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Crowne Plaza Knoxville Downtown University Celebrate The Holidays With Us

Name: Crowne Plaza Knoxville Downtown University
Address: 401 West Summit Hill Drive, Knoxville, Tennessee, 37902, United States
Telephone: 1-865-5222600
Price range: $$ - Best Price Guarantee When You Book Direct

Celebrate the season with holiday events in Knoxville, TN. Just steps from Gay Street and Market Square, our hotel puts you close to the parades, local shopping, twinkling lights, and everything you need for a festive and memorable holiday getaway.

Holiday Events

Join Tour de Lights

December 12

Make your holiday stay unforgettable—roll into the festive cheer at Tour de Lights, Knoxville’s beloved free holiday bike ride and market at Mary Costa Plaza. Starting at 3:30 p.m., explore a festive marketplace, snap a photo with Santa, and let your creativity shine in the costume contest before the leisurely 5:30 p.m. ride under twinkling lights. Fun for all ages, this sparkling tradition is the perfect holiday highlight near Crowne Plaza Knoxville.

Christmas at Chilhowee Park

November 21

Start your holiday season with Knoxville’s beloved Christmas at Chilhowee! On Friday, November 21 at 6 p.m., the park comes alive with a dazzling tree-lighting, visits with Santa, kids’ crafts, hayrides, and warm cocoa. This free, family-friendly tradition is the perfect way to celebrate the magic of the season during your stay.

Christmas in the City

Downtown Knoxville
November 29 – December 31, 2025

From the city tree lighting to window decorating contests, parades, and live music, Knoxville transforms into a holiday wonderland full of charm and cheer.

Learn more

Holidays On Ice

Market Square
November 28, 2025 – January 4, 2026

Twirl under the stars at this open-air ice rink surrounded by twinkling lights and festive music. A local holiday tradition!

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52nd Annual WIVK Christmas Parade

Gay Street
December 5, 2025

Don't miss this Knoxville favorite! Celebrate with themed floats, marching bands, dancers, and Santa himself.

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Ring in 2026 at the Sun-Sphere Countdown

Market Square
December 31, 2025

Celebrate New Year's Eve with dazzling lights, dance, and downtown charm—just a short stroll from Crowne Plaza Knoxville! Join us at World’s Fair Park for the 4th Annual New Year’s Eve at the Sunsphere, presented by Lowe’s. Beginning at 9 p.m., enjoy DJ performances, a silent disco, and live music before watching the iconic Sunsphere ball drop at midnight. This free, family-friendly event offers free parking and a rain-or-shine celebration—perfect for a memorable holiday night out.

Host Your Holiday Event at Crowne Plaza Knoxville Downtown University

From elegant galas to intimate family dinners, Crowne Plaza Knoxville Downtown University is your go-to destination for holiday celebrations. Choose from flexible event spaces including ballrooms, breakout rooms, and private dining areas. Our seasoned event team takes care of every detail—so you can focus on making memories.

Plan your event

Book Room Blocks for Your Holiday Guests

Bringing the whole crew to Knoxville? Keep everyone close to the celebration with special group rates and room blocks. With easy access to Gay Street, the University of Tennessee, and Market Square’s holiday events, our downtown location makes holiday travel simple and stress-free.

Request room block info

Ring in the New Year with Boys Night Out

Celebrate the arrival of 2026 with the electrifying sounds of Boys Night Out — the best in soul, rhythm & blues, and Carolina beach music. Our exclusive New Year’s Eve package invites you and your loved one to indulge in a prime rib and seafood buffet, dance the night away with party favors, and toast to new beginnings with champagne at midnight. With cozy accommodations, a continental breakfast, and complimentary parking, we’ve crafted the perfect blend of festive fun and restful comfort.

Call (865) 522-2600 for a reservation.

Make Spirits (and Mornings) Bright with our Breakfast Package

Wake up to the flavors of Knoxville with our Breakfast Included Package. Guests enjoy a comfortable stay plus a delicious daily breakfast at Mahogany’s—our Southern-inspired restaurant located just off the hotel lobby.

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