Home for the Holidays
(Above) Asian Lantern Festival: Forest of Fantasy (Photo Courtesy of the Chattanooga Zoo)
The holiday season has arrived in the Scenic City! From downtown streets to mountain hideaways, practically every corner is filled with sparkling lights, joyful music, and a festive spirit. Whether you’re planning a cozy night out or a weekend full of cheer, follow our guide for the best local celebrations happening in and around Chattanooga!
When: Nov. 1-Dec. 21
Contact: georgiawines.com or 706.937.9463
Cost: Free
Savor the holidays at Georgia Winery (GW)! Starting in November, GW invites guests to enjoy a brand-new pizzeria in the lounge; take part in guided tours, tastings, and shopping (available all year round); and explore new holiday wines – all part of a refreshed and elevated guest experience. Back for a limited time only, guests can also wine down with GW’s fan-favorite strawberry wine.
When: Nov. 3-Jan. 6
Contact: cdmfun.org/winter-playland or 423.756.2738
Cost: Visit website for pricing.
There is “snow” much fun to be had at Creative Discovery Museum (CDM)! Guests can enjoy seasonal programs like Preschool Adventure, Cookie Decorating, and Winter Break Camp. In addition, join CDM for fun holiday events, including PJs with Santa (for members only), Cheers to the New Year, and Countdown to FUN! Visit the website to learn more about dates, cost, and details.
When: Nov. 14-Jan. 4, nightly, closed Christmas Eve
Contact: seerockcity.com/lights or 706.820.2531
Cost: Check website for nightly pricing. Tickets online only.
Come celebrate the magic of Rock City during its Enchanted Garden of Lights! This uniquely festive light experience has become a beloved holiday tradition and is not to be missed. This holiday season, journey down the Christmas tree walk with real falling snow to visit Santa at Carter Cliffs – the original home of Rock City’s founders. Tickets available online.
When: Nov. 15-Jan. 12, select dates
Contact: tvrail.com or 423.894.8028
Cost: Varies by event.
All aboard for unforgettable holiday experiences at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum! Step into a magical world with the North Pole Limited in Chattanooga or the Hiwassee Holiday Train in Delano that feature holiday refreshments, storytelling, and a visit from Santa. For a more relaxed journey, the Holiday Lights Train offers a peaceful backdrop with seasonal sights and sounds. Guests can also choose from the Holiday Tearoom – a two-and-a-half-hour event featuring a train ride paired with full high tea fare; a Christmas lunch train that blends dining and scenery watching; and a Christmas dinner train with a three-course meal to celebrate the holidays!
When: Nov. 17-Jan. 1
Contact: choochoo.com or 423.266.5000
Cost: Varies depending on activity.
Looking for some holiday cheer? The Chattanooga Choo Choo brings Christmas to life through various activities for adults and children alike. Starting Nov. 17, take a selfie in front of Hamilton County’s tallest indoor Christmas tree and enjoy other festive activities, such as holiday markets, ice skating, and opportunities for visits and photos with Santa Claus. Find event details online.
When: Nov. 21-Jan. 17
Contact: chattzoo.org or 423.697.1322
Cost: $19/adult members; $23.50/adult non-members; $14/children members; $17.50/children non-members
Take a twilight journey through Chattanooga Zoo to view hundreds of glowing lanterns! Each year features an entirely new collection of never-before-seen lantern displays, creating a new experience. This year’s theme, the Forest of Fantasy, includes dragons, fairies, unicorns, woodland creatures and even Santa in his workshop! Wednesday through Sunday evenings – with extra dates around the holidays – attendees will enjoy a magical and highly interactive experience at The Asian Lantern Festival: Forest of Fantasy!
When: Nov. 22-23
Contact: chattanoogamarket.com or 423.565.9130
Cost: Free
In preparation for the holidays, 200+ local vendors will gather at the First Horizon Pavilion for the Chattanooga Market’s annual event and celebration! With unique gifts ranging from pottery and art to festive food, locally made apparel, wood furniture, and more, there is a gift waiting for everyone on your list. Live holiday performances will also take place daily. The market is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday.
