In this Knoxville Insider Issue…
🌤️ Weather | Light Snow with a High of 26
📰 Hello Market Hosts a Spring Valentine’s Day Market
🗓️ Beauty, Bites, and Besties - Galentine’s Night at Blink
🛍️ Shop Local
🗓️ Upcoming Events
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Today’s Record High: 74 in 1950 — Record Low: 5 in 1940

Meet Sheldon - Powell’s Mini Pig with a Red Plaid Coat

If you’ve ever driven by the corner of E. Brushy Valley Drive and Heiskell Road in Powell and found yourself doing a double take, you’re not alone. That moment of “Wait… is that a dog?” quickly followed by “Is that a pig?” has become a familiar experience for many — and the answer is yes, it’s a pig! His name is Sheldon, and he’s quietly become one of Powell’s most unexpected neighborhood celebrities.
Sheldon is an 8-year-old mini pig who moved to Tennessee from California with his family this past June. Because the home sits along a busy road, the family fenced in their large front yard for safety, giving Sheldon plenty of room to graze while still being visible to passersby. He also has a smaller inner fenced area, but his favorite place is the front lawn, where he can watch the world go by—and where the world can watch him.
When the family first arrived, curious neighbors stopped to ask questions, wave, and introduce themselves. After a social post on the local I Love Powell group officially introduced Sheldon to the community, the pig quickly became part of daily routines. These days, people call out “Hello, Sheldon!” during morning and afternoon commutes. Some admit they take the long way home just to catch a glimpse of him. Others have tried explaining to friends and family that there’s a pig living on that corner—only to be met with disbelief.
Sheldon keeps fairly predictable hours. You’ll usually spot him out grazing between 7 a.m. – 9 a.m. and again from 4 p.m. – 6 p.m., often bundled up in his signature red plaid coat when it’s cold. A few children and adults have even stopped by to meet him, occasionally offering carrots, which Sheldon happily accepts—assuming they pass his very selective taste test.
Despite his pig credentials, Sheldon isn’t exactly typical. Before moving to Tennessee, he hadn’t seen much grass, making his first experience on the lawn a memorable one. He arrived by livestock transport—a nerve-wracking experience for his owner since Sheldon is very much a family pet—but he made it safely, albeit a little wobbly. Once his “sea legs” wore off, he took to the grass with enthusiasm.
Sheldon is famously picky. His approved menu includes carrots, squash, bananas, watermelon, and apples. Anything else offered as a treat will be politely taken, briefly considered, and then dramatically spit back out. He dislikes mud, avoids water, and screams when wet—though Tennessee’s warm summer rain eventually won him over. Dirt, however, remains a hard no. Windy days are another favorite; when the breeze kicks up, Sheldon can often be seen running joyful laps around the yard.
At home, Sheldon lives an indoor-outdoor lifestyle. He has a doghouse in a second garage for daytime lounging when he’s in his inner yard, but he often lets himself back inside through the door near his owner’s office. Evenings are quiet—he’s typically tucked into bed and asleep by 8 p.m., staying up a little later during longer daylight hours.
Stubborn, smart, and endlessly entertaining, Sheldon knows a few tricks and has a personality that his family describes as “having a three-year-old child for life.” And while he may not know it, Sheldon has become something more than a pet—he’s a daily smile, a conversation starter, and a small reminder of how unexpected joy can show up in the most ordinary places.
So if you’re driving through Powell and spot a pig calmly grazing the lawn, feel free to wave. Sheldon will likely be there, living his best life and quietly stealing hearts one passerby at a time.
Hello Market Hosts a Spring Valentine’s Day Market

Knoxville shoppers are invited to celebrate love, friendship, and the arrival of spring at the Hello Market Spring Valentine’s Day Market on February 15th, from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. The market will take place at 11214 Outlet Drive.
This Valentine-themed market brings together a curated mix of local crafts, handmade goods, and delicious food and treats, creating a relaxed atmosphere perfect for an afternoon outing. Whether you’re shopping with a partner, best friend, or simply treating yourself, the event is designed to feel warm, welcoming, and community-focused.
Expect a thoughtfully curated selection of unique finds, making it easy to discover meaningful gifts while supporting local makers and small businesses. With its emphasis on connection and creativity, the market offers a refreshing alternative to traditional Valentine’s Day plans.
The Hello Market Spring Valentine’s Day Market is ideal for anyone looking to enjoy a laid-back afternoon of shopping, snacking, and spending time together in a cheerful, local setting. It’s a great way to celebrate the season, support small businesses, and enjoy the simple joy of browsing something special close to home.
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Sip, Shop, and Support at A Day of Love and Wellness at TV Yacht Club

You are invited to enjoy a day of shopping, connection, and giving back at Sip and Shop: A Day of Love and Wellness, happening on February 6th, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Tellico Yacht Club (100 Sequoyah Rd, Loudon). Hosted by Daneault and Silpada, this special event blends local shopping with a meaningful mission.
Guests can browse a curated selection of jewelry and wellness-focused offerings while enjoying a relaxed atmosphere designed to celebrate self-care, connection, and kindness.
A Day of Love and Wellness also serves a greater purpose, with the event supporting Beauty for Ashes Ministries, an organization dedicated to restoration and hope. The focus on giving back adds a heartfelt layer to the day, making each purchase and conversation part of a larger impact.
Sponsored by Mold Doctors USA, the event invites attendees to slow down, sip, and shop. Whether you stop by to find something special, enjoy the welcoming atmosphere, or support a meaningful cause, this Valentine’s season gathering offers a thoughtful way to spend the day.
Beauty, Bites, and Besties - Galentine’s Night at Blink

Galentine’s season is all about celebrating friendship, fun, and a little self-care, and Galentine’s at Blink is bringing all three together on February 4th. Hosted by Blink Lash & Beauty Bar Hardin Valley (10612 Hardin Valley Road), from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
The evening invites friends to gather for a relaxed and festive experience filled with beauty, bites, and bliss. Guests can enjoy food, glam moments, door prizes, and plenty of opportunities to connect and unwind in a welcoming beauty bar setting. It’s designed as a feel-good night where self-love meets friendship and fun.
Whether you’re stopping by with your besties or making new connections, Galentine’s at Blink offers a playful way to kick off Valentine’s celebrations. With its upbeat atmosphere and focus on community, the event is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a midweek break filled with laughter and a little sparkle.
Open to the public, Galentine’s at Blink is a great excuse to celebrate with the people who lift you up and enjoy a night dedicated to beauty, connection, and girl love in the heart of Hardin Valley.

