Knoxville Raceway hosted a special “Christmas in July” celebration Saturday. Santa Claus made an appearance, and handed out gifts to the first 200 children age 12 and under who had a grandstand ticket. The KNIA/KRLS Big Red Radio was at the track, playing Christmas music throughout the afternoon.

As part of the Christmas in July event, the Avenue of Champions became the Avenue of Trees. Various local businesses, non-profit organizations, groups and clubs decorated a Christmas tree to display. Fans voted on the best tree by making a monetary donation of any amount in each tree’s donation container. The organization whose tree has the highest amount of donations will win a 16-person suite for the September 26th season finale at the track. All donations will be sent to the Knoxville Scholarship Fund.