In this Knoxville Insider Issue…

🌤️ Weather | Sunny with a High of 86

🗓️ Shine & Sip at Pins & Pints Today

📰 Little Mania Wrestling All-Stars Returns

📰 New Exhibitions Opening at the Emporium

🏆 September Giveaway - Whole-Home Carpet + Stairs DeepClean, by On the Spot Carpet Cleaning

🗓️ Community Vigil & Prayer Gathering at Market Square

🗓️ Upcoming Events (Lots of events!)

📣 We Want to Spotlight Your Business! Apply Here

✅ Advertising Opportunities
 

Little Mania Wrestling All-Stars Returns

Get ready for an unforgettable night: Little Mania: Midget Wrestling All-Stars is coming to Cotton Eyed Joe, 11220 Outlet Drive, on Monday, September 22nd. This is an 18+ event, where veteran performers and mini-wrestling stars take the ring for a show full of energy, athleticism, and larger-than-life fun. Doors open at 6:00 PM, with the main event kicking off around 7:30 PM.

Whether you’re looking for a high-octane evening out with friends or just craving something different, Little Mania promises entertainment, showmanship, and plenty of surprises. From ringside VIP tickets to general admission, there are options for every level of fan.

New Exhibitions Opening at the Emporium

The Arts & Culture Alliance will unveil five new exhibitions at the Emporium Center in downtown Knoxville, 100 S. Gay Street, on Friday, October 3rd, from 5–9 PM. Guests can meet the artists, enjoy live music, and explore a wide range of creative works on display through November 1st. Featured shows include AIA East Tennessee’s Art Salon, highlighting the talents of architects and designers beyond the built environment; Nhora Ortiz’s Brushstrokes of Freedom, colorful abstractions painted entirely by hand; Hannah Hancock’s Memory Piecing, quilt-inspired works rooted in East Tennessee memories; Hanna Seggerman’s Noteworthy, exploring grief through light and shadow; and Givin’ the What For, curated by Michael Dickins, featuring six women artists addressing urgent social and cultural issues.

Admission is free, and many of the works will be available for purchase both in person and online. This First Friday opening is a chance to celebrate Knoxville’s thriving arts community and experience new perspectives from local and regional creators.

Discover all upcoming events on our Community Events page

Upcoming Events:

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.

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. More Info & Get Tickets

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, September 20th- 21st—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 21st, 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

On Saturday, September 27th, the Inskip neighborhood will burst into color, music, and celebration for We Are Inskip: Hear Us Roar! This free, family-friendly event begins at 11:00 AM with parade line-up at the school, followed by a lively New Orleans-style walking parade at noon. Parking is available at Inskip Elementary, 4701 High School Road.

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:

See Recurring Weekly & Monthly Networking Events

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

September Giveaway - Whole-Home Carpet + Stairs DeepClean, by On the Spot Carpet Cleaning

On The Spot Carpet Cleaning is giving you the chance to win their Whole-Home Carpet + Stairs DeepClean+ Giveaway. One lucky winner will receive up to five rooms and one flight of stairs professionally cleaned with their eco-friendly DeepClean+ system.

1 Big Winner… But everyone walks away with something! The Grand Prize can be used anytime up to 1 year.

Grand Prize Details:
🏆 Valued at more than $350
📅 Can be redeemed anytime within 365 days of winning
✅ Free entry, no purchase necessary

— delivered by Knoxville’s trusted local carpet cleaning team

Even if you don’t win, there’s a surprise bonus waiting for everyone who enters!

• It’s free to enter

• It only takes 10 seconds

• And someone local WILL win

👉 Enter now: https://offer.ots-carpetcleaningtn.com/win-insider2025

Shine & Sip at Pins & Pints Today

Head over to Pins & Pints Pinball Pub,1336 E Emory Road, TODAY, from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM for a special Shine & Sip event. While you relax with a cold beer and maybe a few rounds of pinball, local detailer Top Knotch Mobile Hand Car Wash will be on site offering car detailing services. Whether your ride needs just the inside, the outside, or a full refresh, you can pull up, support a local business, and drive away with a sparkling clean car.

It’s the perfect mix of convenience and community: enjoy your downtime while helping local entrepreneurs thrive. So grab some friends, stop by for a pint, and leave the scrubbing to the pros—because at Pins & Pints, even your car gets in on the fun!

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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