Chattanooga’s Cash Daniels — aka “The Conservation Kid” — is getting some well-deserved national recognition. He was recently named a CNN Heroes Young Wonder for his efforts to clean up the Tennessee River.
The 16-year-old began his conservation work at just 7 years old. In less than a decade, he’s pulled more than 45,000 pounds of trash from local waterways and recycled 8,000 miles of fishing line.
If you’d like to help support Daniels’ mission, check out his nonprofit Wild Earth Defenders. Passionate about something else? Hear his short and sweet advice for anyone itching to make a difference.
The rock climbing gym offers something for everyone: a dedicated Kid Zone, yoga classes, an outdoor climbing wall with beautiful views, and bouldering and top-rope climbing that’s suitable for all experience levels.
A gift card can be used on both services and gear at any of the gym’s three Chattanooga locations, offering endless opportunities for fun and community connection.
Part car show, part toy drive — and it’s happening this Saturday, Dec. 13, 12-5 p.m. at the Kitchen Incubator of Chattanooga. Just bring a toy to donate, check out the cool rides, and drop your donation next to your favorite car. All toys will benefit the Forgotten Child Fund. (The Pulse)
Traffic
Collegedale’s Christmas Parade is this Sunday, Dec. 14 at 3 p.m., and here’s the route. The parade runs along University Drive, but several other roads will be impacted. Pro tip: If you’re going, get there by 2:30 p.m. to snag a good spot and avoid closures.
Festival
The St. Elmo Luminaria Festival is Saturday, Dec. 20 from 5 to 9 p.m. The Virginia Avenue Greenway — between 44th + 55th streets — will glow during this free event featuring live music and performances, art installations, a holiday market, and a visit from Santa. Proceeds benefit Chattanooga’s Humane Educational Society. (The Pulse)
Pets
Two kittens, two eyes, and a lot of love to give. Brothers Jumba and Pleakley were taken to the Humane Educational Society as strays, and each had to have an eye removed due to medical issues. Now they’re happy, healthy, and ready for their fur-ever homes.
Trending
Meet the latest holiday trend taking over the internet: “Tacky Christmas.” The look leans into nostalgic kitsch — think rainbow lights, sparkly tinsel, and mismatched ornaments. Want to join in? Chattanooga’s thrift shops are a great place to start. (House Beautiful)
Eat
Craving a slice of ‘za? Chowhound just named its top hole-in-the-wall pizza spot in Tennessee, and Midnight Oil in Nashville claimed the title. We think they’re sleeping on Chattanooga’s pizza scene — peruse our pizza guide to find your new favorite slice.
🍫 Let’s drink our dessert
You know what would go great with this Rembrandt’s hot chocolate? Some cookies. | Photo via Rembrandt’s Coffee House
Coffee and tea get lots of love, but you know what sometimes hits the spot even more? A steaming cup of hot chocolate. Here are three local places you can get one today:
The Hot Chocolatier | With a dozen flavors to choose from, you really can’t go wrong. They have the OG (Original Hot Chocolate) of course, but we recommend trying the Squirrel — a hazelnut-and-caramel favorite.
Rembrandt’s Coffee House | It may be known for its coffee + sandwiches, but don’t sleep on its hot chocolate. It’s rich and creamy just the way it comes — but if you’re feeling bold, add one of their house-made syrups to spice it up.
Niedlov’s Bakery & Cafe | This cafe’s picture-perfect hot chocolate will definitely warm you up on a cold day. Not a fan of dairy? Customize your cup with a milk alternative and add flavors like vanilla, caramel, or honey lavender.
What’s your favorite hot chocolate in Chattanooga? Let us know.
The Buy
Searching for stocking stuffers that aren’t candy but won’t break the bank? These five under $20 options are our go-tos:
We know it’s cold — and that space heater is looking really good right about now. Before you crank it up, read these tips that could help you avoid a fire this winter and, in turn, save your life.
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