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Chili, Football, and Fun - UT vs. Florida Watch Party & Chili Cook-Off

Issue #701

14 Nov

In this Knoxville Insider Issue…

🌤️ Weather | Partly Sunny with a High of 62

📰 ReOak Oakwood-Lincoln Park Project Honored with Orchid Award

🗓️ This Saturday - Calm the Storm Boutique Celebrates One Year with Black Friday - Anniversary Edition

🗓️ Upcoming Events 

📣 We Want to Spotlight Your Business! Apply Here

✅ Advertising Opportunities
 

Today’s Record High: 80 in 1993 — Record Low: 20 in 1986

Chili, Football, and Fun - UT vs. Florida Watch Party & Chili Cook-Off

Game day is about to get spicy! Join Sevier Avenue Burger Company (1120 Sevier Ave) for a day of flavor, football, and friendly competition at their UT vs. Florida Watch Party & Chili Cook-Off, benefiting Young-Williams Animal Center.

The event kicks off 30 minutes before the Vols take on the Gators in Gainesville, and guests are invited to sample some of the best homemade chili in town. Your ticket gets you a spoon for tasting all the contestant entries — and the power to vote for your favorite! Winners will be revealed at halftime, with prizes and bragging rights up for grabs.

Want to Compete? Think your chili has what it takes to claim the crown? Enter for just $15 — all chili styles welcome! Every contestant receives a Whoa Doggie Hot Sauce bottle and Whoa Doggie trucker hat, with trophies and prizes for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place.

Proceeds from the event support Young-Williams Animal Center, helping local pets find loving homes this season. More Info & Tickets

ReOak Oakwood-Lincoln Park Project Honored with Orchid Award

Trees Knoxville, in partnership with Keep Knoxville Beautiful and the Oakwood-Lincoln Park Neighborhood Association, has received the Orchid Award for Environmental Stewardship at the 46th Annual Keep Knoxville Beautiful Orchids Awards.

The annual Orchids Awards recognize projects that beautify and elevate Knoxville’s landscape through exceptional architecture, design, and environmental impact. This year, the ReOak Oakwood-Lincoln Park Project stood out for its creativity, sustainability, and community-driven reforestation efforts — setting a model for neighborhood-led environmental restoration across the city.

On February 22, 2025, volunteers and residents planted 45 native oak trees throughout the community — 40 in residents’ yards and 5 at the Christenberry Community Center, a neighborhood hub for families and youth programs. Keep Knoxville Beautiful also coordinated a neighborhood cleanup to complement the planting efforts.

“Oakwood-Lincoln Park is a neighborhood with deep roots,” said Melissa Hinten, Executive Director of Trees Knoxville. “ReOak honors that history by helping residents restore the oaks that gave their neighborhood its name and character. This project shows the power of community-driven action in growing Knoxville’s urban forest.”

The benefits of the project extend beyond aesthetics. The new oaks help reduce urban heat, improve air quality, enhance walkability, and provide vital habitat for local wildlife — while strengthening neighborhood pride and connection.

Trees Knoxville plans to expand the ReOak model to at least three more neighborhoods during the 2025–2026 planting season, demonstrating how collaborative, grassroots efforts can restore Knoxville’s urban canopy one community at a time.

This award-winning project was made possible through the dedication of Oakwood-Lincoln Park residents, Trees Knoxville’s Volunteer Foresters, Keep Knoxville Beautiful, and the City of Knoxville’s Urban Forestry Division.

Newsletter cut short in your email? If so,

GalsGiving - A Feast of Business Wisdom

Celebrate the season of gratitude with a twist of entrepreneurial inspiration at GalsGiving: A Feast of Business Wisdom, hosted by The Hub Pro Studio (1104 Merchant Drive, Suite 103). This special November FUNction brings together women in business for an evening of connection, collaboration, and community — all with a festive Thanksgiving flair.

Guests are invited to bring a Thanksgiving-themed hors d’oeuvre to share as everyone gathers around beautifully set tables to exchange insights, inspiration, and encouragement. The event blends the warmth of a holiday dinner with the spark of professional networking, creating a space where local entrepreneurs can lift each other up while sharing delicious bites.

