The Chattanooga Downtown Partnership will present Winter Days & Lights from Nov. 24 - Dec. 8.
It all begins Friday, Nov. 24, with the Grand Illumination on the River presented by EPB. This free family event will take place beginning at 7 p.m. at Ross’s Landing, where crowds will witness the 26th annual lighted boat parade along with a holiday performance by the Metropolitan Bells on the riverbank stage. Following the lighted boat parade, the fun continues with a downtown lighting extravaganza, featuring lively song and dance performances and the popular singing Santa. A glittering fireworks finale will bring the evening to a colorful conclusion at 8:45 p.m.
On Saturday, Nov. 25, Breakfast with Santa will be held at The Chattanoogan. With two seatings, the first at 8:30 a.m. and the second at 11:30 a.m., Breakfast with Santa will feature a bountiful buffet with all the trimmings and a full menu of holiday fun including strolling entertainment, Balloons by Mike and a musical show by singing Santa. This event costs $12 for children and $18 for adults. Tickets for Breakfast with Santa may be purchased online at www.downtownchattanooga.org or by calling (423) 265-0771.
On Saturday, Dec. 2, downtown streets will sparkle during the Holiday Starlight Parade. Beginning at 6 p.m., the Holiday Starlight Parade will proceed from Miller Park up Market Street to the Tennessee Aquarium. With a succession of unique holiday entries, this event is known for its dazzling yuletide theme featuring performing groups, marching bands, vehicles and floats strung in twinkling lights. Following the parade at 7 p.m., there will be a holiday concert in the Tennessee Aquarium Plaza by the Big Ridge Elementary Chorus.
Appalachian Christmas, the final event in the Winter Days & Lights series, will be held Friday, Dec. 8, in Miller Plaza’s Waterhouse Pavilion. The fun begins at 6:45 p.m. with local favorites, The Morgans and Lynne Haas, followed by Appalachian storyteller Jim Pfitzer. The Dismembered Tennesseans will then take the stage, followed by headline performer Barbara Lamb at 8 p.m. Admission to Appalachian Christmas is $3, with complimentary hot cider and sugar cookies provided throughout the event.
For more information on Winter Days and Lights, call (423) 265-0771 or visit www.downtownchattanooga.org .