Dolly Parton Children’s Hospital Fantasy of Trees 2026: A Knoxville Holiday Guide

If your Thanksgiving weekend plans could use a little Christmas magic, add Dolly Parton Children’s Hospital Fantasy of Trees to your calendar. Returning to the Knoxville Convention Center November 25–29, 2026, this holiday tradition brings together creatively decorated Christmas trees, gingerbread houses, shopping, live entertainment and activities for children—all while supporting pediatric care in our community.

Presented by Axle Logistics, Fantasy of Trees offers a festive outing whether you are entertaining relatives, planning a family afternoon or looking for things to do in Knoxville over Thanksgiving weekend.

My favorite part? Seeing all the different themed Christmas trees and the gingerbread houses! I love taking in the details, seeing how creative everyone gets and finding a little inspiration for the holiday season.

When Is Fantasy of Trees in Knoxville in 2026?

Fantasy of Trees runs from Wednesday, November 25, through Sunday, November 29, 2026, at the Knoxville Convention Center in downtown Knoxville. It is also open on Thanksgiving Day, with afternoon and evening hours.

The Gala Among the Trees takes place the evening before the main event, on Tuesday, November 24, from 6:30–10:30 p.m. A separate gala ticket is required.

How Much Are Fantasy of Trees Tickets?

With several admission options available, you can plan a visit that works for your group.

Military members and first responders receive $1 off admission with a valid ID.

Tickets are available online and in person. Online admission tickets may be used on any one day of the event; after a ticket has been scanned, it cannot be reused for another visit. If you need to leave and come back that same day, ask for a hand stamp before exiting.

Some activities, photographs and purchases cost extra, so admission is only one part of your potential outing budget.

Visit the official Fantasy of Trees website to purchase tickets and review the latest event information.

What Can You See at Fantasy of Trees?

Christmas Trees and Holiday Decorating Inspiration

The trees are the reason I would give myself plenty of time to explore. With hundreds of decorated trees and holiday displays, there is so much to notice beyond the lights.

You can browse themed trees, tabletop arrangements, decorated mantels, wreaths, door displays and seasonal centerpieces. Local schoolchildren also contribute decorated trees through the Adopt-a-Tree program.

For anyone who loves decorating their home for Christmas, this is a fun opportunity to gather ideas for colors, ornaments, ribbon and holiday styling. Many of the trees and decorative pieces are available to purchase, too.

Gingerbread Village

The Gingerbread Village is another favorite of mine. Local bakers, chefs and students turn gingerbread into detailed holiday creations, and seeing the different designs is part of the fun.

Take your time looking at the little details. These displays deserve more than a quick walk past! The gingerbread houses are also offered for sale, giving visitors another way to support the fundraiser.

Santa Visits and Holiday Photos

Families can visit Santa at Fantasy of Trees at no additional charge. Professional Santa photographs are available for purchase separately, with listed options including a $14 photo or $22 USB option.

There is also a free seasonal photo setting where you can take your own pictures with family and friends. Commemorative photography is available for an additional charge.

Live Holiday Entertainment

The Fantasy Theater hosts musical performances and other live entertainment during the event. Check the official website for the entertainment schedule as you plan your visit.

Children’s Activities at Fantasy of Trees

If you are searching for Christmas activities for kids in Knoxville, Fantasy of Trees offers plenty of opportunities for children to make something, play and take home a holiday keepsake.

Activities include cookie decorating, sand art, handprint potholders, miniature Christmas trees and several types of handmade ornaments. Children can also enjoy the carousel and Furry Friend Urgent Care.

Most children’s activities use Kids’ Kash, which costs $1 per ticket. Listed activities generally require between two and five tickets each. Carousel rides cost three tickets, with children ages 3 and younger riding free.

Returning for 2026, the Sugarplum Slimery Ice Cream Shop lets children create an $8 slime sundae by choosing their “flavor” and toppings. This activity accepts Kids’ Kash, cash and credit cards.

Face painting and visits with Santa are free, making it easy to mix complimentary experiences with a few paid activities.

