Sunflower Festival at the Friendly Farm

Issue #644

17 Sep

In this Knoxville Insider Issue…

🌤️ Weather | Partly Cloudy with a High of 82

🗓️ Community Vigil & Prayer Gathering at Market Square

📰 James Zimmermann Named Principal Clarinet of Knoxville Symphony Orchestra

🗓️ Upcoming Events (Lots of events!)

📣 We Want to Spotlight Your Business! Apply Here

✅ Advertising Opportunities
 

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Today’s Record High: 95 in 1931 — Record Low: 45 in 1985

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Sunflower Festival at Friendly Farm

The wait is almost over—the Sunflower Festival is back at the Friendly Farm from September 19th–28th, offering 3 acres of breathtaking blooms plus fun for the whole family. Wander through fields of golden sunflowers, visit the petting zoo, enjoy farm games, grab a bite to eat, and make plenty of photo-worthy memories.

General admission is just $10 per person (kids under 3 are free), with a family maximum of $60 to make it easy for large families to enjoy the day together.

This year also features two unforgettable special events in the sunflower fields:

  • 🎨 Painting in the Sunflowers – Sept. 26th | Ages 6+ | $50 | Create your own masterpiece surrounded by blooms.

  • 🪟 Stained Glass in the Sunflowers – Sept. 25th | A one-of-a-kind, hands-on stained glass workshop in the field.

Don’t miss this chance to celebrate fall with flowers, food, and fun at Rebel Hollow Farm.

James Zimmermann Named Principal Clarinet of Knoxville Symphony Orchestra

The Knoxville Symphony Orchestra (KSO) has announced the appointment of James Zimmermann as its new Principal Clarinet, effective this month. Zimmermann brings an impressive career to Knoxville, with years of experience performing in some of the nation’s most respected ensembles. His artistry and leadership will further strengthen the KSO’s rich tradition of musical excellence.

Zimmermann has performed widely as both an orchestral and chamber musician, earning recognition for his expressive sound and technical command of the clarinet. Prior to his appointment in Knoxville, he appeared with prominent orchestras across the country and collaborated with celebrated conductors and soloists. Known not only for his musicianship but also for his commitment to education, Zimmermann has also shared his expertise through teaching and masterclasses.

As Principal Clarinet, Zimmermann will play a vital role in shaping the orchestra’s sound, leading his section in both symphonic and chamber performances. His arrival marks an exciting new chapter for the KSO as it continues to inspire and engage audiences throughout East Tennessee. Music lovers can look forward to hearing Zimmermann’s debut performances during the Symphony’s 2025–26 season.

Discover all upcoming events on our Community Events page

Upcoming Events:

Ever wondered what truly makes a tea a “tea”? On Wednesday, September 17th, from 6:00–8:00 PM, The Kraken’s Cup Tearoom invites you to “What is Tea?”—a guided tea tasting workshop designed to introduce participants to the six distinct types of true tea. More Info & Tickets

Families, get ready for a fun and creative evening at Sidekick Sessions: Bluey Craft Night on Wednesday, September 17th from 6:00–8:00 PM at 2917 W. Beaver Creek Dr. This special event is all about teamwork, as kids and their parents pair up to design and decorate their very own Bluey-inspired doormat—a keepsake that’s as practical as it is adorable. Space is limited, so don’t wait to reserve your spot. Sign up now and get ready for a night of colorful fun with your little sidekick! More Info

Trees Knoxville is inviting the community to roll up their sleeves and dig into tree care with the launch of its Fall 2025 Volunteer Forester Program. This free four-week certificate course begins Wednesday, September 17th, and offers residents hands-on training in urban forestry while empowering them to help expand and care for Knoxville’s tree canopy. More Info

In honor of Constitution Day, the Blount Mansion Association will host a special lecture on Wednesday, September 17th, at 6:00 PM at the Blount Mansion Visitors Center (200 W. Hill Ave, Knoxville). The featured speaker will be Professor Mohamed Faizer, a distinguished faculty member at Lincoln Memorial University’s Duncan School of Law. Seating is limited, and attendees are encouraged to RSVP to [email protected].

