Live trees are chipped into mulch and reused for parks and public spaces, keeping them out of landfills. | Photo by @6.0mama
No rush, but if you’re ready to toss your Christmas tree, the city has you covered. Tree recycling is free through January.
Prep your tree
Skip the bag. Trees must be bare. Remove ornaments, lights, and tinsel before saying so long.
Curbside pickup
Place your naked tree at the street for brush pickup. Garlands, wreaths, and other foliage go in the trash.
Fake trees are considered bulky waste. To ensure prompt bulky waste pickup, please place a “bulky alert” by calling 311 before you set it out.
Drop off
Throughout January, you can drop off your tree for free recycling. Heads up — all locations are closed on Wednesdays and Sundays.
Carter Convenience Center, 8815 Asheville Hwy.
Dutchtown Convenience Center, 10618 Dutchtown Rd.
Halls Convenience Center, 3608 Neal Dr.
John Sevier Convenience Center, 1950 W. John Sevier Hwy.
Karns Convenience Center, 6930 Karns Crossing Ln.
Powell Convenience Center, 7311 Morton View Ln.
Tazewell Pike Convenience Center, 7201 Tazewell Pike
Pro tip: Got tree lights to recycle? Look out for the designated electronics collection container at the Dutchtown, Halls, John Sevier, and Karns locations.
We asked our readers to settle several holiday debates, and when it comes to New Year’s Eve, the verdict is clear: stay home. A whopping 90% of our readers said they’re ringing in the new year from the couch.
If our Events picks don’t tempt you out, cozy up with one of these movies filmed in Knoxville.
There’s no wrong way to spend New Year’s Eve in Knoxville. Peruse these shots of ball drops, parades, and questionable eyewear over the years. (Knox News)
Announced
Hattie B’s Hot Chicken is coming to Knoxville. The Nashville-based chicken spot will hit 2001 Cumberland Ave. in 2026. Editor’s pick: The dirty hot fries are for pimento lovers.
Travel
Notice any big changes at McGhee Tyson Airport? Let’s check the progress on the 10-year plan. Key highlights include new escalators, more destinations (hello, Denver), and another airline (hello, Southwest). (Knox News)
Three words: Music City Bowl. Hear from the local experts on the Tennessee Volunteers with Locked On’s daily, team-focused podcasts.
Legacy
Restaurateur Chad Kennedy has died at age 48. You may recognize him as the man behind Cafe 4, The Kennedy and Loco Burro. (WBIR)
Trending
Every new year, there’s typically an uptick in people searching for local gyms. If that’s on your radar entering 2026, try one of these local run clubs.
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I gave you quite a few NYE recommendations up in our Events section.
But I saved my personal pick for last. New Year’s Eve at the Sunsphere. Silent disco, axe throwing, laser show, ball drop, fireworks... need I go on?
