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The Norman Castle Siege Returns to Alcoa for Its Second Year of Medieval Mayhem

Issue #686

In this Knoxville Insider Issue…

🌤️ Weather | Rain with a High of 54

📰 Calling All Buffalo Bills Fans

🗓️ Hardin Valley Farmer’s Market Season Finale

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Support Local, Shop Local - Discover VIP Wallet Passes for Local Businesses

🗓️ Upcoming Events 

📣 We Want to Spotlight Your Business! Apply Here

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Today’s Record High: 83 in 2016 — Record Low: 25 in 1873

The Norman Castle Siege Returns to Alcoa for Its Second Year of Medieval Mayhem

Get ready to step back in time as the Second Annual Norman Castle Siege returns to Millennium Manor Castle in Alcoa, hosted by The Lionheart Crusaders EMP. This exciting medieval festival takes place on Saturday, November 22nd, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and promises a full day of armored combat, castle tours, and family fun.

This one-of-a-kind event invites warriors, knights, nobles, lords, ladies, and fair maidens from across East Tennessee to don their finest medieval attire and take part in a lively celebration of history and heroism. Guests can watch as skilled fighters engage in full-contact armored battles, using traditional rattan weapons in a thrilling display of medieval warfare and teamwork.

In addition to the action on the field, visitors can explore the grounds of the fascinating Millennium Manor Castle, browse local vendors, and enjoy plenty of food and festivities throughout the day. Admission for spectators is completely free, and castle tours are available for just $5, giving guests a glimpse inside one of our area’s most unique landmarks.

For those who wish to participate in the full weekend experience, camping is available on-site, complete with electricity, water, and restrooms. Pre-registration is encouraged and costs $25 for the full weekend or $10 for Saturday only. On-site registration will be available at $30 for the weekend and $15 for Saturday only.

To pre-register or inquire about participation, email [email protected]. Whether you’re a history buff, fantasy enthusiast, or simply looking for an unforgettable fall event, the Norman Castle Siege at Millennium Manor offers a day filled with excitement, community, and chivalric charm — no dragon slaying required.

Calling All Buffalo Bills Fans

Don’t it make you wanna SHOUT?! The Buffalo Bills fans watch party coordinators have been enjoying the camaraderie of new and old friends at the Bills games!

All are welcome to join us on Bills game days at Clancy's Tavern and Whisky House, 602 S. Gay Street. Clancy's provides a family-friendly, non-smoking environment with a large TV and reserved space just for Bills supporters.

There are five November games: this Sunday, November 2nd at 4:25pm vs Kansas City (remember to set clocks back Sat night!), then on Sunday, November 9th at 1:00pm vs Miami, Sunday, November 16th at 1:00pm vs Tampa Bay, Thursday, November 20th at 8:15pm vs Houston, and lastly on Sunday, November 30th at 4:25pm vs Pittsburgh. Don’t forget, too, Labatt’s is on tap!!

Lunges & Lattes - A Morning of Fitness and Fun at Petty Coffee

Start your Sunday with a perfect blend of movement and motivation! The Lunges & Lattes Tour makes its next stop on Sunday, November 2nd, from 8:00 AM - 8:45 AM at Petty Coffee, located at 215 Brookview Centre Way, Suite #107.

Led by YMCA group fitness instructors Lindsey and Veronica, this energizing morning workout combines the best of both worlds — a quick, fun fitness session followed by your favorite local brew. Whether you’re a gym regular or just looking to get your blood flowing before brunch, everyone is welcome to join in. Donations are appreciated but not required.

After class, Petty Coffee is offering a special discount for attendees, so you can reward your hard work with a well-deserved latte, cappuccino, or cold brew. It’s the ultimate Sunday combo — fitness, coffee, and community.

Don’t forget to bring a mat and a smile, and get ready to lunge, laugh, and latte your way into a great day.

Grab a friend, hit the mat, and sip something delicious!

Warm Hearts, Warm Hands - Bello Business Solutions Launches Winter Clothing Drive Drop-Off

As the temperatures drop, Bello Business Solutions is inviting the Knoxville community to come together and make a difference through its Warm Hearts, Warm Hands winter clothing drop-off. The initiative is collecting donations of coats, blankets, and gloves for people of all ages and sizes—from children to adults.

Organizers are also encouraging donations of hot hands, new underwear, hats, and socks, all of which will go directly to help those in need this winter. Donations can be dropped off at: 108 Stekoia Lane, Suite 102.

Support Local, Shop Local - Discover VIP Wallet Passes for Local Businesses

Want to stay in the loop on Knoxville’s best local business happenings, offers, and insider perks—without giving away your email or downloading yet another app? Now you can!

These aren’t apps, and no email or phone number is required. It’s the easiest way to stay plugged into local businesses! Support Local! Shop Local!

Want a pass for your local business? Reach out to us at [email protected]!

