In this Knoxville Insider Issue…

🌤️ Weather | Sunny with a High of 47

📰 Fly Sober Night with Ace at Casual Pint

📰 Knoxville RV Show Rolls into Town

🗓️ A Sweet Night at the Movies - ‘Wonka’ Comes to Cruze Farm

🗓️ Bikes, Teens & Bracket Racing - New for 2026 at Knoxville Dragway

🛍️ Shop Local

🗓️ Upcoming Events 

📣 We Want to Spotlight Your Business! Apply Here

✅ Advertising Opportunities
 

Fly Sober Night with Ace at Casual Pint

Looking for a fun night out that doesn’t revolve around alcohol? Fly Sober Night with Ace is landing at The Casual Pint – Northshore (2045 Thunderhead Rd) on January 20th at 6:30 p.m., offering a refreshing new way to socialize, connect, and unwind — completely pressure-free.

Hosted in partnership with Ace Tours Knox, this special evening is all about adventurous, curated experiences without the expectation to drink. Whether you’re sober, sober-curious, taking a break, or just want something different from the usual bar scene, Fly Sober Night creates a welcoming, community-focused vibe where everyone can feel comfortable being themselves.

Guests can expect great energy, friendly faces, and plenty of mocktails and non-alcoholic options, proving that you don’t need booze to have a great time. The Casual Pint’s cozy Northshore location sets the perfect backdrop for conversation, laughter, and connection — with no awkwardness about what’s in your glass.

Tickets are required and should be purchased in advance through Ace Tours Knox, as this event is designed to provide a curated, intentional experience rather than a drop-in crowd.

If you’ve been looking for a night out that feels good the next day and still delivers on fun, Fly Sober Night with Ace is your chance to try something new and memorable.

Knoxville RV Show Rolls into Town

The Knoxville RV Show returns February 6th–8th, at the Knoxville Expo Center (5441 Clinton Hwy). Whether you’re a seasoned road-tripper or just starting to dream about life on the open road, this three-day showcase brings hundreds of the latest RVs under one roof for easy side-by-side shopping.

Shoppers will be able to tour everything from compact travel trailers to luxury motorhomes, all from top local and regional dealers. It’s the perfect opportunity to compare floor plans, features, and prices without having to drive all over East Tennessee. Knowledgeable RV experts will also be on hand to answer questions about financing, maintenance, and choosing the right rig for your travel style.

The event is designed to be family-friendly and fun. Kids 16 and under get in free, and there’s even a chance to meet Spider-Man, making it a great outing for families as well as serious RV shoppers. Free parking adds to the convenience, making it easy to spend the day exploring everything the show has to offer.

Admission for adults is $15 (cash only) at the door. The Knoxville Expo Center provides a spacious, climate-controlled setting to browse comfortably, rain or shine.

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!

A Sweet Night at the Movies - ‘Wonka’ Comes to Cruze Farm

Cruze Farm is bringing one of the most beloved family films of all time to the big outdoor screen as “Wonka” kicks off the return of Moovie Nights on January 16th and 17th at 6:30 p.m. at Cruze Farm (2721 Asbury Road).

This drive-in style movie night lets families, couples, and friends enjoy the magical world of Willy Wonka from the comfort of their cars or cozy lawn setups, all while being surrounded by the warm, welcoming atmosphere Cruze Farm is known for. The new “Wonka” movie reimagines the early days of the legendary chocolatier, blending heart, humor, and dazzling musical moments into a feel-good story that’s perfect for all ages.

Moovie Nights at Cruze Farm have become a local favorite because they mix great films with the simple joy of gathering outdoors, and this showing of “Wonka” is the perfect way to celebrate the start of the season. Guests can enjoy fresh farm ice cream, treats, and drinks while watching the movie under the stars — making it a sweet, laid-back alternative to the traditional movie theater.

Bikes, Teens & Bracket Racing - New for 2026 at Knoxville Dragway

Knoxville Dragway (160 Raceway Dr, Maynardville) is revving up for an exciting 2026 season with the launch of its new IHRA Bracket Program, bringing even more opportunities for racers of all ages and skill levels to compete on one of East Tennessee’s most iconic tracks. The Knoxville Dragway has long been a home for grassroots drag racing, and the 2026 lineup builds on that tradition with fresh classes and expanded youth involvement.

One of the biggest additions for 2026 is the new Sportsman ET Bike class, designed for motorcycle racers who want to compete in a true bracket-style format. This class keeps things street-focused and rider-controlled, requiring bike numbers and dial-ins to be visible on the bike and emphasizing safety and simplicity. Riders will use gasoline engines only, with no nitrous, turbos, superchargers, or other power adders. Full safety gear is required, including a full-face helmet, protective clothing, and boots, with leathers strongly encouraged. The bikes must run street tires with no slicks, no wheelie bars, and use traditional hand-clutch, foot-shifted setups—no electronic or air shifters or launch controls. An open bike class will also remain available, allowing for double entries, with payouts to be announced.

Also new for 2026 is the IHRA Teen Championship Racing (TCR) program, which gives young drivers ages 13–17 a safe and structured way to experience real drag racing competition. TCR races will be held on Friday nights before each bracket race, giving teens their own spotlight on race weekends. Drivers will compete in street vehicles and race only against other TCR competitors, with a required parent or guardian serving as co-rider and overseeing each run. This program focuses on teaching discipline, safety, and racing fundamentals while giving teens a legitimate pathway into motorsports.

With these new additions, Knoxville Dragway continues to grow as a regional hub for competitive racing, family involvement, and grassroots motorsports development. From seasoned bike racers to teens just getting started, the 2026 IHRA Bracket Program offers something for everyone who loves speed, precision, and the thrill of the strip.

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 24th - 2026 Winter Farmers Markets hosted at the Hardin Valley Event Center. Mark your calendar for upcoming market dates, including January 24th, February 14th & 28th, March 14th & 28th, and April 11th. | 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 22nd - 25th - Fishing fans of every age are invited to reel in excitement at the East Tennessee Fishing Show & Expo, taking over the Knoxville Expo Center (5441 Clinton Hwy) from January 22nd - 25th. This nation-class event celebrates the sport of fishing with gear, education, and family fun all under one roof. More Info & Tickets | Add to Calendar (Thurs, Jan. 22nd) | Add to Calendar (Fri, Jan 23rd) | Add to Calendar (Sat, Jan 24th) | Add to Calendar (Sun, Jan. 25th) |

🗓️ January 24th - Country music fans in East Tennessee are in for a truly special night when THE COALMINERS present Always Loretta at the Clayton Center for the Arts – Ronald and Lynda Nutt Theatre on January 24th at 7:30 p.m. This one-of-a-kind concert is the only officially authorized re-creation of a Loretta Lynn performance, approved by the Loretta Lynn Estate, and it brings her music, spirit, and stories back to life in a way no other tribute can. More Info & Tickets | 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 30th - 31st - 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. More Info & Tickets | Add to Calendar (Jan. 30th | Add to Calendar (Jan. 31st) |

🗓️ 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 |

🗓️ January 31st - February 1st - 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. More Info & Tickets | Add to Calendar (Jan. 31st) | Add to Calendar (Feb. 1st) |

🗓️ 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 |

🗓️ February 27th & 28th - 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! Held at The Mill & Mine (227 West Depot Street). More Info & Tickets | Add to Calendar (Feb. 27th) | Add to Calendar (Feb. 28th) |

🗓️ 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]!