While it will be different than in years past, THRIVE Knoxville will again host “Living Windows” in 2020. It will take place on Thursday, November 19th, but will not be the large gathering of people downtown that has become the standard. Organizer Larissa Van Donselar says that all businesses are encouraged to set up displays in their storefronts to show their holiday spirit.

“Living Windows this year isn’t going to be the event it has been, it’s not going to be the big get-together downtown with carriage rides. The windows in downtown Knoxville aren’t going to be filled with people as they have been before. What this looks like is really being intentional in mitigating the risk of community spread of COVID-19. It’s intentional by saying we want all businesses and partners to decorate their windows. Let’s get people out and about to look at the beautiful decor all around.”

Knoxville Schools Superintendent Cassi Pearson says that the tree-lighting ceremony on the square will be streamed on Facebook Live to prevent large gatherings of people.

“We don’t want large congregated groups. But on the courthouse square, we will be broadcasting live, we’ll have a choir and band that will provide holiday music. Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus are going to ride in on a fire truck, and they’re going to plug in the Christmas tree lights. Then the band and choir will do a little more performing.”

Santa Claus will then lead Facebook viewers out to Marion County Park to view a sneak peak of the lighted display “Merry-N-County Christmas.” Find more information, including Santa stop locations on here, and stay tuned for more information on an upcoming In Depth.