In this Knoxville Insider Issue…

🌤️ Weather | Sunny with a High of 76

📰 Fall Festival Brings Community Fun to Crossroads Pharmacy in Halls

📰 HowlOWeen Pooch Parade and Pet Expo Returns to UT Gardens

🗓️ Explore Ijams’ Spooky Past on A Haunting History of Ijams Hike

🗓️ Zoom Room - One of Our Sponsors, is Celebrating their Birthday with Special Events all Week!

📣 Get your Knoxville Insider VIP Pass Today for Giveaways, Special Offers, and More!

🗓️ Upcoming Events 

📣 We Want to Spotlight Your Business! Apply Here

✅ Advertising Opportunities
 

Fall Festival Brings Community Fun to Crossroads Pharmacy in Halls

Celebrate the season with a day full of family fun at the Fall Festival hosted by Crossroads Pharmacy, located at 7047 Maynardville Pike in Halls! The event takes place on Saturday, October 18th, from 10 AM to 4 PM, and it’s shaping up to be one of the most festive community gatherings of the season.

This free, family-friendly festival will feature over 30 local small businesses, food and coffee trucks, and trick-or-treating for the kids. Guests can shop local, enjoy seasonal treats, and connect with neighbors in a fun, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for fall décor, local crafts, or just a great cup of coffee, the Fall Festival at Crossroads Pharmacy is the perfect way to spend your Saturday in Halls!

HowlOWeen Pooch Parade and Pet Expo Returns to UT Gardens

Get ready for Knoxville’s favorite fall tradition for pets and their people — the 12th Annual Howl-O-Ween Pooch Parade and Pet Expo at UT Gardens Knoxville! This year’s event, presented by the UT Gardens, the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine, and the Companion Animal Initiative of Tennessee (CAIT), promises a day packed with fun, furry festivities, and community spirit, on Sunday, October 26th at 1pm!

The celebration features a judged costume parade for dogs, an expo of local pet businesses, rescue organizations, and educational booths, along with food trucks and a pet food drive benefiting CAIT. Whether your pup’s dressed as a superhero, a pumpkin, or a spooky ghost, creativity and cuteness will be in full display. The event is rain or shine, so grab your leash, put on your costume, and join hundreds of local pet lovers for a day of wagging tails, good food, and great company at 2518 Jacob Drive.

All proceeds and donations support CAIT’s mission to improve the lives of companion animals across Tennessee. Don’t miss this paws-itively delightful Halloween tradition!

Discover all upcoming events on our Community Events page

Upcoming Events:

Buffalo Bills fans-please come join us on Bills game days at Clancy’s Tavern and Whisky House, 602 S. Gay Street. They are currently 4-0 and have an awesome time with old and new friends cheering the team on!  The remaining October games are on October 13th at 7:15 PM and October 26th at 1:00 PM.

The University of Tennessee Creative Writing Program will host acclaimed poet, translator, and educator Yesenia Montilla for a public reading on Monday, October 13th, at 7 PM in the Lindsay Young Auditorium at the John C. Hodges Library. This special literary event is free and open to the public, inviting poetry lovers and students alike to experience Montilla’s powerful voice and artistry.

Book lovers, mark your calendars! The Bottom Knox invites readers to gather for a cozy evening of cocktails, conversation, and community at Peter Kern Library (407 Union Ave.) on Wednesday, October 15th, for their monthly Sip N’ Read Book Club. This unique event blends the best of Knoxville’s literary and social scenes—giving guests the chance to unwind with a drink and a good book in one of the city’s most iconic speakeasies. More Info & Tickets

The Improvised Shakespeare Company is making a special stop at the Clayton Arts Center on October 16th at 7:30pm, and you won’t want to miss it! This inventive troupe will perform an entirely unscripted show—creating Shakespeare-style scenes on the spot based on audience suggestions. Think “you tell us a setting, character trait, prop, or title, and we deliver a fully improvised ‘Shakespearean’ play.” The result is hilarious, unpredictable, and astonishingly theatrical. More Info

Mark your calendars for an evening of intrigue and celebration as Knoxville author Audra McElyea unveils her latest mystery novel, Not Good People. The book launch event will take place on October 17th, at the East Tennessee History Center (601 S. Gay St), hosted by Friends of the Knox County Public Library. More Info

Start your engines for a great cause! Gibbs Middle School is hosting its annual Wings & Wheels Car Show on Saturday, October 18th from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM at 7825 Tazewell Pike, Corryton. Gates open at 8:30 AM, and all proceeds from the event will help fund student educational trips. Car owners can enter their vehicles for just $20 at the gate, with trophies and door prizes up for grabs.

