Captivating Knoxville: A Winter Wonderland Unfolds in East Tennessee to Kickstart 2025!

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Visual journalists from Knox News prepared for Knoxville’s inaugural snowfall of the year on Jan. 10 to unveil winter enchantment across East Tennessee.

Just a stone’s throw from downtown Knoxville’s tribute to vitality − the only entity that bore resemblance to sunshine on Jan. 10 − Mabel Vinson gathers fluffy snow from a bridge spanning World’s Fair Park and molds it into a ball similar to the one that looms behind her. The playful snowball fight that followed became a mere glimpse of the joy resonating throughout the city, from a South Knoxville snow angel being fashioned in the street (see below) to hills around town being tackled by anxious parents and thrill-seeking children on saucers and sleds.

When snow falls, Knoxville knows how to revel

Knoxville’s counterparts in Oak Ridge are experiencing snow as well

Some individuals are simply different. What’s your trick, Oak Ridge? A jog around Melton Lake Park while picturesque scenes unfold around you? I suppose that’s one of the fascinating aspects of snow in this area. No one minds whether it’s the “ideal” slipperiness for sledding or firmness for snowmen. If it’s snowing in East Tennessee, it becomes a winter fairyland, and we always discover ways to enjoy − even if it’s through exercise. However, refrain from driving unless absolutely essential, as emergency officials caution. Just snuggle in and appreciate the weather! Jan. 11 marks the first morning we awaken to snow blanketing the ground in Knoxville this season. Be sure to check updated road conditions if you must venture out.

Snow day inspiration: View our galleries of snowmen, forts, and other awesome creations

Scruffy City streets from the viewpoint of a plow

Recollect the “snowmageddon” of January 2024? Anthony Burgin, a tenured employee of the city’s public works department, was out there assisting in clearing Knoxville streets. On Jan. 10, he was at it once more.

Inviting our very own Allie Feinberg and Caitie McMekin to join him on a plow truck for a journey around town, Burgin likened the large snowflakes hitting his windshield to a scene reminiscent of “Star Wars.”

Grab your sleds: Excitement awaits outside in Knoxville

Sled, shovel inventory is running low in Knoxville: Explore these enjoyable alternatives!

Watch your step … it’s slick out there, Knoxville!

Knoxville businesses shut down early: Stay updated on grocery stores, pharmacies, eateries and more

We’re not the only ones relishing Knoxville’s inaugural snow of the season

Discover all the wintry scenes from Knoxville and East Tennessee

As individuals called to reschedule appointments with healthcare providers, barbers, and bankers − and as retailers commenced closing early to ensure employee safety − drivers ventured out prior to the roads becoming overly icy, completing last-minute snow errands.

Those who remained or returned home, including our own reporters, seized their phones to record as the Knox County landscape shifted from green to white. Check out some of the early snowfall visuals and view all of our day-one snow photographs, below!

Ryan Wilusz serves as the business growth and development editor. Reach him at 865-317-5138. Email ryan.wilusz@knoxnews.com. Instagram @knoxscruff.

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