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📰 Artists Wanted - GermanFest Knoxville Launches 2026 Stein Logo Competition

📰 Volunteers Needed for Weed Wrangle Knoxville to Protect Local Green Spaces

🗓️ Low Sensory Evening Offers Special Zoo Experience for Families

🗓️ Learn AI Without a Computer in a Beginner-Friendly Workshop

🛍️ Shop Local

🗓️ Upcoming Events

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Calling all artists, designers, and creative minds — GermanFest Knoxville is now accepting submissions for its 2026 Commemorative Stein Logo Competition, offering a unique opportunity to have your artwork featured on thousands of festival steins.

Organizers are looking for a fresh design to celebrate the 2026 festival, and entries are welcome from both professional designers and community members with a great idea. The winning logo will appear on the official commemorative stein, giving the selected artist bragging rights and widespread visibility at one of Knoxville’s most popular cultural events.

Design requirements include incorporating the words “GermanFest Knoxville” and “2026.” German flag colors — black, red, and gold — are encouraged, and organizers recommend simple, clean designs that reproduce well on steins without heavy shading or gradients.

In addition to the honor of seeing their artwork featured across the festival, the winner will receive a free commemorative stein and recognition within the GermanFest community.

The submission deadline is March 13th. Artists can request full rules and submit high-resolution designs by emailing [email protected].

GermanFest Knoxville, hosted annually by First Lutheran School, celebrates German culture with food, music, and family-friendly fun, making this contest a chance to contribute to a cherished local tradition while showcasing your creativity.

If you’ve ever wanted your art in the hands of thousands of festival-goers — this is your moment.

You are invited to participate in an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on local parks and natural areas by participating in Weed Wrangle Knoxville on February 28th. This community volunteer effort is part of a nationwide initiative focused on removing harmful invasive plants from public green spaces to protect native habitats and wildlife.

Participants will work together to tackle non-native invasive species — including aggressive vines, shrubs, and trees — that can crowd out native plants and disrupt ecosystems. By removing these species, volunteers help restore healthier environments for birds, pollinators, and other wildlife while improving the beauty and sustainability of local parks.

While the event is promoted locally by Ijams Nature Center, organizers note that activities will take place at multiple sites throughout the area rather than at Ijams itself. Volunteers should select their preferred project location when registering.

Weed Wrangle events are designed to be accessible for people of all experience levels, making them a great opportunity for families, community groups, students, and individuals who want to give back. Tools and guidance are typically provided, and volunteers leave knowing they’ve contributed directly to conservation efforts in their own community.

Those interested in participating can sign up online and choose a project site that works best for them. More Info

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

Families looking for a calm, welcoming environment to enjoy animals and outdoor fun are invited to attend Low Sensory Evening on March 12th, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Little Ponderosa Zoo and Rescue (629 Granite Road, Clinton).

This special event is designed for animal lovers with sensory sensitivities and other special needs. While it is especially appropriate for children and adults with autism and/or sensory processing differences, the evening is open to individuals with any type of special need and their families.

The event provides a more relaxed atmosphere than typical zoo visits, allowing guests to explore the rescue and interact with animals in a setting that is mindful of sensory comfort. These types of experiences can help reduce overstimulation while still creating opportunities for connection, learning, and fun.

Curious about artificial intelligence but not sure where to start? A new class designed specifically for beginners will help demystify the topic — no computer required.

Learn AI Without a Computer will take place on March 4th at 9:00 AM at the Farragut Community Center (239 Jamestowne Blvd). The session is part of a business education series presented by Omega Business Solutions in partnership with the Farragut West Knox Chamber of Commerce and the Tennessee Small Business Development Center.

Led by instructor Marcus Blair, the class focuses on helping participants understand how artificial intelligence works, what common terminology means, and how to make sense of AI-related news and trends. Rather than diving into complex technical concepts, the session is designed to explain AI in plain language so attendees can confidently navigate conversations and opportunities related to emerging technology.

Participants will explore practical insights they can apply in their own organizations or daily lives, learning how AI concepts connect to real-world uses. The interactive format even includes a trivia-style learning component to reinforce key ideas in a fun and accessible way.

This workshop is ideal for business owners, professionals, or anyone who wants to better understand AI without needing technical experience. In just about an hour, attendees can gain foundational knowledge that makes the rapidly changing technology landscape feel much more approachable.

For those feeling overwhelmed by the pace of innovation, this session offers a welcoming and practical starting point. More Info & Register

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

Recurring events

🗓️ 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 - 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. | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ 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.

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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