In this Knoxville Insider Issue…

🌤️ Weather | Partly Sunny with a High of 68

📰 Kick Off 2026 with the New Year’s Day 5K Run/Walk

📰 Create a Winter Masterpiece at the Snowflake Canvas Class

🗓️ Ring in the New Year in Style at Radius Rooftop Lounge

🗓️ Ring in the New Year Early at Playtime’s Noon Year’s Eve Party

🛍️ Shop Local

🗓️ Upcoming Events 

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✅ Advertising Opportunities
 

Kick Off 2026 with the New Year’s Day 5K Run/Walk

If your New Year’s resolution includes fitness, community, or simply doing something active and fun, the New Year’s Day 5K Run/Walk is the perfect way to start 2026. Hosted by the Knoxville Track Club, this annual event brings runners, walkers, families, and supporters together on January 1st, for a spirited celebration of health and togetherness.

The day begins early with a Kids Run at 8:30 a.m., giving young participants the chance to shine on a shorter course designed just for them. The main 5K run/walk kicks off at 9:00 a.m., starting near 400 Neyland Drive and Calhoun’s on the River. This certified course offers a flat and fast route that’s welcoming to runners and walkers of all experience levels.

Registration for the 5K is currently open, with pricing set at around $40 (with a discount available before December 31), and a virtual option also offered for those who want to participate from anywhere. Children’s pricing is available for the Kids Run, making this an accessible, family-friendly event.

Beyond the race itself, this event is part of the Knoxville Track Club’s larger community calendar and contributes to the Grand Prix Points Team Competition, a series that rewards consistency and participation over time. After crossing the finish line, participants can enjoy light refreshments and celebrate the first day of the year in good company.

Whether you’re aiming for a personal best, walking with friends, or cheering on the younger runners, the New Year’s Day 5K is a refreshing way to embrace the new year with energy, purpose, and community spirit. Lace up your shoes and make January 1 a day to remember! More Info & Register

Create a Winter Masterpiece at the Snowflake Canvas Class

If you’re looking for a cozy, creative way to ease into the new year, the Snowflake Canvas Class is a perfect winter outing. Hosted by Painting Around, this all-ages, instructor-led class takes place on January 4th, from 4 PM–6 PM at Painting Around (2917 W. Beaver Creek Drive, Powell).

Participants will paint their own frosty snowflake masterpiece on an 11x14 canvas, guided step-by-step by a friendly instructor. No experience is needed—just bring your creativity. Like real snowflakes, no two paintings will be the same, making each finished piece truly one of a kind.

The class is designed to be relaxed and welcoming for all skill levels, making it a great option for families, friends, or anyone looking to unwind with art after the holidays. All supplies are included, and the cost is $25 per person, so you can simply show up and enjoy an afternoon of winter-inspired creativity and cozy vibes.

Whether you’re an experienced painter or picking up a brush for the first time, the Snowflake Canvas Class offers a fun, seasonal way to create something beautiful—and take home a little piece of winter magic. Register

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Ring in the New Year in Style at Radius Rooftop Lounge

Knoxville’s skyline sets the stage for an unforgettable celebration as Radius Rooftop Lounge (507 S. Gay Street)hosts its New Year’s Eve Party on December 31st, from 8:00 PM to 2:00 AM. This elevated downtown hotspot offers one of the best views in the city—perfect for welcoming the new year from 14 floors up.

The night promises a high-energy atmosphere, sweeping city views, and a festive crowd ready to count down to midnight together. Whether you’re dancing, toasting with friends, or simply soaking in the lights of downtown Knoxville, Radius delivers a sophisticated setting for a memorable New Year’s Eve.

General admission tickets are $50 per person. For those celebrating with a group, reserved sections are available and include a bottle of bubbles—ideal for ringing in the new year together. Section options range from intimate gatherings to larger parties, making it easy to plan a night that fits your crew. (Please note: tickets are not included in section pricing.)

If you’re looking to close out 2025 with style, skyline views, and a lively party atmosphere, this New Year’s Eve celebration at Radius Rooftop Lounge is one of downtown Knoxville’s must-attend events. Cheers to new beginnings and an incredible night above the city! More Info

Ring in the New Year Early at Playtime’s Noon Year’s Eve Party

Families looking for a fun, kid-friendly way to celebrate the New Year won’t want to miss the Noon Year’s Eve Party hosted by Playtime in the Plains (8537 Asheville Highway in Knoxville) on December 31st, starting at 10:00 AM. This festive event is designed especially for children who want all the excitement of New Year’s Eve—without staying up late.

Something BIG is dropping at Playtime, and it’s not at midnight. The highlight of the celebration is a balloon drop countdown to 2026, giving kids the thrill of ringing in the New Year right at noon. Families can choose from three different session times, making it easy to find the perfect fit for their schedule.

