Welcome to Knoxville, a city that boasts a dynamic event scene and a host of activities to keep you entertained throughout the year. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to finding things to do in Knoxville.
From annual festivals that celebrate the city’s culture and heritage to family-friendly attractions, outdoor adventures, and educational events, Knoxville has it all. You can explore art and cultural exhibitions, enjoy live music and performing arts, attend sporting events, feast on local flavors at food festivals, and participate in community and charity events.
So, why not plan your next adventure in Knoxville and immerse yourself in this lively city’s vibrant event scene? With so many exciting Knoxville events happening throughout the year, you’ll never run out of fun things to do.
Key Takeaways:
- Knoxville boasts a dynamic event scene and a host of activities to keep you entertained throughout the year.
- From annual festivals to family-friendly attractions, outdoor adventures, and educational events, Knoxville has something to offer for everyone.
- So, why not plan your next adventure in Knoxville and immerse yourself in this lively city’s vibrant event scene?
Annual Festivals in Knoxville
If you’re looking for an exciting and diverse range of annual festivals in Knoxville, you’re in luck! Knoxville is home to a variety of festivals that cater to different interests and preferences.
Dogwood Arts Festival
The Dogwood Arts Festival is one of the most popular events in Knoxville. The festival celebrates the blooming of dogwood trees and features arts and crafts, music, food, and more. The festival takes place over three weekends in April, and it’s a great way to kick off the spring season.
Kuumba Festival
The Kuumba Festival is an annual celebration of African-American culture and heritage. The festival showcases music, dance, visual arts, and crafts, and it’s a great way to learn about the rich history of African-Americans in Knoxville. The festival takes place in June and attracts a diverse crowd.
Rossini Festival
The Rossini Festival is a celebration of Italian culture and features live music, food, and entertainment. The festival takes place in April in the heart of downtown Knoxville and attracts thousands of visitors every year.
No matter what your interests are, Knoxville’s annual festivals have something for everyone. Make sure to mark your calendar and join in the fun!
Music and Performing Arts Events
For music and performing arts enthusiasts, Knoxville has a thriving scene that offers a wide range of entertainment options. The city is home to the renowned Knoxville Symphony Orchestra, which regularly hosts concerts featuring classical music, contemporary works, and popular movie soundtracks. The historic Tennessee Theatre, which opened in 1928, is another popular venue for music performances and other events.
The Bijou Theatre is a smaller, intimate venue that hosts a variety of performances, from comedy shows to concerts to film screenings. The Clarence Brown Theatre, located on the University of Tennessee campus, features a professional resident company that produces a wide range of theatrical performances throughout the year.
Theater Performances
For those interested in theater, the Tennessee Stage Company is one of Knoxville’s premier theater companies, offering a variety of productions throughout the year. The company produces everything from classic plays to new works by local playwrights.
Dance Performances
Knoxville is also home to several dance companies, including the Appalachian Ballet Company, which produces classical ballet performances, and the Circle Modern Dance Company, which focuses on contemporary dance works. Additionally, the University of Tennessee hosts several dance performances throughout the year, featuring works by both student and professional dancers.
Whether you’re a fan of classical music, contemporary theater, or modern dance, Knoxville’s music and performing arts scene has something to offer everyone.
Family-Friendly Attractions and Events
Knoxville offers an array of family-friendly attractions and events that are perfect for a fun day out with your loved ones. From animal encounters to interactive exhibits, there’s something for everyone.
| Knoxville Zoo | The Knoxville Zoo is a popular destination for families, with over 900 animals from around the world. Visitors can see elephants, gorillas, red pandas, and even feed giraffes. |
|---|---|
| Ijams Nature Center | The Ijams Nature Center offers educational programs and interactive exhibits that allow visitors to learn about the natural world. Visitors can hike through the trails, use the playground, and explore the butterfly gardens. |
| Muse Knoxville | The Muse Knoxville is an interactive children’s museum that offers hands-on exhibits and educational activities for kids. The museum has a variety of exhibits that focus on science, technology, engineering, and math. |
In addition to these attractions, there are also many special events that are perfect for families. The Knoxville Children’s Theatre puts on shows throughout the year that are geared towards children. The Knoxville Museum of Art offers family art programs where visitors can create their artwork. Ijams Nature Center also hosts special events such as night hikes and nature scavenger hunts.
Sports Events in Knoxville
Knoxville is a hub for sports events, attracting fans from all over the country. From football to ice hockey, there are many exciting sporting events happening in Knoxville throughout the year.
University of Tennessee Athletics
The University of Tennessee Volunteers are the pride of Knoxville. The football team, which plays at Neyland Stadium, attracts over 100,000 fans to each home game. The university also fields highly competitive teams in basketball, baseball, softball, soccer, and volleyball. Make sure to catch a game on campus to experience the electric atmosphere and support the local team.
Knoxville Ice Bears
The Knoxville Ice Bears are a professional ice hockey team that plays at the Civic Coliseum in downtown Knoxville. The team is a member of the Southern Professional Hockey League and has won multiple championships. Catch a game during the winter season and see the excitement of ice hockey in Knoxville.
