Step back in time and experience the timeless magic of the holidays in Historic Jonesborough, Tennessee’s Oldest Town! From November 29 through December 20, 2025, Jonesborough transforms into a spectacular Christmas wonderland with the month-long celebration, “Christmas in Olde Jonesborough.” Get ready for family fun, local shopping, holiday cheer, and, of course, a visit from Santa himself!
Mark your calendars! Each Saturday is filled with lights, music, and activities for all ages.
A Grand Beginning: The Lighting of the Christmas Tree
Kick off the season with a truly spectacular sight!
- When: Friday, November 28, at 6 p.m.
- Where: Beside the Washington County Courthouse
The evening features a welcome from local mayors, performances by David Crockett High School’s Madrigal Singers, a county-wide elementary school choir, and a special Christmas story by local performer Paul Harris. The moment the town goes dark, and the magnificent 60-foot Frasier Fir is lit—with every family holding a small, lit candle—is pure Main Street magic.
November 29: Whoville & Small Business Saturday
Whoville Christmas: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Step into a whimsical world! Stroll through streets adorned with Whoville-themed decorations, meet the Grinch at the Christopher Taylor Cabin for selfies, and enjoy “green treats.”
Don’t forget to register for the Cheermeister Contest at 1 p.m. in front of the Courthouse! Show off your holiday spirit in fun challenges like Best Christmas Attire, Cookie Decorating, and a Holiday Sing-Along. Registration is free at JBOChristmas.com.
Shop Small Saturday
Support our local businesses and find unique, handmade gifts!
- Visit the Shop Small Welcome Tent beside the Courthouse for free gear and Jonesborough swag (while supplies last).
- Browse the Christmas Marketplace on the Plaza of the International Storytelling Center, featuring gifts from local artisans.
- Inside the Center, kids can enjoy crafts, face painting, and “Whoville Hair Styling.”
- Enjoy seasonal treats from downtown restaurants and local food trucks, plus free gift wrapping for all downtown and Marketplace purchases!
December 7: A Doggone Christmas
Bring your furry best friends for a day dedicated to holiday pups!
- When: Saturday, December 7, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- The first 200 visitors will receive a JBO pet bandana!
Join the Pet Costume Contest at 1 p.m. with prizes for Best Holiday Costume, Ugliest Christmas Sweater, and Pet/Owner Lookalike, followed by a Pet Parade down Main Street. Bring a pet donation for a handmade dog treat and an entry into a $500 pet-themed raffle basket.
Don’t forget to take photos with Santa in his sleigh (donations benefit the Appalachian Highlands Humane Society), and support local K9 programs with hot drink sales at the Jonesborough Paws in Blue tent.
December 13: Santa’s Christmas Village & Parade
A day of fun at the Jonesborough Visitors Center!
- When: Saturday, December 13, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Children can shop for family and friends at the Santa Mart, where every item is just $1 (sponsored by Andrew Johnson Bank).
- Kids can make free crafts, create gift tags, and enjoy treats at Frosty’s Top Shop, hosted by the Kiwanis of Jonesborough.
- Find Santa by the Courthouse for photos and enjoy free gift wrapping.
The Jonesborough Lighted Christmas Parade
The day concludes with the spectacular Jonesborough Lighted Christmas Parade at 6 p.m. Watch the floats and lights travel through the beautifully decorated historic district from Boone Street to Main Street!
December 20: The Church Stroll
Wrap up the season in quiet reflection and cheer.
- When: Saturday, December 20, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Visit historic churches downtown for live music, seasonal treats, tours, and festive activities.
- Santa will make one last stop by the Courthouse to collect those final wish lists!
- The Christmas Marketplace will be open for last-minute handmade gifts.
Don’t Forget Santa’s Mailbox!
Throughout the series, Santa’s official North Pole Mailbox is located beside the Courthouse. Drop off letters by December 17 with a return address to guarantee a personal reply from Santa before Christmas Day!
Celebrate the joy, community, and timeless charm of the season in Historic Jonesborough. It’s your perfect Northeast Tennessee Christmas destination!
For complete details on all events, visit JBOChristmas.com or call 423.753.1010.