Throughout the event, children can enjoy dancing, open playtime, festive photo opportunities, snacks, punch, and a hands-on New Year’s craft to take home. With laughter, movement, and plenty of memory-making moments, the Noon Year’s Eve Party offers a joyful way to wrap up the year in a safe, playful environment.

If you’re searching for a New Year’s celebration that’s energetic, age-appropriate, and full of smiles, Playtime in the Plains delivers a perfect solution. It’s all the fun of New Year’s Eve—just a little earlier on the clock. More Info

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

Multi-Day Events that are ‘Now through a certain date are listed below the dated events.

🗓️December 27th - If you’ve been thinking about adding a feline friend to your family, mark your calendar for the Feral Feline Friends PetSmart Adoption Event from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The event takes place at PetSmart (250 E. Emory Road, Powell) and offers a full day of opportunities to meet adoptable cats in need of loving homes.

🗓️December 27th - Motorcycle enthusiasts and caffeine lovers alike are invited to start their weekend in high gear at Kick Off Your Saturday with Caffeine and Horsepower, happening from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at 8422 Kingston Pike.

🗓️December 28th - Capricornucopia concert at 7 PM at Barley’s (200 E Jackson Ave), featuring Mic Harrison and the High Score with Doug Gillard (Guided By Voices), plus special appearances by Emi Sunshine, Andy Pirkle, and Sarrenna. Admission is a suggested $10 door donation to CareCuts — or a pair of men’s or women’s blue jeans — and raffle prizes will be awarded between sets.

🗓️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.

🗓️December 29th - Competitive card players and UNO fans alike are invited to test their skills at the UNO Elite Playoffs, happening from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. at 1151 US-11E in Talbott. This high-energy tournament is hosted by Rocky Top Cards & Collectibles and promises an exciting night of strategy, rivalry, and fun.

🗓️December 31st - Looking for a fun, family-friendly way to ring in the New Year? Skatetown (5713 N Broadway Stis hosting its New Year’s Eve Late Skate from 7:30 p.m. until 2:00 a.m., offering an energetic, all-ages celebration that keeps the good times rolling well past midnight.

🗓️January 2nd - Looking for a warm, welcoming way to kick off the new year? The Motley Crew Community Luncheon returns from 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Crowne Plaza Knoxville Downtown University (401 W. Summit Hill Drive), offering an afternoon centered on food, fun, and fellowship.

🗓️January 3rd - Add a personal touch to your home décor at the Seasonal Door Mat Class, happening from 6:00–8:00 p.m. at Painting Around (2917 W. Beaver Creek Dr., Powell). Register

🗓️January 3rd - Kick off 2026 with intention, energy, and inspiration at Drip into Wellness @ Knox Fit Fest, happening Saturday, January 3rd, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the World's Fair Exhibition Hall in downtown Knoxville. This all-day wellness experience brings together 55+ local health and fitness businesses under one roof, creating a one-stop destination to explore tools, services, and ideas designed to help you jump-start your wellness goals for the new year.

🗓️January 4th - Brides-to-be, newly engaged couples, and anyone helping plan the big day are invited to one of East Tennessee’s most anticipated wedding events of the year: The Pink Bride Wedding & Women’s Show, happening from Noon–4:00 p.m. at the Knoxville Convention Center (701 Henley Street).

🗓️January 27th - Hosted by 35 North Bar & Grill (11321 Kingston Pike), guests are invited to the Buffalo Trace Wheaters & Ryes Course #423 (starting at 6:00 p.m.), an in-depth whiskey tasting focused on some of the most sought-after and difficult-to-find bottles produced by Buffalo Trace Distillery. This is not an introductory class—this course is designed for experienced bourbon fans who want to explore elite wheated and rye expressions in a guided, educational setting. Get Tickets

🗓️Now through January 4th - Downtown Knoxville is getting a festive dose of holiday fun with The Elf on the Shelf® Adventure, a citywide scavenger hunt that invites families, friends, and holiday explorers to see downtown in a whole new way. Santa has sent Scout Elves to more than two dozen Downtown Knoxville businesses, transforming storefronts and streets into a playful holiday adventure filled with surprises around every corner. More Info

🗓️Now through January 4th - Something bright and festive is once again lighting up Aspire Park (777 Aspire Drive) in Clinton. Aspirations in Light has returned for the season. More Info & Tickets

🗓️Now through January 4th - The Peppermint Trail invites you to stroll through the heart of downtown and enjoy peppermint-themed treats, drinks, décor, and shopping at dozens of participating local businesses. More Info

🗓️Now 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

🗓️Now 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

🗓️Now through March - The Winter Farmers Market by Nourish Knoxville is back for the 2025–2026 season, bringing fresh, local food and artisan goods to Market Square every Saturday from December through March, 10 AM–2 PM EXCEPT December 27th, January 3rd, and January 10th.

🗓️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

Recurring events and upcoming 2026 events

Networking:

See Recurring Weekly & Monthly Networking Events

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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