KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) – In December, Wreaths Across America will place thousands of wreaths on veterans’ graves across East Tennessee. The organization needs your help, though, to reach its 2025 goal.
This year, National Wreaths Across America Day will be held on Saturday, Dec. 13. Those interested in contributing can either sponsor a wreath or volunteer to place them on gravestones across the region.
There are 35 locations across East Tennessee, with some of the largest celebrations being held at the Knoxville National Cemetery, Old East Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery and the New East Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery.
Below is a list of location-specific information to prepare for Saturday’s ceremonies.
- The Knoxville National Cemetery is located at 939 Tyson St, Knoxville, TN 37917
- They have surpassed their goal of 8,000 wreaths sponsored; as of Wednesday, the cemetery has sponsored 9,136 wreaths.
- There is plenty of parking at the cemetery, but be sure to arrive early to avoid the rush.
Old East Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery:
- The cemetery is located at 5901 Lyons View Pike, Knoxville, TN 37919
- They have surpassed their goal of 5,200 wreaths and now sits at 6,796 wreaths sponsored, 31% over their original goal as of Wednesday.
- Parking is limited, so make accommodations and arrive early.
- Free parking is located across the street at Lakeshore Park. Both a ‘park & walk’ and ‘park and ride’ lots. Shuttles will be provided or you can walk.
New East Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery
- The cemetery is located 2200 E John Sevier Hwy, Knoxville, TN 37920
- 6,140 wreaths have been sponsored, 9% over their goal of 5,630.
- Parking is a challenge as this cemetery is large and not set up to accommodate the crowd. Staff members ask that you save the cemetery parking for the elderly or handicap.
- Police will be at the entrance to assist with traffic flow.
- There is additional parking at the KUB on John Sevier Highway, a shuttle bus will to take you to the cemetery and return you to your car afterwards.
- The cemetery is located at City Park Dr., Lenoir City, TN, 37771
- 497 wreaths have been sponsored, 58.4% of the cemetery’s goal
Here are a few reminders for all locations:
- A brief ceremony will begin at 12pm EST, then wreaths will be distributed from stations around the grounds.
- Volunteers willing to help clean-up are greatly appreciated. Please check in with the location coordinator if you are interested in helping with the clean-up.
- Please follow the location coordinators instructions on where to place wreaths, as well as “how” they should be placed.
For a complete list of all 35 locations across East Tennessee, visit their website.
Those interested in donating or volunteering for the cemetery in Knoxville, or others like the Lakeview Cemetery in Lenoir City, can do so here.
