In this Knoxville Insider Issue…

🌤️ Weather | Sunny with a High of 63

📰 Local Businesses Invited to Support Horse Haven of TN at the Run for the Roses Derby Celebration

🗓️ Get Ready to Feast at the Knoshville Jewish Food Festival!

🛍️ Shop Local

🗓️ Upcoming Events

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Today’s Record High: 86 in 1893 — Record Low: 26 in 2007

Hearing & Speech Screenings Offered at UT Conference Center

Local Businesses Invited to Support Horse Haven of TN at the Run for the Roses Derby Celebration

An exciting spring tradition is returning to Knoxville—and local businesses have a unique opportunity to be part of it. The Run for the Roses Kentucky Derby Celebration will take place on May 2nd, at the Hardin Valley Event Center (2620 Willow Point Way), bringing together the community for an evening of fun, fashion, and philanthropy.

This is expected to draw 500–1,000 attendees (21+) and will feature live entertainment, themed activities, Best Hat and Best Dressed contests, raffles, giveaways, and more—all set in a lively, social atmosphere designed for connection and celebration.

Beyond the festivities, the event carries a meaningful mission. Proceeds will benefit two impactful local nonprofits: Horse Haven of Tennessee and STAR Riding Academy, both of which provide important services and support within the community.

Organizers are currently inviting local businesses and community partners to get involved by contributing through sponsorships, donations, or giveaway items. These contributions not only help enhance the event experience but also provide valuable visibility and engagement opportunities for participating businesses.

Businesses can support the event in several ways:

  • Financial Sponsorships to help fund entertainment, décor, and programming

  • Door Prizes & Giveaways, including gift cards, products, services, or branded items

  • In-kind contributions for raffles and swag bags

In return, sponsors will receive recognition through event signage, social media, verbal mentions during the event, and promotional opportunities, with additional benefits available at higher sponsorship levels. Sponsorship levels include:

  • Triple Crown Sponsor ($2,000+) – Premier placement, on-stage recognition, optional vendor space

  • Derby Sponsor ($1,000) – Logo placement, social media recognition, and more

  • Rosebud Sponsor ($500) – Event signage and social media acknowledgment

  • In-Kind Donors – Recognition based on contribution value

This is a great opportunity for businesses to increase local visibility, support a meaningful event, and connect directly with attendees in a fun, engaging environment.

Businesses interested in participating are encouraged to reach out by April 17th to ensure inclusion in event promotions.

To sponsor, donate, or learn more, contact:
Sherry Casey
📧 [email protected]
📞 (865) 335-8547

Whether you’re looking to give back, grow your brand, or be part of a memorable community celebration, the Run for the Roses offers a perfect opportunity to do it all.

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Grow Your Gardening Skills with this Week’s Master Gardener Events

Spring is in full swing, and the Knox County Master Gardeners are offering several hands-on and educational opportunities to help you make the most of the growing season. From seed starting to wildflower hikes and beginner workshops, there’s something for gardeners of all experience levels happening this week.

Kicking things off TODAY, April 7th, Master Gardener Shelia McNeely will host “Starting Spunky Sprouts” at 2:00 PM at the Karns Senior Center (8042 Oak Ridge Highway). This session focuses on how to successfully start seeds at home—perfect for anyone looking to grow their own plants from the ground up.

Also on TODAY, April 7th, Master Gardener Gina Bond will lead a wildflower hike at Dean’s Woods in South Knoxville (3101 Germantown Lane) from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM. This guided experience offers a chance to explore native wildflowers while learning about local ecosystems and plant identification. More Info

The learning continues on April 9th, with another wildflower hike at Dean’s Woods (3101 Germantown Lane) from 2:00 to 3:30 PM, giving participants a second opportunity to enjoy this scenic and educational outing.

On April 10th, those new to gardening can attend a Beginner Gardening Workshop at Beardsley Community Farm (1741 Reynolds Street) from 1:30 to 3:30 PM. This free class covers the basics of getting started, though registration is required in advance. More Info

These events are part of a larger lineup of spring programming from the Knox County Master Gardeners, aimed at helping residents connect with nature, learn new skills, and grow with confidence.

