Happy Thanksgiving from the Knoxville Insider

Issue #712

27 Nov

In this Knoxville Insider Issue…

🌤️ Weather | Sunny with a High of 46

🗓️ Upcoming Events 

📣 We Want to Spotlight Your Business! Apply Here

✅ Advertising Opportunities
 

Today’s Record High: 78 in 1990 — Record Low: 16 in 1903

Happy Thanksgiving from the Knoxville Insider

This Thanksgiving season, we at the Knoxville Insider just want to pause and say thank you—from the bottom of our hearts—to each and every one of our readers. What started as a simple idea to share what’s happening around our city has grown into a community approaching 20,000 engaged, local readers, and that growth is because of you. Your support, your shares, your feedback, and your love for this beautiful city make what we do possible every single day.

We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve as a bridge between local businesses, local events, and local residents. Our mission has always been to shine a light on the people, places, and passions that make Knoxville special—and it’s an honor to help small businesses be seen, to help events find their audiences, and to help neighbors stay connected to what’s happening right outside their doors.

As you gather with loved ones this week, we hope your tables are full, your hearts are warm, and your homes are filled with laughter. Thank you for being part of the Knoxville Insider family. We are so thankful for you, and we can’t wait to continue growing, sharing, and celebrating this incredible community together. Happy Thanksgiving to all of you!

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Celebrate “Local Business December” - Shop Local, Give Local, All Season Long!

This December, we’re inviting our community to join us in celebrating something truly special: Local Business December. It’s a month-long reminder that every time you choose to shop local, you’re investing directly in your neighbors, your community, and the heart of Knoxville. From unique gifts and cozy restaurants to personal services and hometown shops, our local businesses are what make our city vibrant, creative, and one-of-a-kind.

When you shop local, your dollars stay here—supporting local jobs, helping small business owners provide for their families, and fueling community involvement. You’re also far more likely to find meaningful, personalized gifts and experiences that simply can’t be matched by big-box retailers. This December, whether you’re buying gifts, dining out, booking services, or supporting holiday events, we encourage you to think local first.

💼 Are you a local business owner with a special December offer?
We’d love to help you get the word out! If you’re running holiday promotions, December discounts, or special events, reach out to us to get those featured in the Knoxville Insider. Let’s work together to make this the strongest season yet for our local business community—and the most memorable shopping season for our readers. Email: [email protected] or Call/Text: (865) 234-2421.

Community Craft Night at Hi-Wire Brewing with Knox Native Real Estate

Kick off the holiday season with creativity, community, and festive fun at a free, drop-in Holiday Craft Night on November 30th, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Hi-Wire Brewing in South Knoxville. Hosted by Courtney Winters of Knox Native Real Estate, this relaxed evening is designed for friends, families, and anyone looking to ease into the Christmas spirit with hands-on activities and local shopping.

Guests can enjoy multiple holiday-themed craft stations with all supplies provided, along with mini gift-wrapping and bow-making demonstrations running continuously from 5:00 to 7:45 PM—perfect for learning a few festive finishing touches for your presents. The event also features a lineup of wonderful local vendors offering gift-ready items, including Golden Carnation (artisan sourdough and gluten-free baked goods), Courtney Bensik Jewelry (raw crystal jewelry in gold and silver), Saucemates (small-batch specialty sauces), and the Friends of the Knox County Public Library, selling curated, gift-quality books for under $5.

This is a great opportunity to craft, sip, shop local, and connect with the community all in one place. RSVPs are requested by November 28th at the following link: RSVP Here

For questions, text (865) 806-0946 or email [email protected]. Come enjoy an easy, festive night out and get a head start on your holiday cheer!

Discover all upcoming events on our Community Events page

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

Upcoming Events:

Through November 30th - Knoxville’s favorite holiday tradition, the Fantasy of Trees, returns to the Knoxville Convention Center (701 Henley St). Friday, Saturday from 9am-9pm, Thanksgiving Day from 3pm-8pm and Sunday fron noon-6pm. Get Tickets

November 29th - 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, featuring original songs by eleven-time GRAMMY Award winner Dolly Parton. More Info & Tickets

November 29th - 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, 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.
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November 30th - Let’s go, Buffalo!! Keep the spirited cheers up and join the Buffalo Bills Backers during game days at Clancy’s Pub and Whisky House (602 Gay Street). The game starts at 4:25 PM.

November 30th - Families are invited to indulge in a deliciously fun experience at the Family Chocolate Adventure, happening from 1 PM to 3 PM at The Cutting Edge Classroom (150 N. Martinwood Road, Suite 402). This hands-on class is the perfect way for kids, parents, and chocolate lovers of all ages to come together for an afternoon of learning, laughter, and irresistible desserts. Get Tickets

November 30th - Buffalo Bills Fans - 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.
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December 1st - Get into the holiday spirit with a fun and festive creative night! Painting Around (2917 W. Beaver Creek Drive, Powell) is hosting a Santa Gnome Paint Night from 6 PM–8 PM. Cost: $25 per person (includes all supplies) Payment Link

December 1st-15th - Brighten a Senior’s Christmas Morning! Holiday gift bags are needed for Mobile Meals, who will be delivering hot, delicious meals to over 700 homebound seniors in Knox County on Christmas morning. Donate gifts backs at one of these locations: L.T. Ross Building, 2247 Western Ave, Mon-Fri 8am-4:30pm; Grayson Suburu, 8729 Kingston Pike, Mon-Fri 9am-8pm, Sat 9am-6pm. See knoxseniors.org, page 6 under the Holiday Donation Drives button, for info about what to include in the gift bags.

