See White Christmas Come to Life LIVE on Stage

Issue #732

19 Dec

In this Knoxville Insider Issue…

🌤️ Weather | Sunny with a High of 41

📰 Nominate Your Favorite Local Non-Profit for Adult Prom — Nominations Close Today at 11:59 PM

🗓️ A Magical Holiday Visit Awaits at Santa’s Cozy Cabin at Zoo Knoxville

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🛍️ Today Only - Free Puppy Training Book

🗓️ Upcoming Events 

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Today’s Record High: 69 in 1967 — Record Low: 5 in 1884

See White Christmas Come to Life LIVE on Stage

The beloved holiday classic White Christmas is stepping off the silver screen and onto the stage this December with a live musical performance at Christian Academy of Knoxville (529 Academy Way). Presented by Palace Players, this heartwarming production brings the timeless story of friendship, romance, and holiday cheer to just in time for Christmas.

Based on the iconic film, White Christmas follows World War II veterans Bob Wallace and Phil Davis, whose successful song-and-dance act leads them to Vermont, where they team up with a talented pair of singing sisters. Their journey takes an unexpected turn when they discover the cozy holiday lodge hosting their Christmas show belongs to their former army commander. What unfolds is a joyful mix of nostalgia, love, and generous holiday spirit, set to unforgettable songs like “Blue Skies,” “I Love a Piano,” “How Deep Is the Ocean,” and, of course, “White Christmas.”

The production promises a dazzling score, charming performances, and a wholesome experience for all ages. Performances take place on the Christian Life Center stage at Christian Academy of Knoxville, with multiple showtimes running now through Sunday, December 21st, including matinee and evening options. Whether you’re continuing a family tradition or starting a new one, this live musical is a festive way to celebrate the season and enjoy a classic Christmas story brought to life on stage. More Info & Showtimes/Tickets

Nominate Your Favorite Local Non-Profit for Adult Prom — Nominations Close Today at 11:59 PM

Knoxville’s most glamorous fundraiser is gearing up for another unforgettable year, and right now the spotlight is on the nomination phase for Cue the Paparazzi: Adult Prom, an annual non-profit fundraiser hosted by Lavishly Local LLC. If you have a local non-profit close to your heart, this is your chance to help them take center stage.

Nominations can be made today until 11:59 PM, and the organizations selected will move on to the main event, where community support directly translates into real dollars raised.

Here’s how it works: community members nominate their favorite local non-profits, and five finalists will be chosen. Those non-profits will then rally their supporters to attend Adult Prom on February 14, 2026. Every ticket purchased in support of a nominated organization counts as a vote, and the non-profit with the most supporter turnout at the prom walks away with the fundraising prize.

This phase is critical — no nomination means no chance to win, so organizers are encouraging you to take just a moment to lift up the causes you love most. Whether it’s a nonprofit serving families, students, seniors, animals, or underserved neighbors, this is a powerful way to help them shine.

👉 Submit your nomination here before the deadline:
https://form.jotform.com/253516059162153

Cue the Paparazzi is more than a night of sequins and dancing — it’s a creative, community-driven way to give back while celebrating local impact. If you believe in a nonprofit making a difference in Knoxville, now is the moment to nominate them and help put them in the running.

Don’t wait — nominations close today at 11:59 PM.

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A Very Merry Pancake Brunch Brings Holiday Cheer to Market Square

Downtown Knoxville is serving up a festive treat this holiday season with A Very Merry Pancake Brunch at Ruby Sunshine on Market Square. Taking place Monday, December 22nd from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., this cheerful brunch event is designed to delight families looking to add a little extra joy—and syrup—to their holiday celebrations.

Guests can enjoy a fun, kid-friendly brunch experience where little ones’ pancakes come with edible decorations, letting them create their own holiday-themed masterpieces right at the table. Even better, families can take advantage of a special holiday perk: with the purchase of an adult entrée, kids receive a FREE pancake entrée, making it an easy and festive outing for parents and children alike.

