In this Knoxville Insider Issue…

🌤️ Weather | Scattered Thunderstorms with a High of 80

📰 First Friday Art Walk Lights Up Downtown with New Exhibitions

🗓️ Celebrate Earth Day on Campus with Sustainability, Activities & Community

🛍️ Shop Local

🗓️ Upcoming Events

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Today’s Record High: 85 in 1963 — Record Low: 221 in 1987

Tenx9 Live Storytelling Debuts in Knoxville with “Lost & Found” Night

A unique and powerful storytelling experience is coming to Knoxville for the very first time. Tenx9 (“ten by nine”), a globally loved live storytelling event, will take place on April 20th, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Yee-Haw Brewing Co. (745 N. Broadway).

Originally founded in Belfast in 2011 and now thriving in cities around the world—including Nashville - Tenx9 brings people together through the art of real, personal storytelling. The concept is simple: nine people, ten minutes each, sharing true stories from their own lives.

Each event centers around a theme, and for Knoxville’s debut, the topic is “Lost & Found.” From heartfelt to humorous, unexpected to deeply moving, the stories can take many forms—but one thing is guaranteed: you never quite know what you’re going to hear.

Part of what makes Tenx9 so special is its accessibility. The event is free and open to the public, and attendees are invited not only to listen, but potentially to participate. Whether you come to soak in the stories or feel inspired to step up to the mic yourself, it’s a welcoming space built on connection and shared experiences.

Set in the laid-back atmosphere of Yee-Haw Brewing, the evening promises a mix of community, creativity, and authenticity—something a little different from your typical night out.

If you’re looking for an experience that’s engaging, unpredictable, and genuinely human, Tenx9’s Knoxville debut is one you won’t want to miss.

First Friday Art Walk Lights Up Downtown with New Exhibitions

Downtown Knoxville’s vibrant arts scene takes center stage on April 3rd from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM as the Arts & Culture Alliance hosts a special evening of new exhibitions, live music, and artist demonstrations at The Emporium (100 S. Gay Street).

As part of the city’s popular First Friday Art Walk, this free event invites the community to explore multiple galleries under one roof, featuring a diverse range of artists and mediums—from painting and photography to sculpture, textiles, and woodwork.

The centerpiece exhibition, “What We Carry: Meaning, Memory, and the Human Experience,” curated by Jordan Ahlers, brings together ten contemporary artists exploring themes like identity, memory, love, and environmental responsibility. Through a mix of mediums, the exhibit invites visitors to reflect on how personal experiences shape both individuals and the world around them.

In the Lower Gallery, the Smoky Mountain Quilters of Tennessee will showcase a special Earth Month-inspired exhibit, highlighting the beauty of nature through quilting. The collection ranges from beginner works to nationally recognized pieces, including creative uses of recycled materials and nature-inspired designs.

The Atrium will feature “Artimal History” by A.B.A. Turner, a playful and imaginative series that reinterprets classic works of art with a humorous, animal-inspired twist—part of a larger children’s book project.

Visitors can also explore handcrafted pieces from the Cumberland Woodturners, a group of artisans who transform wood into functional and decorative works using traditional lathe techniques.

Adding to the atmosphere, live music from Dry Run Dulcimer will fill the space from 6:00 to 9:00 PM, creating the perfect backdrop for an evening of art and community.

The exhibitions will remain on display through May 2ND, but opening night offers a special chance to meet artists, experience demonstrations, and be part of Knoxville’s thriving creative culture.

Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just looking for something different to do on a Friday night, the First Friday Art Walk at The Emporium is a perfect way to connect with local talent and creativity.

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Take on the Salsa Challenge and Hit the Dance Floor with Confidence

Looking to try something new, meet people, and have a blast doing it? The Salsa Challenge from Salsa Knoxville Dance Company is designed to help you do exactly that—no experience required.

This structured program invites participants to learn salsa (and often bachata) from the ground up, guiding beginners step-by-step from their very first moves to confidently dancing in a social setting. The focus isn’t just on learning steps—it’s about building confidence, connection, and rhythm in a fun, supportive environment.

Led by experienced instructors, the challenge breaks down the fundamentals into easy-to-follow lessons, helping participants stay on beat, learn partner work, and develop their own style over time. Along the way, dancers also get the chance to practice in real social settings—turning what could feel intimidating into something exciting and approachable.

Salsa Knoxville has built a welcoming space where people of all backgrounds and skill levels can come together, make friends, and enjoy the energy of Latin music. From weekly lessons to social dance nights, participants quickly become part of a vibrant local scene.

Whether you’re stepping onto the dance floor for the first time or looking to shake up your routine, this challenge offers a fun and rewarding way to learn something new.

So if you’ve ever thought about trying salsa, this might be your sign—step out, take the challenge, and discover just how fun dancing can be. More Info

Celebrate Earth Day on Campus with Sustainability, Activities & Community

The University of Tennessee is inviting students and the community to come together in celebration of Earth Day (April 22nd) with a special event focused on sustainability, education, and environmental action. The event will be held at 21st Mortgage Plaza (1502 Cumberland Ave).

Taking place on campus, this Earth Day event offers a chance to learn, connect, and take part in activities that highlight ways to care for the planet. Attendees can expect a mix of interactive booths, educational opportunities, and community engagement, all centered around promoting a more sustainable future.

At UT, the event will showcase campus and community organizations working on sustainability initiatives, offering insights into everything from conservation efforts to everyday habits that can reduce environmental impact. It’s a great opportunity to discover resources, meet like-minded individuals, and get inspired to take action.

Whether you’re passionate about the environment or just curious about how to live more sustainably, this Earth Day celebration is a simple and meaningful way to get involved.

If you’re looking for a way to celebrate Earth Day this year, head to campus and be part of a movement that’s all about protecting and preserving the world around us.

🗓️ April 1st - The Historic Dogwood Trails season will kick things off with a ribbon-cutting and community celebration 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). More Info

🗓️ 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 - One of downtown Knoxville’s street markets is back for the season. The Old City Market kicks off its 2026 run from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, transforming the historic 100 block of West Jackson Avenue into a lively, open-air shopping experience. 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 3rd - Step into one of Knoxville’s most charming and historic neighborhoods during the upcoming Fourth & Gill Tour of Homes & Secret Gardens, happening on from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM. More Info

🗓️ May 16th - 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 from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at World’s Fair Park. 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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