When: Nov. 22, Dec. 6
Contact: mainstreetcleveland.com or 423.479.1000
Cost: Free
Come spread holiday cheer in Downtown Cleveland at Christmas on the Square! On Nov. 22 from 4 to 8 p.m. there are plenty of family-friendly activities, including making s’mores at the Courthouse Square, the Community Tree lighting, and church choir performances during Carols in the City. On Dec. 6 at 6 p.m., experience the Christmas parade as it departs from Bradley Central High School and showcases lighted floats and local marching bands as it travels through downtown.
When: Nov. 22-Dec. 29, select nights
Contact: noogalights.com
Cost: $20 per vehicle. On walk-thru nights, FREE/kids 3 and under; $5/kids 4-12; $10/13 and up.
NoogaLights returns to Soddy-Daisy for the 2025 holiday season with fresh upgrades and a brand-new experience: Walk-Thru Nights! On Nov. 22, 23, 24, 30 and Dec. 1, 2, 7, 8, and 9, the venue becomes a pedestrian-only holiday wonderland – strollers, wheelchairs, and dogs welcome. Tickets for Walk-Thru Night are available only at the gate. For drive-thru nights, choose from the new and improved options of Unlimited Loop Nights (Sunday-Thursday, excluding Thanksgiving and Christmas weeks), Single Loop Nights (Friday-Saturday and holiday weeks), or grab a season pass for the entire family! Follow NoogaLights on social media for updates and schedule changes.
When: Nov. 22-Feb. 1
Contact: iceonthelanding.com
Cost: $14/adults; $12/children 12 and under, exceptions may apply
Glide into the holidays with Ice on the Landing! Returning to the First Horizon Pavilion this year, visitors can enjoy ice-skating fun for the whole family. Visit the website for ticket reservations, the schedule of operation and details for skating, party reservations, and special promotions.
When: Nov. 27-Dec. 31, select Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays
Contact: chattanoogariverboat.com or 423.266.4488
Cost: Visit website for pricing.
Experience the magic of downtown’s Christmas riverfront with Southern Belle’s holiday scenic cruises! Choose from several seasonal events, including Thanksgiving on the River, Christmas Dinner Cruises, ‘Tis The Season Luncheon, Breakfast with Santa, and New Year’s Eve on the River.
When: Nov. 26-Jan. 1
Contact: epb.com
Cost: Free
Step back through Christmas time with EPB’s annual holiday window displays. Enjoy a holiday scene where timeless traditions meet contemporary flair all season long by visiting the EPB headquarters – located at 10 West MLK Blvd. in downtown Chattanooga. The display will open at 5:30 p.m. on Nov. 26 and run through Jan. 1. The windows are located on the Broad and Market Street sides of the building.
When: Nov. 28-Dec. 31, select dates
Contact: theedwinhotel.com or 423.713.5900
Cost: Visit website for pricing.
Celebrate Christmas at the Edwin! Visitors can enjoy holiday music on Saturday evenings and during Sunday’s Brunch in WHITEBIRD starting on Dec 6. For a festive, family-friendly afternoon of holiday cheer, the Cookies with The Clauses & Toy Drive will be on Dec. 13 from 2 to 4 p.m. Finally, ring in the New Year at the NYE Party on Chattanooga’s first rooftop bar.
When: Nov. 28
Contact: rivercitycompany.com/reindeer-on-the-riverfront or 423.265.3700
Cost: Free
Live reindeer and Santa are returning to Ross’s Landing for the 2025 Reindeer on the Riverfront! Beginning at 4 p.m., visitors can expect a hot cocoa bar, food, artists, and entertainment vendors, as well as photo opportunities with Santa! The annual Lighted Boat Parade will begin at 7 p.m., and a spectacular fireworks show will close out this festive night at 8 p.m.
When: Nov. 28-Dec. 24
Contact: rubyfalls.com or 423.821.2544
Cost: $18.95-$41.95, tickets sold online
The holiday season shines bright at Ruby Falls on Lookout Mountain! Explore magical scenery, twinkling holiday lights on Village Plaza, and festive decorations in historic Ruby Falls Castle with special activities. Visitors can add a holiday wish to the Forest of Wishes, visit Santa or send him a letter, enjoy iconic cave adventures, and wrap up their experience with a casual meal, local craft beer, seasonal treats, and hot cocoa by the cozy fireplace at Castle Café.
