In this Knoxville Insider Issue…
🌤️ Weather | Sunny with a High of 77
📰 Leadership Transition Announced at Ijams Nature Center
🗓️ Explore Bourbon History at Whiskey Row Course
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🗓️ Upcoming Events
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Today’s Record High: 83 in 2007 — Record Low: 17 in 1955

Step Back in Time at Dusk in the Dogwoods - A Garden Parlor Party

The team at the historic Mabry-Hazen House is inviting the community to celebrate spring in style at its annual fundraiser, Dusk in the Dogwoods: A Garden Parlor Party, happening April 9th from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Set atop scenic Mabry’s Hill, this one-of-a-kind evening blends history, elegance, and lively entertainment in a 1920s-inspired garden party atmosphere. Guests will be surrounded by blooming dogwood trees while enjoying vintage-style outdoor parlors, complete with Victorian-inspired furniture and sweeping views of downtown Knoxville.
The event celebrates more than just the season—it marks three decades of historic preservation and educational programming at Mabry-Hazen House, while raising funds to support the museum’s future.
Throughout the evening, guests can enjoy signature cocktails, local beer and wine, and delicious hors d’oeuvres from Real Good Kitchen, along with live music from the Old City Buskers. The festivities also include dancing, yard games like croquet and bocce, historic home tours, and a silent auction featuring items from local businesses and makers.
For those looking to fully embrace the theme, costumes are encouraged, with prizes awarded for the Most Historically Authentic, Most Creative, and Most Spirited looks—though dressing up is entirely optional.
A highlight of the event is the unique “garden parlor” experience, where guests can reserve private outdoor seating areas for their group or relax in shared spaces across the beautifully decorated grounds.
As part of the Dogwood Trail, Mabry-Hazen House is home to more than 80 blooming dogwood trees, along with a variety of other species as a certified arboretum—making it the perfect backdrop for a spring evening.
Tickets are $125 per guest, with children 17 and under admitted free with a parent or guardian. Private garden parlors for groups are also available. In the event of rain, the party will be held on April 16.
Whether you come for the history, the atmosphere, or the celebration, Dusk in the Dogwoods offers a memorable way to support one of Knoxville’s most treasured historic sites—while partying like it’s 1926. More Info & Tickets
Leadership Transition Announced at Ijams Nature Center

A major leadership transition is on the horizon for one of Knoxville’s most beloved outdoor destinations. Ijams Nature Center has announced that President & CEO Amber Parker will conclude her role on August 14th, following nearly a decade of leadership.
Parker, who has led Ijams since 2017, has played a key role in guiding the organization through a period of significant growth. During her tenure, Ijams expanded its land holdings, enhanced conservation and education programs, strengthened community partnerships, increased visitation, and developed a comprehensive master plan for the future.
The transition is described as a planned and strategic move, with the Board of Directors already launching a search for the organization’s next leader. A CEO Succession Committee has been formed to oversee the process and ensure a smooth transition.
Ijams leadership emphasized that Parker will remain fully engaged through her final day, helping maintain continuity across operations, donor relationships, and ongoing initiatives. The organization’s mission and day-to-day work will remain unchanged throughout the transition.
As the search for a new CEO begins, the focus remains on building upon a strong foundation while continuing to grow Ijams’ role as a place where people of all ages can connect with nature.
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Community Tree Planting Set to Enhance Plumb Creek Park

Roll up their sleeves and make a lasting impact at Plumb Creek Park (1517 Hickey Road) during an upcoming community tree planting event on March 28th from 1:00 to 3:00 PM.
Led by Trees Knoxville in partnership with the Knox County Parks and Recreation Department and the local disc golf community, this collaborative effort aims to restore shade, improve safety, and enhance the park’s popular disc golf course.
Over time, tree loss—largely due to utility work—has reduced shade and altered the natural layout of the course. This event will help reestablish the tree canopy and bring back the original fairway design, creating a cooler, more enjoyable experience for both players and park visitors.
Volunteers of all experience levels are welcome and will assist with digging, planting, and mulching trees under the guidance of trained staff and leaders. No prior experience is needed, and all tools will be provided. Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing, closed-toe shoes, and bring water. More Info & Tickets
Explore Bourbon History at Whiskey Row Course

