Each holiday season, Scenic City comes alive with glowing lanterns, mountain-top gardens, drive-through spectacles, and festive downtown displays. If you’re planning a cozy date night, family outing, or a self-guided lights tour, these ticketed attractions and free neighborhood gems are perfect for you.
1. Asian Lantern Festival: Forest of Fantasy | Chattanooga Zoo
A seasonal favorite that transforms into a glowing nighttime wonderland with nearly 50 handcrafted lantern displays. Guests stroll illuminated pathways filled with fantasy creatures, animals, and holiday scenes, making it an ideal family-friendly experience.
Dates: November 21, 2025 – January 17, 2026
Schedule: Wednesday – Sunday | 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Location: 301 North Holtzclaw Avenue
Tickets: $23.50 adults | $17.50 children (ages 3–12) | Member discounts available. | Buy here.
2. Enchanted Garden of Lights | Rock City Gardens
Set atop a picturesque landscape, are illuminated trails, themed displays, and breathtaking views of holiday treats. Highlights include Fairyland Caverns, Grand Corridor, and Lovers Leap, all dressed in festive lights.
Dates: November 14, 2025 – January 4, 2026 (Closed December 24)
Schedule: Nightly, timed entry | 4:00 PM – 10:45 PM
Location: 1400 Patten Road, Lookout Mountain
Tickets: $31 – $48 adults | $21 – $39 children (ages 3–12) | Buy here.
3. Nooga Lights | Drive-Thru & Walk-Thru Displays
Witness thousands of synchronized lights come to life in festive musical sound. This option is perfect for families or anyone looking to enjoy the magic from the comfort of their car.
Dates: Select nights, November 21 – December 31, 2025
Schedule: Sunday – Thursday | 6:00 – 9:00 PM | Friday – Saturday | 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Locations: Soddy-Daisy (Drive-Thru) & Chattanooga Choo Choo (Walk-Thru)
4. EPB Holiday Windows | Downtown Chattanooga
A cherished downtown tradition of animated, handcrafted window displays which were inspired by seasonal themes and classic films. This attraction is ideal for a relaxed evening stroll or pairing with dinner afterwards.
Dates: November 26, 2025 – January 1, 2026
Schedule: Nightly after dusk
Location: Corner of Market St & MLK Boulevard and Broad St & MLK Boulevard
Tickets: Free
5. Neighborhood & Community Light Displays | Free & Informal Shows
Local neighborhoods across Chattanooga and nearby areas go all out for the holidays with casual drive-by or walk-up light displays. These community-run shows are budget-friendly and full of local charm.
POPULAR AREAS:
Tickets: Free or donation-based
Jason Drive | 3720 East Ridge, Tennessee
[November 28 – December 25 | 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM]
Scenic City Lights | 4095 Brock Road, Chattanooga
[November 28, 2025 – January 2, 2026 | 6:00 PM – 9:30 PM]
Meadow Stream Lights | 7788 Trout Lily Drive, Ooltewah
[November 27 – onwards | 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM]
Bradley Lights | 3787 Blue Springs Road, Cleveland
[Sunday – Thursday | 6:00 PM – 10:45PM | Friday – Saturday | 6:00 PM – 11:30 PM]
Make sure to drop-by and enjoy these dazzling light shows that capture the spirit of Christmas in unforgettable ways.