In this Knoxville Insider Issue…

🌤️ Weather | Rain with a High of 65

📰 The Wizard of Hawz (The Akima Cabaret 2026)

📰 Visit Knoxville Renovation Ushers in a New Era for WDVX’s Blue Plate Special

🗓️ ChocolateFest Returns to Knoxville’s Old City

🗓️ The Maker City Summit Returns for a Weekend of Creativity, Business, and Community

🛍️ Shop Local

🗓️ Upcoming Events 

📣 We Want to Spotlight Your Business! Apply Here

✅ Advertising Opportunities
 

The Wizard of Hawz (The Akima Cabaret 2026)

What happens when a couple that hates country music goes moonshine tasting in Gatlinburg, only to find themselves transported to the land of Hee Haw with all its colorful characters? Their arrival causes a musical rift, and now all the pop, rock, and country artists are singing the wrong genres. 

Miss Minnie Pearl sends them on a journey to find the Wizard of Hawz to set things right! Who will they encounter along the way? Will country music ever be country again? Will they ever make it home? Find out at Akima Cabaret 2026, The Wizard of Hawz, February 27th & 28th at The Mill & Mine (227 West Depot Street).

Founded in 1947, Akima is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and is in its 79^th year. Cabaret is an every-other-year event with all proceeds going to the Akima Grant program, which provides funding to area non-profit agencies. These agencies cover programming for Arts, Culture, and Science; Children and Youth; Medical and Social Services; Senior Assistance, and a variety of other fields. Earnings from the 2024 Cabaret went to Akima Grants in 2024 and 2025 and totaled over $186,000. So grab your partner and get your tickets at AkimaClub.org and get ready for a night of fun, food, and music that will remind you there is no place like down home.

Starting at 7 p.m., evening performances include the show, dinner, dancing, and a silent auction. Cost per ticket - $175. More Info & Tickets 

Visit Knoxville Renovation Ushers in a New Era for WDVX’s Blue Plate Special

An exciting new chapter is on the horizon for one of Knoxville’s most cherished music traditions. As the Visit Knoxville Visitor Center begins renovations to its first-floor gift shop and performance space, WDVX is preparing for the next phase of the iconic Blue Plate Special.

During construction, which is expected to be completed by May 2026, weekday and Saturday noon Blue Plate Special performances at the Visit Knoxville stage — along with First Friday Live shows at that location — will take a brief intermission. When the updated space reopens, audiences can expect a refreshed, enhanced environment designed to better serve artists, visitors, and the community.

Music lovers won’t have to go without live performances in the meantime. WDVX’s popular Friday noon “Big Plate” shows will continue uninterrupted at Barley's Pizzeria in the Old City, offering free live music and radio broadcasts that remain a cornerstone of downtown’s cultural scene.

Since launching in 1997 and moving to the Visit Knoxville stage in 2004, the Blue Plate Special has become an internationally recognized platform for live music, welcoming artists such as Chris Stapleton, Tyler Childers, Sturgill Simpson, The Avett Brothers, Old Crow Medicine Show, and many more — alongside celebrated local and regional talent. The series has drawn visitors from around the world while spotlighting Knoxville’s deep musical roots.

During the renovation period, listeners can also tune in to The Blue Plate Special Revisited, airing at noon every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday, featuring standout performances from the show’s extensive archive.

As renovations move forward, WDVX is exploring opportunities to bring Blue Plate Special performances to additional venues across East Tennessee — extending the spirit of the series while its downtown home gets a well-deserved refresh. Come May, the Blue Plate Special will return to a renewed Visit Knoxville Visitor Center, ready to continue celebrating live music, local culture, and the shared experiences that make Knoxville such a special place to visit — and call home.

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!

ChocolateFest Returns to Knoxville’s Old City

Chocolate lovers, mark your calendars—ChocolateFest is back and sweeter than ever at a new location! The popular festival returns January 30th - 31st at The Standard Knoxville in the Old City (416 W. Jackson Ave), bringing two days of indulgent tastings, boutique vendors, and a good cause.

ChocolateFest celebrates all things cocoa with curated tasting sessions featuring some of East Tennessee’s best chocolatiers, bakers, and candy makers. Each session includes guided tastings served right to your table, plus access to a vendor marketplace filled with sweet treats and giftable goodies.

