In this Knoxville Insider Issue…

🌤️ Weather | Cloudy with a High of 60

📰 Zoom Room to Lead the MardiGrowl Parade with “Rover” - their Vintage 1957 Panel Van

🗓️ Roane Choral Society Presents “America” Concert Series Across East Tennessee

🛍️ Shop Local

🗓️ Upcoming Events

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Today’s Record High: 80 in 2018 — Record Low: 5 in 1896

Welcome to our New Knoxville Insider Sponsor - VFL Real Estate Team

We’re excited to welcome VFL Real Estate, powered by Realty Executives, as a new sponsor of the Knoxville Insider!

Led by former University of Tennessee football player Steven Hensley, VFL Real Estate is built on teamwork, strong relationships, and a client-first approach. Alongside Broker Barbara Newton and Director of Business Operations Carrie Hensley, the team has grown into a full-service brokerage with 19 agents and dedicated operations and marketing support.

Their commitment to professionalism and service is reflected in their success, with 316 transactions closed in 2025, serving buyers and sellers across Knoxville and East Tennessee.

We’re grateful for their support of the Knoxville Insider and their investment in our local community.

If you’re thinking about buying or selling — now or in the future — you can learn more at vflrealestate.com or call (865) 393-9336.

Please join us in welcoming VFL Real Estate to the Knoxville Insider family!

Interested in becoming a Knoxville Insider sponsor? Reach out to us at [email protected]!

Zoom Room to Lead the Mardi Growl Parade with “Rover” - their Vintage 1957 Panel Van

There’s something special rolling into this year’s Mardi Growl event — and it comes with a lot of personality. Our Knoxville Insider sponsor, Zoom Room Hardin Valley, is proud to serve as the main corporate sponsor for Mardi Growl and will be kicking things off in style by leading the parade with their beautifully restored 1957 panel van, affectionately known as “Rover.”

Finished in signature Tennessee orange and featuring Zoom Room branding, Rover is more than just a vehicle — it’s a rolling piece of nostalgia that perfectly captures the fun, community-focused spirit of Zoom Room. The vintage van has quickly become a favorite conversation piece at local events, drawing smiles wherever it goes.

Zoom Room Hardin Valley is known throughout the Knoxville area for its indoor dog training gym, offering obedience classes, agility training, enrichment activities, and social events for dogs and their owners. Their involvement as the lead sponsor reflects their ongoing commitment to supporting local events and building community connections.

Be sure to keep an eye out for Rover at the front of the parade — it’s not every day you get to see a classic 1957 panel van leading the way! Mardi Growl takes place on March 7th from 11am - 3pm. More Info

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Fountain City Branch Library Book Sale

The Friends of the Knox County Public Library book sale at the Fountain City Branch Library (5300 Stanton Road) will be held on March 7th from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

These popular book sales are a favorite among readers, collectors, and bargain hunters alike, offering a wide selection of gently used books at affordable prices. Shoppers can expect to find everything from bestsellers and children’s books to cookbooks, classics, and hidden literary treasures.

Proceeds from the sale directly support Knox County Public Library programs, services, and community initiatives, making every purchase a meaningful way to give back while adding to your personal library.

Whether you’re searching for your next great read or simply enjoy browsing through stacks of books, this community event offers a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere for all ages.

If you love books and supporting local libraries, this is a wonderful opportunity to do both.

Roane Choral Society Presents “America” Concert Series Across East Tennessee

The Roane Choral Society (RCS) is continuing its 52nd season theme, “HOME,” with a series of concerts celebrating “America” through early Americana vocal music. Audiences across Roane, Anderson, Loudon, and Knox counties will have multiple opportunities to experience these performances over two weekends.

Concert dates and locations include:

  • February 28th – United Church, Chapel on the Hill (85 Kentucky Ave), Oak Ridge at 3:00 PM

  • March 1st – Bethel Presbyterian Church (203 S Kentucky St), Kingston at 3:00 PM (part of Bethel’s annual concert series)

  • March 7th – The Lyric, Loudon (320 Grove St) at 3:00 PM

  • March 8th – Immaculate Conception Catholic Church (414 W Vine Ave), Knoxville at 3:00 PM (full chorus performance)

The March 7th concert in Loudon will include a special appearance by the RCS Children’s Choir, directed by Robyn Maker. During that performance, the organization will also recognize local school grant recipients, highlighting Roane Choral Society’s ongoing mission to support music education in area schools.

A suggested donation of $15 is requested at each concert, making these performances accessible while supporting the nonprofit organization’s mission.

Now in its 52nd season, Roane Choral Society remains dedicated to enriching the cultural life of East Tennessee through choral music, community collaboration, and educational outreach. For music lovers across the region, the “America” concert series offers a meaningful opportunity to experience the sounds and stories that helped shape our nation.