When: Nov. 28, 29, Dec. 6
Contact: thereadhousehotel.com/holidays or 423.266.4121
Cost: Visit website or call front desk for pricing information.
Holiday merriment and festivities can be found at The Read House hotel this winter season. Guests are invited to the Holiday Jubilee on Nov. 28 for hot chocolate and cider, pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and live entertainment. When it’s time to retire, surprise the kids with a bedtime story and tuck in with one of Santa’s elves – only on Nov. 28 with limited availability. On the mornings of Nov. 29 and Dec. 6, Santa and Mrs. Claus will be waiting with a special breakfast that includes a show-stopping spread that every kid will enjoy.
When: Nov. 28-Dec. 28, closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day
Contact: tnaqua.org or 800.262.0695
Cost: Visit website for pricing.
Experience an underwater wonderland with holiday spirit, music, décor, and seasonal programming at the Tennessee Aquarium! During Holidays Under the Peaks, SCUBA Claus will visit from the North Pole and dive on weekends in the River Journey building from Nov. 29 to Dec. 21. A twinkling tree will be in sync with the jolly jolts of an electric eel. Plus, The Polar Express 3D returns to the Tennessee Aquarium IMAX 3D Theater. Don’t miss the family-favorite PJs and Polar event on Dec. 20 – dress in your favorite pajamas and sip hot cocoa while you watch the movie. Make sure to purchase your tickets early!
When: Saturdays, Nov. 29-Dec. 20
Contact: www.visitdadega.com or 706.657.4488
Cost: Free
Let the spectacular displays of Light Up Trenton fill you with holiday cheer! Kick off the season with family and friends by strolling around the sparkling square, where carols and laughter set the scene. Each weekend brings something new to enjoy – from the Historic Courthouse Holiday Open House to a live nativity that captures the true spirit of Christmas. Shop unique gifts and seasonal treats at the Jolly Holiday Market, snap a photo with Santa and his elves, and explore imaginative creations from local artists at the Rising Fawn Studio Tour. Adventure into Dade and experience the magic, weekend after weekend!
When: Dec. 5
Contact: nothinlikeringgold.com/events/ or 706.935.3061
Cost: Free
Enjoy an evening full of classic Christmas traditions at Ringgold Down Home Christmas! Visit with friends and family for the lighting of Ringgold’s Christmas tree on Dec. 5 at 6 p.m. in Citizen’s Park. After the lighting, keep an eye out for Santa as he leads the annual Down Home Christmas Parade through downtown Ringgold with live music, dancing, and more Christmas magic for the whole family!
When: Dec. 5-21, select dates
Contact: theatrecentre.com or call 423.267.8534
Cost: Visit website for pricing.
Celebrating their 102nd holiday season, The Chattanooga Theatre Centre presents “Annie.” The heartwarming musical is set in 1930s New York, following the plucky orphan Annie as she escapes the clutches of the wicked Miss Hannigan, wins over billionaire Oliver Warbucks, and sets out to find her long-lost parents. With timeless songs like “Tomorrow” and “It’s the Hard Knock Life,” “Annie” is a beloved, family-friendly favorite full of humor, hope, and heart. Tickets available online.
When: Dec. 6
Contact: mainx24.com
Cost: Free, varies by event
Organized by Southside residents, merchants, and friends, MAINx24 is a 24-hour-long festival celebrating Main Street and the surrounding Southside. From live music to cook-offs, open houses, store discounts, crafts, and much more, there is something for the whole family to enjoy. The EPB Parade begins at 10:30 a.m. on Main Street, starting at Central Ave. and running to Broad St. A full schedule of events can be found online.
When: Dec. 6
Contact: chattanoogagirlschoir.org or 423.296.1006
Cost: $10/Adults; FREE/12 and under
Traditional holiday music meets pop standards meets reimagined favorites with the Chattanooga Girls Choir at Northside Presbyterian Church! Enjoy the evening show with friends and family from 7 to 8:30 p.m. As is tradition, alumnae of the CGC will be invited on stage for the closing number, “Edelweiss.”
