Chilhowee Park will become a holiday wonderland filled with music, bright lights and fun at Comcast Christmas at Chilhowee on Friday night.
The annual celebration that has in just a few short years become one of Knoxville's favorite Christmas traditions is set for 6 p.m., Friday, Nov. 30th, at the park.
This year's celebration includes dozens of beautifully-lit Christmas trees - including a floating forest of them in the lake - high school bands and choirs performing holiday music, and simple pleasures like visiting Santa Claus or roasting marshmallows over an open fire among its many attractions.
There are also carriage rides, cookie decorating and, as usual; the Chilhowee Park Gazebo will be beautifully festooned for the season.This is the seventh year that Comcast has sponsored the event and it has become bigger and better each season.Comcast Christmas at Chilhowee grew out of the company's desire to take part in the City of Knoxville's Christmas in the City, and to give something back to the community.
"First and foremost it was our goal to find something that would make a difference to the people of the city," said Russell Byrd, area manager for government affairs for Comcast Cable.
The company also wanted to do something close to where its offices are located.Byrd and Mickey Mallonee, director of the city's Office of Special Events, subsequently talked it over and she suggested doing something at Chilhowee Park. Comcast liked the idea and turned it into something ever better than anyone had envisioned.
In addition to Friday night's event the park's holiday light display is open for nightly driving tours from 5-10 p.m. That began on Thanksgiving night and continues until Jan. 1, 2008.
"It's in the neighborhood where we are located and this is an event that appeals to everyone," Byrd said. "It's one where you can involve the whole family."
Thousands of people will drive through the park during the holiday season.
"We just wanted to give something back and this has been one of the favorite activities of our employees," Byrd said. "It was a perfect fit."