Knoxville’s Festival on the 4th!

Issue #548

In this Knoxville Insider Issue…

🌤️ Weather | Cloudy with a High of 86

📰 Lightsaber Training

📰 ARC Health & Happiness June event

🗓️ Upcoming Events

📣 We Want to Spotlight Your Business! Apply Here

 Advertising Opportunities
 

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Today’s Record High: 99 in 1902 — Record Low: 47 in 1988

Celebrate Independence Day at Knoxville’s Festival on the 4th!

Knoxville’s Festival on the 4th returns for a fun-filled, free celebration of Independence Day that’s perfect for the whole family! Taking place rain or shine, this annual event offers entertainment, activities, food, and one of the best fireworks shows in East Tennessee. July 4 | 5 PM – 10 PM | World’s Fair Park – Performance & Festival Lawns

Festival Highlights:

  • Live music on multiple stages:
    Matt Stillwell – Festival Lawn Stage, 5:45–7:45 PM
    12Eleven Band – Performance Lawn Stage, 6:00–7:45 PM
     Knoxville Symphony Orchestra – Tennessee Amphitheater, 8:00 PM

  • Activities for all ages, including axe-throwing, paddle boats, and mini-golf

  • Food vendors on both lawns offering local bites and treats

  • Fireworks show launched from the Henley Bridge at approximately 9:45 PM

This free event concludes with the 41st Annual Lawson Family Foundation Independence Day Concert and a spectacular fireworks finale.

 Free parking available at multiple downtown garages, including World’s Fair, Market Square, and State Street locations. ADA parking available.

Please note:

  • No pets

  • No alcohol

  • No personal tents or canopies

Bring a blanket, gather your friends and family, and get ready to celebrate America’s birthday with music, fun, and fireworks at World’s Fair Park! More Info

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

The Knoxville Insider is for you, our readers. We encourage you to share your news, local hero stories, events, and more! Email us at [email protected].

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

Celebrate Summer at FreedomFest 2025!

Get ready for a day full of family fun, festive food, and fireworks at FreedomFest 2025! This beloved annual event returns to the Alcoa Duck Pond (1325 Springbrook Rd) on June 28 and promises a full lineup of activities and entertainment for all ages.

What to Expect

  • A dedicated kids' area packed with fun and games

  • Delicious food vendors serving up local favorites

  • Craft vendors and local artisans showcasing unique goods

  • Community businesses on-site to connect and share

  • Live entertainment to keep the party going

  • A spectacular fireworks show to cap off the night!

Whether you're coming for the crafts, the food, or the fireworks, FreedomFest is the perfect way to celebrate summer with family, friends, and neighbors. Admission is free, and there’s fun to be had for everyone! Mark your calendars now – you won’t want to miss this unforgettable event! More Info

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