Multi-Day Events that are ‘Now through a certain date are listed below the dated events.
🗓️ 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 - Fans of the hit series Stranger Things are invited to put their Hawkins knowledge to the test at Stranger Things Trivia Night on January 28th, starting at 7:00 p.m. at Token Game Tavern (213 N. Seven Oaks Drive). This special one-night event brings together trivia, fandom, and a lively game-night atmosphere for an evening inspired by the popular Netflix series. | 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 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 |
🗓️ 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 1st - Kick off February with a focus on health, wellbeing, and community at the 6th annual Farragut Health and Wellness Expo from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Farragut Community Center (239 Jamestowne Boulevard, Farragut). | Add to Calendar |
🗓️ February 3rd - Knoxville’s technology community is invited to kick off the new year with energy and connection at KTech CONNECT: Knoxville’s Technology Expo on from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. The free, in-person event will take place at Bridgewater Place (205 Bridgewater Road). | Add to Calendar |
🗓️ February 3rd - Looking for a fun and easy way to support a local nonprofit while enjoying a night out in downtown Knoxville? BeLocal Bingo is happening on February 3rd, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Maple Hall (414 South Gay Street). | Add to Calendar |
🗓️ 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 - Valentine’s season gets a fun and flirty twist with Love Is in the Air: Young Singles Speed Dating Party, happening from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Hi-Wire Brewing (2020 Barber St). Designed specifically for singles ages 21–34, this lively event offers a fresh way to meet new people in a relaxed, social setting. | Add to Calendar |
🗓️ February 6th - 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 |
🗓️ 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 7th - Those who enjoy sewing, quilting, or crafting with fabric are invited to gather for Sew and Share from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Fountain City Branch Library (5300 Stanton Road). | Add to Calendar |
🗓️ February 7th - Grab your best friends and make plans for a fun-filled day of shopping and celebrating friendship at Galentine’s Day at The Southern Market (5400 Homberg Drive), from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The Southern Market is hosting a special event designed to make Valentine’s season extra sweet. | 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 7th - Used Book Sale at the Fountain City Branch Library (5300 Stanton Road), running from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. | Add to Calendar |
🗓️ February 7th - 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) from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. 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 | Add to Calendar |
🗓️ 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 13th - Country music fans can look forward to a high-energy night at The Mill & Mine (227 West Depot Avenue) when Chase Matthew brings his Holdin’ It Down Tour 2026 to Knoxville, with the show beginning at 8:00 p.m. Known for blending modern country grit with Southern storytelling, Matthew’s Knoxville stop promises an electric live performance in one of the city’s favorite music venues. | Add to Calendar |
🗓️ February 13th - Valentine’s week is getting a delicious twist with Let’s Get Saucy - Pasta Night, a hands-on pasta-making experience happening 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. Get your ticket - Single ticket ($35) or Couple ticket ($65) | Add to Calendar |
🗓️ February 14th - Knoxville-area shoppers are invited to experience an evening inspired by global tradition and local creativity at Souk Bazaar, taking place at the Farragut Community Center (239 Jamestowne Blvd #201) from 12pm - 7pm. Hosted in the Assembly Hall, this special market invites the community to come together to shop local, connect, and support small businesses in a festive, family-friendly setting. | Add to Calendar |
🗓️ February 15th & 22nd - Learn to Curl Lessons - Whether you’ve watched the Winter Olympics and thought, I’d like to try that, or you’re just looking for a fun, active way to try something different this year, curling enthusiasts of all ages and newcomers alike have two great chances to get on the ice in February thanks to the Great Smoky Mountains Curling Club at the Ice Chalet in Knoxville. More Info for February 15th | More Info for February 22nd | Add to Calendar (Feb. 15th) | Add to Calendar (Feb. 22nd) |
🗓️ February 20th - Local veterans are invited to be honored and celebrated at a Veterans Appreciation Dinner, beginning at 5:00 p.m. at The Church at Sterchi Hills (904 Dry Gap Pike NE). Hosted by Synergy HomeCare of Knoxville–Morristown, the evening is dedicated to recognizing and thanking those who have served our country. Call or text (865) 474-9304 to reserve your seat. | Add to Calendar |
🗓️ February 21st - Used Book Sale at the South Knox Branch Library (4500 Chapman Highway), also from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. | 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 26th - Families are invited to enjoy an evening of learning, connection, and fun at Rocky Hill Elementary School’s Family Event and Book Fair, taking place from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. | Add to Calendar |
🗓️ February 26th - An Evening with Joy Harjo, as part of the 2026 Wilma Dykeman Stokely Memorial Lecture. The event will take place on February 26th, at the McClung Museum of Natural History and Culture in Knoxville and is free and open to the public. A reception will begin at 6:15 p.m., followed by the lecture at 7:00 p.m. (EST). Advance RSVPs are requested by February 20th (RSVP here). | 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 17 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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