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Specials, Events, & Announcements

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Specials, Events, & Announcements

Discover all upcoming events on our Community Events page

Upcoming Events:

Join Ijams Nature Center (2915 Island Home Ave) on Tuesday, October 28th, from 7:00 to 8:30 PM, for a hauntingly delightful night of storytelling at their Sunset Social: A Night of Scary Stories featuring the Smoky Mountain Storytellers. Set at dusk under the trees, this event will weave ghostly tales and chilling folklore, bringing the forest alive with the power of narrative. More Info & Reserve your Spot

Networking doesn’t have to be scary—unless it’s fun scary! 🎃 Join The Hub Pro Studio on Tuesday, October 28th, from 7 PM–9 PM for Galloween: Business Speed Dating, an energetic evening of quick-fire networking and festive fun designed especially for women in business. Hosted at The Hub Pro Studio, 1104 Merchant Drive, Suite 103, this GalFunction event offers a creative twist on traditional networking. Attendees will rotate through fast-paced one-on-one conversations. Learn more and grab your spot 

Step into the soothing world of tea at The Great Tea-Off, on Wednesday, October 29th from 6:00pm-8:00pm, hosted by Flower Fire Spa at the Kraken’s Cup, 4815 N Broadway, STE 107, This first-ever Tea Blending Workshop and Contest invites you to explore how tisanes and herbal teas can support wellness and balance. You’ll learn about the healing properties of herbs, then get hands-on creating your own signature blend from a selection of tea bases and botanicals. Get Tickets

Get ready for an evening packed with fall festivities, food, and family fun on Wednesday, October 29th! Redemption Life Church invites the community to its annual Fall Fun Fest at 8109 Sharp Road in Powell. This free event is the perfect way to celebrate the season with something for everyone. 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

Step into the twilight world of moths and other nocturnal creatures with Moths & More: Ijams After Dark on Thursday, October 30th from 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM - an evening guided hike that blends natural history with adventure. Held at Ijams Nature Center (2915 Island Home Avenue, Knoxville, TN 37920), this event showcases moths and other night-active species attracted to blacklight stations, while participants walk trails under the cover of darkness. More Info & Tickets

Get ready for an evening packed with fall fun and family memories at Harvest Jam, the annual autumn celebration hosted by Pinnacle at Turkey Creek (11251 Parkside Drive) on Thursday, October 30th from 5pm - 8pm.

EARLY BIRD PRICING until October 31st - Makers, dreamers, and doers—your time is now! Early Bird pricing is open for just two more weeks for the 2026 Maker City Summit, happening January 31st–February 1st, 2026, in downtown Knoxville. Learn more and get tickets

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 31st at 7:30 PM / November 1st at 2:30 PM & 7:30 PM / November 2nd at 2:30 PM. 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.

This Halloween, the Halls community is in for a treat—literally! Join Checkers at 700 East Emory Road for a fun-filled Trunk or Treat and Movie Night on Friday, October 31st, from 7 PM–9 PM.

This Halloween, Painting Around invites families and friends to stop by for a night of creativity, candy, and fun! Head over to 2917 Beaver Creek Drive in Powell on Thursday, October 31st, from 4 PM to 9 PM, for their festive Trick or Treat event.

Get ready to glow — Stellar Medical Aesthetics (11126 Kingston Pike, Suite 102) is officially opening its doors and inviting the community to celebrate at their Grand Opening Event on Tuesday, November 4th, from 4 PM–7 PM!

If you love cookies, creativity, or just a cozy night out, this event is calling your name! 🍪 Join Volunteer Cookie Co on Wednesday, November 5th, from 6:00pm–8:00pm. at The Kraken’s Cup (4815 N. Broadway, Suite 107) for a Fall-themed cookie decorating class that’s as fun as it is delicious. More Info & Tickets

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

You're invited to a Community Resource Forum at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Farragut, 11837 Grigsby Chapel Road, on Wednesday, November 5th from 8:15 - 9:30 am. Light breakfast served at 8:15 am. Meeting begins at 8:30 am. Not required, but if possible, email Tiffany at [email protected] to let her know you’re coming.

Step back in time and uncover the fascinating history behind one of America’s most beloved holidays! The Blount Mansion Association invites you to a special event, “Lincoln’s Other Proclamation: The Origin of America’s Thanksgiving Holiday Tradition,” on Thursday, November 6th, at 6:00 PM at the Blount Mansion Visitors Center (200 W. Hill Avenue). RSVP: [email protected]

Ijams Nature Center will mark a major milestone this fall—50 years as a nonprofit organization—with a special Ijams Homecoming celebration on Saturday, November 8th, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Ijams Visitor Center, 2915 Island Home Ave. To RSVP or learn more, visit Ijams.org/50-years-of-stories or call (865) 577-4717.

Johnson University in Knoxville is hosting Pursue 2025, a dynamic conference designed to inspire and equip students considering lives of service. Taking place Friday, November 7th through Sunday, November 9th, the weekend features worship sessions, leadership workshops, breakout groups, and plenty of space for personal reflection and community. More Info and Register

Step into elegance and purpose at the Breakfast at Tiffany’s Fashion Show, hosted by the Junior League of Knoxville, on Saturday, November 8th, at 11 AM. The event will be held at the beautiful Cherokee Country Club (5138 Lyons View Pike SW). 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 November 15th from 10 a.m.–noon.

Get ready for a day full of flavor, fun, and farmyard excitement at the Bacon Festival at Friendly Farm (1104 Rebel Hollow Rd) on Saturday, November 15th, from noon to 5 PM! This family-friendly event celebrates all things bacon with delicious food, hilarious competitions, and hands-on farm fun. More Info & Tickets

As the leaves fall and planting season begins, Dogwood Arts is once again inspiring East Tennesseans to dig in and help Keep Knoxville Blooming through its beloved Bazillion Blooms campaign. Bare-root trees, standing 2–4 feet tall, are available for $25 each or $20 each when purchasing five or more, with your choice of white or pink blooms. Orders placed by Wednesday, November 19th can be picked up at the Dogwood Arts office (123 W. Jackson Avenue) on Friday, December 5th (10 AM–4 PM) or Saturday, December 6th (9 AM–12 PM). More Info/Order or call (865) 637-4561

Networking:

Bonfire Fridays with 2 Brothers Services. - Gather at 188 Hill Road in Knoxville on select FridaysNovember 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

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