In this Knoxville Insider Issue…

🌤️ Weather | Partly Sunny with a High of 68

📰 A Purpose-Driven Hike Focused on Suicide Prevention and Support

🗓️ A Must-Visit for Collectors - The Collective Trading Co. Monthly Showcase

🗓️ An Evening of Circle Dances and Living Traditions from Greece, the Balkans, and Armenia

🛍️ Shop Local

🗓️ Upcoming Events 

📣 We Want to Spotlight Your Business! Apply Here

✅ Advertising Opportunities
 

A Purpose-Driven Hike Focused on Suicide Prevention and Support

You are invited to take part in a meaningful morning of connection, remembrance, and encouragement at the 7th Annual A Hike to Remember 22, happening January 10th from 7:30 AM to 12:00 PM. The event begins at Nixon's Deli #4, located at 224 N Peters Road NW, and welcomes participants of all backgrounds to come together for a powerful cause.

This annual hike is a suicide prevention initiative built around a simple but vital message: You Are Valuable. Rooted in camaraderie and community support, the event creates an environment where veterans, first responders, families, and community members can walk side by side—encouraging one another and reminding those who may be struggling that they are not alone.

More than just a hike, A Hike to Remember 22 is designed to foster conversation, connection, and hope. Participants will have the opportunity to share a meal, engage in light physical activity, and take part in a supportive atmosphere that emphasizes mental health awareness and crisis navigation. The event’s structure allows people to move at their own pace, making it accessible and welcoming to all fitness levels.

With strong community turnout year after year, this seventh annual gathering continues to serve as a reminder of the power of showing up for one another. Whether you come to honor someone, support a loved one, or simply walk in solidarity, your presence helps reinforce the message that every life matters.

Registration is open, and those interested are encouraged to sign up in advance. This is a chance to start the new year by taking meaningful steps—together—toward hope, healing, and connection.

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A Must-Visit for Collectors - The Collective Trading Co. Monthly Showcase

Collectors, hobbyists, and families alike are invited to kick off the new year at The Collective Trading Co. Monthly Showcase, happening January 3rd from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. This popular monthly card and collectibles show takes place at 10915 Hardin Valley Road and continues to grow as one of the region’s premier destinations for trading cards and fandom culture.

Hosted by The Collective Trading Co., LLC, the showcase brings together more than 50 curated vendors under one roof, offering a wide range of collectibles without the clutter of a flea market. Attendees can browse sports cards spanning NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, soccer, UFC, F1, golf, and wrestling, along with top trading card games like Pokémon, MTG, Yu-Gi-Oh!, Lorcana, Flesh and Blood, and Dragon Ball Super.

Beyond cards, the event also features non-sports collectibles and pop culture favorites, including Star Wars, Marvel, DC, Disney, Harry Potter, The Walking Dead, and more. Vintage items, grading services, Japanese imports, sealed products, accessories, and supplies make this a one-stop shop for both seasoned collectors and newcomers.

Held at Pellissippi State Community College – College Center, the showcase is family-friendly with wide aisles, free parking, and a welcoming atmosphere. Guests can enjoy hype live breaks, trivia prizes every 30 minutes, free swag for early arrivals, and vendor livestreams throughout the day.

Whether you’re chasing rare cards, hunting nostalgic treasures, or just exploring the hobby with your family, The Collective Trading Co. Monthly Showcase offers something for everyone. With free admission and a strong community vibe, it’s an ideal way to spend a Saturday discovering what makes Knoxville’s collectibles scene thrive.

An Evening of Circle Dances and Living Traditions from Greece, the Balkans, and Armenia

Enjoy a day-long immersion in movement, music, and tradition at Celebrate Spring! Traditional Circle Dances from Greece, the Balkans and Armenia, taking place February 21st, from 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The event will be held at Broadway Academy (706 N Broadway).

Hosted by East Tennessee Sacred Circle Dance, this special gathering invites participants into the ancient practice of traditional circle dances—forms that have been passed down through generations and are deeply rooted in community, seasonal cycles, and reverence for the earth. These dances are more than steps; they are living expressions of an ancient worldview that honors connection, balance, and renewal.

The workshop will be led by internationally respected dance teacher Laura Shannon, whose teaching reveals the subtle wisdom encoded within movements that are both simple and profound. Her approach highlights how gentle yet powerful steps can awaken energy in the body, helping dancers align with the rising life force of spring in a tangible, embodied way.

Accompanying the dances will be live music by Kostantis Kourmadias, who will perform on the Byzantine long-necked lute, known as the saz. Played with exquisite sensitivity, this microtonal instrument has been used since ancient times to generate healing frequencies, adding depth and resonance to the dance experience and creating a powerful synergy between movement and sound.

The cost for the full-day experience is offered on a sliding scale of $40, $60, or $80, making the event accessible while supporting the artists and organizers. Advance registration is required and can be completed at www.InTheDance.com.

For anyone seeking a meaningful way to welcome spring—through movement, live music, and shared ritual—this immersive circle dance gathering offers a rare and enriching opportunity to connect with ancient traditions.

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 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 - 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 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. More Info

🗓️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.

🗓️December 31st - 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) 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. More Info

🗓️January 1st - 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 for a spirited celebration of health and togetherness. More Info & Register

🗓️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 - 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 from 4 PM–6 PM at Painting Around (2917 W. Beaver Creek Drive, Powell). Register

🗓️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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