In this Knoxville Insider Issue…
🌤️ Weather | Sunny with a High of 35
📰 Winter Wonderland Pawty Brings Festive Fun for Dogs to North Knoxville
🗓️ Princess Day Brings a Touch of Magic to Zoo Knoxville
🛍️ Shop Local
🗓️ Upcoming Events
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Today’s Record High: 71 in 1906 — Record Low: -18 in 1945

Let’s Get Saucy - A Pasta Date Night

Valentine’s week is getting a delicious twist with Let’s Get Saucy - Pasta Night, a hands-on pasta-making experience happening on February 13th, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Hosted by Painting Around (2917 W. Beaver Creek Drive) in collaboration with Events by Angie, this cozy culinary event invites guests to roll up their sleeves and enjoy a fun, flavor-filled night out.
Whether you’re celebrating with a date, gathering friends, or treating yourself to a unique solo experience, this pasta night is all about connection, creativity, and comfort food. Guests will learn how to make fresh pasta from scratch, guided step by step through the process before sitting down to enjoy a meal featuring their handmade noodles, paired with coordinating accompaniments to complete the evening.
No prior cooking experience is required, making this an easy and enjoyable way to try something new. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, with plenty of opportunities to laugh, learn, and get just a little saucy along the way. It’s an ideal option for couples, singles, or anyone looking to celebrate Valentine’s week in a memorable and interactive way.
The event takes place at 2917 W. Beaver Creek Drive in Powell, just outside Knoxville, and runs approximately two and a half hours. With limited spots available and strong early interest, those looking to attend are encouraged to register in advance.
For anyone craving a Valentine’s experience that goes beyond the traditional dinner reservation, Let’s Get Saucy - Pasta Night offers a perfect blend of hands-on fun, great food, and warm connections. Get your ticket - Single ticket ($35) or Couple ticket ($65)
Winter Wonderland Pawty Brings Festive Fun for Dogs to North Knoxville

Dog lovers are invited to treat their pups to a full day of winter-themed fun at the Winter Wonderland Pawty on January 21st, hosted by Hounds Town Knoxville North (5006 Clinton Highway). Taking place from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., this festive event is designed to give dogs a joyful day of play, socialization, and seasonal celebration.
Throughout the day, pups will enjoy interactive play with their furry friends in a safe, supervised environment. A themed photo shoot adds an extra touch of winter magic, allowing pet parents to capture adorable seasonal memories. Each dog will head home with a goodie bag after a full day of fun, making it a special treat from start to finish.
To participate, dogs must complete a no-cost temperament evaluation and take part in a free first day of daycare prior to the event. This ensures that all pups are comfortable and ready to enjoy group play. While the evaluation and trial day are complimentary, regular daycare or package rates apply on the day of the pawty, and free day vouchers cannot be used for party dates.
Hosted by Hounds Town Knoxville North, the Winter Wonderland Pawty reflects the organization’s commitment to safe, engaging, and enriching experiences for dogs in the Knoxville community. Pet parents are encouraged to schedule their pup’s evaluation in advance to secure a spot. More Info & Schedule
For dogs who love to play and socialize, this winter celebration offers a fun way to brighten the season while enjoying a full day of care, companionship, and festive cheer.
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Business Spotlight on Natyarpana School of Dance & Music