Whether you’re planting your first seeds or exploring local wildflowers, this week offers a great chance to get outside and get growing.

Get Ready to Feast at the Knoshville Jewish Food Festival!

Prepare your appetite for a delicious journey through Jewish heritage at the highly anticipated Knoshville Jewish Food Festival. Expect an afternoon overflowing with savory aromas, vibrant music, and a warm, welcoming spirit. Whether you are a lifelong fan of traditional Jewish cuisine or a curious newcomer looking to expand your palate, this festival is the perfect place to celebrate culture through the universal language of incredible food.

Mark your calendars for May 3rd, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Arnstein Jewish Community Center (6800 Deane Hill Drive). This family-friendly event, hosted by the Knoxville Jewish Alliance, features a curated selection of mouthwatering dishes ranging from flaky pastries to savory classics. Beyond the menu, visitors can enjoy immersive cultural experiences and the chance to connect with neighbors under the open sky.

This midday celebration is open to everyone in the community, making it a fantastic way to spend your lunch hour enjoying great bites and even better company. More Info

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🗓️ 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 - Get your garden ready while supporting a great cause at the Special Growers Spring Plant Sale from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. More Info

🗓️ April 11th - Used Book Sale at Sequoyah Branch Library (1140 Southgate Rd) from 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

🗓️ April 11th - The University of Tennessee is welcoming the newest member of the Volunteer family - and he's already winning hearts. Smokey XII, a two-year-old bluetick coonhound named Neyland, will make his official public debut at the annual Orange and White spring football game at Neyland Stadium. More Info

🗓️ 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 - Knoxville residents are invited to raise a glass—and plant a tree - as Trees Knoxville celebrates a decade of impact with a special 10-Year FUN-raiser from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Xül Beer Company. 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 15th - One of rock music's most iconic voices is heading to Knoxville, and this could be your last chance to see him live. Rod Stewart's One Last Time Tour is making a stop at Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center at 7:30 PM. More Info & Tickets

🗓️ 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 17th - Veterans across East Tennessee are invited to a powerful day of support, connection, and care at Operation Whole Health, held at Held at Trinity Dental (1127 E. Lamar Alexander Parkway), is a free event hosted by the Rocky Top Veterans Foundation from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM in Maryville. For more information, call Chris at (865) 659-1001.

🗓️ April 18th - Used Book Sale at Halls Branch (4518 E. Emory Rd) – from 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

🗓️ 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 20th - 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 from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Yee-Haw Brewing Co. (745 N. Broadway).

🗓️ 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-25th - Used Book Sale at Farragut Branch (417 N. Campbell Station Rd) from 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

🗓️ April 24th-26th - Get ready to roll the dice, draw a card, and discover your next favorite game—Fun K-Town 2026: Knoxville’s Grooviest Board Game Weekend is coming to the Knoxville Convention Center (701 Henley Street). 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

🗓️ April 25th - Get ready to crack shells, enjoy great food, and soak up the spring vibes at the 2026 Cool Beans Annual Crawfish Boil, happening at Cool Beans Bar and Grill (1817 Lake Avenue), from noon - 5:00 PM. 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 - If you love designer finds at deeply discounted prices, mark your calendar from 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM - the public shopping day of the Patricia Nash Spring Sample Sale, held at the brand’s showroom (1132 N. 6th Avenue). More Info

🗓️ May 2nd - Break out your best hat and get ready for one of the most festive spring events of the season. The Run for the Roses Kentucky Derby Livestream Party is coming to the Hardin Valley Event Center (2620 Willow Point Way), combining live entertainment, great food, and a meaningful cause—all centered around the excitement of the Kentucky Derby. More Info & Tickets

🗓️ 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 18th–24th - One of Knoxville’s premier sporting events is back this spring as the Visit Knoxville Open returns to Holston Hills Country Club. More Info

🗓️ May 23rd - BBQ lovers, this is one event you won’t want to miss. The first-ever TMG Fest: Block Party & Demo Day is coming to Knoxville on May 23rd from 2:00 PM - 9:00 PM, bringing together live-fire cooking, top pitmasters, and a full day of food and fun. 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

Networking:

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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