Chattanooga is a fun town all year long. Festivals, athletic events, outdoor activities and cultural events all year long contribute to making our city one of the best to visit and live. The holidays are extra special, thanks in part to some Chattanooga holiday traditions. From train rides to brunch with the big man, there are some fantastic things to experience. Here are our top choices.
Ice on the Landing
Ice skating in the south is a unique experience. For the third year in a row, Chattanooga Presents has created an oasis of fun in Chattanooga with a popup ice skating rink, Ice on the Landing. This year’s location is at the iconic Chattanooga Choo Choo complex. Situated between train cars and the engine, the rink is larger than previous years, offering plenty of space to spin and toe pick your way to holiday memories. Offering skate rentals, fun music and festive lighting, it is hard to not be in the holiday spirit. I recently took out of town family to skate and we ended up having an absolute ball! You feel really goofy at first, but once you get your feet under you, it ends up being super fun. Offering events such as New Years’s Eve late skate, college student, charity night and holiday carolers, this is perfect for all ages. Tickets are $10 for adults and $8 for kids. Hours can be found online. 1400 Market Street
North Pole Limited
Trains are a theme in Chattanooga. The Tennessee Valley Railroad offers year round excursions. During the holidays, the North Pole Limited trains take riders on an imaginary journey to the North Pole with refreshments, storytelling, and occasional sing-a-longs. As the train gently rolls down the rails, a number of lighted displays can be seen outside. Once the train pulls into the “North Pole”, that jolly fellow Santa shows up and returns with riders, sharing a special gift and greeting ever child on board. We took our children to ride this train when they were little and they absolutely loved the experience. Rides are available November 18th through December 31st with two trips daily during the week and 5 on Saturdays. Tickets and info can be found online. 4119 Cromwell Rd
Brunch with Santa
I love brunch and I am pretty keen on Santa, so one of my favorite things during the holiday is brunch with Santa at the Chattanoogan. Carolers are on hand to bring Christmas cheer, crafts are on hand to keep kids occupied as they wait for Santa to come an greet them individually. The Chattanoogan brunch is award winning and truly delicious and the Chattanoogan is gorgeous year round but especially during the holidays. Tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for kids 6 and up. Reservations can be made by calling the Chattanoogan. 423-424-3700.
Red Bank Christmas Parade
Chattanooga puts on a great parade and the Christmas parade is one of the most fun. Featuring floats, marching bands, the Chattanooga corvette club and cheerleaders, this parade is a true hometown tradition. Held the first Saturday in December and featuring a park with crafts, food, live music and an opportunity for a photo with Santa.
The holidays make me sentimental and I love tradition. There is nothing like creating one with your family that involves your hometown. Happy holidays and best wishes for your own family traditions.
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