A Knoxville Holiday Tradition With a Purpose

Long before Thanksgiving dinner is cleared away, one of Knoxville’s best-loved holiday traditions will be preparing to fill the Convention Center with decorated trees, lights and festive displays.

Fantasy of Trees returns November 25–29, 2026, benefiting Dolly Parton Children’s Hospital, formerly East Tennessee Children’s Hospital.

For generations of local families, the annual fundraiser has marked the beginning of the Christmas season. But its purpose extends well beyond decorations: event proceeds support pediatric care for children and families across East Tennessee.

A Forest of Holiday Creativity

Visitors can expect an imaginative collection of decorated Christmas trees, holiday accessories, wreaths, mantels and seasonal displays.

The event traditionally includes entertainment, festive activities, shopping and creative displays assembled by community members, volunteers and local organizations.

The 2026 event information also describes a forest of trees decorated by local schoolchildren, while the Knoxville LEGO User Group plans to return with its brick-built tree and holiday scenes.

Displays and activities can vary from year to year, so readers should check the official event information for the final program.

2026 Dates and Hours

The public event runs Wednesday, November 25 through Sunday, November 29 at the Knoxville Convention Center, 701 Henley Street.

On Wednesday, doors are scheduled to open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Thanksgiving Thursday hours are 3 to 8 p.m.

Friday and Saturday hours are 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., with the final Sunday scheduled for noon to 6 p.m.

Online tickets may be used on any one event day, according to the current ticket website. Once a ticket is scanned, it cannot be reused.

Admission is also available at the event ticket booth, while the Fantasy 4 Pack is an online-only option.

Readers should check current prices and available packages before purchasing; last year’s rates should not be assumed to apply in 2026.

Why the Cause Matters

Dolly Parton Children’s Hospital is an independent, not-for-profit regional pediatric medical center serving young patients and their families.

Proceeds from Fantasy of Trees help support the hospital’s work, turning a festive family outing into a community fundraising opportunity.

A visit can become a simple way to introduce children to the idea that holiday traditions can also help other families.

The event dates back to 1985, and its long-running volunteer effort is an important part of its place in Knoxville’s holiday calendar.

How to Get Involved

Attending is one way to participate, but the hospital is also recruiting volunteers for Fantasy of Trees 2026.

Community members and organizations can look for volunteer opportunities and follow event announcements for additional ways to support the fundraiser.

Those making holiday plans with family, friends or visiting relatives may want to choose their preferred day early, especially for popular Thanksgiving weekend time slots.

The official event and ticket channels are the best places to verify hours, ticket options and any changes as November approaches.

Put It on the Holiday Calendar

With Thanksgiving still weeks away, now is a good time to mark the dates and consider whether Fantasy of Trees belongs on your family's holiday schedule.

It offers seasonal entertainment, a longstanding Knoxville tradition and an opportunity to help children receiving hospital care.

Beautiful trees may draw visitors through the doors, but the lasting purpose of Fantasy of Trees is the care it helps make possible.