In this Knoxville Insider Issue…

🌤️ Weather | Light Rain with a High of 64

📰 The ChainFree Ball Brings Art, Advocacy, and Impact to Downtown Knoxville

📰 (Re)Discovering Knoxville: B. J. Clark Exhibition & Special Auction

🗓️ Elvis’ Birthday Bash Brings Rock ’n’ Roll Flair to Sweet P’s

🗓️ Tennessee Scholars’ Bowl Returns for Its 42nd Season on East Tennessee PBS

🛍️ Shop Local

🗓️ Upcoming Events 

📣 We Want to Spotlight Your Business! Apply Here

✅ Advertising Opportunities
 

The ChainFree Ball Brings Art, Advocacy, and Impact to Downtown Knoxville

You are invited to dress up for a powerful cause at The ChainFree Ball, an inaugural fundraising gala hosted by ChainFree, taking place January 31st, at the Crowne Plaza Knoxville. The evening blends art, advocacy, and celebration—raising critical funds to help end the practice of continuous dog tethering across East Tennessee.

One of the night’s most meaningful centerpieces is a live art collaboration with insPYRE, founded by renowned sculptor Preston Farabow and master welder Joe Hall. Students from the Men of Valor program—formerly incarcerated men rebuilding their lives—have created a large-scale metal sculpture using actual chains removed from dogs previously tethered through ChainFree’s work. The sculpture will be completed live during the event and then displayed publicly in downtown Knoxville for the following year.

Guests can also enjoy an extended cocktail hour, live piano music, a professionally led live auction, a 360-degree video booth, and more. Proceeds directly support ChainFree’s mission, which includes building free dog enclosures, providing spay/neuter services, and offering compassionate community education and advocacy.

Cocktail attire is encouraged, free parking is available at the Crowne Plaza, and a limited number of discounted hotel rooms are available for the weekend. Tickets are on sale now, and this promises to be a memorable night where creativity and compassion come together for lasting community impact. More Info & Tickets

(Re)Discovering Knoxville: B. J. Clark Exhibition & Special Auction

The Emporium Center will feature (Re)Discovering Knoxville, a compelling exhibition of works by acclaimed Knoxville artist B. J. Clark, alongside pieces by other regional artists, held at The Emporium (100 S. Gay Street)

Art lovers can take part in a silent auction, with bidding continuing through 5 PM on January 23rd, during gallery hours. For those who know exactly what they want when they see it, a “Buy It Now” option will be available. Proceeds from the sale directly support services for individual artists through the Arts & Culture Alliance.

The exhibition highlights Clark’s textured, evocative style and deep connection to place. A native Knoxvillian, Clark is an award-winning artist whose honors include recognition from the East Tennessee Historical Society, Dogwood Arts Regional Exhibition, Tennessee Watercolor Society, Tennessee Artists, Oak Ridge Art Center Regional Show, Kentucky Watercolor Society National Exhibition, Fountain City Art Center Open Show, and the Boston Massachusetts National Exhibition.

Auction registration will be available in person at the Emporium or by calling (865) 523-7543. Whether you’re discovering new favorites or supporting Knoxville’s creative community, this First Friday exhibition and auction offers a meaningful way to start the year immersed in local art.

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Elvis’ Birthday Bash Brings Rock ’n’ Roll Flair to Sweet P’s

Get ready to shake, rattle, and roll as Elvis’ Birthday Bash takes over Sweet P’s Barbecue (3029 Tazewell Pike) on January 10th from 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. Back by popular demand, this lively celebration honors the music and larger-than-life spirit of Elvis Presley—with a fun twist.

The night features an energetic Elvis impersonator, Jesse Wade, performing crowd-pleasing classics that will have guests singing along and showing off their best “thank you, thank you very much.” Along with the music, Sweet P’s will serve up Elvis-inspired specials—yes, including the legendary peanut butter and banana sandwich—alongside their signature barbecue favorites.

Whether you’re a lifelong Elvis fan or just looking for a high-energy night out, this two-hour bash promises great food, iconic tunes, and plenty of rockin’ fun. Blue suede shoes encouraged.

Tennessee Scholars’ Bowl Returns for Its 42nd Season on East Tennessee PBS

One of our areas’ most beloved academic traditions is back. Tennessee Scholars’ Bowl begins its 42nd season on January 12th, airing weekdays at 5:30 p.m. ET on East Tennessee PBS through March 19th.

The fast-paced tournament features teams from 44 high schools across East Tennessee and Southeast Kentucky, representing public, private, parochial, and homeschool communities. Four-student teams compete in single-elimination matches, answering challenging questions across a wide range of subjects including literature, math, science, history, geography, music, art, sports, and more.

As the season unfolds, viewers can follow the excitement through the tournament’s signature rounds: the Threshold of Thirty-Two beginning February 5, the Smart Sixteen on February 27, the Educated Eight on March 11, and the Philosophical Four on March 17. The championship match airs March 19, with an encore presentation on March 20, as the final two teams compete for the Frank Miller Memorial Trophy and a cash stipend.

Longtime host and head writer Frank Murphy returns for his tenth season, joined by director and producer Chris Smith, executive producer Ernie Roberts, and East Tennessee PBS President and CEO Vickie Lawson. Recent champions include Webb School of Knoxville, Hardin Valley Academy, J. Frank White Academy, Maryville High School, and Cedar Springs Homeschool.

For families, students, and lifelong learners, Tennessee Scholars’ Bowl continues to celebrate academic excellence, teamwork, and quick thinking—making it must-watch television once again this winter.

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 6th - Golden Girls Themed Trivia is coming to downtown Knoxville 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 14th - 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 from 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm. Advance registration is encouraged. For questions or more information, attendees can contact (865) 305-4521 or email [email protected]. | RSVP for in-person event | RSVP for virtual event | 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 25th - Corgi lovers, get ready for an afternoon of short legs, big smiles, and plenty of tail wags. The (Indoor) Corgi Meet Up is happening at 3:00 pm at Barrelhouse by Gypsy Circus, offering a cozy, weather-proof way for corgis and their humans to mingle. | 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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