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📰 Play Knoxville Invites Community Input on Draft Parks & Recreation Master Plan

📰 Dogwood Arts Names Lisa Wiles and Matthew Cummings as 2026 Co-Chairs

🗓️ Stay Home & Read - A Cozy Way to Support Knox County Public Library

🗓️ Members-Only Used Book Sale Returns to Bearden Library

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🗓️ Upcoming Events

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Knoxville residents are being asked to help shape the future of local parks, programs, and recreation spaces as Play Knoxville releases its Draft Parks & Recreation Master Plan for public review. The draft plan is now available, and community members are encouraged to read it and share feedback by March 1st.

The Parks & Rec Master Plan is a long-range vision designed to guide decisions about Knoxville’s parks, greenways, facilities, and recreational programming. It looks at current needs, future growth, equity in access, and how parks and recreation can continue to support quality of life across the city. Community input plays a critical role in ensuring the plan reflects the priorities, ideas, and experiences of the people who use these spaces every day.

Residents, families, athletes, outdoor enthusiasts, and neighbors from every part of Knoxville are invited to review the draft and weigh in. Feedback can range from big-picture priorities—such as trail connectivity, programming needs, and facility investments—to specific observations about local parks and amenities.

The draft plan can be viewed online, and submitting feedback is designed to be quick and accessible. All responses will help inform the final version of the plan and guide future investments in Knoxville’s parks and recreation system.

View Draft Plan | Provide Feedback

This is a chance for the community to have a direct voice in how Knoxville’s parks and recreation system evolves—now and for years to come.

Dogwood Arts has announced Lisa Wiles and Matthew Cummings as its 2026 Co-Chairs, continuing a leadership tradition that dates back to 1961 and the earliest days of the Dogwood Arts Festival.

Each year, Dogwood Arts selects two respected community leaders to serve as ambassadors for the organization, supporting its mission and championing more than 20 programs and events throughout the year. As Co-Chairs, Wiles and Cummings will help advance Dogwood Arts’ commitment to celebrating the artistic, cultural, and natural beauty of East Tennessee.

Lisa Wiles, a Knoxville native and owner of The Mortgage Gallery, is deeply rooted in community service and mentorship, with a passion for creating opportunities for families and young people to connect through art and nature. Matthew Cummings, a nationally recognized glass artist and founder of Pretentious Glass Co. and Pretentious Beer Co., brings a multidisciplinary creative perspective shaped by contemporary art, design, and craft.

Dogwood Arts Executive Director Sherry Jenkins noted that the Co-Chair role plays a vital part in inspiring community engagement and sustaining the organization’s impact. Under the leadership of Wiles and Cummings, Dogwood Arts looks forward to another year of creativity, connection, and civic pride across the region. More Info

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

Can’t make it to the Book Ball in person? You can still be part of the celebration—no heels, tuxes, or babysitters required. The Stay Home & Read a Book Ball invites book lovers across the community to celebrate literacy in the coziest way possible: at home, with a great book.

Instead of a night out, supporters are encouraged to donate what they might have spent on dinner, tickets, or childcare and turn that evening into a meaningful gift for Knox County Public Library. Every contribution helps fund library programs, resources, and opportunities that inspire readers of all ages throughout Knox County.

Giving levels are designed to fit every kind of reader—from the $50 Cozy Chapter to $125 Book Ball at Home, which matches the in-person ticket price, and $250+ The Whole Collection for those who want to make an even bigger impact. Each level turns a quiet night in into powerful support for literacy, learning, and access to information.

Supporters are also invited to join the fun visually by sharing photos of their at-home Book Ball—reading nooks, pajamas, pets, or current reads—by emailing them to [email protected]. Pajamas are encouraged, dancing is optional, and the impact is guaranteed.

It’s a simple, joyful way to celebrate books, support your local library, and prove that sometimes the best nights out… are nights in. More Info

Book lovers are invited to enjoy a special evening of browsing and bargains at the Members-Only “We Love Our Members” Used Book Sale on February 12th, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Bearden Branch Library (100 Golf Club Rd).

Hosted by the Friends of the Knox County Public Library, this members-exclusive sale offers a first look at a wide selection of gently used, quality books priced at just $1 and $2. From popular fiction and nonfiction to children’s books and hidden gems, it’s a great chance to stock up while supporting local libraries.

Not a member yet? No problem. Community members who want to attend can sign up for membership and join the sale the same evening. Light refreshments will be served, making it an easy and enjoyable after-work stop for readers of all ages.

Proceeds from Friends book sales directly support programs, services, and resources at Knox County Public Library branches, so every purchase gives back to the community.

Those interested in becoming a member ahead of time can learn more and sign up.

Multi-Day Events that are ‘Now through a certain date are listed below the dated events.

Recurring events

🗓️ Now through February 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 4th - Galentine’s season is all about celebrating friendship, fun, and a little self-care, and Galentine’s at Blink is bringing all three together. Hosted by Blink Lash & Beauty Bar Hardin Valley (10612 Hardin Valley Road), from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ February 6th - Trading card collectors and pop culture fans are invited to celebrate Valentine’s season with a unique twist at Hearts and Holofoils, taking place from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Pellissippi State Community College’s Hardin Valley Campus (10915 Hardin Valley Road). | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ February 6th - You are invited to enjoy a day of shopping, connection, and giving back at Sip and Shop: A Day of Love and Wellness, happening 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. | 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 6th - 8th - As East Tennessee begins to look toward spring, the Dogwood Arts House & Garden Show is set to return to the Knoxville Convention Center (701 Henley St) from February 6th–8th, bringing three days of inspiration, ideas, and hands-on experiences for homeowners, renters, and design enthusiasts alike. More Info | Add to Calednar (Feb. 6th) | Add to Calendar (Feb. 7th) | Add to Calendar (Feb. 8th) |

