chattanooga elfWho is the Chattanooga Elf and how did you end up in Chattanooga? 

I became an official Elf in December of 2017. I asked Papa Elf to assign me to Chattanooga because of the people, the southern hospitality, and the sweet tea. I’m here, trying to make people smile by spreading Christmas cheer everywhere I go —whether that be restaurants, parties, or other events. I love being an Elf!

What are your favorite Chattanooga things to do, see, and eat around the holidays? 

Chattanooga is especially magical during the Christmas season! I love the edible cookie dough and ice cream at Downtown Dough on Market Street. I always like to check out the festive display in the windows of the EPB building. The Chattanooga Choo Choo has a Christmas tree that reminds me of the Christmas trees we had at the North Pole!

Where can families find you this winter? 

It’s hard to know where I’ll be needed this season, but I hope it involves the MainX24 parade again this year. Other than that, when I’m not making friends at company Christmas parties, I might be dropping in on a coffee shop or having a snowball fight. Families can always find me at thechattanoogaelf.com or on Instagram or Facebook too. 

What do you want people to know about experiencing Chattanooga over the holidays? 

I have three pieces of advice for people as they take in our beautiful city. Enjoy experiencing it with your loved ones. I hope you find the joy that goes beyond Christmas. And may my favorite Christmas lyric be true for you: let your heart be light!

Photo Credit: Elizabeth Burns Photography


The original version of this article first appeared in a previous edition of our Magazine.