Dinner begins at 7:30 PM, followed by a round of business wisdom, laughter, and gratitude-filled conversation. Studio Sponsors are encouraged to bring a guest, making it a perfect opportunity to introduce new faces to the GalFunction community.

Come hungry for both food and ideas — and leave nourished with new connections, inspiration, and a little extra holiday spirit. More Info & Registration

This Saturday - Calm the Storm Boutique Celebrates One Year with Black Friday - Anniversary Edition

Get ready for a day of shopping, celebration, and community fun as Calm the Storm Boutique (7509 Tazewell Pike in Corryton) marks its one-year anniversary with a special Black Friday - Anniversary Edition event!

On November 15th, the boutique will open early with extended hours from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, inviting customers to enjoy exclusive sales, freebies, and plenty of festive surprises.

The Jingle Jar will be back and packed with savings — everyone in line at opening gets to draw for deals and prizes! Shoppers can expect 30% off the entire store until 11:30 AM, plus new arrival racks starting at just $15. Refreshments and sweet treats will be served throughout the day, making it the perfect excuse to shop, sip, and celebrate with friends.

Calm the Storm Boutique has quickly become a favorite local spot for affordable styles, gifts, and accessories — and this milestone event is their way of saying thank you to the loyal customers who’ve supported them over the past year.

Mark yourself “Going” on the event page and make plans to join the fun — there’ll be refreshments, new arrivals, and plenty of Jingle Jar goodies waiting!

Celebrate local, shop small, and kick off the holiday season in style! More Info/Event Page

Discover all upcoming events on our Community Events page

Upcoming Events:

Get ready to kick off the holiday season in spectacular fashion — Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland is back at Soaky Mountain Waterpark in Sevierville (175 Gists Creek Rd), bringing one of East Tennessee’s most dazzling drive-through light shows to life! This beloved family tradition opens November 14th, and runs nightly from 6–10 PM through January 4th. More Info & Tickets

In honor of those who have served our country, Synergy HomeCare invites all veterans — along with a guest — to a free breakfast at the Corryton Senior Center (9331 Davis Dr) on November 14th at 9 AM. Please RSVP by visiting or calling the Corryton Senior Center; 9331 Davis Dr; (865) 688-5882, or by emailing Hannah Hood at [email protected].

Experience the Smoky Mountains like never before with Smoky Night Lights, a brand-new 360° immersive music and light show debuting after dark at Zoo Knoxville. This captivating event invites guests to step into the spirit of the Smokies through a multi-sensory, multimedia experience that blends nature, sound, and light in stunning harmony. Show dates and times available from November 14th through March 15th. 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

Get ready for an uplifting musical experience as acclaimed artists David Phelps and Selah take the stage together at Fairview Knox Church, 7424 Fairview Rd. in Corryton on Saturday, November 15th, at 7:00 PM (doors open at 6:20 PM). More Info & Tickets

Get ready for the sweetest yoga class you’ll ever attend! Join Zoom Room Knoxville in Hardin Valley (10938 Springbluff Way) for Senior Dog Yoga on November 15th from 10am - 11am, a fun, relaxing fundraiser benefiting Knox Vintage Pet Project. To attend, visit the Zoom Room website, click the Schedule link, and register for the KVPP Senior Dog Yoga with Andrea class

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. More Info

Buffalo Bills Fans - 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.

One of Knoxville’s most heartwarming holiday traditions is back! TinyTrees—those cheerful, kid-themed mini Christmas trees lovingly decorated by community groups—will soon brighten the halls of East Tennessee Children’s Hospital (ETCH). November 17th from 6–8 PM is the one and only night to drop off your decorated TinyTree at ETCH (2018 Clinch Ave)! More Info

Join the McClung Museum, UT’s Department of English, Denbo Center for the Humanities & the Arts, and UT’s Creative Writing Program for a special evening with award-winning poet Annie Wenstrup (Dena’ina) on November 18th. A light reception begins at 5 p.m., followed by Wenstrup’s reading at 6 p.m. in the Frank H. McClung Museum of Natural History and Culture auditorium on the UT campus. (Please note: time and location differ from usual creative writing events.) More Info

Wise Senior Living is hosting A Different Kind of Holiday Gathering, a free seminar designed to help individuals find peace, purpose, and hope through the season. It is open to anyone seeking support for life changes such as loss, separation, or other major changes — whether for themselves or someone they care about. It will be held on November 18th from 10 am - 11:30 am at the Fox Den Country Club (12284 N Fox Den Dr). Come as you are, and take a moment to heal in community this holiday season. Register here or call (865) 333-6232.

