-A Hardin Valley (10909 Spring Bluff Way) on December 22nd, from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. The event promises a relaxed morning filled with holiday cheer, games, and smiles.

Guests are encouraged to come dressed in their favorite Christmas pajamas and settle in for a fun round of Bingo with a festive twist. Players will have the chance to win exclusive Chick-fil-A merchandise, board games, and even free Chick-fil-A treats. Every attendee will also receive a free waffle fry sticker just for joining in the fun.

This family-friendly event is a great way to slow down during the busy holiday season, enjoy time together, and make sweet memories before Christmas arrives. With prizes, laughter, and a warm holiday atmosphere, Christmas Bingo at Chick-fil-A Hardin Valley is the perfect way to start the week on a joyful note.

Cozy Polar Bear Painting Class For Some Post-Christmas Creativity

Looking for a relaxing and creative way to unwind after Christmas? Painting Around (2917 W. Beaver Creek Drive) is hosting a Cozy Polar Bear Painting Class on December 26th, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

This winter-themed painting class invites participants to create a charming 11x14 polar bear artwork, perfect for adding a touch of seasonal warmth to your home décor. With step-by-step instructions provided, the class is designed for all skill levels — no prior painting experience required.

All supplies are included in the $28 per person cost, making it an easy and stress-free night out. Whether you’re looking for a calm solo activity, a creative date night, or a fun outing with friends or family, this class offers a cozy way to spend a winter evening.

If your holiday schedule left little time for yourself, this post-Christmas painting night is a perfect opportunity to slow down, get creative, and enjoy a little winter charm. Reserve Spot

Capricornucopia Returns to Barley’s with a Food & Clothes Drive for CareCuts of Knoxville

Capricornucopia is back this holiday season, pairing a community food and clothing drive with a can’t-miss all-ages concert in the Old City — all to benefit CareCuts of Knoxville, which serves Knoxville’s unhoused neighbors with essential care and services. After last year’s inaugural drive collected over 750 pieces of gently used clothing (smashing the original goal of 200 coats and jackets), organizers are expanding the effort for 2025 to include both warm clothing and easy-to-distribute food items.

Donations are being collected now through January 2nd, with drop-off located in an Outlaw Light Beer bin just inside Barley’s front door (200 E Jackson Ave). This year’s requested items include men’s and women’s pants/jeans and jackets, plus grab-and-go foods such as red & blue powder Gatorade, Slim Jims, Pop Tarts, pop-top cans of Vienna sausages, and cheese and/or peanut butter crackers.

The celebration concludes with the Capricornucopia concert on December 28th at 7 PM at Barley’s, featuring Mic Harrison and the High Score with Doug Gillard (Guided By Voices), plus special appearances by Emi Sunshine, Andy Pirkle, and Sarrenna. Admission is a suggested $10 door donation to CareCuts — or a pair of men’s or women’s blue jeans — and raffle prizes will be awarded between sets. Organizers hope Knoxville will once again show up and show out, turning a night of great local music into real support for neighbors who need it most.

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 - Santa Claus is making a special stop for a festive and family-friendly afternoon that’s sure to delight little ones and adults alike. 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.

🗓️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 - Celebrate the season with a fresh musical twist at A Very Jazzy Christmas, happening at Harvest Church (6720 Kern Road). This special holiday concert begins at 6:30 PM, with doors opening at 6:00 PM for seating. This concert is free and open to the public, making it an easy and inviting addition to your holiday plans.

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

🗓️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

Recurring events and upcoming 2026 events

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

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