Get ready for one of Knoxville’s most unique Halloween traditions — the Historic Cherokee Caverns Annual Trick or Treat in the Cave (8524 Oak Ridge Highway) is back for two weekends of family fun this October! The event runs October 17th–19th and October 24th–26th, with varying hours each day. Tickets are $15 for ages 4 and up, and children 3 and under get in free. Parking is also free. More Info & Tickets

Knox County Master Gardeners - Master Gardener Cid Letsinger will host Q&A sessions at the Norwood Branch Library (1110 Merchant Dr.) on October 18th and November 15th from 10 a.m.–noon.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, October 18th from 9 AM to 2 PM as Washington Presbyterian Church hosts its beloved Annual Fall Apple Festival at the church pavilion and park, located at 7405 Washington Pike NE, Corryton. This long-standing community favorite is packed with fall fun, delicious food, and family-friendly activities—all for a great cause.

Get ready for a rootin’ tootin’ good time at the Birdhouse Fall Hoedown, happening October 19th from 3:00 to 8:00 PM. Join us at The Birdhouse Neighborhood Center (800 North 4th Avenue) for an evening of live country music, hoedown dancing, family-friendly fun, and southern charm. Get Tickets

Craft, Sip & Connect, October 20th - Grab your yarn and your favorite project—unfinished or otherwise—and head to Intrepid Nitro Coffee and Tea in Bearden (5201 Kingston Pike #6) for a fun evening of creativity and community!

The Hard Knox Hooligans are rolling into a new season with energy, community spirit, and a couple of exciting events this October! Families interested in youth roller derby are invited to a Family Interest Meeting and All-Wheels Rollout on Tuesday, October 21st at 6 PM at the Hardin Valley Event Center (2620 Willow Point Way)

Are you ready to RUMBLE! Join us Tuesday, October 21st at 6:00 pm for “The Main Event - Jack vs Jim” Course #357 at 35 North Bar & Grill, 11321 Kingston Pike. The class will be an interactive 1.5 hour presentation on the history and virtues of Jack Daniels and Jim Beam. During the class, you'll be the judge for comparable priced whiskey samples from Jack Daniels and Jim Beam. We'll tally the judges scores and declare a winner of the Jack vs Jim bout. May the best whiskey win! Get Tickets

Get ready for an evening where words cast spells and verses raise goosebumps! On Monday, October 21st, from 7–9 PM, Ijams Nature Center (2915 Island Home Ave) and the Knoxville Poetry Slam are teaming up to present the Spooky Poetry Slam, a night of hauntingly creative performances. More Info & Tickets

On Tuesday, October 22nd, from 6–8 PM, Ijams Nature Center (2915 Island Home Ave) invites the community to a truly unique celebration—Welcome Home - Celebrating the Ijams Bat House! Guests will begin the evening with a short, scenic guided walk around Mead’s Quarry, leading to the exciting unveiling of Ijams’ newest “residents’” home. More Info & Tickets

Sweeten up your autumn evenings with a fun, creative evening! On October 22nd from 6:00-8:00 PM, Volunteer Cookie Co. will host a Cookie Decorating Class at The Kraken’s Cup, located at 4815 N Broadway, Suite 107. Participants will learn basic decorating techniques and leave with six beautifully decorated cookies of their own. The ticket includes all decorating materials, tea, a scone, and the icing & sugar cookie recipes to take home. More Info & Reserve your seat

Experience Ijams Nature Center in a whole new light—or rather, twilight—during the Haunted History of Ijams Hike on Thursday, October 23rd, from 7 PM–9 PM. This guided evening adventure invites participants to explore the scenic trails of Ijams Nature Center (2915 Island Home Avenue) while uncovering the fascinating, lesser-known stories that have shaped its landscape. More Info

Take in the tranquil beauty of the Tennessee River beneath the stars during Ijams Nature Center’s Nighttime Paddle on Thursday, October 23rd, from 6:30–8:30 PM at Ijams River Landing (2915 Island Home Ave). This guided evening adventure offers a peaceful escape into nature while uncovering the hidden wonders that come alive after dark. More Info & Register

The Smoky Mountain Bourbon Society invites bourbon lovers to gather for an unforgettable evening of music, flavor, and fellowship at the SMBS Fall Social & Bottle Share on Friday, October 24th, from 6–11 PM at the Hardin Valley Event Center Outdoor Pavilion (2620 Willow Point Way). Details & Tickets

Calling all trivia buffs and Halloween lovers—Ijams Nature Center is hosting a Spooky Trivia Night on Friday, October 24th, from 7:00 to 9:00 PM. Gather your friends and family for a chilling yet fun evening full of themed questions that explore Halloween lore, local nature mysteries, eerie science, and seasonal curiosities. More Info & Register

Book lovers in North Knoxville, mark your calendars! The Halls Branch Library (4518 E. Emory Road) will host its Used Book Sale on October 25th, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Lace up your hiking boots and grab your leash—Tails on Trails: Hike to Save Pets is happening Saturday, October 25th, from 8:30 AM to 1 PM at Baker Creek Preserve! This family-friendly fundraiser supports a special fund through the University of Tennessee Veterinary Department, created in memory of two beloved cats to help pet owners struggling to afford emergency vet care. More Info 