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

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. More Info & Tickets

The Knoxville Flea Market is back for another exciting weekend of treasure hunting and local shopping at the Knoxville Expo Center (5441 Clinton Highway)! From November 21st - 23rd, shoppers can browse through more than 275 booths filled with antiques, collectibles, crafts, home décor, jewelry, and so much more.

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.

Mark your calendars for an afternoon dedicated to rejuvenation, self-care, and community connection! The Knoxville Beauty, Health & Wellness Expo is happening November 22nd, from 1–4 PM at Ebony & Ivory Brewing (2300 Central Ave, Knoxville, TN).

On November 22nd from 10 am to noon, families are invited to drop in for storytelling, author Q&A, and hands-on activities inspired by the world of Red and her four-legged friend. Kids can explore Red’s Corner, where local animal organizations—including Knox Vintage Pet Project, Young-Williams, HABIT, and more—will share fun, interactive experiences perfect for young animal lovers. Location: East Tennessee History Center (601 S. Gay Street).

Mark your calendars for one of Knoxville’s favorite fall traditions — the Retropolitan Craft Fair, happening November 23rd, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at The Mill & Mine, 227 W. Depot Ave. More Info

A heartwarming Appalachian twist on a timeless holiday story is taking the stage this season! The Clayton Center for the Arts (502 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy in Maryville) presents Dolly Parton’s Smoky Mountain Christmas Carol — a spirited musical retelling of Dickens’ classic, to be held on November 29th, featuring original songs by eleven-time GRAMMY Award winner Dolly Parton. More Info & Tickets

Experience the magic of music, community, and the holidays in an entirely new way at A Soundwalk Through the City, a free, family-friendly outdoor music event where you become part of the performance! Join Nief-Norf for Unsilent Night, an immersive soundwalk created by composer Phil Kline. December 5th |  Participants meet at 5:00 PM; For full details and schedule, visit www.niefnorf.org/unsilentnight.

Get ready to experience a festive favorite this December as the Holiday Market comes to the World’s Fair Exhibition Hall in downtown Knoxville for the first two weekends of the month—December 6th–7th and December 13th–14th (Saturdays: 10 AM – 5 PM & Sundays: 11 AM – 5 PM). More Info

Celebrate the season at GermanFest’s inaugural Christkindlmarkt, a festive holiday market designed for all ages, to be held on December 6th from 4pm-8pm and December 7th from 1pm-4pm at First Lutheran Church (1207 N. Broadway). More Info

Get ready for a high-energy, community-driven event as Hero Athletics and Hello Market team up for It’s a Tap — Jiu-Jitsu Tournament & Vendor Fair on December 6th at Hero Athletics (11214 Outlet Drive). Whether you're a martial arts fan, a local-market shopper, or just looking for a fun family outing, this full-day event has something for everyone. Athletes can secure their spot now through Smoothcomp:
https://smoothcomp.com/en/event/25566. Hello Market is accepting vendor applications. Apply here:
👉 https://form.jotform.com/252414024677051

Get ready to sip, savor, and celebrate—A Very Kraken Christmas Party at The Kraken’s Cup (4815 N Broadway, STE 107) is returning on December 7th, from 11 a.m.–2 p.m., and it’s shaping up to be one of the most festive events of the season! More Info & Tickets

Get ready for a festive morning full of holiday cheer at the Tennova Family YMCA (7540 Dannaher Dr) in Powell! On December 13th, the YMCA will host its first-ever Holiday Craft Market from 9 AM to 1 PM — right alongside its beloved Breakfast with Santa event happening from 9 AM to 11 AM.

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:

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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