Get ready to bundle up and explore the Scenic City during the winter months. | Photo by Rock City via Chattanooga Tourism Co.
Gather your family and friends and celebrate what makes the holiday season special with this guide featuring winter events happening between December and February.
Rock City’s HoliDAYS Now through Saturday, Jan. 4, you can see the Enchanted Garden of Lights and winter decor throughout the attraction, perfect for taking your holiday photos. Plus, enjoy hot chocolate + seasonal treats from the food stops.
Home for the Holidays The Chattanooga Symphony & Opera will perform its holiday show on Saturday, Dec. 21 + Sunday, Dec. 22 at Memorial Auditorium featuring a variety of groups joining them on stage and a visit from Santa.
See the classic tale of “The Nutcracker” in the Scenic City.
Photo provided by Talmi Entertainment
“Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet” This international ensemble that blends world-class ballet and acrobatics with whimsical puppets and costumes will give two performances at Memorial Auditorium on Monday, Dec. 23.
Polar Plunge and Fun Run Celebrate the new year on Saturday, Jan. 18 with a three-mile run through the Preserve and take a dip into Lula Lake — the only time the public is allowed to swim in its waters.
A Very Merry Monday Nite Big Band | 7:30-9:30 p.m. | Barking Legs Theater | $17 | All ages are welcome to enjoy a merry evening of jazz music.
Tuesday, Dec. 3
Dragon Bingo | 7-9 p.m. | The Dragon | $5+ | Sip on mocktails and infused drinks while playing for a chance to win prizes.
Wednesday, Dec. 4
Backcountry Loop Hike | 1-1:30 p.m. | Cloudland Canyon State Park, Rising Fawn, GA | Free | Join a park naturalist for a two-mile hike — meet at the Interpretive Center.
Thursday, Dec. 5
Cocoa and Carols | 7-8:30 p.m. | ChattState | Free | Hear music from some of your favorite holiday films while sipping hot chocolate.
As of today, CARTA has launched its new First Hour Free parking program. Visitors and residents who park at the Shuttle Park North (Broad Street) + South (Market Street) garages will receive free parking, with standard hourly rates applied after the first hour. (Local 3)
Community
La Paz Chattanooga’s annual Community Gathering will feature a potluck on Friday, Dec. 6. Head to the office location on Willow Street beginning at 5:30 p.m. with your family, friends, and a dish to share to enjoy food, activities + opportunities to win prizes.
Feel Good
Chattanooga native + R&B artist Usher donated 400 meals to CHI Memorial staff on Thanksgiving Day. Usher chose Ooltewah-based restaurant Davis Wayne’s to prepare the meals and members of his family joined CHI Memorial executives to help distribute them.
Arts
ArtsBuild has launched its annual Holiday Art Supply Drive benefiting local art organizations, programming, and artists. Shop the Amazon wishlist to purchase + donate items.
Try This
Interested in beekeeping? The Chattanooga Urban Beekeeping Collective will host a meetup for area beekeepers + folks interested in starting the practice on Thursday, Dec. 12. Stop by to learn tips and tricks, hear from a seasoned beekeeper, and enjoy social time.
Plan Ahead
Calling all magic makers and tattoo lovers. The 2025 Literary Ink tattoo convention is set to return Sept. 5-7 at the Chattanooga Convention Center. This year will feature an enchanted forest theme along with tattooing and creative vendors. Early bird tickets are on sale now.
History
This is the last call for submissions to our historical marker contest. Submit your nominations by tomorrow, Dec. 3. for a chance to be featured on our map — and maybe even have your location officially recognized. Make a submission.
Edu
Military Times named the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga a “Best for Vets College,” ranking UTC as the top institution in the state and 40th nationally for military veterans. Discover what makes UTC stand out.*
Practical, comfortable, and life-changing — period. Knix Leakproof Underwear offers reliable leakproof protection in ultra-soft, seamless designs. Save up to 60% for Black Friday through tomorrow, Dec. 3.*
The Buy
The Buy
It’s Cyber Monday. Don’t miss these rare deals that are only available until the end of the day:
⚡The Conair Steam Stylist that’s on sale for less than $50. It’s a 3-in-1 gadget that can steam, press, and iron your garments. ⚡A set of high-quality Rubbermaid food storage containers that are 33% off — perfect for storing holiday leftovers. ⚡An Oral-B electric toothbrush. If you’ve been contemplating upgrading your classic toothbrush, consider this 40% off deal your sign.
I know I’m joined by my fellow Chattanoogans in our love for Little Debbie snacks. The holiday treats might be my favorite, especially the Christmas tree brownies and cakes. I might have to try out this trifle recipe I came across while scrolling on Instagram.
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