Saturday offers family-friendly daytime tastings, while Friday and Saturday nights turn up the flavor with ChocolateFest: After Dark—an adults-only experience featuring curated alcoholic pairings and live music (21+). Tickets are on sale now at mychocolatefest.com, and sessions typically sell out, so advance purchase is recommended.

Treat yourself—and support a great cause—at ChocolateFest in the Old City. Best of all, a portion of ticket sales benefits Ronald McDonald House in Knoxville. More Info & Tickets

The Maker City Summit Returns for a Weekend of Creativity, Business, and Community

Knoxville’s creative community will come together January 31st – February 1st as the The Maker City Summit returns for its 10th year. Hosted by The Maker City, the Summit brings makers, artists, and creative entrepreneurs from across the region together for hands-on learning, practical business education, and meaningful connection. Tickets are on sale now, and a limited number of scholarships are available to help ensure cost isn’t a barrier to participation.

Designed for anyone building—or dreaming of building—a maker business, the Summit offers sessions led by local experts, opportunities to network with fellow creatives, and inspiration from leaders who understand what it takes to turn creative work into sustainable income. This year’s keynote lineup features nationally recognized voices in design, entrepreneurship, and culture, including Debbie Millman, James Victore, Phillip Collins, and Sarah Sewell.

Registered attendees can also take advantage of complimentary add-ons, available on a first-come basis. These include one-on-one expert sessions to tackle specific business challenges and quick professional headshot appointments to refresh photos for websites, marketplaces, and profiles.

As The Maker City celebrates a decade of supporting Knoxville’s creative economy, the 2026 Summit continues its mission of connecting makers to resources, community, and opportunities to grow. 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 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 9th–11th - New Lonsdale Flea Market - a high-energy flea market experience inspired by the fun and flair of “Knox Vegas,” running 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. | Add to Calendar (Jan. 9th) | Add to Calendar (Jan. 10th) | Add to Calendar (Jan. 11th) |

🗓️ January 10th - Wreaths Across America Wreath pick-up is scheduled at 9:00 a.m. at both Tennessee State Veterans Cemeteries in Knoxville - The “Old” Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery (5901 Lyons View Pike) and at the “New” Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery (2300 Governor John Sevier Highway). | 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 - 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. | 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 10th* - 2026 Winter Farmers Markets hosted at the Hardin Valley Event Center. Mark your calendar for upcoming market dates, including January 10th & 24th, February 14th & 28th, March 14th & 28th, and April 11th. *many dates | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ January 11th - Buffalo Bills fans…it ain’t over yet!! The first playoff game is this Sunday, January 11th, at 1:00 PM. The Buffalo Bills Watch Party will be held at Clancy’s Tavern and Whiskey House (602 S. Gay Street). | 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 - Wreaths Across America Wreath pick-up is scheduled at 10:00 a.m. at Knoxville National Cemetery (939 Tyson Street NW). | 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 24th - The 2026 Read City season is about to roar to life with a prehistoric-themed kickoff the whole family will love. The Read City Kickoff: Stomp, Roar, Dinosaur!  takes place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Bridgewater Place (205 Bridgewater Road) and marks the start of another year of reading, learning, and community fun. More Info | 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 - The local music scene takes center stage at 2:00 p.m. with Droves at the Grove, a high-energy live music event hosted at the Historic Grove Theater (123 Randolph Rd, Oak Ridge). This all-ages show brings together an impressive lineup of regional bands for an afternoon packed with loud guitars, raw energy, and community vibes. | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ January 31st - You are invited to dress up for a powerful cause at The ChainFree Ball, an inaugural fundraising gala hosted by ChainFree, taking place at 6pm, 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. More Info & Tickets | 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 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

Become a Knoxville Insider Sponsor

Are you a new or established business looking to become known in our Knoxville Insider community? We are looking for locally-owned businesses that would like to become a Knoxville Insider sponsor! Sponsorships can include:

• Hero or section banners

• Logo

• Video

• Print

• Spotlight Directory

• and more…

Reach out to us at [email protected].

We Want To Spotlight Local Businesses!

Would you like us to spotlight your local business in front of thousands of Knoxville area residents in an upcoming issue of Knoxville Insider? Apply Here. Not a business owner, but love a local business? Tell us all about it - send us an email at [email protected]!