Apr. 14, 2021
Downtown Knoxville celebrates spring with Firefly Nights, an enchanting new light installation that adds a bit of sparkle to the trees of Market Square.
Inspired by the synchronous fireflies that attract thousands of visitors to Elkmont and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park every spring, Firefly Nights includes more than 12,000 lights that “flash” from sunset to sunrise through the end of June.
“With warm weather and longer days, Downtown Knoxville is the perfect place to find spontaneous fun for the entire family,” said Michele Hummel, executive director of the Downtown Knoxville Alliance. “People are excited to be getting safely out and about again, and we hope the creation of Firefly Nights can make being downtown even more special for them.”
Firefly Nights, which is sponsored by the Downtown Knoxville Alliance, Christmas Décor of Knoxville, Dogwood Arts and the City of Knoxville, uses the hashtag #fireflynights so photos can be shared and found on social media.
The Downtown Knoxville Alliance also invites the community to “love local, support small” and explore downtown this spring with the following activities:
- Check out Downtown Knoxville’s local shops and spring gift guide to find the perfect gifts for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and graduations.
- Enjoy a delicious meal or cocktail at one of Downtown Knoxville’s more than 60 outdoor dining experiences, including patios and rooftops with stunning views of downtown. Market Square’s extended patio seating continues to offer safe and spacious outdoor seating for patrons. Restaurants continue to offer takeout as well, so go for a nice stroll and pick up dinner for the family.
- Enjoy the warmth and sunshine by sipping your way through spring coffees and spring cocktails across downtown.
“With 86% of businesses locally owned, Downtown Knoxville is the perfect place to support local and enjoy new experiences all spring long,” Hummel said. “From the Old City to World’s Fair Park, we’re excited to see downtown buzz with energy and hope downtown residents and visitors will enjoy the warm weather while supporting downtown shops and restaurants.”
Visit downtownknoxville.org to explore restaurants and shops by category, such as “Outdoor Seating” or “Pet-Friendly Patio.”
The Downtown Knoxville Alliances reminds everyone to make health and safety a top priority. Wear a mask, practice physical-distancing and stay home when sick.
About the Downtown Knoxville Alliance
Ensuring a vibrant, flourishing downtown is the primary mission of the Downtown Knoxville Alliance (DKA). Formed in 1993 as a Central Business Improvement District (CBID), the district encompasses a 0.67-square-mile area and is supported by a special assessment to property owners that is used to make improvements, enhance services and promote downtown. The DKA continually focuses on attracting and retaining a thriving community of residents, businesses and visitors in Downtown Knoxville. For more information, visit https://www.downtownknoxville.org.