Knoxville Marathon
The Knoxville Marathon is an annual event that brings together runners from all over the world. The event features a full marathon, half marathon, and 5K race that winds through the scenic routes of Knoxville. Even if you’re not a runner, head out to the streets to cheer on the participants and be a part of the lively event.
Amateur Sports
Knoxville also hosts amateur sports events throughout the year. The Knoxville Expo Center is a popular destination for indoor sports such as volleyball, basketball, and gymnastics. The Tennessee Soccer Club also hosts tournaments and games for players of all ages.
Whether you’re a die-hard sports fan or just looking for a fun activity, Knoxville has plenty to offer. Check out upcoming events and support the local sports teams in town.
Art and Cultural Exhibitions
Knoxville has a thriving arts and culture scene with numerous galleries, museums, and cultural centers. From contemporary art exhibitions to historical displays, there is always something new to explore in the city.
The Knoxville Museum of Art
The Knoxville Museum of Art is a leading visual arts center in the city, showcasing the work of both local and internationally renowned artists. Through permanent and temporary exhibitions, the museum explores various art forms and mediums, including painting, sculpture, and photography.
East Tennessee History Center
The East Tennessee History Center is a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts, showcasing the rich heritage and culture of the region. From Native American artifacts to Civil War exhibits, the center educates visitors about the past through engaging displays and immersive experiences.
University of Tennessee’s McClung Museum of Natural History and Culture
The McClung Museum of Natural History and Culture is part of the University of Tennessee and showcases a diverse range of exhibits, including ancient civilizations, world cultures, and natural history. Visitors can explore a wide variety of artifacts and specimens, including fossils, textiles, and ethnographic objects.
The Emporium Center
The Emporium Center is a multi-use arts facility that hosts a variety of events and exhibitions throughout the year. From theatrical performances to visual arts displays, the center provides a platform for local and regional artists to showcase their talent.
Outdoor and Nature Activities
Knoxville is a hub for outdoor and nature activities, offering something for everyone. The city is surrounded by natural beauty, including lush forests, picturesque mountains, and sparkling lakes.
If you’re a hiker, be sure to check out the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which offers a vast network of trails for all skill levels. For a more urban hiking experience, visit the Urban Wilderness, a 1,000-acre nature preserve located within the city limits.
If you prefer biking, Knoxville has a range of options for you to choose from. You can explore the city’s scenic bike paths, such as the Knoxville Greenway, or venture out to the South Loop Trail at Ijams Nature Center.
For those who love the water, kayaking and paddleboarding are popular activities on the Tennessee River and its many tributaries. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of some local wildlife, such as bald eagles or river otters.
Bird-watchers will also find plenty to do in Knoxville, as the city is home to over 200 bird species. You can observe these feathered creatures at the Seven Islands State Birding Park or the Knoxville Zoo’s Bird Show.
Outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy camping, fishing, and rock-climbing in the area. With so many nature activities available, Knoxville is the perfect destination for those seeking adventure and relaxation in equal measure.
Food and Drink Events
Knoxville is a food lover’s paradise with an array of food and drink festivals happening throughout the year. From wine tastings to food truck festivals, there is something to suit every taste bud.
| Event | Description | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Knoxville Brewers Jam | A beer festival featuring local breweries and live music. | September 25, 2021 |
| Taste of Turkey Creek | Sample dishes from some of the area’s top restaurants. | October 3, 2021 |
| Knoxville Whiskey Festival | A celebration of whiskey featuring tastings and food pairings. | December 4, 2021 |
In addition to these festivals, Knoxville has a thriving restaurant scene with diverse cuisines that cater to different dietary restrictions and preferences. You can find anything from classic Southern cooking to international dishes and vegan options.
Take a food tour to discover the city’s culinary gems. Visit the Knoxville Farmers Market and stock up on locally-sourced produce and artisanal goods. Sip on craft cocktails at rooftop bars or cozy up to a fireplace with a glass of wine at one of the city’s many wine bars.
Knoxville’s food and drink scene is constantly evolving and growing, and there’s always something new to discover.
Educational and Learning Events
Knoxville offers a variety of educational and learning events for those who want to engage in personal and professional growth. From workshops to seminars, here are some of the events you can attend in Knoxville.
| Event | Description |
|---|---|
| TEDxKnoxville | This event features local and national speakers who share innovative ideas and perspectives. |
| Knoxville Writers’ Guild | This group hosts workshops and speaker events to help writers improve their craft and network with other writers. |
| CodeStock | This annual conference brings together software developers, designers, and entrepreneurs to share knowledge and expertise. |
| East Tennessee Historical Society History Fair | This event features exhibits, reenactments, and demonstrations on East Tennessee’s rich history. |
| Knox Makers | This community space offers classes and workshops on 3D printing, woodworking, and other hands-on skills. |
Whether you want to learn a new skill or deepen your knowledge in a particular field, there are plenty of educational and learning events in Knoxville to choose from.