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

🗓️ February 21st - at 10:00 AM, Show Your Shine LLC presents The Reset - A Grounded Start to 2026 at The Hub Pro Studio, located at 1104 Merchant Drive, Suite 103. More Info & Register | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ February 21st - “1776 and Tennessee: The 250th Anniversary.” The Semiquincentennial Celebration Lecture Series continues, with a 3:00 PM presentation at the Blount Mansion Visitors Center (200 W. Hill Ave.). RSVP is requested by emailing [email protected]. More Info | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ February 21st - Knoxville residents of all ages are invited to take part in a hands-on effort to strengthen the city’s green spaces during a Community Tree Planting hosted by Trees Knoxville from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Malcolm Martin Park (1737 Reynolds St.). To RSVP and learn more, visit www.treesknoxville.org. | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ February 21st - 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. More Info | 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 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 | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ February 22nd - Looking for a creative way to spend a Sunday afternoon? Ijams Nature Center is hosting a hands-on Mosaic Stepping Stone Craft workshop from 11am - 1pm More Info & Register | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ February 23rd - The UT Creative Writing Program invites you to a special evening with debut novelist Karen Parkman on February 23rd, at 7:00 PM. The reading will take place in the Lindsay Young Auditorium at John C. Hodges Library, located at 1015 Volunteer Blvd, and is free and open to the public.

🗓️ February 26th - Whiskey University is hosting a tasting class for bourbon enthusiasts, called Bourbon 201, starting at 6:30 p.m. at The Vault Room on Tazewell Pike (2901 Tazewell Pike A). More Info & Tickets | 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 - Get ready for a day of global fun, food, art, and entertainment! The 27th Annual International Festival returns from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the Children's Museum of Oak Ridge (461 West Outer Drive, Oak Ridge). More Info | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ February 28th - In honor of “Heart Month,” the Knox County Farm Bureau Women's Group is hosting a CPR Certification class from 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM at Clear Springs Baptist Church (3709 Clear Springs Road, Mascot). Register via email or phone: (865) 224-1333 or email: [email protected]. | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ February 28th - Spring is right around the corner, and Guided By Grace Boutique (2703 Maynardville Highway) is celebrating in style with their Spring Fling Event from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ February 28th - Break out the neon, tease up the hair, and get ready to rewind the clock—Wild Wing Farragut is going full ’80s for a high-energy dance night at Farragut Park (2711 Southfork Drive). Hosted by Club Rewind, this throwback party is set for February 28th, kicking off at 9:00 PM, and it’s shaping up to be one of the most talked-about nights of the season. | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ 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 4th - Mark your calendar and plan to attend this exciting FREE Senior Lifestyle, Health & Home Expo at the Pilot Family YMCA (400 North Winston Rd.)! Hosted by Expo4Seniors, this event connects senior citizens with trusted services and helpful products that support healthy, independent living. Through education, collaboration, advocacy, and accessibility, Expo4Seniors is committed to making Aging in Place and overall lifestyle, health, and wellness resources easier to understand and access. More Info | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ March 5th - 7th - The Jack and Jules Children’s Consignment Event returns to the Knoxville Expo Center (5441 Clinton Highway) from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM each day, offering three full days of incredible deals on children’s items just in time for spring and summer. Add to Calendar (Mar. 5th) | Add to Calendar (Mar. 6th) | Add to Calendar (Mar. 7th) |

🗓️ March 7th - Ever wanted to try your hand at blacksmithing? Here’s your chance to experience one of history’s most time-honored crafts in an authentic setting. Historic Ramsey House is hosting a Beginner Blacksmithing class from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM, at 2614 Thorngrove Pike. More Info & Register | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ March 7th - The 19th Annual Mardi Growl returns on March 7th, bringing costumed canines, a lively parade, and a full afternoon of fun to World's Fair Park. The event runs from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM and benefits Young-Williams Animal Center, supporting the care of more than 11,000 pets each year. More Info | 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 14th - Put on your green and head downtown for one of Knoxville’s most anticipated spring celebrations. Knox Shamrock Fest returns, starting at 10:00 AM at World's Fair Park, bringing together live music, food, family fun, and a powerful community mission. | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ March 14th - Looking for a meaningful way to give back to the community this spring? Keep Knoxville Beautiful invites volunteers to roll up their sleeves for March Spruce Up 2026, taking place on March 14th, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Keep Knoxville Beautiful can be reached at [email protected] or (865) 521-6957. | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ March 15th - Get ready to relive one of the most beloved movies of all time—this time with the power of live music. Dirty Dancing in Concert arrives in Knoxville at 7:00 PM, taking over the iconic Tennessee Theatre for a one-night-only cinematic concert experience. More Info & Tickets | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ March 21st - Car lovers, mark your calendars. The Thunder Road Car Show & Swap Meet returns, from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM at Wilson Park, located at 115 Wilson Lane in Maynardville. | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ March 21st - PB&J Mixtape Day is dropping at Xul Beer Company (213 E 5th Ave) at 11:00 AM, and it’s shaping up to be one of downtown’s most flavor-packed parties of the spring. | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ March 21st - Gibbs is tuning up for a brand-new community tradition. The 1st Annual Pickin’ in the Park Fundraiser takes over Gibbs Ruritan Park (7827 Tazewell Pike, Corryton) from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, bringing together live music, local flavors, and family-friendly fun — all in support of the Gibbs Foundation. More Info | 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 to Calendar |

🗓️ March 28th - If you carry a handgun or simply want to improve your firearm handling abilities, Code 7 Tactical is offering a focused, full-day training experience designed to build confidence and capability under pressure. Their Defensive Handgun class takes place on March 28th, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Windrock Shooting Range & Training Center in Oliver Springs. More Info | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ March 26th – 29th - The Big Ears Festival transforms downtown Knoxville into an immersive experience featuring a rich blend of music, film, conversation, and visual art. More Info | Add to Calendar (Mar. 26th) | Add to Calendar (Mar. 27th) | Add to Calendar (Mar. 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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