In this Knoxville Insider Issue…

🌤️ Weather | Sunny with a High of 50

📰 Dine Out for a Cause - Panera Bread Give-Back Supports Senior Companions

📰 Sunday Funday Mimosa Brunch Returns to Last Days of Autumn Brewing

🗓️ Stand Up Comedy Open Mic Brings Big Laughs to Barrelhouse

🗓️ Double the Cards, Double the Fun - Magic the Gathering Avatar Event

🛍️ Shop Local

🗓️ Upcoming Events 

📣 We Want to Spotlight Your Business! Apply Here

✅ Advertising Opportunities
 

Dine Out for a Cause - Panera Bread Give-Back Supports Senior Companions

You are invited to turn a meal into meaningful support during a special Panera Bread Dine & Give Back Day benefiting the Knox County CAC Office on Aging Senior Companion Program. The fundraiser takes place on Friday, January 9, 2026, from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. at Panera Bread (at the 4893 N. Broadway Street NE location).

Throughout the day, 20% of eligible purchases made at this Panera location will be donated to support the Senior Companion Campaign. The Senior Companion Program serves adults 55 and older, pairing them with fellow seniors who provide companionship, encouragement, and support to those experiencing loneliness, isolation, or barriers related to aging. These services are offered free of charge to care recipients, making community support essential to keeping the program strong.

Every sandwich, soup, salad, or coffee purchased helps fund volunteer transportation, stipends, and meal reimbursements—ensuring seniors in our community can continue building meaningful, life-enhancing relationships.

Whether you stop in for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a quick treat, your visit makes a difference. Grab a bite, spread the word, and help nourish both neighbors and community during this special give-back day.

Sunday Funday Mimosa Brunch Returns to Last Days of Autumn Brewing

Kick off your Sunday with good food, good drinks, and laid-back vibes at Sunday Funday Mimosa Brunch, happening January 4th, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Last Days of Autumn Brewing (900 E Magnolia Ave).

This popular brunch is back with a lineup of crave-worthy specials designed to make your weekend linger just a little longer. The menu features a Smoked Salmon Benedict, a rich and indulgent Monte Cristo Sandwich, and comforting classics like Blue Crab Cake Bennies and Sausage Gravy & Biscuits. Pair it all with refreshing mimosas while you settle in for a relaxed Sunday afternoon.

Sports fans won’t miss a beat—NFL Sunday Ticket will be on with all games available, making it easy to catch your favorite team while enjoying brunch. Whether you’re meeting friends, recovering from the holidays, or just looking for a great excuse to brunch and sip, the atmosphere is welcoming and easygoing.

Last Days of Autumn Brewing offers the perfect setting for a casual brunch with elevated flavors.

Local VIP Passes - No App, No Signup, Just Perks

Interested in learning about how a VIP Pass can help your business? Reach out to [email protected] for more information!

Stand Up Comedy Open Mic Brings Big Laughs to Barrelhouse

Looking for midweek laughs or a chance to test your own comedic chops? Stand Up Comedy Open Mic returns to Barrelhouse (621 Lamar St. NE) on January 7th, from 7 p.m.–10 p.m., offering an energetic night of live comedy with free entry.

Hosted by Justin Mays and Andrew McAffry, this open mic is where Knoxville’s comedy scene comes alive. Whether you’re a first-time performer working up the nerve to step on stage or a seasoned comic refining new material, this is the place to do it. Each comedian gets five minutes to run their set, keeping the night fast-paced and unpredictable for the audience.

Sign-ups begin at 6:30 p.m., with limited spots available, so performers are encouraged to arrive early. For audience members, it’s a chance to catch fresh jokes, surprise performances, and the raw, unfiltered energy that only an open mic can deliver. Fair warning: this show does include strong adult content.

Grab a drink, settle in, and enjoy a night of local talent and big laughs at Barrelhouse. Whether you’re on stage or in the crowd, this weekly comedy night is a fun way to shake up your Wednesday.

Double the Cards, Double the Fun - Magic the Gathering Avatar Event

Magic players and fans of Avatar: The Last Airbender have a special event to look forward to this January. Paragon Gaming (4232 Asheville Highway) is hosting a Magic the Gathering: Avatar DOUBLE DOWN event on January 10th, starting at 12:00 p.m.

