In this Knoxville Insider Issue…

🌤️ Weather | Sunny with a High of 69

📰 TODAY - Lucky Kidney Run Brings Community Together in Downtown Knoxville

📰 TODAY - Winter Farmer’s Market in Hardin Valley

🗓️ Knox County Master Gardeners Announce March Gardening Events

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🗓️ Upcoming Events

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Today’s Record High: 81 in 1957 — Record Low: 16 in 1998

Growing Hope - Community Plant Swap Brings Gardeners Together for a Good Cause

A unique gardening event that combines community, plants, and a meaningful cause is coming to Knoxville this spring.

Growing Hope with the GFPD will take place on May 16th at 1:00 PM at UT Gardens (2518 Jacob Drive). The event will be held at the beautiful Friendship Pavilion and surrounding gardens, providing a scenic setting for an afternoon of plants and community connection.

This special fundraiser will feature a plant and seed swap, local vendors, youth activities, and garden-related items, offering something for gardeners of all experience levels. Attendees are encouraged to bring indoor plants, outdoor plants, seeds, or gardening items to exchange with others while meeting fellow plant enthusiasts in the Knoxville community.

Beyond the fun of swapping plants, the event raises awareness and funds for the Global Foundation for Peroxisomal Disorders (GFPD), an organization dedicated to supporting families affected by rare genetic disorders and advancing research to improve lives.

Whether you’re an experienced gardener with extra plants to share or someone simply looking for a fun outdoor event, Growing Hope offers a welcoming opportunity to connect with neighbors while supporting an important cause. More Info

TODAY - Lucky Kidney Run Brings Community Together in Downtown Knoxville

Runners, walkers, and supporters are invited to lace up their shoes and head downtown for the Lucky Kidney Run on March 14th at 9:00 a.m. at the World's Fair Park. The community event celebrates National Kidney Disease Month while raising awareness and support for kidney health programs in East Tennessee.

Hosted by the East Tennessee Kidney Foundation, the event features a 6K run and a 1-mile walk, with both timed and untimed participation options available. Awards will be presented to top race finishers, as well as the top fundraising teams and largest participating teams.

The race begins and ends at the World’s Fair Park Performance Lawn, sending participants along an out-and-back route on the 2nd Creek Greenway and the Neyland Drive greenway before returning to the park for post-race festivities.

One of the highlights of the event is its connection to the Knoxville Shamrock Festival, which kicks off at 10:00 a.m. in the park. After crossing the finish line, participants can roll straight into the St. Patrick’s Day celebration filled with music, festivities, and plenty of green and Irish-inspired fun.

Kidney disease is often called a “silent disease,” and the Lucky Kidney Run aims to bring the community together to raise awareness while encouraging prevention, education, and support for those affected.

Participants are encouraged to gather friends, family members, or coworkers to form teams and take part in the morning’s run or walk before enjoying the festival atmosphere downtown.

Whether you’re running for a personal cause, supporting a loved one, or simply looking for a fun and meaningful way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day weekend in Knoxville, the Lucky Kidney Run offers a spirited way to get involved and make a difference.

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Appalachian Ballet Company Presents The Little Mermaid

The Appalachian Ballet Company is inviting audiences to dive into a magical undersea adventure with its upcoming production of The Little Mermaid, coming to the Clayton Center for the Arts on March 27th at 7:00 PM and March 28th at 3:00 PM.

Inspired by the beloved fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen, this enchanting one-and-a-half-hour ballet tells the story of a young mermaid who dreams of becoming human and discovering life beyond the sea.

Audiences can expect an immersive visual experience thanks to vibrant costumes, dramatic staging, and lighting designed by John Horner that helps bring the magical underwater world to life on stage.

Following the Saturday matinee performance, guests will also have a special opportunity to meet the cast and take photos with the dancers, offering families and young fans a memorable behind-the-scenes moment with the performers.

Tickets for The Little Mermaid are available now through the Appalachian Ballet Company website or through the Clayton Center for the Arts box office. Group ticket options are also available by contacting the company directly.

Whether you’re a longtime ballet fan or simply looking for a family-friendly cultural outing, this enchanting production promises a delightful journey under the sea.

Knox County Master Gardeners Announce March Gardening Events

Spring is on the way, and the Knox County Master Gardeners are helping local residents prepare for the growing season with several educational gardening events scheduled throughout March.

Gardeners will have the opportunity to get their questions answered on March 21st from 10 a.m. to noon when Master Gardener Cid Letsinger hosts a plant and gardening Q&A session at the Norwood Branch Library (1110 Merchant Drive). This informal session gives community members the chance to receive expert advice on plants, soil, landscaping, and common gardening challenges.

Also on March 21st, Extension Agent Lee Rumble will lead a tree walk at Collier Preserve (316 Emory Road). The preserve is a project supported by the Knox County Master Gardeners and provides a beautiful setting to learn more about the trees and plant life found in the area.

