Brighten a Senior's Christmas Morning

Issue #706

20 Nov

In this Knoxville Insider Issue…

🌤️ Weather | Rain with a High of 70

📰 Call for First Friday Performers - Arts & Culture Alliance Seeks Musicians for 2026 Emporium Events

🗓️ Christmas Belles Brings Holiday Chaos & Comedy to Lenoir City

🗓️ Upcoming Events 

📣 We Want to Spotlight Your Business! Apply Here

✅ Advertising Opportunities
 

Today’s Record High: 803 in 1906 — Record Low: 13 in 1914

Brighten a Senior’s Christmas Morning

This holiday season, you can make a meaningful difference in the lives of homebound seniors right here in Knox County. Mobile Meals is collecting holiday gift bags to accompany the hot, delicious meals they’ll be delivering to more than 700 seniors on Christmas morning. For many of these older adults, this small gesture may be the only gift they receive—and a reminder that their community cares.

From December 1 through December 15, you can drop off gift bags at two convenient locations:
📍 L.T. Ross Building – 2247 Western Ave. (Mon–Fri, 8:00 AM–4:30 PM)
📍 Grayson Subaru – 8729 Kingston Pike (Mon–Fri, 9:00 AM–8:00 PM; Sat, 9:00 AM–6:00 PM)

Gift bags may include practical items, comfort items, and thoughtful touches that brighten the season. Mobile Meals provides a recommended list at knoxseniors.org to make contributing easy. Every donated bag helps bring warmth, dignity, and joy to a senior who might otherwise spend Christmas morning alone.

If you’re looking for a heartfelt way to give back this year, consider assembling a bag (or several!) and helping Mobile Meals spread kindness across Knox County. A simple act of generosity can make Christmas morning truly special for hundreds of seniors in our community.

Call for First Friday Performers - Arts & Culture Alliance Seeks Musicians for 2026 Emporium Events

Photo courtesy of Holly Rainey

The Arts & Culture Alliance of Greater Knoxville has officially opened its Call for Performers for the 2026 First Friday exhibition celebrations at the Emporium Center. This opportunity invites musicians, bands, ensembles, and performing artists to apply for a chance to showcase their talent during one of Knoxville’s most beloved monthly arts traditions.

First Friday draws hundreds of visitors downtown to enjoy new exhibitions, live performances, and community connections—making it an ideal platform for both emerging and established performers. The Alliance is especially encouraging applications from residents of the City of Knoxville and Knox County, aiming to highlight and uplift the wealth of local talent in our region.

Artists interested in performing must submit their applications by midnight on Sunday, December 14th. Additional details, guidelines, and the online application form can be found at https://www.knoxalliance.com/perform.

For musicians looking to expand their audience, connect with the arts community, and become a part of Knoxville’s vibrant cultural landscape, this is an opportunity not to be missed.

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Fountain City’s First Annual Christmas in the Park — Tree Lighting, Music, Crafts & More!

Fountain City is kicking off a brand-new holiday tradition this year with the first annual Christmas in Fountain City Park (117 Hotel Road), presented by Fountain City Town Hall. This free community event takes place on December 6th from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, and promises an evening full of festive cheer, family fun, and the park’s first-ever Christmas tree lighting.

Visitors can enjoy a joyful lineup of live holiday music performed by the Gresham Middle School Choir, the Gresham Middle School Band, and the Central High School Band. Their seasonal favorites will set the perfect backdrop as the community gathers to celebrate the start of the holiday season together.

Families can look forward to a variety of activities, including Letters to Santa, holiday crafts, a community sock drive, and plenty of hot cocoa and cookies to keep everyone warm. And of course, a very special guest is expected to make an appearance—one who’s especially popular this time of year!

Bring your friends, your family, and your holiday spirit as Fountain City lights up the night for this exciting new tradition.

Christmas Belles Brings Holiday Chaos & Comedy to Lenoir City

Get ready for a holly-jolly dose of Southern humor as the Last Call Theatre Group presents Christmas Belles by Jones, Hope, and Wooten—performed at the Lenoir City War Memorial Building. This fast-paced holiday farce transports audiences to the fictional town of Fayro, Texas, where the Futrelle Sisters, their quirky neighbors, and a wildly off-the-rails church Christmas program guarantee an evening of laughter.

There will be four performances only:

  • Dec 5 at 7:30 PM

  • Dec 6 at 2 PM & 7 PM

  • Dec 7 at 2 PM
    Doors open 30 minutes prior to showtime. Tickets are $20 for adults, $10 for children 12 and under, or bring friends and save with a Discount Pack of 4 tickets for $70.

The story follows sisters Frankie, Twink, and Honey Raye—who are anything but in the Christmas spirit. Between a vengeful sheep, an Elvis impersonator, family secrets, and half the town dropping from suspected food poisoning, their holiday troubles spiral into side-splitting chaos. But in true Futrelle fashion, even the feuding sisters may find a way to come together to deliver a Christmas pageant Fayro will never forget.

