🌤️ Weather | Partly Sunny with a High of 78

📰 Dogwood Trails Return in Full Bloom Across Knoxville This April

📰 Children’s Festival of Reading Returns for a Milestone 20th Year

🗓️ Tour Historic Homes & Secret Gardens in Fourth & Gill

🗓️ Old City Market Returns with Local Makers, Food & Spring Vibes

🛍️ Shop Local

🗓️ Upcoming Events

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Knoxville’s most iconic spring tradition is back. The Historic Dogwood Trails officially open for the 2026 season on April 1st, inviting the community to explore more than 90 miles of blooming trails throughout the area. Visitors can explore the trails by car, bike, or on foot, following the familiar pink lines that guide the way.

This year’s Featured Trails spotlight three South Knoxville neighborhoods—Lakemoor Hills, Chapman Highway, and Island Home—offering some of the most picturesque views of the season.

To kick things off, a ribbon-cutting and community celebration will take place on April 1st from 4:30 PM to 7:00 PM along the Lakemoor Hills Dogwood Trail, with parking available at Lake Hills Presbyterian Church (3805 Maloney Road).

Throughout April, visitors can also enjoy Open Gardens and Camera Sites, welcoming guests daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. These curated locations offer some of the best spots for photos and up-close views of Knoxville’s springtime beauty.

New this year is the “Hikes & Blooms” series, featuring 11 guided outdoor experiences across the region. These walks, led by local experts, will highlight native plants, wildflowers, birds, and conservation efforts at scenic locations like Ijams Nature Center and the UT Arboretum. Many of these hikes require advance registration and are expected to fill quickly.

Since its beginnings in 1955 as a neighborhood beautification effort, the Dogwood Trails have grown into a month-long celebration of East Tennessee’s art, culture, and natural beauty—and a true hallmark of spring in Knoxville.

Trail maps and guides are available online at dogwoodarts.com, as well as in print at ORNL Federal Credit Union branches and the Dogwood Arts office.

Whether you’re a longtime local or visiting for the first time, April is the perfect time to get outside, follow the pink lines, and experience Knoxville in full bloom.

One of Knoxville’s most beloved family traditions is back—and bigger than ever. The Children’s Festival of Reading will celebrate its 20th anniversary on May 16th, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at World’s Fair Park.

Hosted by the Knox County Public Library, this free, family-friendly event transforms downtown into a vibrant celebration of books, imagination, and creativity. Each year, thousands of families gather to enjoy a full day of storytelling, live performances, hands-on activities, and appearances by world-class authors and illustrators.

The festival is designed to spark a love of reading in children of all ages, offering everything from interactive storytelling sessions and music to crafts, science activities, and character meet-and-greets. It also serves as the official kickoff to the library’s Summer Reading Challenge, encouraging kids, teens, and adults to stay engaged with reading all summer long.

This year’s milestone celebration promises an exciting lineup of returning favorite authors and new faces, along with expanded programming to mark two decades of inspiring young readers. The festival has even earned regional recognition, recently being named one of the best children’s events in the Southeast, highlighting its impact on families and the community.

In addition to the literary fun, attendees can enjoy food vendors, interactive exhibits, and plenty of space to explore and play, making it an easy and memorable outing for the whole family.

Whether your child is just discovering books or already a passionate reader, the Children’s Festival of Reading offers a day filled with inspiration, creativity, and fun.

Best of all—it’s completely free. So grab the family, head downtown, and get ready to celebrate 20 years of stories, imagination, and community. More Info

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

Step into one of Knoxville’s most charming and historic neighborhoods during the upcoming Fourth & Gill Tour of Homes & Secret Gardens, happening on May 3rd from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM.

This annual event invites visitors to explore the beauty and character of the Fourth & Gill Historic District, a neighborhood known for its stunning collection of Victorian, Craftsman, and early 20th-century homes. From carefully preserved architecture to lush, tucked-away gardens, the tour offers a rare chance to see inside some of Knoxville’s most unique private spaces.

Now in its 36th year, the tour showcases a curated selection of homes and gardens, giving guests a deeper look at the neighborhood’s rich history and the creativity of its residents. Each stop highlights the craftsmanship, design, and stories that make Fourth & Gill one of the city’s most beloved areas.

Beyond the homes themselves, the event also celebrates the neighborhood’s ongoing commitment to preservation and community. Originally developed in the late 1800s, Fourth & Gill remains one of Knoxville’s most intact historic districts, offering a glimpse into the city’s past while continuing to thrive today.