Holiday Shopping at Fantasy of Trees

Fantasy of Trees is also a place to start checking names off your Christmas shopping list. Shops feature seasonal decorations, ornaments, treats, toys and gifts.

A few stops to explore include:

• Cookie Corner: Festive cookies and sweet treats.
• Designer Cash & Carry: Seasonal decorations and giftable pieces for the home or office.
• Merry Mercantile: Gifts, toys, stocking stuffers and home décor.
• Personalized Ornaments: Specialty ornaments with complimentary personalization.
• Secret Santa: A children’s shopping experience with gifts priced from $1–$10.
• Frosty’s Warehouse: Previously loved Fantasy of Trees decorations alongside new bargain finds.
• Memories from Hallmark: Another stop to browse during your visit.

The Secret Santa shop is an especially sweet option for children who want to choose their own gifts for family members.

Supporting Dolly Parton Children’s Hospital

The holiday displays are beautiful, but the purpose behind Fantasy of Trees makes this Knoxville tradition even more meaningful.

Since its start in 1985, the event has raised more than $13.5 million for hospital departments, programs and services.

In 2026, proceeds from Fantasy of Trees and Gala Among the Trees will support improvements and expansion within Dolly Parton Children’s Hospital’s gastroenterology department.

The department recorded more than 5,000 visits in 2025. This year’s fundraising will help support renovations, additional providers, expanded services and technology, with the goal of improving access for children and their families.

Attending is a way to enjoy the Christmas season while contributing to care that serves families across East Tennessee.

Fantasy of Trees Raffle

Visitors can also purchase $5 raffle tickets during Fantasy of Trees or Gala Among the Trees.

Prizes include a decorated seven-foot Christmas tree with gifts, along with other prize opportunities. The drawing is scheduled for Sunday, November 29, at 5 p.m.

Check the official event information for complete prize details and raffle rules.

Tips for Planning Your Visit

A little planning can help you make the most of your time at Fantasy of Trees:

• Check the hours for your chosen day. Thanksgiving Day and Sunday have shorter schedules.
• Allow time to browse. Between the trees, gingerbread houses, shops and activities, there is plenty to explore.
• Budget for extras. Crafts, professional photos, raffle tickets and shopping are separate from admission.
• Bring your camera or charge your phone. You will find plenty of holiday photo opportunities.
• Confirm pickup arrangements before buying décor. Purchased display pieces may have designated pickup or delivery times.
• Review the official website before heading downtown. Check for updated schedules, ticket details and event announcements.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fantasy of Trees Knoxville

Where is Fantasy of Trees held?

Fantasy of Trees takes place at the Knoxville Convention Center in downtown Knoxville.

Is Fantasy of Trees open on Thanksgiving Day?

Yes. The event is scheduled to open on Thursday, November 26, 2026, from 3–8 p.m.

Is Fantasy of Trees free for children?

Admission is free for children ages 3 and younger. Tickets for children ages 4–12 cost $5. Some activities have additional fees.

Can you buy the decorated Christmas trees?

Yes. Many trees, holiday decorations and gingerbread creations are available for purchase. Ask about the pickup or delivery arrangements for the item you choose.

Does visiting Santa cost extra?

Visiting Santa is free. Professional photographs are available for an additional charge.

Does general admission include Gala Among the Trees?

No. The gala on November 24, 2026, requires a separate ticket.

Celebrating the Holidays in Knoxville

As a Knoxville real estate agent, I love sharing the local events that help people feel connected to East Tennessee. Fantasy of Trees is a wonderful example: a chance to spend time together, enjoy the creativity of our community and support a cause that matters to local families.

Whether you have lived here for years or are spending your first holiday season in Knoxville, consider making room for a visit over Thanksgiving weekend. I will always be partial to the themed trees and gingerbread houses!

Planning a move to Knoxville, Farragut, Hardin Valley or the surrounding East Tennessee area? Connect with Karli Pritchard Realtors® for help finding a home and getting to know the community.

Event details and prices are subject to change. Visit the official Dolly Parton Children’s Hospital Fantasy of Trees page for current information and tickets.