Wicked Cool experiences haunt Downtown Knoxville from Oct. 7-31

Downtown Knoxville’s Wicked Cool event is creeping back just in time for the Halloween season with fang-tastic fun for all ages.

This year’s Wicked Cool includes a not-so-spooky scavenger hunt, eerie-sistible offerings at local businesses and a costume contest with prizes to die for. Downtown will be decked out in seasonal decorations, creating the perfect backdrop to capture those frightfully fun memories.

“Wicked Cool is a way for families and friends to enjoy the season together,” said Michele Hummel, executive director of the Downtown Knoxville Alliance. “We’re thrilled to partner with local businesses and organizations to bring this event to life each year. Come experience all the delightful ways to celebrate Halloween in downtown!”

Visit downtownknoxville.org/wicked for a full list of activities, including:

• Wicked Cool Cats: Pounce on the chance to win prizes in this popular scavenger hunt! Nine mysterious black cats are hiding in downtown business windows, waiting to be found. Scan the QR code at each location to register for a chance to win. More than $500 in gift cards is available, and the more cats you find, the better your odds! Start your search with clues at org/wicked/coolcats.
• Festive Fun for Everyone: Choose your own adventure from a variety of Halloween-themed activities. Explore Knoxville’s most spirited bar crawl or get scared silly at the Tennessee Theatre’s Costumes and Cartoons event. There are options for all ages. Check out the full list at org/wicked/events.
• Spooky Strolls and Photo Ops: Venture through the shadowy paths of Ghoulish Grove, pose under the Krutch Park Creature or snap a selfie at the photo op outside the Knoxville Chamber and Knoxville Entrepreneur Center. Share your hair-raising pics on social media using #KnoxHalloween and tag @downtownknox for a chance to be featured and win prizes!
• Spellbinding Sips, Snacks and Shopping: Grab a broomstick and fly over to downtown bars and restaurants offering bubbling brews and sweet treats! As you roam the streets, explore local “boo-tiques” for fall décor and gifts.
• Costume Contest: Show off your Halloween costume for a chance to win gift cards from Downtown Knoxville businesses. Categories include Best Couple, Cutest, Best Family, Best Group (Themed), Best Hollywood/Broadway, Best Kid(s), Best Pet and Scariest. To enter, take a photo with a downtown landmark in the background – suggested photo spots are marked throughout the city center. Upload your photo at org/wicked/costume-contest or share on social media using #KnoxHalloween. Winners will be revealed by Nov. 6!

Wicked Cool is brought to life by the Downtown Knoxville Alliance, Dogwood Arts, City of Knoxville, Graphic Creations, Christmas Decor Plus More and downtown businesses and property owners.

For a complete schedule of events and activities, visit downtownknoxville.org/wicked and get ready for a fa-boo-lous October in downtown Knoxville!