Gardeners looking to tackle one of the most common backyard challenges can attend “Weeds, What Weeds?”, a presentation by Master Gardeners Lynn Carlson and Jean Hess. This informative talk will be offered twice: on March 26th at 2 p.m. at the Kerns Senior Center (8042 Oak Ridge Highway) and again on March 28th at 10:30 a.m. at the Bearden Branch Library (100 Golf Club Road). Attendees will learn practical tips for identifying, managing, and preventing common weeds in East Tennessee gardens.

For those ready to get their hands in the soil, the Garden Classroom series will host a seed planting session on March 28th from 10 a.m. to noon at the Burwell Community Garden (131 E Burwell Ave). The event is free to attend, but registration is required by emailing [email protected].

The Knox County Master Gardeners program is a joint effort of University of Tennessee Extension and Tennessee State University Cooperative Extension, bringing research-based gardening education and volunteer support to the community.

With warmer weather approaching, these events offer a great opportunity for gardeners of all experience levels to learn new techniques, connect with fellow plant enthusiasts, and get ready for the growing season ahead. More Info

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

🗓️ March 14th - Rock fans in Knoxville will have the chance to experience the electrifying music of AC/DC when Back N Black: The Ultimate AC/DC Experience takes the stage at the Bijou Theatre (801 S. Gay Street). Doors open at 7:00 PM, with the concert beginning at 8:00 PM.

🗓️ March 14th - Get ready for a PI-licious celebration of flavor as Slow Food Tennessee Valley hosts its 11th Annual Pi Day Pie Contest beginning at 11am, at Barrelhouse by Gypsy Circus (621 Lamar St). More Info | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ March 14th - Wine lovers and food enthusiasts, get ready! The Gatlinburg Smoky Mountain Wine Fest returns March 14th from 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM at the historic Arrowmont School of Arts & Crafts in downtown Gatlinburg for an unforgettable afternoon of sipping, savoring, and celebrating. More Info | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ March 14th - Herb lovers, gardeners, and wellness enthusiasts are invited to kick off the season at the Lavender Festival Pre-Event on March 14th at 10:00 AM in Oak Ridge. Hosted by Grow Oak Ridge, this free community event offers a morning of hands-on learning focused on growing and using fresh herbs — perfect for anyone looking to add more natural wellness and flavor to their daily life. The workshops will take place at 701 Briarcliff Avenue in Oak Ridge, inside the Winter Farmers Market. After the sessions, attendees are encouraged to stick around to browse local vendors and enjoy the market atmosphere. | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ March 14th - Families looking for a calm, welcoming environment to enjoy animals and outdoor fun are invited to attend Low Sensory Evening from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Little Ponderosa Zoo and Rescue (629 Granite Road, Clinton). | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ March 14th -If you’ve ever been curious about growing your own food without relying on electricity or traditional gardening methods, this free workshop offers the perfect opportunity to learn. Ailor Gap Farms is hosting an Off-Grid Hydroponic Workshop for Beginners, providing hands-on education in a practical farm setting. The workshop will take place from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Ailor Gap Farms (740 Ailor Gap Road, Maryville). | 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 14th-15th - Art lovers and shoppers looking for unique handmade goods will have plenty to explore when the Great Smoky Spring Arts & Crafts Show returns to the Gatlinburg Convention Center (234 Historic Nature Trail). The event will be held daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and admission is free for all visitors.

🗓️ March 14th-15th - Treasure hunters, collectors, and bargain shoppers will have plenty to explore when the Knoxville Flea Market returns to the Knoxville Expo. More Info

🗓️ March 15th - Dog lovers and their four-legged friends are invited to celebrate St. Pawdy’s Day Dog Party on March 15th, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Hi-Wire Brewing (2020 Barber Street). This festive afternoon promises plenty of tail-wagging fun for pets and their people. | 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 17th - Business Bingo: Women’s Networking FUNction - this St. Patrick’s Day–themed networking event will take place on March 17th, from 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM at The Hub Pro Studio, located at 1104 Merchant Drive, Suite 103. More Info & Register | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ March 18th - Knoxville’s historic Mabry-Hazen House (1711 Dandridge Ave) is inviting the community to unwind, explore history, and enjoy a beautiful evening view during Porch Time I, the first event in its newly renamed after-hours social series. The event will take place on March 18th, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the historic house museum atop Mabry’s Hill. More Info & Tickets | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ March 19th - Contemporary Christian music fans will have the opportunity to experience an evening of powerful worship and inspiring music when Phil Wickham’s “Song of the Saints Tour” comes to the Knoxville Civic Coliseum at 7:00 PM. More Info | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ March 20th - Comedy fans in East Tennessee can look forward to a unique night of laughter when comedian Don McMillan performs live at the Clayton Center for the Arts in Maryville at 7:30 PM in the Ronald and Lynda Nutt Theatre. More Info