Whiskey lovers and curious newcomers alike have a unique opportunity to dive into bourbon history at the upcoming Whiskey Row Region Course, happening on April 21st at 6:00 PM at 35 North Bar and Grill (11321 Kingston Pike).
This engaging evening will take guests on a journey through the story of Louisville’s historic Whiskey Row, once a pre-Prohibition powerhouse and now a revitalized hub for modern bourbon culture. Attendees will learn how the area evolved from a major whiskey trading center, through its post-Prohibition decline, to its exciting resurgence beginning in 2013 with the opening of the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience.
The course will also highlight how a new wave of urban distilleries and immersive visitor experiences has helped reestablish Whiskey Row as one of Kentucky’s key bourbon-producing regions.
Beyond the history lesson, the event offers a hands-on tasting experience, allowing guests to sample several whiskeys while enjoying the atmosphere. Each ticket also includes an individually plated appetizer and gratuity, with additional food available for purchase from the menu.
Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon enthusiast or just starting to explore the world of whiskey, this event offers a relaxed and informative way to expand your knowledge while enjoying great flavors.
Spots are limited. More Info & Tickets (scroll to the April 21st listing).

🗓️ Now through March 31st - Both the West Knoxville (9937 Kingston Pike) and Emory Place (Downtown, 6 Emory Place) locations of Crafty Bastard will host week-long used book sales during regular business hours.
🗓️ March 26th - 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 start at 2 p.m. at the Kerns Senior Center (8042 Oak Ridge Highway). More Info
🗓️ 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-28th - 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.
🗓️ 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 27th-29th - If you’re looking for a more elevated (but still relaxed) arts experience, ArtXtravaganza is back at the Webb School of Knoxville Lee Athletic Center (9800 Webb School Lane) - and it’s free to attend. More Info
🗓️ March 28th - The Vietnam Veterans of America, Capt. Bill Robinson Chapter 1078 will host a commemorative ceremony at 10:00 AM. The event will take place at the Vietnam Veterans Monument within the East Tennessee Veterans Memorial at World’s Fair Park.
🗓️ March 28th - River Dog Bakery and Royal Bark Social Club are teaming up to host “Photos with Peter Cotton Paws” on March 28th from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at River Dog Bakery (5201 Kingston Pike).
🗓️ March 28th - If you’re looking for a refreshing way to enjoy the outdoors this spring, Norris Dam State Park is hosting a Spring Hike, offering a guided opportunity to explore one of East Tennessee’s most scenic natural areas. More Info & Register
🗓️ March 28th - 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 start at 10:30 a.m. at the Bearden Branch Library (100 Golf Club Road). More Info
🗓️ 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 - 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]. More Info
🗓️ 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 28th-29th - Clear Springs Baptist Church (7350 Tazewell Pike, Corryton) is inviting the community to step into a powerful and immersive Easter experience that brings the story of Jesus to life in a unique and meaningful way, at the upcoming “Journey with Jesus: Easter Drive-Through”. More Info
🗓️ March 28th-29th - Ice cream lovers in Union County have something sweet to celebrate as Sticks & Scoops Ice Cream & Donut Holes (3570 Maynardville Highway, Maynardville) kicks off its opening weekend for the season from 3:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
🗓️ April 2nd - If you’ve ever wondered how to properly care for your fruit trees—or want to boost your harvest this season—this upcoming Fruit Tree Pruning Workshop hosted by the Knox County Master Gardeners is a perfect opportunity to dig in and learn. The workshop will be held at 5:00 p.m. More Info
🗓️ 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 3rd - The Arts & Culture Alliance unveils four new exhibitions at the Emporium Center (100 S. Gay Street) from 5:00 to 9:00 PM.
🗓️ April 3rd - Step back in time and explore the natural healing traditions of the region at “Healing Roots: Folk Medicine in Appalachia,” happening at Norris Dam State Park (125 Village Green Circle, Rocky Top/Lake City). More Info
