Preview of December Happenings on the Peaceful Side

Written by: Emily Huffstetler

The holiday season is in full swing on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies. Here’s a preview of what’s in store.  

Kicking off the festivities on December 2 at 6:15 p.m., the City of Alcoa Tree Lighting will feature twinkling lights, festive music, delicious refreshments and a chance to meet Santa. 

On December 3 at 7:00 p.m., the Maryville College Christmas Concert will bring together choirs, an orchestra and small ensembles for a magical Victorian-themed evening. 

The 19th Annual Santa Mouse Christmas House Craft Show and Sale will take place December 5, 6 and 7 at Dotson Memorial Baptist Church in Maryville. Browse the work of over 50 local artisans from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, and 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday. Discover handcrafted treasures, including basketry, jewelry, paintings, woodworking and holiday ornaments. 

The Festival of Trees on December 5 at 6:30 p.m. will transform the Blount County Courthouse lawn into a winter wonderland. Opening night includes entertainment, refreshments and another chance to meet Santa, with the display available to enjoy throughout December. 

That same evening, the Clayton Center for the Arts will host Tomáseen Foley’s A Celtic Christmas at 7:00 p.m., a celebration of Irish storytelling, music and dance. 

The weekend also brings Keyboards at Christmas, which will take place on December 7 at 7:00 p.m. and December 8 at 3:00 p.m., featuring local musicians and six grand pianos in support of the Mission of Hope. 

The Heritage Center Christmas in the Village runs every Friday and Saturday evening until December 21. Experience a pioneer celebration with living history interpreters, handcrafting demonstrations and craft stations for kids. Enjoy hot cider and snacks while connecting with the history of Townsend and the Great Smoky Mountains. Admissions start at 5 p.m. and end at 7 p.m. 

Runners can lace up for the Reindeer Run 5K and Fun Run/Walk on December 8 from 12:45 to 3:30 p.m., supporting the Empty Pantry Fund, or join the Holly Jolly Half-Marathon and 5K in Alcoa on December 14 from 7:30 to 11:00 a.m. 

On December 14, visit the Foothills Holiday Market at Smithview Pavilion from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., or catch the Blount County Christmas Parade at 11:00 a.m., which will honor veterans with its theme, “American Hero Christmas.” 

A local favorite, The Nutcracker by the Appalachian Ballet Company will take the stage on December 13 at 7:00 p.m. and December 14 at 3:00 p.m., complete with live music from the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra. 

What holiday happening do you most enjoy on the Peaceful Side? We’d love to hear about it. Be sure to tag us on social media (@peacefulsmokies). 

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Born and raised in Maryville, Tennessee, with roots tracing back to Cades Cove, Emily Huffstetler is a proud Maryville College graduate and passionate storyteller of the Greater Smokies region.