When: Dec. 6, 13
Contact: southern.edu/musicevents or 423.236.2880
Cost: Free
The School of Music at Southern Adventist University invites the community to enjoy a festive instrumental concert on Dec. 6 at 8 p.m. with performances by the Wind Symphony, Ringtones, Jazz Ensemble, and Steel Band under the direction of Professor Ken Parsons in Iles P.E. Center on campus. Another concert directed by Professor Laurie Redmer Cadwallader is set for Dec. 13 at 4 p.m., a joyful performance of Rutter’s Gloria featuring Voices of Southern and the Southern Symphony Orchestra at Collegedale Church of Seventh-day Adventists, also on the university’s campus.
When: Dec. 6
Contact: chattanoogaboyschoir.org or 423.634.2299
Cost: Visit website for pricing and ticket information.
This holiday season, the Chattanooga Boys Choir joins with the Chattanooga Youth Symphony and the Metropolitan Bells in presenting a program of holiday music that will inspire and enrich audiences of all ages. With shows at 12 p.m. and 5 p.m., this year’s program offers songs on the theme of joy, including familiar carols, new takes on holiday favorites, and some brand-new pieces bringing hope and enjoyment to all this season!
When: Dec. 7
Contact: chaballet.org/tickets
Cost: $60/adults; $30/children
Celebrate the holidays with characters from Chattanooga Ballet’s Nutcracker for an unforgettable experience in The Read House Silver Ballroom! Enjoy the iconic setting while sharing the magic of the holidays with friends and family from 2 to 4 p.m. Guests can expect children’s activities, professional photo opportunities, a theatrical reading of “The Nutcracker,” plenty of sweet treats, and more!
When: Dec. 7
Contact: LeeUClassicChristmas.eventbrite.com or 423.614.8343
Cost: Free
Join Lee University for this beloved annual holiday tradition featuring the Lee University Symphony Orchestra, Choral Union, Chorale, and Ladies of Lee. This highly anticipated performance promises to be a delightful experience for the entire family.
When: Dec. 7
Contact: thehoustonmuseum.org or 423.267.7176
Cost: $35
Step back into the Victorian era with a festive twist on the Houston Museum’s annual Holiday Tea. Enjoy a warm cup of tea and a sweet treat while creating Victorian-inspired ornaments alongside Antique Influencer and Artist in Residence, Heather Turner. Discover how the Victorians celebrated the holidays, the materials they used for decorations, and the traditions they cherished. Multiple workshops will be available at 12 p.m., 2 p.m., and 4 p.m. in the Houston Pop Up Museum. Tickets include museum admission, tea, a light snack, and all supplies to craft your own holiday keepsake. Space is limited; tickets are required to reserve your space.
When: Dec. 10
Contact: https://www.voicesoflee.com/tour-schedule/2025/12/10/voices-of-lee-presents-home-for-christmas or 423.614.8320
Cost: Free
The award-winning a cappella ensemble, Voices of Lee, will present this Christmas concert in Pangle Hall, featuring both sacred and secular Christmas selections. Tickets are required but free to reserve online.
When: Dec. 11
Contact: 423.614.8240
Cost: Free
The Lee University School of Music, along with the School of Theology & Ministry, present this evening of lessons and carols in the Lee University Chapel from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. The service will interweave Scripture readings with beautiful Christmas music.
When: Dec. 11, 12
Contact: therouechechorale.org/ or 423.774.0317
Cost: Free
Get ready for the 23rd annual Chattanooga Candlelight Service of Lessons and Carols at Brainerd United Methodist Church. Beginning at 7 p.m. each night, this special holiday service is designed to tell the story of the birth of Jesus Christ through the reading of sacred Scripture with the inclusion of stirring Advent and Christmas music. A lighting of candles and congregational singing will round out this holiday family event! Visit Brainerd United Methodist Church at 4315 Brainerd Road, Chattanooga, TN 37411.
When: Dec. 12-14
Contact: tivolichattanooga.com or 423.757.5580 / chaballet.org or 423.265.0617
Cost: $27.50 and up, varies by seating
Featuring Chattanooga Ballet’s professional company, the Chattanooga Symphony performing live, and over 200 students from Chattanooga Ballet’s School, you won’t want to miss this timeless holiday tale performed at Memorial Auditorium. Celebrate the season with the whole family at Chattanooga’s cherished holiday tradition, “The Nutcracker!”