The celebration doesn’t stop at the plate. Ruby Sunshine is also offering a festive picture frame craft for kids, available while supplies last, giving families a sweet keepsake to remember their holiday brunch. Located at 37 Market Square, this merry morning-to-early-afternoon event is a perfect way to slow down, enjoy downtown Knoxville, and make warm holiday memories together over a stack of pancakes.

A Magical Holiday Visit Awaits at Santa’s Cozy Cabin at Zoo Knoxville

Santa is making a special stop at Zoo Knoxville this holiday season, and families are invited to step into the magic at Santa’s Cozy Cabin now through Sunday, December 21st, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. This experience blends classic holiday cheer with the unique charm of one of Knoxville’s favorite attractions.

During this festive visit, guests can meet Santa Claus in his cozy cabin setting, share holiday wishes, and enjoy a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. Santa will be greeting guests of all ages, spreading joy and laughter while creating memorable moments for children and adults alike. Families are welcome to take keepsake photos during their visit—just be sure to bring your own camera or phone, as professional photography will not be available.

The event is included with general zoo admission and is free for Zoo Knoxville members, making it an easy and festive addition to a winter zoo visit. While you’re there, enjoy the sights and sounds of the zoo during the holidays, complete with unique animal encounters that add an extra layer of wonder to the season.

Santa’s Cozy Cabin is located between Clayton Otter Creek and the FirstBank ARC Building inside Zoo Knoxville. This beloved seasonal experience runs on select dates through December 21st, before Santa heads back to the North Pole.

Ways to Help Our Neighbors After the Collective at Sutherland Fire

A recent fire at the Collective at Sutherland Apartments displaced multiple families, leaving them without many of the basic necessities of daily life. As neighbors work to rebuild and stabilize in the days ahead, the community has an opportunity to make an immediate, tangible impact through donated goods.

Organizers are currently collecting essential items for adults, children, and pets. Needed donations include children’s boys’ and girls’ clothing in sizes 6 and 7, along with children’s shoes in sizes 10 and 12. Adult needs include women’s shirts and jackets in small, medium, and XXL; women’s pants in small, medium, and XXL; and women’s shoes in sizes 6, 7, 7.5, 8, and 8.5. Men’s shirts and jackets are needed in large, medium, and extra-large, along with men’s pants in medium, large, and XL (34×36), and men’s shoes in sizes 10, 9, and 13.

Additional high-need items include new socks and underwear in all sizes, winter jackets and sweaters, gloves, scarves, hats, blankets, and pillows. Everyday necessities such as toilet paper, paper towels, kitchen items, shower items, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and deodorant are also requested. Donations of dog and cat food, as well as toys for children, are welcome to help restore a sense of normalcy for families affected.

All donations can be dropped off at Collective at Sutherland Fitness Center / Leasing Office, located at 1505 Greenbrier Ridge Way. Drop-off hours are Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

For those looking for a meaningful way to help close to home, donating these much-needed items is a direct way to support neighbors during an incredibly difficult time. Every contribution helps families take one more step toward recovery.

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 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 20th - 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 starting 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. Register your Corgi here

🗓️December 21st - Families looking for a relaxed, creative way to spend a winter afternoon are invited to a Family Painting Party at 2:00 PM at Printshop Beer Co. (1532 Island Home Ave.). This welcoming event is designed for all ages and skill levels, making it an easy and enjoyable outing for parents, kids, and grandparents alike. Get Tickets

🗓️December 21st - Celebrate the season with a creative afternoon at Holiday Stained Glass Workshop at Hi-Wire Brewing (2020 Barber Street), from 2:00 to 4:00 PM. This festive, hands-on workshop invites participants to slow down, sip a craft beer, and learn the art of stained glass in a relaxed and welcoming setting. Reserve your Spot

🗓️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 - 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) from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. The event promises a relaxed morning filled with holiday cheer, games, and smiles.

🗓️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 - Looking for a fun way to spend the evening after Christmas? The Emory Place Night Market is happening from 6:00–10:00 PM at 6 Emory Place, bringing together local makers, vintage finds, music, and great beer in one lively, laid-back setting.

🗓️December 26th - 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, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Reserve Spot

🗓️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 - Capricornucopia concert at 7 PM at Barley’s (200 E Jackson Ave), 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.

🗓️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 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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