A large crowd of area residents gathered in downtown Knoxville last night to kick off the holiday season. Store fronts all around the square were decorated for the holidays and opened up for a variety of live scenes including everything from Santa and Mrs. Claus to dancers, nativity scenes to elves, snowmen to angels. There were also carriage rides available for a small fee along with free barrel train and pony rides, kettle corn, holiday goodies and plenty of coffee and hot cider. Several residents commented on how they felt this year was the best turnout in recent history.
Following the living window displays was the annual lighted parade. There were more than a dozen entries all decorated in lights with plenty of holiday spirit.
The entries were judged in three categories and resulted in the following awards:
Best Overall 1st Place: Knoxville Hospital and Clinics
Best Overall 2nd Place: McKay Insurance
Most Original 1st Place: Knoxville Noon Kiwanis
Most Original 2nd Place: Mane Attractions
Best Use of Lights 1st Place: Westridge Nursing and Rehab Center
Best Use of Lights 2nd Place: McKay Insurance
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