With various seasonal events, great shopping districts and Santa sightings, family travelers have more than one reason to visit Chattanooga, Tennessee, this winter.
Head to Chattanooga Convention Center every weekend this month to peruse stalls of more than 200 local vendors, artists and crafters selling unique gifts and custom items. There’s also artisanal foods and handcrafted jewelry, too.

© Chattanooga Tourism Co.
At Tennessee Aquarium, visitors of all ages can look for Scuba Santa doing a deep dive in the River Giants and Tennessee River exhibits every weekend leading up to Christmas. The aquarium also hosts weekly themed events, photo opportunities, a festive elf and more.
The annual event returns to Walnut Street Bridge. Twinkling snowflakes drape the road, accompanied by festive holiday trees located throughout the city. This beloved event is more than a singular moment, with various points of interest and activities hosted through January. Other events comprising the Holiday Trail of Lights include:
- Christmas Tea Train hosted by Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum
- Holidays at Chattanooga Choo Choo featuring the city’s tallest trees and photos with Santa
- The Wonder Wall at High Point Climbing & Fitness
- The Polar Express at Tennessee Aquarium IMAX

© Chattanooga Tourism Co.
Running through Jan. 14, 2024, the festival takes place at Chattanooga Zoo and features an all-new collection of more than 30 lanterns and nine interactive displays.
Walk amongst creatively lit sculptures at Rock City’s 29th annual event. These pieces sit in the Grand Corridor in North Pole Village, accented with icy lights of the Arctic Kingdom and enchantment of the Magic Forest.
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