In this Knoxville Insider Issue…

🌤️ Weather | Cloudy with a High of 60

📰 The 2025 Christmas Fair

📰 Get Your Gardening Questions Answered at the KCMG Plant Clinic

🗓️ Journey Into Tea - Discover the Six Types at The Kraken’s Cup

🗓️ Networking Fun with The Harvesters Total Networking Team

🗓️ Upcoming Events 

📣 We Want to Spotlight Your Business! Apply Here

✅ Advertising Opportunities
 

The Christmas Fair Returns for Its 43rd Year

Kick off the holiday season in true East Tennessee style at the 43rd Annual Christmas Fair, happening November 7th–9th at the Knoxville Expo Center (5441 Clinton Highway). This annual event is a Christmas shopper’s paradise, featuring hundreds of local and regional vendors offering one-of-a-kind arts, crafts, gifts, and holiday treasures — perfect for everyone on your list.

The fair will be open Friday from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and Sunday from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Guests can browse an extensive selection of handmade décor, jewelry, art, clothing, seasonal treats, and unique creations from artisans across the region.

Now in its 43rd year, the Christmas Fair has become a cherished Knoxville tradition, bringing together shoppers, makers, and families to celebrate the spirit of the season. From beautiful crafts to delicious holiday goodies, it’s the perfect way to find meaningful gifts while supporting local artists and small businesses.

🎟️ Admission is $8, and tickets are available at the door.

Whether you’re hunting for handcrafted ornaments, festive décor, or simply a dose of holiday cheer, the Christmas Fair promises a weekend full of sparkle, creativity, and community.

So grab your friends, bring your Christmas list, and get ready to experience Knoxville’s favorite holiday shopping tradition — where every aisle feels like Christmas morning!

Get Your Gardening Questions Answered at the KCMG Plant Clinic

Have a plant that’s struggling? Not sure how to tackle pests, pruning, or planting? The Knox County Master Gardeners (KCMG) are here to help! Join Master Gardener Cid Letsinger on November 15th, from 10:00 a.m. to noon at the Norwood Branch Library (1110 Merchant Drive) for a free Plant Clinic open to the public.

This informal drop-in session is the perfect opportunity for home gardeners to ask questions about plant care, soil, tree health, and landscaping challenges, or to bring in photos or samples for advice. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting to get your hands dirty, you’ll walk away with expert guidance and practical tips from KCMG volunteers trained through the University of Tennessee Extension Service.

The Master Gardeners host educational events throughout the year, all aimed at promoting sustainable gardening practices and community learning.

So, bring your plant puzzles, your curiosity, and your love of gardening — and let the experts help your green thumb grow! More Info

Journey Into Tea - Discover the Six Types at The Kraken’s Cup

If you’ve ever wondered “what is tea?”, here’s your chance to explore the answer in style. Join the team at The Kraken’s Cup for a one-night-only tasting class on November 19th at 6:00 PM. The venue is located at 4815 N Broadway, Suite 107, Knoxville.

During this engaging, hands-on session, participants will sample 7+ types of true tea—learning the differences between white, green, oolong, black, pu’erh, and more. Worksheets will guide attendees through flavor, aroma, origin, and brewing tips. At the end of the evening, you’ll also receive a sample of your preferred tea to take home.

Tickets start at $36 and include all tastings and materials. The class is a perfect entry point for anyone interested in deepening their tea knowledge or wanting a cosy, educational night out in North Knoxville.

Whether you consider yourself a casual sipper or an aspiring tea connoisseur, this event offers a relaxed, welcoming space to explore something new, meet fellow tea lovers, and treat yourself to an elevated evening.

Bring your curiosity—and a friend—and settle into the inviting atmosphere at The Kraken’s Cup where every cup tells a story. More Info & Tickets

Networking Fun with The Harvesters Total Networking Team

Local professionals and business owners are invited to mix, mingle, and make new connections at Networking Fun, hosted by The Harvesters Total Networking Team on Wednesday, November 5th, at 5:00 p.m.

The event will be held at 9000 Kingston Pike, and offers an easygoing evening filled with great conversation, community spirit, and a few tasty snacks. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, small business owner, or simply looking to expand your circle, this gathering provides the perfect opportunity to meet like-minded locals in a relaxed, friendly setting.

Guests can expect light refreshments and plenty of chances to exchange ideas and contacts while supporting a locally owned business. Bring a friend, colleague, or business partner — everyone is welcome, and admission is free.

So grab your business cards, bring your best smile, and join the fun! Networking is always better with snacks, laughter, and great local company.

Discover all upcoming events on our Community Events page

Upcoming Events:

The Knox County Master Gardeners (KCMG) invite the public to a guided tree walk on November 1st at 9:00 a.m. at Collier Preserve, a beautiful native plant garden and birding area located beside the Powell Branch Library at 316 W. Emory Road.

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

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 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 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 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 November 6th, at 6:00 PM at the Blount Mansion Visitors Center (200 W. Hill Avenue). RSVP: [email protected]

Seniors and caregivers across East Tennessee are invited to attend the Senior Lifestyle, Health & Home Expo, coming to the Tennova YMCA in Powell (7540 Dannaher Drive) on November 6th, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Ijams Nature Center will mark a major milestone this fall—50 years as a nonprofit organization—with a special Ijams Homecoming celebration on 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.

Fall is the perfect season for planting — and the Knox County Master Gardeners (KCMG) are here to show you how it’s done! Join them for a hands-on Garden Classroom event on November 8th, from 10:00 a.m. to noon at the Knoxville Botanical Gardens and Arboretum (2743 Wimpole Avenue). More Info

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

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 November 9th, the weekend features worship sessions, leadership workshops, breakout groups, and plenty of space for personal reflection and community. More Info and Register

Local businesses are invited to take part in a free life-saving training opportunity designed to strengthen community support for veterans and individuals in crisis. The Fire Team Tennessee Suicide Prevention and Veteran Safe Place Business Certification Course will take place on November 8th, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at VFW Post 5154 (2561 Hobbs Road in Louisville).

Step into elegance and purpose at the Breakfast at Tiffany’s Fashion Show, hosted by the Junior League of Knoxville, on 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 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 November 19th can be picked up at the Dogwood Arts office (123 W. Jackson Avenue) on December 5th (10 AM–4 PM) or December 6th (9 AM–12 PM). More Info/Order or call (865) 637-4561

Get ready to step back in time as the Second Annual Norman Castle Siege returns to Millennium Manor Castle in Alcoa (500 N. Wright Road), hosted by The Lionheart Crusaders EMP. This exciting medieval festival takes place on 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.

Networking:

See Recurring Weekly & Monthly Networking Events

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

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