🗓️ March 21st - Bluegrass & Bargins - Mark your calendar for a toe-tappin’ good time in downtown Clinton from 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM. Trackside Antiques (403 Market Street, Clinton) is bringing the fun outdoors for an afternoon filled with shopping, live music, and delicious country cooking. More Info | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ March 21st - A Candlestick Making workshop at Norris Dam State Park at 11:00 AM, giving participants the chance to learn a traditional skill and take home something they’ve made themselves. The cost is $15 per person, and pre-registration is required. The workshop is designed for participants ages 10 and up. More Info & Register | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ March 21st - Horse fans, riders, and outdoor enthusiasts are invited to shop, connect, and support a great local organization at the Faith N Friends Annual Tack Sale from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at 8505 Corryton Luttrell Rd in Luttrell. | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ March 21st - Ijams Nature Center is seeking volunteers for the 37th annual Ijams River Rescue on March 21st, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, with a weather backup date scheduled for March 28th. The deadline to sign up is March 15th, or until all spots are filled. More Info & Sign Up | 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 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) |

🗓️ March 27th - Ever wondered what it takes to run one of Knoxville’s most popular entertainment destinations? The Farragut West Knox Chamber of Commerce is giving the community an exclusive opportunity to find out during the first installment of its new quarterly series, How It’s Made: Knoxville Edition, from 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM at Topgolf Knoxville (11440 Outlet Drive). | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ March 27th-29th - Anime fans, gamers, and pop-culture enthusiasts are invited to a weekend packed with fandom fun as Fanboy Anime, Toy & Gaming returns to Knoxville Convention Center. | More Info | Add to Calendar (Mar. 27th) | Add to Calendar (Mar. 28th) | Add to Calendar (Mar. 29th) |

🗓️ March 28th - Families are invited to celebrate spring at the annual Fountain City Business & Professional Association (FCBPA) Easter Egg Hunt, happening from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Fountain City Park. | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ March 28th - Celebrate the beauty of spring at the Easter Craft Fair from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the historic Marble Springs State Historic Site. More Info | 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 |

🗓️ April 2nd - Whiskey lovers and curious newcomers alike are invited to explore the rich heritage of Tennessee whiskey during Tennessee Whiskey 202, an immersive tasting class taking place at 6:30 PM in The Vault Room at Liquor Vault. More Info | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ April 5th - Families are invited to celebrate the Easter season with a fun and festive FREE Easter Egg Hunt at B&B Indoor Foam Dart Arena, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. The event will take place at 6709 Maynardville Pike in Knoxville, where kids can explore the arena in search of hidden eggs and exciting prizes. | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ April 9th - Country music fans can look forward to an electrifying night when HARDY performs live at Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center. More Info

🗓️ April 11th - Fore the Love of Animals Top Golf Fundraiser - This high-energy tournament invites participants of all skill levels takes place from noon - 3:00 PM — no golf experience required — to enjoy friendly competition, delicious food and drinks, and an afternoon of community impact. Teams of three can register for $350 per team, which includes gameplay along with food and beverages, making it a perfect outing for friends, coworkers, or organizations looking to support a meaningful mission together. More Info & Register

🗓️ April 11th – 12th - Thousands of runners, spectators, and volunteers will gather in downtown Knoxville for the Covenant Health Knoxville Marathon Weekend. More Info

🗓️ April 18th - Endurance athletes from across the region will gather in Knoxville for the World’s Fair Ultras, taking place at World’s Fair Park. More Info

🗓️ April 18th - Fans of classic soul and Motown music will have the chance to experience two legendary groups live when The Temptations and The Four Tops take the stage at the Tennessee Theatre (604 S. Gay Street) at 8:00 PM. More Info

🗓️ April 18th - Those curious about Knoxville’s history are invited to attend the Bearden History Fair from 10 AM to 4 PM at Central Baptist Church in Bearden (6300 Deane Hill Dr). More Info

🗓️ April 18th-19th - Downtown Knoxville will come alive with music, culture, and international flavor when the Rossini Festival and International Street Fair returns to Downton. More Info

🗓️ April 19th - Families are invited to come together for a meaningful and fun community event during the 3rd Annual Walk ‘N’ Roll, from 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM, hosted by Joni and Friends Knoxville. The event will celebrate connection, inclusion, and awareness while supporting families living with disability. More Info & Register

🗓️ April 23rd – 27th - Healing Hearts Counseling is hosting a powerful and restorative experience designed specifically for women navigating the deep emotional impact of betrayal. The Women’s Healing Retreat: Recovering from Betrayal will take place in a peaceful cabin setting in the Smoky Mountains. More Info & Register | Add to Calendar |

🗓️ April 24th - The Halls High School Class of 1976 is preparing to celebrate a major milestone with its 50th Class Reunion from 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM at the Oak Ridge Event Center (100 Melton Lake Peninsula, Oak Ridge). Email Kathy Cox Southers at [email protected] for more info.

🗓️ April 24th - Art enthusiasts will have the opportunity to explore and purchase original works during Artists on Location at the Knoxville Museum of Art (World’s Fair Park), taking place from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM and April 25TH from 10:00 AM to Noon. More Info

🗓️ April 24th – 26th - Spring in Knoxville means blooming dogwood trees, warmer weather, and the return of one of the city’s most beloved traditions—the Dogwood Arts Festival, taking place at World’s Fair Park. More Info

🗓️ May 2nd - Women across East Tennessee are invited to gather for a night of encouragement, laughter, and worship during The Unknown Tour, coming to Salem Baptist Church (8201 Hill Road) from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM. 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.

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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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