Grab your clubs and join the East Tennessee Kidney Foundation (ETKF) for an afternoon of fun, fellowship, and fundraising at Golfing for Kidneys on Thursday, September 18th, from 2:00–5:00 PM. The event will be held at Topgolf Knoxville (11400 Outlet Drive, Farragut). More Info

On Friday, September 19th, the Captain Bill Robinson Chapter 1078 of the Vietnam Veterans of America will host Knoxville’s annual National POW/MIA Recognition Day at the East Tennessee Veterans Memorial on the World’s Fair Site. This solemn event honors American service members who were prisoners of war and those still missing in action, ensuring their sacrifices are never forgotten.

Calling all nature lovers! The Holistic Wellness Center Morristown Maryville invites the community to a Group Hike with a Trail Guide on Saturday, September 20th, at 11:00 AM at House Mountain State Natural Area, 9601 Hogskin Rd in Corryton. This is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, meet new friends, and experience one of East Tennessee’s most scenic hiking spots.

Mark your calendars for a day of autumn fun at the Fall Market & Family Fair, hosted by Richland Baptist Church on Saturday, September 20th from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The event takes place at 1115 Indian Ridge Road in Blaine and promises activities and entertainment for all ages.

Step back in time and celebrate Knoxville’s frontier roots at the Annual Sevier Day Celebration, honoring the 280th birthday of John Sevier, Tennessee’s first governor. The festivities take place on Saturday, September 20th from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM at Marble Springs State Historic Site. Admission is free, making this family-friendly event the perfect way to enjoy history, community, and fun. More Info

Sometimes a yard sale is about more than clearing out closets—it’s about hope, love, and second chances. September 19th–21st, our community is invited to rally behind Knox, a sweet, snack-loving pup facing a rare neurological condition called Tethered Cord Syndrome. To help make it possible, they’re hosting a Yard Sale with a Mission at 3013 Boright Dr. on September 19th–21st, starting at 9:00 AM each morning

Mark your calendars for a night of food, fun, and community spirit at the 16th Annual Pesto Festo & Dinner on the Farm, hosted by Slow Food Tennessee Valley. This beloved event takes place on Saturday, September 20th, at Lick Skillet Farm, celebrating the best of East Tennessee’s farms, producers, and food changemakers. More Info

Get ready for the most colorful battle of the year—Splatter Paint War, hosted by LIFT East Tennessee and Painting Around! This family-friendly, glow-in-the-dark paint fight is bringing music, laughter, and a whole lot of mess (the fun kind!) to an indoor, air-conditioned space where creativity and chaos collide. More Info

Set sail into community fun! The Concord Yacht Club & Sailing Center invites you to their 2nd Annual Open House on Sunday, September 21, from 2–4 PM at 11600 S. Northshore Drive. This family-friendly event is your chance to explore one of East Tennessee’s best-kept secrets—an all-volunteer club dedicated to teaching sailing to people of all ages and experience levels. More Info

On Wednesday, September 24th, from 6:00–8:00 PM, Volunteer Cookie Co. return to the Kraken’s Cup to host a hands-on Fall Cookie Decorating Class. More Info & Tickets

On Wednesday, September 24th from 11 a.m.-noon a Zoom presentation on how to become a Knox County Master Gardener volunteer will be held from 11 a.m. - noon. A session is also scheduled for Oct. 29th. To register, email extension agent Rylan Thompson at [email protected] or call (865) 215-2340.

On Friday, September 26th at 6:00 PM, food lovers and animal advocates alike are invited to Commonplace Coffee (6000 Chapman Highway) for Empanadas & Empathy, a hands-on workshop with a heart. This special event combines the joy of cooking with the mission of helping pet parents afford emergency veterinary care, through a fund created in partnership with the University of Tennessee Veterinary Department. Reserve your spot today

Car fans, mark your calendars! Knoxville Car Enthusiasts is hosting an evening at the Baker Boy’s Pizza Halls location (7438 Maynardville Pike). The event kicks off at 7:00 PM on Friday, September 26th and runs “whenever you want”—making it the perfect come-and-go hangout for gearheads and friends alike.