December 4th - Navigating Difficult Conversations workshop, Pellissippi State, Blount County Campus (2731 W Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Friendsville), 5:30–8:30 PM | West Building, Room 121, $69 Course Fee | Registration is open now at www.pstcc.edu or by calling 865-694-6400.

December 5th - The 52nd Annual WIVK Christmas Parade rolls through Downtown Knoxville along Gay Street starting at 7:00 PM. Known as the largest Christmas parade in the city, this magical evening will feature dozens of festive floats, lively local school bands, and a special appearance by Santa himself. Adding to the excitement, University of Tennessee Coach Josh Elander and his family will serve as this year’s Grand Marshals. More Info 

December 5th - Female entrepreneurs, creatives, and business professionals across Knoxville are invited to gather for the next First Friday Coffee Chat from 11:30 AM to 1 PM at The Hub Pro Studio (1104 Merchant Drive, Suite 103).

December 5th - 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. 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).

December 6th - Pygmy Harbor Farm is bringing in holiday magic with its exclusive Santa Experience, a limited-ticket event designed to create warm, personal, and unforgettable Christmas memories for families. Tickets may be purchased during two windows only: Sessions are from 11 AM–Noon and 2 PM–3 PM. Be sure to secure your tickets early—this festive celebration fills quickly! Get Tickets for 11AM-Noon or Get Tickets for 2 PM - 3 PM.

December 6th - Join Davis Studio in Bearden (9 Mohican Street, Suite 2) for a festive milestone celebration! The beloved art and frame shop will host its 20th Anniversary Celebration and Holiday Open House from 11 AM to 5 PM.

December 6th–7th and December 13th–14th - 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—(Saturdays: 10 AM – 5 PM & Sundays: 11 AM – 5 PM). More Info

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

December 6th - 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 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

December 7th - Let’s go, Buffalo!! Keep the spirited cheers up and join the Buffalo Bills Backers during game days at Clancy’s Pub and Whisky House (602 Gay Street). The game starts at 4:25 PM.

December 7th - Get ready to sip, savor, and celebrate—A Very Kraken Christmas Party at The Kraken’s Cup (4815 N Broadway, STE 107) is returning, 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

December 7th - 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 at 3 pm at Bearden Middle School (1000 Francis Rd), and promises an afternoon filled with festive favorites and heartwarming holiday classics.

December 10th - Get ready to glow this holiday season at Merry, Bright and Beautiful, a festive evening hosted by Drip into Wellness and Skintentional Beauty Spa 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 11th - Navigating Difficult Conversations workshop, Pellissippi State, Strawberry Plains Campus (7201 Strawberry Plains Pike), 1:30–4:30 PM, Room 1418, $89 Course Fee, Registration is open now at www.pstcc.edu or by calling 865-694-6400.

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

December 12th-13th - Step back in time this December as Blount Mansion, the Birthplace of Tennessee and Knox County’s only National Historic Landmark, opens its doors for Holiday Candlelight Tours. The event will take place at the Blount Mansion Visitors Center (200 W. Hill Ave). Guests will enjoy guided candlelit tours showcasing American holiday traditions through history, accompanied by live music, cookies, and cider. Tours begin at 5 PM, with the last tour departing at 7 PM. Tickets are $20. Get Tickets. Learn more about the site’s history and preservation efforts at www.blountmansion.org.

December 13th - Get ready for a festive morning full of holiday cheer at the Tennova Family YMCA (7540 Dannaher Dr) in Powell! 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.

December 13th - The magic of the season is coming to Halls once again! Mark your calendar 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 - 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) from 9am-3pm.

December 14th - Let’s go, Buffalo!! Keep the spirited cheers up and join the Buffalo Bills Backers during game days at Clancy’s Pub and Whisky House (602 Gay Street). The game starts at 1:00 PM.

December 14th - Get ready for holiday cheer, sparkling floats, and a joyful community celebration—the 6th Annual Christmas Parade at The Pointe at Lifespring Senior Living is happening, and everyone is invited to join the fun! This magical tradition brings friends, families, and neighbors together for an afternoon filled with laughter, festive sights, and Christmas spirit. The parade lineup begins at 2:00 PM at Arlington Baptist Church (4383 Lifespring Lane), with the parade officially starting at 2:30 PM and making its way to The Pointe at Lifespring (4371 Lifespring Lane).

December 21st - Let’s go, Buffalo!! Keep the spirited cheers up and join the Buffalo Bills Backers during game days at Clancy’s Pub and Whisky House (602 Gay Street). The game starts at 1:25 PM.

December 28th - Let’s go, Buffalo!! Keep the spirited cheers up and join the Buffalo Bills Backers during game days at Clancy’s Pub and Whisky House (602 Gay Street). The game starts at 1:25 PM.

Through January 4th - 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. More Info & Tickets

Through March 15th - 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. 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:

December 19th - Bonfire Fridays with 2 Brothers Services. - Gather at 188 Hill Road in Knoxville 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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