Founded in 2014, the Natyarpana School of Dance & Music brings the rich traditions of Bharatanatyam dance and Carnatic music—classical art forms from South India—to the Knoxville community through education, research, and performance. More than an arts school, Natyarpana is a place where students and families learn to engage deeply with culture, creativity, and compassion, using the arts as tools for growth and problem-solving in everyday life.
The school was founded by Ramya S. Kapadia, an award-winning, Knoxville-based, multi-disciplinary artist specializing in Carnatic music, Bharatanatyam, and Warli tribal art. Ramya has written, choreographed, and composed for Bharatanatyam dance companies across the United States and internationally. Her work has earned honors including the Ella Pratt Emerging Artist Award, Artist Support Awards, and the North Carolina Dance Alliance Choreography Fellowship.
What makes Ramya’s approach especially unique is the intersection of art and science. With formal training in Medical Physics and Neuroscience, she serves as a teaching artist with both the Tennessee Arts Commission and the United Arts Council of North Carolina, integrating traditional Indian art forms with STEAM curriculum in schools. Her work pushes the boundaries of classical music and dance to reflect modern life, tell meaningful stories, and inspire audiences to become more empathetic, thoughtful human beings.
At Natyarpana, training in South Indian dance and music is not treated as a simple extracurricular activity. Students—and their families—are encouraged to apply what they learn to their daily lives, using rhythm, movement, and storytelling as grounding practices. The school is actively developing a pedagogy that uses specific Bharatanatyam and Carnatic techniques to relieve stress and address trauma, further reinforcing the idea that art can be healing as well as expressive.
Natyarpana is deeply embedded in the cultural life of East Tennessee. The school and its founder regularly perform at community and regional events including the Rossini Festival with the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra, the Knox Asian Festival, programs hosted by the Hindu Community Center, and events with the Oak Ridge Breakfast Rotary Club. Ramya is also on the Teaching Artist Roster for the Tennessee Arts Commission, providing performance assemblies and workshops for schools across the state. Beyond performance, she serves on the host committee for the Loghaven Artist Residency and is an active member of the Knoxville Art Alliance.
Looking ahead, Ramya is in the process of forming a nonprofit initiative called the Natyarpana Incubator, designed to support emerging artists—musicians, dancers, choreographers, composers, filmmakers, and visual artists—by providing platforms to share both works-in-progress and completed projects. The goal is to strengthen Knoxville’s creative ecosystem by nurturing collaboration across disciplines and genres.
The Natyarpana School of Dance & Music is located at 1847 English Ivy Lane. Ramya Kapadia can be reached directly at (919) 638-0043 or by email at [email protected]. More information about classes, performances, and philosophy can be found on the school’s website, with additional performances and educational content available on YouTube at @ramyakapadia8168 and on Instagram at @ramyakapadia.
Through tradition, innovation, and community connection, Natyarpana continues to demonstrate how ancient art forms can remain powerfully relevant—shaping not just skilled artists, but thoughtful, resilient, and compassionate individuals.

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Learn the Basics of Crochet at a Beginner-Friendly Class

Those interested in learning a new creative skill are invited to attend a Beginner Crochet class hosted by Clinch River Yarn Company (725 N. Charles G. Seivers Boulevard, Clinton) on February 7th, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
This hands-on, two-hour workshop is designed specifically for beginners who are new to crochet or looking to build confidence with the basics. Participants will be guided through fundamental techniques, including how to create a slip knot, chain stitch, single crochet stitch, and double crochet stitch. Examples of simple patterns and stitches will also be shared to help students better understand how these techniques come together in finished projects.
The class offers a welcoming and supportive environment where students can learn at a comfortable pace and ask questions along the way. With a small group setting, attendees can expect personalized instruction and plenty of opportunities to practice their new skills.
Tickets are required to attend, and advance registration is recommended as space is limited. This workshop is a great opportunity for anyone looking to explore fiber arts, meet fellow crafters, and walk away with a solid foundation in crochet.
For those ready to pick up a hook and get creative, this beginner class at Clinch River Yarn Company offers a relaxed and enjoyable introduction to a timeless craft. More Info & Tickets
Princess Day Brings a Touch of Magic to Zoo Knoxville

Young royalty and their families are invited to step into a storybook setting at Princess Day, happening on January 25th, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Zoo Knoxville (3500 Knoxville Zoo Drive). This enchanting event offers a magical experience for children who love fairy tales, imagination, and meeting their favorite princess characters.
Throughout the day, guests will have the opportunity to meet ice princesses inside the Wee Play Adventure Building, creating memorable moments filled with smiles, excitement, and photo opportunities. Princess Day is designed to be a whimsical and welcoming experience, allowing children to interact with characters they adore while enjoying a special day at the zoo.
With a four-hour window to explore, families can make a full day of their visit, combining the princess meet-and-greet with all the animal exhibits and attractions Zoo Knoxville has to offer. The event is open to the public and is a wonderful way to add a little extra magic to a winter weekend outing.
Zoo Knoxville provides a fun and engaging setting for this popular event, which consistently draws strong community interest. Families are encouraged to arrive early and plan ahead, as Princess Day is a favorite among local children.
For those looking to create unforgettable memories and spark a bit of fairy-tale wonder, Princess Day at Zoo Knoxville promises a charming and joyful experience fit for princes, princesses, and everyone who believes in a little magic.