Theater 23 invites audiences to an unforgettable live production of The Last Flight of the Electra, opening this October at The Grove Theater, 123 Randolph Rd, in Oak Ridge. This haunting play explores obsession, identity, and the mysteries that linger around the disappearance of Amelia Earhart. Showtimes: October 24th at 7:30 PM / October 25th at 2:30 PM & 7:30 PM / October 26th at 2:30 PM / October 31st at 7:30 PM / November 1st at 2:30 PM & 7:30 PM / November 2nd at 2:30 PM. More Info

The Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum invites the community to celebrate the beauty of the season at its annual Fall Festival & Plant Sale on Sunday, October 26th, from 1–5 PM. This beloved event brings together gardening enthusiasts, local artists, and community partners for an afternoon of creativity, connection, and fall fun. More Info 

Get ready for a night of whimsical wonder at Ijams Nature Center on Saturday, October 25th, from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM, at Ijams Enchanted Forest. The Meads Quarry, part of Ijams’ forest preserve, will be transformed into a glowing, family-friendly Halloween celebration filled with seasonal crafts, games, trick-or-treating, and enchanting encounters. More Info & Tickets

On Sunday, October 26th, join Ijams Nature Center at 1:00 PM for their annual Fall Foliage Hike, an ideal way to immerse yourself in the vibrant reds, golds, and oranges of East Tennessee in peak season. The hike departs from Ijams’ Meads Quarry Trailhead. More Info

Step into the glow this Halloween as Candlelight transforms Jackson Terminal into a moody, candlelit concert hall on October 30th. Performed by the Listeso String Quartet, this 60-minute program threads together spooky-season favorites. More Info

Celebrate fall with friends, family, and neighbors at the Hallelujah Hoedown, happening Friday, October 31st from 6:00–8:00 PM at East Knox County Elementary School (9315 Rutledge Pike, Mascot). This free, community-wide event promises a night of fun, laughter, and fellowship for all ages.

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—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

Explore Ijams’ Spooky Past on A Haunting History of Ijams Hike

Are you intrigued by local legends and the stories that linger just beyond the light? On Sunday, October 26th, from 7:00 to 9:00 PM, Ijams Nature Center invites you to uncover the hidden stories and haunting history of its trails with A Haunting History of Ijams Hike. This atmospheric evening experience brings together natural beauty and compelling local lore under the veil of night, offering participants a memorable journey through Knoxville’s past.

Led by seasoned naturalists, this guided hike weaves together tales of Ijams’ lesser-known chapters—stories of old structures, past inhabitants, and moments of mystery tied to the land. As shadows grow long and the forest quiets, participants will move together through trails illuminated only by moonlight, deepening their connection to nature and Nashville’s evolving history. This event is designed for ages 14 and up (under 18 with an adult). Hikers are encouraged to dress warmly and bring a flashlight or headlamp. The hike begins at Meads Quarry Trailhead, Ijams Nature Center (3526 Island Home Avenue).

Spaces are limited, so be sure to reserve your spot in advance. Join us as we step beyond the familiar paths and into the stories that walk beside us in the twilight. Reserve your Spot

Zoom Room - One of Our Sponsors, is Celebrating their Birthday with Special Events all Week!

Get ready for a week of tail-wagging fun as Zoom Room celebrates its 2nd birthday with a Weeklong Birthday Bash, happening through Saturday, October 18th! The celebration combines tricks, treats, and plenty of puppy playtime for a week packed with excitement and community spirit.

Stop in for some free birthday donuts on Monday, October 13th. Get $5 intro training classes on Tuesday, October 14th, where pups can try agility, rally, or puplates.

Midweek fun continues with Playgroup Palooza for dogs of all energy levels on Wednesday, October 15th, Costume & Photo Day on Thursday, October 16th, and Games Day on Friday, October 17th for playful bonding. The week wraps up with a cozy Movie Night on Saturday, October 18th featuring The Nightmare Before Christmas.

Whether you’re a loyal Zoom Room customer or a first-timer, this is the perfect opportunity to celebrate our birthday and Halloween, meet fellow dog lovers, and have a blast with your furry best friend. More Info about Zoom Room

They are located at 10938 Springbluff Way and can be reached at (865) 378-7200.

Become a Knoxville Insider Sponsor

Are you a new or established business looking to become known in our Knoxville Insider community? We are looking for locally-owned businesses that would like to become a Knoxville Insider sponsor! Sponsorships can include:

• Hero or section banners

• Logo

• Video

• Print

• Spotlight Directory

• and more…

Reach out to us at [email protected].

We Want To Spotlight Local Businesses!

Would you like us to spotlight your local business in front of thousands of Knoxville area residents in an upcoming issue of Knoxville Insider? Apply Here. Not a business owner, but love a local business? Tell us all about it - send us an email at [email protected]!