🗓️ April 3rd-6th - Get ready, Knoxville—an unforgettable, high-energy spectacle is making waves. Cirque Italia’s Water Circus: Nautilus is heading to West Town Mall (7600 Kingston Pike), bringing a one-of-a-kind experience under its iconic white and blue Big Top. More Info & Tickets
🗓️ April 4th - Get ready to grab the mic and make a difference at Karaoke for a Cause, happening from 8:00 PM to 1:00 AM at Fountain City Social 80s Cocktail Bar (4844 Harvest Mill Way).
🗓️ April 4th - Get ready for an afternoon full of colorful fun, laughter, and Easter excitement at the upcoming Easter Carnival on April 4th, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Hosted by Painting Around (2917 W. Beaver Creek Dr., Powell), this festive event promises something for the whole family to enjoy.
🗓️ April 4th - Looking for a festive, family-friendly way to celebrate Easter this year? Friendly Farm’s Easter Eggstravaganza 2026 (1104 Rebel Hollow Rd, Tazewell), from Noon-5pm, is shaping up to be a can’t-miss springtime event filled with outdoor fun, animals, and plenty of Easter excitement. More Info & Tickets
🗓️ April 4th - Get ready for fast-paced action and hard-hitting excitement as Hard Knox Roller Derby kicks off its 20th Anniversary season on April 4th from 4pm - 9pm at the Knoxville Convention Center (701 Henley Street). More Info
🗓️ April 5th - Easter Sunday is just around the corner, and The Pearl at Aspire (777 Aspire Drive, Clinton) is inviting the Knoxville community to gather, celebrate, and enjoy a truly special holiday meal. On April 5th, they’ll be hosting their Easter Experience Buffet, a thoughtfully curated dining event filled with fresh flavors, comforting classics, and festive sweets. More Info
🗓️ 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 10th - Looking for a fun and relaxing night out with a creative twist? Scruffy’s Cafe is bringing back its popular Paint & Sip Night, and this time it’s all about painting your favorite furry friend. More Info & Tickets
🗓️ April 11th - If you’re looking for a truly unique experience this spring, this one is hard to beat. Historic Cherokee Caverns is hosting a special “Movies in the Cave” event on April 11th, featuring a screening of The Goonies - all set deep underground inside a real cave. More Info
🗓️ April 11th - K-pop fans in Knoxville have a fun local event to look forward to this spring as the K-Pop Spring Concert takes place at 1:00 PM at the Hardin Valley Event Center (2620 Willow Point Way).
🗓️ 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 12th - Car enthusiasts, mark your calendars—Harper Auto Square’s Cars & Coffee is back on Sunday, April 12th, from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM at West Town Mall (7600 Kingston Pike).
🗓️ April 14th - Celebrate the season of growth and renewal at Flourish - A GreenStalk Garden Party 2026, happening from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM at the beautiful Maple Grove Estate (8800 Westland Drive).
🗓️ April 16th - Fans of classic rock are in for a treat as The RUSH Tribute Project brings its highly acclaimed live show to the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 PM. More Info & Tickets
🗓️ 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 -The “More Signal, Less Noise” AI Summit will take place at 1:00 PM at The Square Room in Market Square. Designed as a “T-shirt friendly” summit, the event promises a practical, no-fluff approach to AI—centered on real-world applications inside actual businesses. More Info & Tickets
🗓️ 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
🗓️ May 16th - Start your morning with purpose and connection at the upcoming Women Build Brunch, happening from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM at The Mill & Mine in Knoxville. More Info & Tickets
🗓️ May 30th - Knoxville Margarita Festival - Get ready to raise a glass at the third annual Knoxville Margarita Festival on May 30th at The Mill & Mine. This lively evening event invites guests to sample creative margaritas from some of the area’s favorite restaurants as they compete for the title of Best Margarita in Knoxville. More Info
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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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