In this Knoxville Insider Issue…

🌤️ Weather | Light Rain with a High of 83

🗓️ Pavilion Farmers Market Hosts “Back the Blue” Night

🗓️ Break the Ice at 5 Questions Speed Networking for Business Professionals

📰 Tickets on Sale for the 10th Annual Maker City Summit

📰 Friendly Farm Sunflower Festival Canceled

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

🗓️ Upcoming Events (Lots of events!)

📣 We Want to Spotlight Your Business! Apply Here

✅ Advertising Opportunities
 

Tickets on Sale for the 10th Annual Maker City Summit

Knoxville’s maker community will gather once again for the 10th Annual Maker City Summit, happening January 31st – February 1st. For the past decade, the Summit has been the region’s hub for creativity, entrepreneurship, and collaboration. This milestone year, themed “10 Years of Making Space”, celebrates the community’s growth while looking ahead to the next chapter of innovation and artistry.

The weekend will feature an inspiring lineup of keynote speakers, including design icon Debbie Millman, Oak Ridge native and art champion Phillip Collins, small business strategist Sarah Sewell, and internationally renowned designer James Victore. Attendees can expect a mix of workshops, panels, and breakout sessions designed to help makers grow their businesses, attract customers, and sustain their creative work. Highlights include the Maker Soiree & 10 Year Celebration at Able Trade on Friday evening, followed by two full days of programming at The Maker Exchange in World’s Fair Park.

Tickets are on sale now at themakercitysummit.org, with early bird pricing of $85 available until October 31. General admission is $95, day-of tickets are $115, and students receive 50% off. Scholarships are also available upon request. Whether you’re a seasoned maker or just starting your creative journey, the Maker City Summit offers the perfect space to learn, connect, and be inspired.

Friendly Farm Sunflower Festival Canceled

From the Rebel Hollow Farm Family: We’re so sorry to share some disappointing news—our Sunflower Festival has to be canceled this year. 💔

The sunflowers bloomed earlier than expected because conditions were perfect for growing. Unfortunately, by the time of our scheduled festival dates, the flowers have withered and no longer look their best. Since we were already fully booked and unable to shift the dates, the field is now, well… pitiful.

🌻 Refunds: If you purchased tickets, don’t worry—all refunds will be issued automatically.

But here’s the good news: we’ve got something BIG coming next! 🎉

🐖 Save the Date – Bacon Festival! 🐖 📅 November 21 at Rebel Hollow Farm

Get ready for a day full of laughter, good food, and farm fun, including: 🐷 Greased Pig Contests 📣 Hog Calling 🏁 Pig Races 🐖 Hoping for Piglet Cuddling 🔥 Pig Roast 🎯 Games & More!

🎟️ Special Offer: As a thank-you for your understanding, use coupon code SUNFLOOWER to get $5 off each ticket to the Bacon Festival.

We appreciate your support and can’t wait to welcome you back for an unforgettable day in November.

With gratitude, The Rebel Hollow Farm Family 🌾

Discover all upcoming events on our Community Events page

Upcoming Events:

On Wednesday, September 24th, from 6:00–8:00 PM, Volunteer Cookie Co. returns 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

Create Your Own Glass & Resin Pumpkin Suncatcher - Get into the autumn spirit with a hands-on craft night at Painting Around in Powell, at 2917 W. Beaver Creek Rd. On Friday, September 26th, at 6:00 PM, guests can design and create their very own glass & resin pumpkin suncatcher. Get tickets

Historic Dandridge will once again come alive with the sights and sounds of Celtic tradition as the Scots-Irish Festival returns on Saturday, September 27th at 131 East Main Street, Dandridge. This free, family-friendly event has become a much-anticipated celebration of music, dance, history, and heritage in East Tennessee. Visitors can look forward to a lively parade, the stirring sounds of pipe bands, and an abundance of Celtic music and dance performances throughout the day. The festivities kick off the evening before with an Opening Concert on Friday, September 26th, at 6:30 PM, featuring live music, a food truck, and an ale garden to set the tone for the weekend.

Book lovers, mark your calendars! The Friends of the Knox County Public Library will host a book sale at the Farragut Library, 417 N. Campbell Station Rd, on Friday and Saturday, September 26th–27th, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. More Info

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.

SouthEast Bank’s Fountain City branch is celebrating the start of fall with a lively community event on Saturday, September 27th, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at 4924 North Broadway in Knoxville. Families can look forward to a festive afternoon filled with free BBQ, ice cream, and live music, plus plenty of kid-friendly activities like balloon art, face painting, pumpkin decorating, and a bounce house. Free food, ice cream, and swag will be available while supplies last.

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

The University of Tennessee Creative Writing Program welcomes acclaimed novelist Carter Sickels for a free public reading on Monday, September 29th at 7 p.m. in the Lindsay Young Auditorium of John C. Hodges Library. The event is part of the UT Creative Writing Series and invites the community to engage with one of today’s most compelling literary voices.

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

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

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

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

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

Pavilion Farmers Market Hosts “Back the Blue” Night

The Hardin Valley Event Center invites you to a special Back the Blue Night at the Pavilion Farmers Market on Thursday, September 25th, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. This event is a way to honor and thank Knox County Sheriff’s Officers for their service and dedication to keeping our community safe. Every officer in uniform will be treated to a complimentary dinner, courtesy of the Hardin Valley Event Center.

Alongside the tribute, visitors can enjoy the full farmers market experience with 100% locally grown produce, meats, milk, baked goods, and more. Food and beverage trucks including Gohan Japanese Grill, Southern Sips, and The Casual Pint will be on-site, and live music by Hayden Bright will add to the festive atmosphere. Leashed dogs are welcome, and as always, the market runs rain or shine.

This evening offers the perfect blend of community spirit, local flavor, and heartfelt appreciation for those who serve. Mark your calendar, bring the family, and join in celebrating law enforcement while supporting local farmers and vendors.

Break the Ice at 5 Questions Speed Networking for Business Professionals

Looking for a fresh approach to business networking? BizGrow Networking invites local professionals to try something new at 5 Questions Speed Networking, happening Tuesday, September 30th from 5:30–7:30 PM at Aloft Knoxville West (364 Lovell Road). This free event promises a fun, interactive way to make connections that go far beyond the typical small talk.

Instead of standing around exchanging business cards, attendees will rotate every 10 minutes, paired with a new professional and prompted by five engaging questions. Some questions are business-related, some are personal, and others are just plain silly—designed to break the ice and spark genuine conversations. By the end of the evening, participants will have built multiple new connections, laughed a little, and found opportunities for real collaboration.

Perfect for business owners, entrepreneurs, sales and marketing pros, or anyone looking to expand their network, this event is fast-paced, fun, and relationship-focused. Space is limited, so RSVP soon and get ready to meet, mingle, and discover your next great lead or partnership. Get Tickets (it’s free)

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• Hero or section banners

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