Akata Witch is a series of young adult fantasy novels written by Nnedi Okorafor. The collection currently consists of two books: Akata Witch (2011) and Akata Warrior (2017). The novels follow the story of twelve-year-old Sunny Nwazue, an American-born Nigerian girl who discovers she has magical abilities and becomes part of a secret society of Leopard people. In Akata Witch, Sunny learns that she is a "free agent" with magical abilities, known as a "leopard person", and joins a group of young students who are being trained in magic. Together, they must stop a powerful serial killer who targets children. The novel explores themes of identity, culture, and the power of friendship.
Chattanooga Department of Parks and Outdoors is welcoming the first ever Magic of Lights drive thru holiday light experience at our state of the art Summit of Softball Complex.
NOVEMBER 18 JANUARY 1 4pm 9pm you will be required to select a time slot to reserve your tickets Closed Christmas Eve Night Pricing is dependent on when you attend weekends and peak times are more expensive, but there are value days as well. The Chattanooga Zoo is excited to announce, for the first time, a new light experience this holiday season, the Asian Lantern Festival at the Chattanooga Zoo.
The novel explores themes of identity, culture, and the power of friendship. In Akata Warrior, Sunny continues her training as a leopard person and faces a new threat to her community. She must confront her own fears and embrace her destiny as a warrior to save her family and friends.
Where To See Christmas Lights In Chattanooga
There’s something special about Christmas lights. They transform ordinary places into something magical. I’m hard-pressed to find anyone, young or old, who doesn’t smile at their sparkle.
No matter the age, weather or ability, it is great to find an activity that can still be done safely – from the car, outside, or at a safe distance!
Below I have listed places you can visit to experience the holiday magic of lights in the Chattanooga area.
Be sure to use our fun Christmas Light Bingo Free Printable as you visit the light displays!
2022 Where To See Christmas Lights In Chattanooga
Downtown Chattanooga
If you thought Downtown Chattanooga couldn’t be more beautiful, wait until you see it at Christmastime! The city becomes a winter wonderland, from the dancing snowflakes on the Walnut Street Bridge to the amazing window displays in the EPB building that feature moving characters and thousands of energy-efficient LED lights. This is a wonderfully festive and FREE way to enjoy a unique Chattanooga holiday experience with your family. Experience the lights for yourself downtown at 10 W. M.L.King Blvd or through their virtual experience.
Bluff View Art District
Roam around the Bluff View Art District to see how the quaint little corner of downtown transforms for the holidays. Make a night out of it and stop in at Tony’s Pasta Shop for dinner and Rembrandt’s for dessert!
Chattanooga Choo Choo
Walk around the grounds of the historic Chattanooga Choo Choo for a taste of the holiday season. From the large Christmas tree in the lobby, to the lights and festivities surrounding the building, it’s a magical place to behold! Enjoy a sweet treat at Frothy Monkey or the Hot Chocolatier, and try out the ice skating rink (more info below)!
Rock City Enchanted Garden of Lights
This is my top-of-the-list must-do! There will be plenty of “oohs” and “aahs” as you make your way through this award-winning lights display. With more than 30 different light scenes, plus festive entertainment, activities and food, this truly is a one-of-a-kind experience you won’t want to miss.
NOVEMBER 18 – JANUARY 1
4pm – 9pm (you will be required to select a time slot to reserve your tickets)
Closed Christmas Eve Night
Pricing is dependent on when you attend (weekends and peak times are more expensive, but there are value days as well). Check the calendar for accurate pricing and information!
Click here for more information.
Nooga Lights
NoogaLights is Chattanooga’s newest holiday lighting event! A drive-thru lighting experience to be enjoyed by all ages, taking place nightly for six weeks in Chester Frost Park.
NOVEMBER 10-JANUARY 15
6pm – 10pm
$30 per vehicle
Click here for more information.
Asian Lantern Festival
The Chattanooga Zoo is excited to announce, for the first time, a new light experience this holiday season, the Asian Lantern Festival at the Chattanooga Zoo. A spectacular celebration of art, culture and the beauty of traditional Asian lantern festivals, this will be the most unique holiday light display in the Chattanooga area.
NOVEMBER 14-DECEMBER 31
5:30pm – 10pm
Ticket prices vary depending on zoo membership and date.
Click here for more information.
Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum’s Holiday Excursions
Take a magical train ride around Chattanooga with the North Pole train or the Holiday Lights train!
NOVEMBER 18-JANUARY 8
Dates and prices vary, depending on the train ride
Click here for more information.
NOVEMBER 10-JANUARY 15
6pm – 10pm
$30 per vehicle
Click here for more information.
