In this Knoxville Insider Issue…
🌤️ Weather | Mostly Cloudy with a High of 33
📰 Five New Art Exhibitions Open at the Emporium
🗓️ Swiftie Skate Brings Music, Friendship, and Fundraising to Skatetown
🛍️ Shop Local
🗓️ Upcoming Events
📣 We Want to Spotlight Your Business! Apply Here
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Today’s Record High: 72 in 1907 — Record Low: 5 in 1893

Wild Wings Returns - Grand Re-Opening

A longtime favorite is making a comeback in West Knoxville. Wild Wing Cafe - Farragut is officially reopening its doors on January 16th at 4:00 PM, welcoming guests back to its original Knoxville-area location in Turkey Creek.
Located at 11335 Campbell Lakes Drive, the grand reopening marks the return of the familiar flavors and fun Wild Wing Cafe fans have missed—think hot wings, cold beer, and a lively atmosphere perfect for gathering with friends and family. The event is open to the public, and the response has already been enthusiastic, with hundreds expressing interest in celebrating the return.
Whether you’re a longtime regular or new to the Wild Wing Cafe experience, Friday’s reopening is the perfect excuse to stop by, grab a seat, and enjoy the comeback of a Farragut favorite.
Five New Art Exhibitions Open at the Emporium

Downtown Knoxville’s art scene gets a major boost this winter as the Arts & Culture Alliance unveils five new exhibitions at the Emporium Center (100 S. Gay Street) on February 6th, with a public opening reception from 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM. The free evening celebration will include live music by Celtic harpist Kim Perkins and a chance to meet many of the featured artists.
Headlining the upper gallery is time. place., curated by Nashville-based independent curator Ashley Layendecker. This thoughtfully assembled exhibition explores how geography, timing, and creative relationships shape artistic practice. Featuring Tennessee-based and Tennessee-influenced artists with strong ties to Knoxville and Nashville, the show reflects the idea that artists are formed not only by where they work, but by the people and communities that surround them. The exhibition runs February 6th – March 29th, with artist reflections shared throughout the run and a closing panel planned during Big Ears Festival.
In the lower gallery, the 20th Annual National Juried Exhibition of 2026 showcases work from 37 artists across the region, representing a wide range of media including painting, photography, wood, fiber, glass, and mixed media. More than $1,800 in cash awards will be announced during a brief awards ceremony at 5:30 PM on opening night. The exhibition is juried by Chattanooga-based painter and UT Chattanooga professor Christina Renfer Vogel.
Additional exhibitions round out the Emporium’s February lineup:
Lisa Kurtz: Fired Up! (Display Case) highlights ceramic works created using multiple firing methods, emphasizing texture, atmosphere, and personal history.
Farhad Naimy: Fluid Art (Atrium) features vibrant resin-enhanced acrylic works inspired by nature, color, and movement.
Katie Dirnbauer: The Things We Carry (Atrium) presents a powerful mixed-media installation addressing grief, trauma, memory, and healing through encaustic wax, photography, and found materials.
All exhibitions will be on display February 6th – 28th. Many works will be available for purchase both in person and online through the Arts & Culture Alliance shop.
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ReGiftmas Brings a Festive Twist to Business Networking

Clear out those never-used gifts and kick off the new year with connection, laughter, and a little surprise at ReGiftmas 🎁 — A Festive, Free Women’s Networking FUNction! This playful networking event takes place January 20th from 7:00–9:00 PM at 1104 Merchant Drive, Suite 103.
Hosted by GalFunction alongside The Hub Pro Studio and Corinne McMurtery, ReGiftmas puts a lighthearted spin on traditional networking by combining intentional conversation with a classic white-elephant-style gift exchange. The goal is simple: start the year feeling supported, energized, and genuinely connected—without awkward pitches or pressure.
Here’s how it works: attendees are invited to bring up to two regiftable items—those holiday gifts you never quite needed or planned to pass along anyway. The exchange is split into two rounds: one for items valued up to $30, and another for items $35 and over. While the gifts add fun, the heart of the evening is guided networking with thoughtful prompts and structured mingling designed to help women meet new faces and build meaningful relationships.
ReGiftmas is free to attend and open to anyone looking for community, collaboration, and a fresh start to the year. Come for the laughs, stay for the connections—and you just might leave with a gift you actually love this time.
Swiftie Skate Brings Music, Friendship, and Fundraising to Skatetown

Swifties of all ages are invited to lace up their skates for Swiftie Skate, a fun-filled, music-powered night happening January 20th from 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM at Skatetown (5713 N. Broadway Street NE).
This themed skate night celebrates all Taylor Swift eras and encourages attendees to dress as their favorite era while enjoying an evening of skating, music, and creativity. The event will feature friendship bracelet making and trading, a look-alike contest, and a photo station to capture the memories. Skating is included with admission, making it an easy and energetic night out for fans and families.
Swiftie Skate is also a Skate for the Cause fundraiser benefiting the Senior Companion Program, which supports adults 55+ who volunteer to provide companionship and assistance to older adults experiencing loneliness and isolation. Proceeds help cover volunteer transportation, stipends, and meals—making a direct impact in the community.
Admission is $15 per person, with skates included.

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.
🗓️ 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 26th - 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 from 6:15 p.m. – 7:45 p.m. at Church Street United Methodist Church (900 Henley Street). | 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 - 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, held from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.. This 18+ event is priced at $125 per person, with tickets limited and sales ending February 8th. More Info | 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 |
🗓️ 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:
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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