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📰 United Veterans Council Expands Monthly Breakfasts for Veterans

📰 Friends of the Library to Host First-Ever In-Person Book Ball

🗓️ Volunteers Needed for Wreaths Across America Pick-Up at Knoxville National Cemetery

🗓️ Knoxville Sings Kicks Off Spring 2026 with a One-Night Community Choir Experience

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🗓️ Upcoming Events

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The United Veterans Council of East Tennessee has expanded its long-running free breakfast program for veterans, growing from 14 to 17 monthly locations. These breakfasts are open to all veterans and their guests and are designed to offer not just a hot meal, but fellowship, connection, and appreciation for those who have served.

Each breakfast follows the same welcoming schedule, with coffee served at 8:00 a.m. and the chow line opening at 8:30 a.m. Locations are spread across multiple counties and rotate by First, Second, Third, and Last Saturdays of each month, making it easier than ever for veterans to find a nearby option.

The expanded list now includes sites in Knoxville, Sevierville, Dandridge, Seymour, Kodak, Maynardville, Oliver Springs, Louisville, Newport, Erwin, and Wears Valley, hosted at a mix of community centers, churches, VFWs, DAV chapters, Elks Lodges, and civic organizations. This growth reflects the program’s continued success and the strong community support behind it.

The breakfasts are completely free, fueled by volunteers and sponsors who believe in honoring veterans in meaningful, practical ways. For many attendees, these mornings have become a cherished routine—a chance to reconnect with fellow veterans, meet new friends, and start the weekend with a sense of belonging.

Those interested in learning more, volunteering, or sponsoring a breakfast can call (865) 604-4443. With the expansion to 17 locations, the United Veterans Council is ensuring that more veterans than ever have a place at the table.

Book lovers, mark your calendars — a brand-new literary celebration is coming to Knoxville. The Friends of the Knox County Public Library are hosting their first-ever in-person Book Ball, an elegant and imaginative evening designed to celebrate books, community, and the vital role libraries play in our lives.

The Friends of the Library Book Ball will take place on February 21st, from 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. at The Lighthouse Knoxville (6800 Baum Drive). This 18+ event is priced at $125 per person, with tickets limited and sales ending February 8.

Guests are invited to lean into the magic of storytelling by dressing as their favorite book character or opting for creative cocktail attire. The evening will feature a DJ and dancing, book-themed photo backdrops, hors d’oeuvres, non-alcoholic beverages, and a cash bar serving special literary-inspired cocktails and mocktails. It promises to be a night filled with fellowship, fun, and plenty of literary flair.

Beyond the festivities, the Book Ball serves a meaningful purpose. All proceeds directly support Knox County Public Library programs, including early literacy initiatives, children’s events, author talks, cultural programming, and the preservation of local history.

Can’t attend in person? Supporters can still take part through the “Stay Home & Read a Book Ball.” Participants are encouraged to enjoy a cozy night in with a good book and donate at a level that fits their night-at-home plans — from $50 (Cozy Chapter) to $250+ (The Whole Collection). Pajamas are encouraged, dancing is optional, and the impact is guaranteed.

Whether you’re hitting the dance floor dressed as a beloved literary character or celebrating from your couch with a favorite novel, this inaugural Book Ball offers a memorable way to support literacy and learning in Knox County — and help make the first year truly unforgettable. More Info

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

As the holiday season comes to a close, you are invited to take part in the meaningful final step of Wreaths Across America by helping with wreath pick-up at Knoxville National Cemetery, located at 939 Tyson Street NW.

The pick-up is scheduled for January 17th, beginning at 10:00 a.m., and will take place rain or shine. This effort is an important part of honoring the veterans laid to rest at the cemetery, ensuring the grounds are respectfully restored while maintaining the dignity of the tribute.

Volunteers of all ages are welcome and encouraged to participate. Those who are able are asked to bring work gloves, broomsticks, and plastic tarps to assist with gathering the wreaths. Pick-up trucks are especially needed to help transport wreaths to the on-site dumpsters, making the process faster and more efficient.

This is a hands-on opportunity for our community to come together in service, remembrance, and gratitude. Whether you can stay for a few minutes or the entire morning, every helping hand makes a difference in honoring those who served our country.

Love to sing—or curious about joining a choir? Knoxville Sings – Spring 2026 invites singers of all experience levels to take part in a special one-night musical experience on January 26th, from 6:15 p.m. – 7:45 p.m. at Church Street United Methodist Church (900 Henley Street).

Presented by the Summit Choral Collective, this kickoff event offers a fresh twist on previous Knoxville Sings gatherings. Participants will come together to learn a selected song in one evening and perform it by the end of the night, making it a fun, low-pressure way to experience the joy of group singing.

The evening also serves as an open door to the broader Knoxville Sings community. Attendees will have the chance to meet the choir’s directors and members, connect with new faces, and learn more about joining the community choir for the rest of the Spring 2026 semester.

Whether you’re a seasoned singer or just enjoy making music with others, this welcoming event is a great way to try something new and be part of Knoxville’s vibrant choral scene.

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 14th - The Vine Network is hosting its first faith-based business networking meeting at 8:30 a.m. at 4900 Horsestall Drive, offering a welcoming space for local entrepreneurs, creatives, and business owners to grow together through faith, purpose, and collaboration. | 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 16th & 17th - 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). | Add to Calendar (Jan. 16th) | Add to Calendar (Jan. 17th) |

🗓️ January 17th - Looking for a fresh-air adventure that’s fun, relaxing, and a little bit farm-tastic? Pygmy Harbor Farm (2222 Robin Ben Lane) is opening its gates for Open Farm Day from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. | 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 - 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) at 6:30 p.m., offering a refreshing new way to socialize, connect, and unwind — completely pressure-free. | 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 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 23rd - 25th - Knoxville is about to tumble down the rabbit hole as the Free Alice in Wonderland & Disney Art & Cosplay Expo takes over the Hilton Knoxville (501 West Church Avenue) from January 23rd–25th, bringing three days of fantasy, creativity, and fandom to downtown. Hours are the 23rd from 6pm-9pm, and the 24th-25th from 12pm-6pm | Add to Calendar (Jan. 23rd) | Add to Calendar (Jan. 24th) | Add to Calendar (Jan. 25th) |

🗓️ 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 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 - Get ready for an action-packed evening that supports a great local school! The Halls Elementary School PTO is hosting a B&B Indoor Foam Dart Arena Fundraiser from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at 6709 Maynardville Pike. Participation is $12.50 per person, and players should bring sticky socks—or you can purchase a pair on site for $3. | 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 6th–8th - The Knoxville RV Show returns to 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. Admission for adults is $15 (cash only) at the door. More Info | Add to Calendar (Feb. 6th) | Add to Calendar (Feb. 7th) | Add to Calendar (Feb. 8th) |

🗓️ 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.

See Recurring Weekly & Monthly Networking Events

🗓️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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