World’s Fair Park to host City’s New Year’s celebration


KNOXVILLE - The City of Knoxville will host its 2021 New Year’s Eve celebration underneath the Sunsphere in a special tribute to the forthcoming 40th anniversary of the 1982 World’s Fair.

New Year’s Eve at the Sunsphere, presented by Lowe’s, will be held Friday, Dec. 31, at the World’s Fair Festival Lawn, bringing together revelers for a night of live music, DJ-mixed tunes, food trucks, fireworks, a laser show and a midnight ball-drop from the Sunsphere.

“The Sunsphere is an iconic structure beloved by locals and recognized by people all over the world,” says Kyndra Brewer, Director of the City’s Office of Special Events. “It feels right to welcome 2022 on the World’s Fair Park, which has been such a great place to safely gather with friends and family, especially during the past two years.”

This free, all-ages celebration—sponsored by the Tennessean, WATE, Star 102.1, Awesome 93.1 and Knox Vegas DJs—begins at 9 p.m. Pyro Shows is providing the fireworks show.

No alcohol sales will take place on the park. Attendees are encouraged to incorporate the holiday lights, décor and festivities of downtown into their evening plans.

Free parking after 6 p.m. is available in all City-owned garages, including Locust Street and Market Square, as well as the 11th Street Garage. For a map of available garages and lots, visit DowntownKnox.org/Parking.