In this Knoxville Insider Issue…

🌤️ Weather | Cloudy with a High of 53

📰 Grief Recovery Support Groups Launch This Month in Powell and Online

📰 Start 2026 Strong at UT Medical Center’s New Year, New Career Hiring Event

🗓️ Indoor Corgi Meet-Up Brings the Floof to Downtown Knoxville

🗓️ TONIGHT - Family Owl Prowl Offers a Nighttime Nature Adventure at Ijams

🛍️ Shop Local

🗓️ Upcoming Events 

📣 We Want to Spotlight Your Business! Apply Here

✅ Advertising Opportunities
 

Grief Recovery Support Groups Launch This Month in Powell and Online

Navigating loss can feel overwhelming, but help is available locally. MyNatt Funeral Home, Inc. is now offering The Grief Recovery Method®, the only evidence-based grief recovery program of its kind, designed to help individuals move beyond the pain of loss and reclaim hope.

These free Grief Support Groups are open to anyone experiencing heartbreak from death, divorce, financial loss, or major life changes. The program runs for 8 consecutive weeks, with each session lasting two hours and providing compassionate, step-by-step guidance in a supportive group setting.

Participants can choose to attend in person at Powell Church (323 W. Emory Road) on Sundays from 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm, running January 11th through March 1st, or online via Zoom on Tuesdays from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm, from January 20th through March 10th. The workshops are facilitated by Joy Gaertner, an Advanced Grief Recovery Specialist with decades of experience helping individuals heal from life’s deepest losses.

Space is limited, and advance registration is required. For details, Zoom links, or to register, call (865) 963-9221. For those seeking a gentle, proven path forward after loss, this program offers a meaningful place to begin.

Start 2026 Strong at UT Medical Center’s New Year, New Career Hiring Event

If a career change is on your New Year’s list, UT Medical Center is opening the door to new opportunities with its New Year, New Career Hiring Event on January 14th, from 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm.

Held at 1924 Alcoa Highway in the Heart Hospital Conference Room, this in-person event gives job seekers the chance to explore full-time career opportunities across UT Medical Center’s academic health system. Attendees can meet hiring leaders, learn about current openings, and discover pathways for long-term growth in healthcare.

This event is ideal for new graduates, experienced professionals, or anyone interested in building a meaningful career in healthcare. For those unable to attend in person, a virtual hiring event will also take place from 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm the same day.

Advance registration is encouraged. For questions or more information, attendees can contact (865) 305-4521 or email [email protected]. Whether you’re starting fresh or taking the next step, this event offers a direct connection to a rewarding future in healthcare. RSVP for in-person event | RSVP for virtual event

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

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Indoor Corgi Meet-Up Brings the Floof to Downtown Knoxville

Corgi lovers, get ready for an afternoon of short legs, big smiles, and plenty of tail wags. The (Indoor) Corgi Meet Up is happening on January 25th at 3:00 pm at Barrelhouse by Gypsy Circus, offering a cozy, weather-proof way for corgis and their humans to mingle.

Hosted by local corgi enthusiasts alongside the Knoxville Corgi Club, this gathering takes place in Barrelhouse’s spacious indoor “tapestry room,” giving both people and pups room to mix, socialize, and relax. Expect a friendly, laid-back atmosphere where corgi “loaves” are welcome to say hello while their humans enjoy craft drinks, appetizers, BBQ, handhelds, and other menu favorites.

The event is open to the public and designed to be social and fun—whether you’re a longtime corgi owner or just love seeing a room full of happy pups.

TONIGHT - Family Owl Prowl Offers a Nighttime Nature Adventure at Ijams

Families are invited to experience the magic of the woods after dark during the Family Owl Prowl, happening TONIGHT, January 4th, from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm at Ijams Nature Center (2915 Island Home Ave).

This guided evening program gives participants the chance to meet Ijams’ resident owl ambassadors before heading out onto the trails to listen and look for owls in their natural habitat. Along the way, families will learn about the fascinating adaptations that make owls such skilled nighttime hunters and practice identifying calls from species like Barred Owls, Eastern Screech Owls, and Great Horned Owls.

Designed for ages 10 and up, the Family Owl Prowl blends education, exploration, and a sense of adventure, making it a memorable way to connect with nature together. Trails may be uneven and extend up to two miles, so comfortable shoes and a sense of curiosity are encouraged.

For families looking to start the new year with something unique and outdoorsy, this nighttime owl experience is a real hoot. More Info & Tickets

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 4th - Kick off your Sunday with good food, good drinks, and laid-back vibes at Sunday Funday Mimosa Brunch, happening from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Last Days of Autumn Brewing (900 E Magnolia Ave). | 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 7th - 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) from 7 p.m.–10 p.m., offering an energetic night of live comedy with free entry. | 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 - 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 from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. at Panera Bread (at the 4893 N. Broadway Street NE location). | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ 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 - 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, starting at 12:00 p.m. | 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 13th - Get ready for a dazzling night of iconic music and elevated dining with Red Piano Nights - An Elton John Tribute at The Pearl at Aspire (777 Aspire Drive, Clinton). More Info & Tickets | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ January 16th - Fans of timeless rock are in for a treat when DREAMS — A Fleetwood Mac Experience comes to Crafty Bastard Brewery – West (9937 Kingston Pike) from 7 PM–9 PM. This live show invites audiences to relive the magic, mystique, and unforgettable sound of Fleetwood Mac in an intimate, high-energy setting. | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ January 17th–19th - Get ready to travel back in time when Dinosaur Adventure roars into Knoxville at Chilhowee Park & Exposition Center. This immersive, family-friendly experience brings prehistoric giants to life with life-sized, realistic dinosaurs that move and roar, creating an unforgettable adventure for kids and adults alike. More Info & Tickets | Add to Calendar (Jan. 17th) | Add to Calendar (Jan. 18th) | Add to Calendar (Jan. 19th) |

🗓️ 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 25th - Welcome the New Year with culture, community, and hands-on fun at the Japanese New Year Celebration at Market Square from 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM. Hosted by Knox Asian Festival, this festive afternoon brings beloved Japanese traditions to the heart of downtown. | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ January 27th - Step into an evening of timeless style, smooth vocals, and classic romance at Red Piano Nights: A Frank Sinatra Tribute at The Pearl at Aspire (777 Aspire Drive, Clinton). More Info & Tickets | 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 |

🗓️ January 28th - Veterans and supporters are invited to gather for an evening of connection, conversation, and camaraderie at Pints With Patriots: Veterans Social,  from 6 p.m.–8 p.m. at Printshop Beer Co. (1532 Island Home Ave). | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ January 31st - Card collectors, sports fans, and hobby enthusiasts will want to mark their calendars for a big day at Covenant Health Park (502 E. Jackson Ave. NE) from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., The Collective Trading Company is bringing The Smokies Card Show to one of Knoxville’s most exciting venues for an inaugural, stadium-scale event. | 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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