Family Holiday Fun in Chattanooga 🎄

December is one of the most magical months in Chattanooga, and the entire region lights up with activities for families of all ages. Whether you’re up for twinkling outdoor displays, hands-on museum fun, ice skating, trains, or festive strolls downtown, there’s truly something for everyone. Here are some of our favorite ways to make the most of the season—from Chattanooga to Ooltewah, Ringgold, and everything in between.

MainX24 kicks off the month with a full day of local energy and family fun in the Southside. According to local kids’ event calendars, MainX24 takes place on December 6th and features sugar cookie decorating, Santa visits, and plenty of festive surprises.

If you love the idea of a walkable holiday outing, this one is perfect—enjoy the parade, explore local shops and restaurants, and soak in the lively atmosphere that makes the Southside such a special part of town.

Ice on the Landing at First Horizon Pavilion is another must-do tradition. The open-air skating rink runs all month long and brings that Hallmark-movie charm right into downtown.  Families can skate under the lights, warm up with hot cocoa, and make a whole evening of it with dinner nearby. It’s one of the easiest outings to pair with other downtown favorites.

Over at the Chattanooga Zoo, the Asian Lantern Festival: Forest of Fantasy turns the entire space into a glowing world of handcrafted lanterns—dragons, woodland animals, fairies, and more.  It’s a beautiful nighttime experience and a unique twist on holiday lights that kids, teens, and grandparents all enjoy.

Rock City’s Enchanted Garden of Lights on Lookout Mountain is one of the region’s most iconic holiday events. Running nightly from mid-November through early January, Rock City transforms into an illuminated wonderland with themed trails, music, and breathtaking views. It’s worth making an evening (or even a full day) out of it. Take a scenic drive, grab a meal in St. Elmo at 1885 Grill or  Michelin recommended Little Coyote and enjoy the lights together.

For families who love nostalgia, the North Pole Limited at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is pure magic. Kids can sip hot chocolate, meet Santa, and take home a holiday keepsake—all while riding a historic train.  This outing blends Chattanooga’s history with holiday fun, making it a crowd-pleasing favorite every year.

Downtown Chattanooga also brings back the beloved EPB Holiday Windows, a tradition that adds charm to a simple stroll through the city. It’s the perfect excuse to grab a coffee, wander the sidewalks, and admire the beautifully decorated displays with the whole family.

For indoor fun, the Creative Discovery Museum remains a holiday favorite—especially on cold or rainy days. Kids can explore science, art, and music exhibits. This year features numerous events such as Pj's with Santa and Cheers to the New Years! Check their online calendar for dates and times.

Just outside the city, Nooga Lights in Soddy-Daisy brings both drive-thru and walk-thru options for families who love a big light show. Open through the end of December, it’s a great pick for families living in or near Ooltewah, Ringgold, or anywhere north of town.

To round out the season, there are plenty of other local gems worth adding to your holiday list. Ruby Falls offers its own festive twist with holiday lighting and special events inside the cavern.

The Tennessee Aquarium’s Holidays Under the Peaks is another seasonal favorite. The aquarium takes on an extra-festive feel with holiday décor, seasonal programs, special animal encounters, and winter-themed fun for all ages. Pair it with a stroll along the riverfront or a stop at the aquarium gift shop for local, nature-inspired presents.

Just steps away, the Tennessee IMAX Theater brings the beloved Polar Express to the giant screen each holiday season. Watching this classic film in full IMAX glory—complete with soaring visuals and thundering sound—is an unforgettable way to kick off the season or create a new family tradition.

And throughout December, you’ll find holiday markets, parades, pop-up shopping events, and neighborhood celebrations across the region. Exploring local cafés, boutiques, and historic districts is part of the fun—and a wonderful way to support local businesses during the season.

If you would like more suggestions or tips on holiday fun in the area or have had so much fun visiting you would like to make Chattanooga or the surrounding area your home, reach out to our team today!