2023 Tour de Lights, a favorite downtown event
By Jeaneane Payne
December 8, 2023

2023 Tour de Lights riders; courtesy of Visit Knoxville

2023 Tour de Lights has a new kick-off and conclusion this year at Mary Costa Plaza (at the Knoxville Civic Auditorium and Coliseum). There is a new route this year and some exciting additions.

Tour de Lights is a fantastic, free, and family-friendly holiday bike ride presented by Visit Knoxville and Bike Walk Knoxville. For 2023, there is a Holiday Market & Expo with over 20 booths and vendors; hot chocolate and beer is available for purchase through the Knoxville Civic Auditorium and Coliseum; food trucks including Alebrijes Mexican Cuisine, Ronchini’s Paninis, and Your Sugar Therapy; and a delightful guest appearance by Santa himself.

“We are thrilled to expand upon the Tour de Lights that everyone knows and loves,” said Kim Bumpas, President of Visit Knoxville. “Holding the event at Mary Costa Plaza will allow us to build on the experience prior to and post-ride – a gathering for music, makers, and more.”

“We’re excited to continue our partnership with Visit Knoxville to host Tour de Lights,” said Lindsey Kimble, Executive Director of Bike Walk Knoxville. “This new footprint and route will continue our efforts in creating an iconic event for families and friends to look forward to, year after year.”

Schedule of Events

3:30-8:00 pm – Holiday Market & Expo
4:15 pm – Costume Contest Judging
5:30 pm – Tour de Lights Bike Ride Start
6:00-8:00 pm – Special Appearance & Photos with Santa ($10 per family/group)

One of the most enjoyable and thrilling aspects of Tour de Lights is the abundance of holiday decorations. There's no more enjoyable way to be immersed in the holiday season than by donning costumes, decorating bicycles/helmets, and getting ready to ride.

Bike Walk Knoxville works to improve biking and walking opportunities in the Knoxville community. Bike Walk Knoxville works to make sure all ages and abilities in the community have safe and accessible streets for walking and biking.