Multi-Day Events that are ‘Now through a certain date are listed below the dated events.
🗓️ January 20th - Swifties of all ages are invited to lace up their skates for Swiftie Skate, a fun-filled, music-powered night happening from 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM at Skatetown (5713 N. Broadway Street NE). Admission is $15 per person, with skates included. | Add to Calendar |
🗓️ January 20th - 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 from 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM at 1104 Merchant Drive, Suite 103. More Info | Add to Calendar |
🗓️ 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 21st - Local entrepreneurs and professionals are invited to gather for Strategic In-Person Business Introductions, a focused networking experience designed to go deeper than a typical meet-and-greet at this eWomenNetwork Knoxville event. More Info & Register | Add to Calendar |
🗓️ January 22nd - Families exploring educational options in Knoxville are invited to attend a Whole School Open House at First Lutheran School – Knoxville (1207 N. Broadway NE) beginning at 5:30 p.m. This welcoming evening offers an opportunity to step inside a school community that has been faithfully learning and serving since 1869. | Add to Calendar |
🗓️ January 22nd and 29th - Looking for a relaxing, creative night out this winter? The Crushed Glass and Resin Art Suncatchers class offers a hands-on opportunity to create a beautiful, light-catching piece of art—no experience required. Hosted by Southern Grace Mercantile, this class begins at 6:30 p.m. The class is held at Painting Around (2917 W. Beaver Creek Drive, Powell). More Info | Add to Calendar (Jan. 22nd) | Add to Calendar (Jan. 29th) |
🗓️ 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 - Knoxville residents are invited to a complimentary, limited-seat screening of Infinite Icon: A Visual Memoir, a documentary deeply personal to Paris Hilton. The screening will take place at 7:00 PM at Regal Pinnacle in West Knoxville. Admission is free, but seating is limited. RSVPs will be accepted until seats are filled. Those interested in attending can RSVP by emailing [email protected] | 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 - Get ready to crank up the volume, Knoxville. Back N Black: The Ultimate AC/DC Experience is roaring into the Bijou Theatre, delivering a night of hard-hitting rock that pays tribute to one of the greatest bands in music history. More Info | 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 |
🗓️ 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 3rd–5th - If you’ve ever wondered what your fine jewelry, watches, or rare collectibles might be worth, Fountain City Jewelers is hosting a special opportunity you won’t want to miss. The store will welcome National Rarities for a multi-day Estate Buying Event, offering the chance to receive professional, no-obligation evaluations with immediate payment available. | Add to Calendar |
🗓️ February 6th - 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), 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. | Add to Calendar |
🗓️ 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 8th - Get ready for an afternoon packed with tail wags, teamwork, and total cuteness. Puppy Bowl 2026 is coming to Barrelhouse (621 Lamar Street) from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., and it’s shaping up to be one of Knoxville’s most heartwarming events of the season. | Add to Calendar |
🗓️ February 9th - Looking for a creative and relaxed way to celebrate Valentine’s season? The Plant Trolley is bringing its popular V-Day Heart Planter Workshop to Barley’s Knoxville (200 East Jackson Ave) for an evening of plants, creativity, and good company. The workshop runs from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. and takes place upstairs in Barley’s inviting banquet room. More Info & Tickets | Add to Calendar |
🗓️ 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 - Mark your calendar for one of Loudon County’s most anticipated community events. The Taste of Loudon County and Business Expo is set to run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at The Venue at Lenoir City, bringing together local flavors, businesses, and community connections all under one roof. The expo takes place at The Venue at Lenoir City (7690 Creekwood Park Blvd., Lenoir City). Admission to the Business Expo is free, and Taste of Loudon County tickets are just $10. | 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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