Rock City’s Enchanted Garden of Lights
All month long
Rock City’s Enchanted Garden of Lights will continue through December and until January 4. Explore the beautiful gardens as they’re turned into a festive wonderland, complete with over a million LED Christmas lights, two photo opportunities with Santa, and a cheery Christmas atmosphere. Ticket prices vary depending on the night of your visit, and tickets are only sold online.
Ice on the Landing
All month long
Through the entire month of December and remaining open until January 28th, head to First Horizon Pavilion for Ice on the Landing, Chattanooga’s only open-air ice skating rink. Featuring ice skating for all ages, this is the perfect activity to begin the holiday season with. Tickets cost $12 per adult and $10 per child (except for on holidays), and each skater will receive a 60-minute skate session.
Asian Lantern Festival
All month long
Through the entire month of December and remaining open until January 19th, join the Chattanooga Zoo for their third annual Asian Lantern Festival. Featuring hand-crafted Asian lanterns, 40 displays of plant and animal life from the Amazon Rainforest, and interactive lanterns, this event is sure to delight. Tickets can be purchased online, and guests can attend the festival between 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on Wednesdays through Sundays.
North Pole Limited
Limited days in December
For certain days in December, join the Tennessee Valley Railroad as they journey to the North Pole. This family-friendly train ride features a festive journey filled with treats (like hot chocolate and cookies), a visit from Santa, and keepsakes, like an ornament and bell. For an extra special trip, book tickets in Santa’s private car for a souvenir cup and copy of The North Pole Limited storybook.
Breakfast with Santa
December 7
From 9 to 10:30 a.m., kick off the holiday season by having breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus in the Silver Ballroom at The Read House Hotel. Guests can enjoy pancakes, Belgian waffles, and hot chocolate while they mingle with the Clauses. Tickets can be purchased online, and there are limited quantities.
MAINx24
December 7
Always held the first Saturday in December, MAINx24 is back for 2024. Hosted in Southside, this annual festival features programming for 24 hours straight, featuring a wide range of activities including a chili cook-off, live music, and of course, a parade. Head to the event’s website for a full schedule of events.
Holiday Market
December 7-8 and 14-15
While the Chattanooga Market closes down after Thanksgiving, you still have the first two weekends in December to join them at the Holiday Market inside the Chattanooga Convention Center. Featuring over 200 local vendors, you’ll find custom art, handcrafted jewelry, apparel, furniture, and so much more. This is the perfect place to grab a last-minute, locally-made gift for a loved one.
Run Santa Run
December 8
For the runners among us, what better way to get into the Christmas spirit than by running a 5k, 10k, or half marathon? Run Santa Run will take place on December 8 at the Riverpark at the Dam. The half marathon will start at 8:30 a.m. with the other races following at 9 a.m. All races will start and finish near the pavilion, and there will be plenty of aid stations along the routes.
Chattanooga Candlelight Service of Lessons & Carols
December 12 & 13
Join The Roueché Chorale as Orchestra as they present the 22nd annual Chattanooga Candlelight Service of Lessons & Carols. Hosted at Brainerd United Methodist Church, guests can attend the service on Thursday or Friday evening at 7 p.m. The program is free to the public, and it will share the Passion of Jesus Christ music and narration.
Chattanooga Ballet’s Nutcracker
December 13-15
Join the Chattanooga Ballet at the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Auditorium for a beautiful performance of the Nutcracker to get into the holiday spirit. Sponsored by Southeastern Trust, there will be four performances over the weekend. Tickets can be purchased online.
City of Red Bank Christmas Festival & Parade
December 14
From 3 to 8 p.m., join the community of Red Bank as they celebrate the Christmas season with their annual festival and parade. The parade will start at 6 p.m., and the event usually features local food and craft vendors, face painting, and opportunities to meet your favorite Christmas characters, like Buddy the Elf, Santa Claus, and more.
Ruby Falls Discovery Day
December 30
Join Ruby Falls as they celebrate the 96th anniversary of the waterfall’s discovery. On this day only, guests can purchase a ticket for $2 each, the attraction’s original admission price. Guests can also take home a complimentary keepsake postcard. Only 96 guests will be able to enjoy the discounted price, so grab a ticket while they’re still available. Tickets will begin selling in December.
New Year’s Eve on the River
December 31
Ring in the New Year aboard the Southern Belle Riverboat. To begin the evening, guests can enjoy light appetizers on Pier 2 before boarding the Southern Belle at 8:30 p.m., with departure promptly at 9 p.m. Passengers will cruise for three hours, enjoying music, champagne, and a charcuterie board. This cruise is only available to those 21 years of age or older.
