It's finally that time of year again! The time to deck the halls, trim the tree and spend time around the table with our friends and family. With the coming of our favorite foodie holiday of Thanksgiving, comes the beginning of the holiday season.

For some people, the first ring of jingle bells means shopping season is in full swing. With an estimated 99 million people expected to take to the malls this Black Friday, many of us are trying to find ways to skip the crowds and indulge in other ways this first holiday weekend.

For those people that would much rather stay as far away as possible from the in-store antics, we've compiled a list of some of the best things to do to get in the spirit.

1. Christmas in the City

Christmas in the City is Knoxville's most anticipated winter festival. Knoxville will be bringing in the holiday cheer as it prepares for the holidays with festive trees and decorations. The festival will kick off Friday, Nov. 24 with the annual Regal Festival of Light's Christmas tree lighting at Market Square's Krutch Park. The 38-foot tree will be lit at dusk. Stay after for train rides, face painting, crafts, visits with Santa, marshmallow roasting and more!

2. Holidays on Ice

What better way to kick off the holiday season than ice-skating at Market Square's open-air ice rink? Home Federal Bank's "Holidays on Ice" begins on Friday, November 25, and runs through January 8. The rink is open seven days a week.

Admission for adults is $10 and for children is $7. Season passes are $45 and $30 respectively. Admission includes skate rental.

3. Fantasy of Trees

The 32nd annual Fantasy of Trees is kicking off Nov. 22 and will last through the 26th at the Knoxville Convention Center. The annual celebration and auction is an amazing event filled with hundreds of sparkling holiday trees, decorations, gift shops and crafting stations. While not enjoying the food, head on over to the carousel or spinning teacups, or even watch a performance on stage or get a picture with Santa Claus! All proceeds benefit East Tennessee Children's hospital.

Adults $8, children 4-12 $4, 3 and under free, Family 4 Pack $20

4. A Christmas Carol

The University of Tennessee will be presenting Charles Dickens' classic 1843 novel, A Christmas Carol at the Clarence Brown Theatre from Nov. 22 to Dec. 17.

Admission prices vary.

5. Shadrack's Christmas Wonderland

Get ready for Shadrack's annual light show at the Tennessee Smokies Baseball Stadium! The holiday-themed lights are open from Nov. 3 to Jan. 7. As you drive through their famous synchronized music and light show, you will be amazed from the comfort of your vehicle. Once you finish, get out at Santa’s Village to see Santa and so much more!

Cars or family vans $25, larger vehicles $40, tour/school buses $80.

6. Holiday Movie marathons

Hallmark will be showing it's annual holiday movie marathon all weekend in preparation for the 21 new films premiering on their channels this December. Pop some popcorn and snuggle up as you get ready for Christmas!