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 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.

This is a free, all-ages celebration that begins at 9 p.m. 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, go here.

The year’s Christmas in the City celebrations are wrapping up. For more information go here.

The last day of operation for the Holidays on Ice skating rink on Market Square is Sunday, Jan. 2. Admission is $12 for adults and $9 for kids 12 and under. The remaining schedule is as follows:

  • Thursday, Dec. 30, 1-9 p.m.
  • Friday, Dec. 31, 1-10 p.m.
  • Saturday, Jan. 1, 1-10 p.m.
  • Sunday, Jan. 2, 1-9 p.m.

For info on other local events, contact the Arts & Culture Alliance.

Suzanne Cada is deputy director of the Arts & Culture Alliance.