For a spectacular start to the Christmas season, come to the 14th annual “Lighting of the Knob” and Christmas Open House hosted by the Tennessee River Folklife Museum at Nathan Bedford Forrest State Park (NBFSP) in Eva. The event will be held from 5-8 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 24.
On the Saturday after Thanksgiving each year, Pilot Knob comes to life with a seasonal glow when park staff “flip the switch” on thousands of outdoor lights and 17 Christmas trees. With Pilot Knob being one of the highest points in the area, the lights can be seen for miles around.
With Museum Director Amber Wells, park employee Elaine Arnold, and members of the Friends of NBFSP working hard to put the event together, it is sure to be a success. The theme for this year is “Whoville,” with the Grinch in his lair and sights from the town of Whoville. State park workers and friends will be dressed in Whoville attire, and visitors may join them in a Whoville costume if they wish. In addition to the Grinch, of course Santa and Mrs. Claus also will be there.
Whoville refreshments, including “Who Hash” and green “Grinch Punch,” will be provided by the Friends of NBFSP. There will be a crafts table, a coloring contest, and other activities for the children. Live music will be provided by local entertainers in the AV room.
Although not required, guests are asked to bring one canned good for the Ministerial Alliance Food Pantry or one unwrapped toy to donate to Toys for Tots as the price of admission to the night’s events.
Once in NBFSP, follow the signs to Shelters I and II to park. Guests will be shuttled from the parking lots to the celebration and lighting atop Pilot Knob.
For more information about the Lighting of the Knob or other happenings at the Tennessee River Folklife Museum or NBFSP, call 731-584-2128 or 731-584-6356, or visit www.tnstateparks.com/parks/nathan-bedford-forrest.