On Friday, September 26th, the Knoxville Technology Council’s Women in Tech presents the fourth annual Women in Tech Expo: Grow Better Together, a full day dedicated to connection, empowerment, and professional growth. This year’s expo will bring together a diverse group of women from across industries to share inspiration, strategies, and opportunities to thrive both personally and professionally. More Info & Tickets

The Tennessee Smart Yard Workshop will be held Saturday, September 27th from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. at the University of Tennessee Gardens. Participants will learn ways to create a sustainable landscape that benefits the environment. Door prizes will include a rain barrel, composter, native plants, bat box and wildflower seeds. Participants may also drop off household pesticides to dispose of. Pesticides must be in original containers. More Info

Lavender Faire - featuring 4 local lavender farms and including baked goods, flowers, pottery, jewelry, textiles, vintage, and more! Sunday, September 27th from 10am-3pm, 116 Carr Street in Knoxville, (865) 584-9000

The 5th Annual Knoxville Drive Electric Festival rolls into the Pellissippi State Community College Hardin Valley Campus on Saturday, September 27th, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. This family-friendly celebration is part of National Drive Electric Month, and last year Knoxville’s event ranked as the 3rd largest in the nation. More Info

The 25th Annual HoLa Festival returns to World’s Fair Park on Sunday, September 28th from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Guests can enjoy live music and dance performances, authentic Latin cuisine, draft beer, artisan crafts, and the always-popular Parade of Nations. With heritage booths, children’s activities, and community resources, there’s something for all ages to explore and enjoy. More Info

Knoxville’s “other orchestra,” the Scruffy City Orchestra, returns this fall with Visions and Virtuosos, a special concert celebrating rising talent and rarely heard masterpieces. Under the baton of Dr. Ace Edewards, the performance takes place on Sunday, September 28th, at 5:00 PM at the Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus (711 S. Northshore Drive). Admission is free, though donations are encouraged, and seating is limited—reserve your spot through Eventbrite at the Cathedral Concert Series site. More Info

A Night Out with New Friends | Dinner with Strangers - Looking to expand your social circle and enjoy a memorable evening in great company? A Night Out with New Friends: Knoxville | Dinner with Strangers 2025 offers just that—a unique dining experience designed for mingling, connection, and making new friends over a delicious meal. These events turn the usual dinner out into something far more exciting and meaningful. More Info

Networking:

Join the Powell Small Business Network on Thursday, September 18th at 9:45 AM at Life House Coffee in Powell, 7545 Brickyard Rd.

Bonfire Fridays with 2 Brothers Services. - Gather at 188 Hill Road in Knoxville on select Fridays—September 26th, October 24th, November 21st, and December 19th—from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM for a night of laughter, conversation, and cozy fireside vibes. Families are encouraged to bring a snack, a drink, and a chair, and settle in for an evening where kids can play while adults network in a laid-back, welcoming environment.

Veterans:

Free Veterans’ 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

Fall Craft Fair - Support Local Makers

Location name correction below:

Looking for one-of-a-kind finds and handmade goods? Don’t miss the Craft Fair on Saturday, October 4th from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Black Oak Heights Baptist Church (405 Black Oak Dr). This all-day event will feature a wide variety of vendors offering unique items, perfect for treating yourself or picking up early holiday gifts.

From home décor and jewelry to seasonal crafts and specialty items, there’s something for everyone to explore. It’s a great chance to support local makers while enjoying a fun, community-focused shopping day.

Interested in being a vendor or just ready to shop? Mark your calendar and come see what local creativity has to offer! More Infoxxx

Community Vigil & Prayer Gathering at Market Square

On Sunday, September 21st from 7:00–9:00 PM, the Knoxville community is invited to Market Square for a special evening of hymns and prayer in honor of Charlie Kirk, Iryna Zarutska, Melissa & Mark Hortman, and the students at Evergreen High in Colorado. This two-hour vigil will offer space to lift up those directly impacted, while also praying for healing, peace, and hope in the world.

The event is open to everyone—a reminder to gather in unity, share faith through song, and come just as you are. It’s an opportunity to stand together in compassion and encouragement for those who need it most.

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