This Friday, December 6th, head downtown to take part in a beloved Knoxville Christmas tradition – WIVK’s 41st annual Knoxville Christmas Parade!
At 7 p.m., parade participants will begin marching though the streets of Knoxville in celebration of the Christmas season, and thousands of spectators will be there to celebrate with them!
The City estimates that more than 45,000 spectators attended the parade last year, and this year’s numbers are expected to be similar. For those who can’t make it down, the parade will be televised live on WVLT at 7 p.m.
Either way, it’s worth a watch, if only to see whether any of this year’s floats can top the 2012 crowd favorite – a pirate ship!
The Knoxville Christmas Parade Route
Last year, the City expanded the route into the Old City, allowing more spectators to get in on the fun, and this year’s route will be similar. The 2013 parade will assemble on Howard Baker, Jr. Boulevard, move forward onto Church Street, take a right onto Gay Street, a right on to Jackson avenue. Floats will continue over the Gay Street Viaduct and conclude at Depot Ave.
Where to Park
Official city parking is probably your best bet – the State Street Garage, Market Square Garage, Locust Street Garage, and all metered parking downtown and in the Old City are free weeknights after 6 p.m. and all weekend. Just be sure to get there early, because the garages can fill up quickly! There are also a number of paid parking lots and garages in the area, if you can’t find a spot to park for free.
Where to Sit or Stand
While Gay Street is definitely the prime viewing location for the parade, you can also find great spots along Church Street and Jackson Avenue. Get there early and you’ll have your pick – make sure to place your chairs or blankets near a coffee shop in case you need some hot chocolate to warm your hands!
What to See
Nearly 100 different groups are participating in the 2013 parade. Churches, businesses, high schools, and more will parade down the route with floats, cars, dancers, and marching bands. Even a garrison of Stormtroopers from Star Wars will be taking part – if they don’t have to jet off to fight the Rebel Alliance, that is! If you’re bringing kids, keep your eyes peeled for a special appearance from Santa Claus.
The WIVK Knoxville Christmas Parade is also sponsored by Advanced Office Systems, WVLT Channel 8, and the Knoxville News Sentinel.
Have you been to the Knoxville Christmas Parade before? Let us know in the comments!
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