Adventure

A Festive Appalachian Escape: Celebrating Christmas in Chattanooga and Huntsville

By Marco Ricci • Oct 20, 2026 • 2 min read

Christmas in Chattanooga: Things to Do and Events

There was so much to see and do, from holiday music and dazzling lights to seasonal events. Every attraction felt magical, keeping the entire family entertained throughout our stay. Here are the best ways to experience the holiday season in these two charming cities.

Visit the Chattanooga Christmas Village Holiday Market

We love Chattanooga and always look forward to returning. Unfortunately, heavy rain limited our outdoor activities during our visit, but the city offers plenty of indoor options. One perennial favorite is the Chattanooga Choo Choo. This former train terminal is now a vibrant entertainment complex. The station lobby serves as a hotel entrance, while vintage railcars have been repurposed into offices, restaurants, escape rooms, and unique lodging. Many 1909 historical features remain, including the original steam engine.

Scuba Claws at the Tennessee Aquarium

Chattanooga often transforms into a winter wonderland, with snow and ice coating the city. Warm up with a cup of hot chocolate or mulled wine at the Chattanooga Christmas Village Holiday Market. Held for one weekend each November at the Camp Jordan Arena, this market features over 140 vendors. It is the perfect place to find unique gifts, enjoy live entertainment, and soak in the festive atmosphere.

You have heard of Santa Claus, but have you met Scuba Claws? The Tennessee Aquarium hosts Holidays Under the Peaksfrom late November through Christmas Eve. The highlight is watching Santa dive into the massive River Giants and Tennessee River exhibits every day at 2:00 PM. The tanks are beautifully decorated, and you can even snap photos with a festive elf or Scuba Claws himself.

Rock City Gardens and Ice on the Landing

For over 30 years, the Enchanted Garden of Lights at Rock City has brought joy to Chattanooga. The gardens are illuminated with thousands of Christmas lights. This ticketed event runs from November 13 to December 31, so be sure to book in advance. For a more active tradition, visit Ice on the Landing at the First Horizon Pavilion. This popular covered ice-skating rink is so beloved that it remains open until the end of January.

North Pole Limited Adventures Train

Embark on a magical journey at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum. Since 1999, the North Pole Limited Adventures Train has offered an imaginative trip to the North Pole. Passengers enjoy cookies and hot chocolate, much like the experience in The Polar Express. Guests can view holiday lights along the route, and Santa Claus eventually boards the train to greet everyone. It is a fantastic experience for children. Finally, for a beautiful display of holiday spirit, drive through the Path of Lights, a self-guided tour showcasing Chattanooga’s most iconic landmarks.