The Merry-N-County Christmas light display is coming back this holiday season. This is a drive-through event in Marion County Park in Knoxville, featuring displays created by community organizations. Thrive Knoxville board member Tyler Christian says the event was inspired by the hardships of the COVID-19 pandemic, and its popularity is helping it become an annual event.

“We did not want this just to be because of the pandemic, so here we are in 2021. We’re looking to expand the event, grow it with more displays, more interest from the community, hopefully more people coming through each year. We’re excited, and the community has been working hard here recently. What we’re asking is for the public to participate as much or more than they did last year, because that’s what made this event great in its inaugural year.”

Christian says 47 organizations have committed to creating displays this year, which is an increase of 10 from last year. Interested organizations can sign up to create a display, as the event has room to expand. Volunteer opportunities are also available. Find out how to get involved here.