Heartwarming, unpredictable, and packed with Southern charm, Christmas Belles is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for the season. Don’t miss your chance to enjoy this festive comedy—perfect for families, theatre lovers, and anyone needing a good laugh this holiday! More Info & Tickets

Discover all upcoming events on our Community Events page

Coming Soon….a new Knoxville Insider community calendar experience!

Upcoming Events:

Buffalo Bills Fans - 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.

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 for a weekend of festive fun and local shopping as Shannon Valley Farms hosts Pink Weekend, a special two-day pre-holiday market celebrating small businesses, makers, and local boutiques! November 22nd-23rd from 9am - 3pm. Your holiday gifting season starts right here — at home in Shannon Valley Farms (4900 Horsestall Drive)

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.

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 on November 22nd, benefiting Young-Williams Animal Center. More Info & Tickets

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 PM–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).

Get ready to ride the wave of laughter—Yakov Smirnoff, the beloved comedian famed for his timeless one-liners and the catchphrase, “What a country!,” is bringing his Clean Comedy Wave Tour to the Bijou Theatre on Sunday, November 23rd. The evening kicks off with doors opening at 6:00 PM, followed by the show at 7:00 PM. Tickets, ranging from $25.75 to $76.75, go on sale Friday, September 12th at noon. More Info

Knoxville’s beloved maker market is back just in time for the holiday season! The Holiday Retropolitan Craft Fair returns this November 23rd, from 11 AM–6 PM at The Mill & Mine (227 W. Depot Ave), and it’s one festive shopping experience you won’t want to miss.

The holiday season is getting a sweet start with the return of Cookies with Santa, happening Sunday, November 23rd, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at University Commons (2318 University Commons). Sponsored by Nicole Yarbrough State Farm, this beloved family event is part of the University Commons Market hosted by Capybara, running from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Optionally RSVP by calling (865) 622-5000.

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

Get ready to relive one of the most beloved holiday stories of all time as A Charlie Brown Christmas: Live on Stage comes to town, at the Knoxville Civic Auditorium (500 Howard Baker Jr. Ave) on November 24th at 7:00 pm! This heartwarming production brings Charles M. Schulz’s timeless classic and Vince Guaraldi’s iconic music to life in a joyful, family-friendly performance that captures the spirit of the season. Use code: TURKEY for 30% off tickets! More Info

If you’re looking for a fun and relaxed way to kick off the holiday season, Pins & Pints Pinball Pub (1336 E. Emory Road) is hosting its annual Friendsgiving Party on November 26th at 3 PM! Gather your friends, unwind before the Thanksgiving rush, and enjoy a festive afternoon.

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

Get ready to ride for a great cause! The 2nd Annual East Tennessee Toys for Tots Motorcycle Ride, hosted by The Knox VetNet and Bootlegger Harley-Davidson, takes place on November 29th, beginning at 12:00 PM. This festive ride brings together motorcyclists and community members to support the Marine Corps Toys for Tots Foundation, ensuring that every child gets to open a gift on Christmas morning. The rally kicks off at Melton Lake Park in Oak Ridge (37830) with registration from 9–10 AM, followed by the Blessing of the Bikes at 10:05 AM. Kickstands go up at 10:15 AM, and the group will ride together to Bootlegger Harley-Davidson (605 Lovell Road, Knoxville), where the event will continue until 2 PM.

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.

December 5th, Enjoy Phil Kline’s Unsilent Night hosted by Nief-Norf and preview performances from Circle Modern Dance’s Modern Dance Primitive Light at The Emporium Center (100 S. Gay Street).

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

Kick off the holiday season with joy, music, and community spirit at the Knoxville Community Band’s annual Christmas Spectacular! This free concert will take place on December 7th at 3 pm at Bearden Middle School (1000 Francis Rd), and promises an afternoon filled with festive favorites and heartwarming holiday classics.

Get ready to glow this holiday season at Merry, Bright and Beautiful, a festive evening hosted by Drip into Wellness and Skintentional Beauty Spa on December 10th at 318 Erin Drive, Suite 5 from 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm! This special event combines relaxation, self-care, and holiday cheer — the perfect way to unwind and treat yourself before the season’s rush. Space is limited — reserve your spot 

December 12th, Celebrate the season with live music by Nick Horner Family at The Emporium Center (100 S. Gay Street).

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.

The magic of the season is coming to Halls once again! Mark your calendar for December 13th from 10 AM – 2 PM as the beloved Halls Christmas Market transforms Black Oak Plaza (6931B Maynardville Pike) into a bustling winter marketplace filled with local artisans, festive activities, and holiday spirit.

December 13th from 9am-3pm, Collectors, comic fans, and pop-culture enthusiasts—get ready! The Collective Trading Co. is hosting its Monthly Showcase at Pellissippi State Community College (10915 Hardin Valley Rd).

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 runs nightly from 6–10 PM through January 4th. More Info & Tickets

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 through March 15th. 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

Networking:

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 (November 18th) brings together women in business for an evening of connection, collaboration, and community — all with a festive Thanksgiving flair. More Info & Registration

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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