Community and Charity Events
Knoxville is a vibrant community that is always looking for ways to give back and support its residents. There are a variety of community and charity events that take place throughout the year, providing opportunities to get involved and make a difference.
| Event | Description |
|---|---|
| Beardsley Farm Fall Festival | A fun-filled event with live music, food, and drinks, held at the Beardsley Community Farm to raise funds for the organization’s programs. |
| Run 4 Their Lives 5K | A charity race that raises funds and awareness to combat human trafficking and support survivors. |
| Relay for Life | An annual event that raises money for the American Cancer Society through a series of fundraising initiatives, culminating in a ceremony to honor cancer survivors and remember those lost to the disease. |
These events not only provide opportunities to give back, but they also offer a chance to connect with fellow community members who share a common goal of making Knoxville a better place to live.
Festivals and Events for Students and Young Adults
Knoxville offers a wide range of festivals and events for students and young adults to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for live music, art exhibits, college events, or nightlife options, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.
One of the most popular festivals for students is the Big Ears Festival, which features experimental music, film screenings, and visual art exhibits. Another must-see event is the International Biscuit Festival, celebrating Knoxville’s famous biscuits with food, music, and fun activities.
For college students, the University of Tennessee offers numerous events throughout the year, including homecoming week, concerts, and sports games. The downtown area also offers a lively nightlife scene, with bars, clubs, and music venues catering to young adults.
If you’re interested in art and culture, the First Friday art walk is a great way to explore Knoxville’s galleries and studios. The Dogwood Arts Festival also offers a range of art exhibits and events throughout the city.
Overall, Knoxville is a great place for students and young adults to experience a diverse range of festivals and events. With so much to do and see, you’re sure to have a memorable time in this exciting city.
Conclusion
Knoxville is a city with a vibrant event scene, offering a diverse range of activities and fun things to do for people of all ages. From annual festivals to music and performing arts events, family-friendly attractions to sports events, art and cultural exhibitions to outdoor and nature activities, food and drink events to educational and learning opportunities, community and charity events to festivals for students and young adults, Knoxville has it all.
Whether you are a local or a tourist, planning an adventurous experience in Knoxville is a must. With so many exciting events and activities happening throughout the year, there is always something new to explore in this charming city.
So what are you waiting for? Check out the Knoxville events calendar and start planning your next adventure today!
FAQ
Q: What kind of events can I find in Knoxville?
A: Knoxville offers a wide range of events and activities to suit every interest. From annual festivals and music concerts to family-friendly attractions and sports events, there’s something for everyone in Knoxville.
Q: What are some popular annual festivals in Knoxville?
A: Knoxville is known for its vibrant annual festivals. Some of the popular ones include the Dogwood Arts Festival, the Kuumba Festival, and the Rossini Festival. These festivals showcase local talent, arts, and culture.
Q: Are there any music and performing arts events in Knoxville?
A: Yes, Knoxville has a thriving music and performing arts scene. You can enjoy concerts, theater performances, and other artistic events at venues like the Tennessee Theatre, the Bijou Theatre, and the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra.
Q: Are there any family-friendly attractions and events in Knoxville?
A: Absolutely! Knoxville offers many family-friendly attractions such as the Knoxville Zoo, Ijams Nature Center, and the Muse Knoxville. These places have interactive exhibits, educational programs, and special events for families to enjoy.
Q: Are there any sports events in Knoxville?
A: Yes, Knoxville is home to various sports events. You can catch games and matches of local teams like the University of Tennessee Volunteers and the Knoxville Ice Bears. Stay tuned for upcoming tournaments and competitions.
Q: Are there any art and cultural exhibitions in Knoxville?
A: Yes, Knoxville has a rich art and cultural scene. You can explore galleries, museums, and cultural centers like the Knoxville Museum of Art and the East Tennessee History Center. These places host current and upcoming exhibitions and events.
Q: Are there any outdoor and nature activities in Knoxville?
A: Absolutely! Knoxville is surrounded by natural beauty. You can enjoy hiking trails, parks, and recreational areas like the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Urban Wilderness. Popular activities include biking, kayaking, and bird-watching.
Q: Are there any food and drink events in Knoxville?
A: Yes, Knoxville hosts various food and drink events throughout the year. You can indulge in local food festivals, explore farmers markets, and participate in wine tastings. The city also has a vibrant culinary scene with popular dining spots.
Q: Are there any educational and learning events in Knoxville?
A: Yes, Knoxville offers educational and learning events for personal and professional growth. You can attend workshops, lectures, and seminars that take place in the city. These events provide opportunities to expand your knowledge and skills.
Q: Are there any community and charity events in Knoxville?
A: Absolutely! Knoxville has a strong sense of community and hosts various charity events. You can participate in fundraisers, find volunteer opportunities, and support local initiatives. It’s a great way to contribute to the community.
Q: Are there any festivals and events specifically for students and young adults in Knoxville?
A: Yes, Knoxville offers festivals and events catered to students and young adults. You can explore college events, attend music festivals, and enjoy the nightlife options available. There are popular venues and entertainment spots to check out.