Ice on the Landing
Visit the historical Chattanooga Choo Choo to enjoy their lit gardens and go for a round of ice skating. It’s never too warm to skate thanks to the chiller that runs 24/7. However, the rink will close if outdoor temperatures drop below 20F degrees. Even if you aren’t a skater, you can purchase some hot chocolate and watch your friends and family skate among the lights.
NOVEMBER 18 UNTIL JANUARY 29 (Closed Mondays)
Adults $12; Children 12-under $10
Admission price includes skate rental
Click here for more information.
Magic of Lights at Summit Softball Complex (Collegedale)
Chattanooga Department of Parks and Outdoors is welcoming the first ever Magic of Lights drive thru holiday light experience at our state of the art Summit of Softball Complex.
November 18th-January 1st
5:30PM-10:00PM
Standard Vehicle Pricing Increases:
Santa Saver Discount: Available through Nov. 2nd: $15
Nov. 3rd – Dec. 8th: Standard Vehicle – $20
Dec. 9th – Jan. 1st: Standard Vehicle – $23
*Tickets purchased online, in advance can be used any night Magic of Lights is open (1 time use)
Gate Prices:
Tickets can also be purchased at the gate when the event is open:
Nov 18 – Dec 8
Mon-Thurs: $25
Fri-Sun: $30
Dec 9 – Jan 1
Mon-Thurs: $30
Fri-Sun: $35
Over 1 MILLION lights will be on display for families to drive through and enjoy! They will flip the switch on the evening of November the 18th at 5:30pm.
Chattanooga’s Summit Of Softball is located at 4900 La Collina Way just outside of Collegedale along Apison Pike, a few miles from I-75.
Local Neighborhood Recommendations
We asked you for suggestions of streets that have great light displays, and you gave us some great options! Find a new place to see those beautiful twinkling lights!
Bradley Lights
3787 Blue Springs Road (Cleveland, TN)
Donations not required, but accepted for The Caring Place
Soddy Daisy Christmas Lights
11632 Jenkins Rd (Soddy Daisy, TN)
From 6-10pm – tune in to 107.3 and watch the lights interact with the radio!
Christmas Lights on Jason Drive
Jason Drive (East Ridge, TN)
Donations will be accepted for East Ridge Needy Child Fund and food products for Community Kitchen.
The Canyons at Falling Water (Holiday Whoville)
Deep Canyon Road (Hixson, TN)
Donations not required but being accepted for McKamey and Chattanooga Area Food Bank.
Chattanooga Zoo has upgraded its Christmas lights to a full-on Asian lantern festival. The festival will be filled with gigantic lighted animals for your viewing enjoyment.
The sequel delves deeper into the magical world of the leopard people and explores themes of courage and self-discovery. Nnedi Okorafor's Akata Witch novels offer a unique and refreshing take on the fantasy genre. The series combines elements of Nigerian culture with magic and adventure, creating a rich and compelling world that readers of all ages can enjoy. The main idea behind the novels is the journey of self-discovery and empowerment that Sunny goes through as she embraces her magical abilities and learns to navigate the challenges of being a teenager. The books also highlight the importance of embracing one's heritage and the strength that can come from diversity. Overall, the Akata Witch novels are a must-read for fans of fantasy and anyone looking for a captivating and diverse story..
Reviews for "African Mythology Reimagined: The Deities and Spirits of Akata Witch"
1. Sarah - 2 out of 5 stars
I found the "Akata Witch Novels Collection" to be quite disappointing. The plot seemed convoluted and lacked depth, while the characters felt one-dimensional and underdeveloped. The magical elements introduced in the story were confusing and not well explained. Overall, I struggled to connect with the story and it left me unsatisfied.
2. Mark - 1 out of 5 stars
I had high expectations for the "Akata Witch Novels Collection," but unfortunately, it fell short for me. The writing style felt juvenile and the dialogue was unrealistic. The pacing of the story was uneven, with long stretches of uneventful scenes followed by rushed, confusing action. Additionally, I found the world-building to be lacking, leaving me with more questions than answers. It's a series I wouldn't recommend to anyone looking for a well-crafted fantasy tale.
3. Laura - 3 out of 5 stars
While I didn't hate the "Akata Witch Novels Collection", I wasn't particularly impressed either. The story had potential, but it felt like it was trying too hard to be unique and ended up feeling forced and contrived. The characters were quirky, but their personalities often clashed with each other, leading to confusing dynamics. The magical system, though intriguing, was never fully explored, leaving me wanting more explanations. Overall, it was an okay read, but I probably won't continue with the series.