Tickets are available in advance, with discounts offered for early purchase, and children 12 and under can attend for free.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, architecture lover, or simply looking for a beautiful way to spend a spring afternoon, the Tour of Homes & Secret Gardens is a perfect opportunity to experience Knoxville’s past—and present—in full bloom. More Info

One of downtown Knoxville’s street markets is back for the season. The Old City Market kicks off its 2026 run on April 19th from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, transforming the historic 100 block of West Jackson Avenue into a lively, open-air shopping experience.

Hosted by Dogwood Arts, the market brings together a curated mix of local artists, makers, bakers, and small businesses, offering everything from handmade goods and art to gourmet treats and unique finds.

For opening day, the Old City will temporarily close off Jackson Avenue to traffic, creating a walkable space where visitors can browse vendor booths, discover new favorites, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of one of Knoxville’s most unique neighborhoods.

The April 19 market marks the first of several dates throughout the year, with additional markets planned through the spring and summer. It’s part of a seasonal series that turns the Old City into a hub for creativity, community, and local commerce.

Expect a little bit of everything—handcrafted goods, locally made products, fresh food, and a laid-back Sunday vibe that pairs perfectly with nearby restaurants, coffee shops, and breweries. Whether you’re shopping, strolling, or just enjoying the scene, it’s an easy way to spend a spring afternoon.

If you’re looking for a fun, local outing that supports small businesses and showcases Knoxville’s creative community, the Old City Market on April 19th is a perfect place to start. More Info

Recurring events

🗓️ 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.

🗓️ April 1st - Immerse yourself in an evening where visual and auditory arts collide during the latest installment of the Soundscapes concert series. You are invited to a sophisticated performance by South African-born singer and guitarist Andrea Lisa. This musical experience will take place from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the Knoxville Museum of Art. More Info & Tickets

🗓️ 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 for a paw-some Easter celebration your pup won’t want to miss. Zoom Room Dog Training (10938 Springbluff Way) is hosting its annual Easter Agility Egg Hunt from 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM, offering a fun and active experience for dogs and their humans. Register Online or Call to register: (865) 378-7200.

🗓️ 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 7th - Good news for dessert lovers—Jeremiah’s Italian Ice in West Knox (1601 Ebenezer Rd.) is officially reopening, and they’re celebrating in a big way. Join the fun on April 7th, from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM at their location on Ebenezer Road for a full day of frozen treats and excitement.

🗓️ April 9th - 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 from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. More Info & Tickets

🗓️ 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 - The annual Chalk Walk returns this spring, inviting artists of all ages and skill levels to pick up a piece of chalk and leave their mark on the pavement. This free, all-day event takes place from sunrise to sunset in the heart of Market Square and Krutch Park. More Info

🗓️ April 11th - The Hardin Valley Farmers Market is wrapping up its winter season with its’ final market dates—and gearing up for an exciting summer ahead, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Hardin Valley Event Center (2620 Willow Point Way).

🗓️ 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 13th - Curious about radiation and the science behind it? The Technical Society of Knoxville (TSK) is hosting an informative and thought-provoking presentation titled “Radiation? What You Think You Know, and What You Should Know”, at the Crowne Plaza Hotel (401 W. Summit Hill Drive). More Info & RSVP.

🗓️ 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 - Spring is the perfect time to get out, shop local, and enjoy the season—and the upcoming Spring Market Social is making it easy to do just that. The event is from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM at the Hardin Valley Event Center (2620 Willow Point Way).

🗓️ 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 21st -Whiskey lovers and curious newcomers alike have a unique opportunity to dive into bourbon history at the upcoming Whiskey Row Region Course, happening at 6:00 PM at 35 North Bar and Grill (11321 Kingston Pike). Spots are limited. More Info & Tickets (scroll to the April 21st listing).

🗓️ 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 1st-2nd - Get ready to breathe in the fresh air and push your boundaries at the upcoming Outlandish Adventure Festival happening May 1st-2nd! This high-energy celebration is designed to showcase the very best of the great outdoors, inviting nature lovers to trade their screens for sunshine. 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 2nd-3rd - Mark your calendars—the 2nd Annual Knoxville Book Festival is set to take over the Knoxville Convention Center, bringing together readers, writers, and literary enthusiasts for a full weekend of inspiration and connection. More Info & Tickets

🗓️ 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

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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