🗓️ 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 - Winter Jam 2026 rolls into town at the Food City Center. Part of the long-running Winter Jam Tour Spectacular, the show delivers an evening of high-energy music, inspiring messages, and community fellowship featuring some of today’s most beloved artists in contemporary Christian music. More Info | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ February 7th - Valentine’s weekend gets a local twist in Union County with the Love Local Valentine Farmers Market, happening from 9 AM to 1 PM at 115 Durham Drive in Maynardville. Hosted by the Union County Farmers Market, this festive morning market is all about celebrating local makers, growers, and the joy of shopping close to home. | 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 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 - Soccer fans across Knoxville are invited to help launch the new soccer season as One Knoxville SC hosts its Season Kickoff Party from 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. at Kern’s Food Hall (2201 Kerns Rising Way). The free, all-ages event marks the start of the club’s 2026 campaign and celebrates One Knox entering the year as the reigning USL League One Champions. | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ February 8th - You are invited to ring in the Japanese seasonal tradition of Setsubun with a celebration at the Bean-Throwing Party: Setsubun from 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM at the East Tennessee History Center (601 S. Gay Street). 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 - Those looking for a rewarding career that truly makes a difference are invited to attend the Knoxville Caregiver Job Fair from 10 AM to 2 PM at the New Harvest Park Community Building (4775 New Harvest Lane). Hosted by Synergy HomeCare of Knoxville-Morristown, the event offers an opportunity to explore in-demand caregiving roles serving seniors and clients throughout Knoxville and the surrounding areas. | 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 10th - Knoxville women in business are invited to enjoy an evening of conversation and celebration at Working Women & Whiskey – Knoxville from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. The networking event will be held at Finn’s Restaurant & Tavern, (9000 Kingston Pike), blending Valentine’s charm with a touch of Fat Tuesday flair. | 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 - Homeschool families across East Tennessee are invited to saddle up for a day of discovery at Little Ponderosa Zoo and Rescue (629 Granite Road, Clinton) during its Homeschool Hoedown, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This special event is designed specifically for homeschool groups looking to combine education, exploration, and unforgettable animal encounters in a relaxed, engaging environment. | 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 -Knoxville shoppers are invited to celebrate love, friendship, and the arrival of spring at the Hello Market Spring Valentine’s Day Market from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. The market will take place at 11214 Outlet Drive. | 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 18th - Step into a world of myth, magic, and meaning when the Oak Ridge Public Library hosts Once Upon a Time: The Study of Folklore and Fairytales on February 18th at noon in the Library Auditorium at the Oak Ridge Civic Center (1403 Oak Ridge Turnpike, Oak Ridge). | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ 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 26th - March 1st - Boating enthusiasts and families alike are invited to kick off spring with one of East Tennessee’s most exciting outdoor lifestyle events — the Downtown Knoxville Boat Show. Taking place downtown, it showcases the best in boats, marine gear, accessories, and outdoor living products while transforming the Knoxville waterfront with exhibitors, demos, and unique experiences for all ages. More Info & Tickets | Add to Calendar (Feb. 26th) | Add to Calendar (Feb. 27th) | Add to Calendar (Feb. 28th) | Add to Calendar (Mar. 1st) |

🗓️ 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) |

🗓️ February 28th - You are invited to gather for the Annual Chinese New Year Open House Celebration from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Balanced You Clinic (6512 Baum Drive, Suite 12). This community-centered event celebrates the arrival of the Year of the Fire Horse with an afternoon focused on connection, nourishment, and renewal. | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ March 1st - Spring arrives early in East Tennessee with the Sunsphere Events Spring Showcase, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. atop the Sunsphere in the heart of World’s Fair Park. Whether you’re interested in discovering unique handmade goods, supporting regional artisans, or simply soaking in one of the best vantage points in town, the Spring Showcase offers a perfect way to welcome the new season. | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ March 7th - The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation East Tennessee Chapter is inviting you to take part in one of its most anticipated annual events—a fundraising banquet that directly supports wildlife conservation and habitat preservation across East Tennessee and the surrounding region. The banquet begins at 5:00 p.m. and will be held at The Venue in Lenoir City. If you have questions or interest in getting involved, reach out to the local chapter chair at (865) 310-6496. More Info & Tickets | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ March 7th - Rev your engines and mark your calendar—Outrun The Po Po is roaring back to Knoxville Dragway (160 Raceway Dr, Maynardville) from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., for a full day of high-octane fun, friendly competition, and community support. The event is open to all types of cars, with bikes also welcome to participate. Drivers can choose to line up solo or race other vehicles, making it accessible for seasoned racers and first-timers alike. | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ March 21st - The Farragut West Knox Chamber of Commerce is rolling out a brand-new signature event this spring with its Inaugural Casino Night, from 6 PM – 9 PM. Designed as a more relaxed, social, and high-energy alternative to the Chamber’s long-running auction gala, the evening promises a memorable mix of entertainment, networking, and community support. Casino Night will take place at The Venue Lenoir City (7690 Creekwood Park, Lenoir City) Register | Add the Calendar |

🗓️ Now through February 8th - You are invited to experience a powerful and heartfelt stage adaptation of Tuesdays With Morrie as River & Rail Theatre Company brings the beloved story to life at St. Gregory the Great Auditorium at Knoxville Catholic High School. More Info

🗓️ 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 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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