Celebrate an Old-Fashioned Fourth of July

Issue #547

In this Knoxville Insider Issue…

🌤️ Weather | Mostly Cloudy with a High of 86

📰 Native Plant Walk at Knoxville Botanical Garden

📰 ARC Health & Happiness June event

🗓️ Upcoming Events

📣 We Want to Spotlight Your Business! Apply Here

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Today’s Record High: 98 in 1914 — Record Low: 47 in 1988

Celebrate an Old-Fashioned Fourth of July at Mabry-Hazen House

Step back in time and celebrate Independence Day the classic way at Mabry-Hazen House’s annual Old-Fashioned Fourth of July celebration! This beloved community event brings the spirit of 19th-century festivities to life with an evening full of patriotic fun, history, and spectacular views. July 4, | 🕔 5 PM – 10 PM at Mabry-Hazen House

Highlights Include:

  • Panoramic views of downtown Knoxville’s fireworks

  • Live music to set the festive mood

  • Food trucks serving up delicious local fare

  • Drinks from regional breweries and kombucha makers

  • Historic tours of the 1858 house museum

  • Games and activities for all ages

  • Reading of the Declaration of Independence and reflections on the ongoing journey of American democracy

Bring your lawn chairs and blankets to relax on seven beautiful acres of greenspace near downtown Knoxville. With the Smoky Mountains to the south and Knoxville’s skyline to the west, this is one of the best views in town for fireworks and fun.

Advance tickets are recommended. Come chill on the hill and celebrate freedom, community, and history in a truly memorable way. More Info

Native Plant Walk at Knoxville Botanical Garden

Discover the beauty and importance of native plants during this guided walk through the scenic gardens and trails of the Knoxville Botanical Garden. Native plants not only bring vibrant color and interest to our landscapes—they also play a crucial role in supporting local birds, butterflies, and healthy ecosystems. Saturday, June 14 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM Meet at the Visitors Center | Admission: Free – Registration Encouraged

Come learn about the ornamental and ecologically valuable species that are naturally found in the Knoxville region.

What to Bring:

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • A hat for sun protection

  • A refillable water bottle

Get ready for a fun and educational morning immersed in East Tennessee’s native flora! More Info

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Discover all upcoming events on our Community Events page

Upcoming Events:

“Let’s Talk Turf” will be presented by master gardener Roger Denny, who will discus research-based approaches to lawn care. The event is on Thursday, June 12th from 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. at the University of Tennessee Extension Eastern Region office, 1801 Downtown West Blvd. More Info

On Tuesday, June 17th at 11 a.m. master gardeners will lead tours of Collier Preserve, a native plant garden and birding area. The guided nature walks will be one hour and are free. Meet at the Powell Branch Library next to Collier Preserve, which is located at 316 W. Emory Road. More Info

Master gardener Cid Letsinger will answer garden and plant questions at the Norwood Branch Library on Saturday, June 21st from 10 a.m. - noon. The library is located at 1110 Merchant Dr. Other master gardeners will be at community farmer’s markets in June, including those at Dixie Lee at Renaissance, Ebenezer Road, Tellico Village, New Harvest Park and Market Square. More Info

Networking:

Veterans:

Free Veteran’s Breakfast: The United Veterans Council of East Tennessee presents 14 free breakfasts for Veterans and guests on four Saturdays, monthly, Coffee line starts at 8am, Chow line starts at 8:30am. Locations and Dates

Lightsaber Training at DV Martial Arts

Get ready to channel your inner Jedi! Join DV Martial Arts for an epic week-long Lightsaber Camp where participants of all skill levels can train like a true warrior of the Force. June 23–27 | 2:30 PM – 4:00 PM daily (doors open at 2:15 PM) at DV Martial Arts | 9355 Kingston Pike

 Camp Highlights:

  • Expert-led lightsaber drills & combat training

  • Safe sparring sessions and choreographed duels

  • Fun, immersive Star Wars-themed activities

  • Build confidence, coordination, and camaraderie

Whether you’re a Padawan or a seasoned Jedi Knight, this is your chance to embrace the galaxy’s most iconic weapon and have a blast doing it.

Spots are limited—secure your place today and may the Force be with you! More Info

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