This unique tournament-style event gives each participant two Avatar prerelease kits, allowing players to open packs on the spot and build a 40-card minimum deck using the cards they pull—including promos. Basic lands will be provided, so players can focus on strategy, creativity, and gameplay right from the start. The format is designed to be both competitive and fun, making it welcoming for seasoned players and newer fans alike.

The event will feature a minimum of three rounds, with additional rounds added depending on player turnout. High performers will be rewarded, with first place receiving an Avatar Collector Booster Box, and an additional $700 in store credit distributed among other top finishers.

Whether you’re eager to test your deck-building skills, explore the Avatar-themed cards, or simply enjoy a day immersed in Magic with fellow players, this DOUBLE DOWN event offers a high-energy, community-focused way to spend a Saturday afternoon. Seats are limited, so arriving early is encouraged for anyone ready to shuffle up and play.

NEW - You can now add events directly to your calendar with our event Add to Calendar links.

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

Recurring events

🗓️ 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. | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ January 3rd - Collectors, history buffs, and curious shoppers alike are invited to explore the Knoxville Coin and Currency Show from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The event takes place at 8807 Kingston Pike and is open to the public with free admission. | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ 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 | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ January 3rd - Collectors, hobbyists, and families alike are invited to kick off the new year at The Collective Trading Co. Monthly Showcase, happening 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. | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ January 3rd - Kick off 2026 with intention, energy, and inspiration at Drip into Wellness @ Knox Fit Fest, happening 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. | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ 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 | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ 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). | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ January 5th - If learning to dance salsa has always been on your bucket list, this is your moment. Salsa Knoxville Dance Company is kicking off an 8-Week Salsa Bootcamp starting at 7:00 p.m., and it’s designed for absolute beginners as well as anyone who’s ever said they have two left feet. Held at 4028 Papermill Drive NW, Suite 16, this high-energy bootcamp runs every Monday through February 23rd, giving participants a fun, supportive way to build real dance skills over eight weeks. More Info

Golden Girls Themed Trivia is coming to downtown Knoxville on January 6th at 7:00 p.m. The fun takes place at Xul Beer Company – Downtown (213 E 5th Avenue) and it’s shaping up to be one of the most popular trivia nights of the season. | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ January 6th from 5:00 PM–7:30 PM, WaveMAX Knoxville (5210 Schubert Rd) hosts Laundry Love’s monthly community outreach event. Designed to support individuals and families facing financial hardship, Laundry Love offers free laundry services in a warm, welcoming environment. | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ January 9th - South Knoxville’s vibrant creative scene takes center stage, as the South Knoxville Art Walk returns from 5:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m. Hosted by Printshop Beer Co. (1532 Island Home Ave) and neighboring South Knoxville merchants, this free, public event invites the community to explore art, music, and local flavor along the river. Held on the second Friday of each month, the Art Walk showcases a wide range of visual art while highlighting the talents of local artists and makers.

🗓️ January 9th–11th - One of East Tennessee’s most anticipated automotive traditions is back this January as the 42nd Annual Cabin Fever Car & Motorcycle Show takes over the Knoxville Expo Center (5441 Clinton Highway) from 8am - 4pm. This three-day event brings together car and motorcycle enthusiasts from across the region for a weekend packed with horsepower, craftsmanship, and classic style. | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ January 10th - 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 from 7:30 AM to 12:00 PM. The event begins at Nixon's Deli #4, located at 224 N Peters Road NW. This annual hike is a suicide prevention initiative built around a simple but vital message: You Are Valuable. More Info & Register | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ January 10th–11th - Repticon Knoxville is slithering back into town for a full weekend of family-friendly fun and fascination at the Chilhowee Park & Exposition Center. More Info & Tickets | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ January 20th - Local professionals, entrepreneurs, and business owners are invited to kick off 2026 with a laid-back social networking event designed to make building connections fun and easy. Networking on Tap: IBN Evening Social takes place from 5:30–7:00 p.m. at Orange Hat Brewing – Hardin Valley (10246 Hardin Valley Road). | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ 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 | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ February 21st - Enjoy a day-long immersion in movement, music, and tradition at Celebrate Spring! Traditional Circle Dances from Greece, the Balkans and Armenia, from 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The event will be held at Broadway Academy (706 N Broadway). The cost for the full-day experience is offered on a sliding scale of $40, $60, or $80. Advance registration is required and can be completed at www.InTheDance.com. | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ 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.

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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