When: Dec. 14
Contact: huntermuseum.org or 423.267.0968
Cost: $20/adult; $18/senior; FREE/17 and under
From 2 to 4 p.m., enjoy drop-in art experiences at the Hunter Museum for kids and families – plus a performance of “The AlterNut,” a brief interpretation of “The Nutcracker,” by Ballet Esprit. Regular admission applies. Members and youth 17 and under are free – proudly sponsored by First Horizon Foundation. Admission to this program is also free with a Chattanooga Public Library card if you’re attending with children.
When: Dec. 14
Contact: tnstateparks.com/parks/red-clay or 423.478.0339
Cost: $5
Discover the local history of how Christmas was celebrated at Red Clay State Park’s annual event. Guests can experience Red Clay by the glow of lanterns during a lantern-lit guided tour, complete with sweet treats and traditions of the past. The program begins at 5:30 p.m., and registration is required prior to the event on the state park’s events page.
When: Dec. 18
Contact: tivolichattanooga.com or 423.757.5580
Cost: $49.65 and up, varies by seating
“NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet” is a holiday tradition sure to delight! With larger-than-life puppets, incredible acrobatics, and fabulous hand-crafted sets and costumes, this nostalgic show is full of magic for the whole family. The show is at 7 p.m.
When: Dec. 20, 21
Contact: chattsymphony.org or 423.267.8583
Cost: $36.75-$119.70, varies by seating. Students/children 50% off.
Home for the Holidays is one of Chattanooga’s most treasured holiday events, and is the perfect way to celebrate the season with the whole family. The CSO will be joined by the CSO Chorus, Metropolitan Bells, Chattanooga Boys Choir, Chattanooga Girls Choir, and even Santa himself! Held at Memorial Auditorium, guests can enjoy the show on Saturday, Dec. 20 at 7:30 p.m. and on Sunday, Dec. 22 at 3 p.m.
When: Dec. 21
Contact: huntermuseum.org or 423.267.0968
Cost: $20/adult; $18/senior; FREE/17 and under
Bring the family to celebrate the winter solstice at the Hunter Museum with some nutcracker magic from 2 to 4 p.m! Children will be invited to create props and nutcracker-related crafts at 2 p.m., and a brief performance of The Nutcracker by the Chattanooga Ballet Student Ensemble begins at 3 p.m. Regular admission applies. Members and youth 17 and under are free – proudly sponsored by First Horizon Foundation. Admission to this program is also free with a Chattanooga Public Library card if you’re attending with children.
When: Dec. 31
Contact: cdmfun.org/events or 423.756.2738
Cost: Visit website for pricing.
Why stay up past bedtime when the New Year can be celebrated at noon? Creative Discovery Museum is set to host a midday New Year’s celebration that’s perfect for children and families. Throughout the day, enjoy activities around the Museum to ring in 2026. And no New Year’s party would be complete without an apple juice toast, ball drop, and a dance party at one of Chattanooga’s favorite place to take kids!
When: Dec. 31
Contact: chattanoogariverboat.com or 423.266.4488
Cost: $159.95 per ticket
Celebrate New Year’s on the Tennessee River with Southern Belle! The evening will begin with hors d’oeuvres on Pier 2 and the three-hour cruise will board at 8:30 p.m. to set off at 9 p.m. The trip includes a DJ, pilothouse tours, a charcuterie board and bottle of champagne per couple, and plenty of celebration for the New Year. Guests must be 21+ years old.
When: Dec. 31
Contact: thereadhousehotel.com/holidays or 423.266.4121
Cost: Visit website or call front desk for pricing information
Ring in the new year at The Read House’s New Year’s Eve Roaring 20s Party! The party package includes an open bar, live entertainment, a midnight champagne toast, late-night snacks, and a guest room for an overnight stay. Recover from the night’s excitement with a bloody mary or mimosa in Bar & Billiards on Jan. 1. Want dinner with a full fall menu and special New Year’s Features? Walk over to Bridgeman’s to enjoy a festive meal with your closest friends and family!
