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📰 From Wedding Planning to Community Building - The Origin Story of Craft and Yap

📰 A Free Picnic to Honor Those Who Served

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After spending more than a year meticulously planning her April wedding, Jaimee Connolly found herself facing an unexpected challenge: what comes next?

"My husband and I planned our entire wedding, just the two of us, for over a year," Jaimee said. "After that whole planning process was over, I really wanted to find something else that I could plan because I just love organization and love bringing people together."

That desire to channel her passion for planning into something meaningful became the foundation for Craft and Yap, a growing women's social and creative group that meets once or twice each month in locations throughout Hardin Valley.

But for Jaimee, the idea was about more than simply finding a new project.

"Everyone who crafts tends to do it at home in their craft room alone," she explained. "It's quiet, it's lonely, and I thought we could get people together to do something and get creative together."

Craft and Yap welcomes women ages 20 and up and creates opportunities for participants to connect through a variety of hands-on activities and shared experiences. Each gathering features a different theme or project designed to spark conversation and creativity.

One recent event centered around food and family traditions. During "Recipe Night," participants brought homemade dishes, exchanged favorite recipes, and created keepsake recipe collections together. Other gatherings have focused on different creative activities that encourage women to meet, share stories, and build new friendships.

The community aspect is especially meaningful for Jaimee, who moved to Knoxville two years.

"When I got here, I literally knew no one," she said. "I thought this would be a great way for people who maybe have lived here a really long time or haven't lived here that long to connect and find their people."

What has surprised and delighted her most is watching genuine relationships develop across generations.

"I'm really just seeing everyone from parents to grandparents to granddaughters coming together," Jaimee said. "Seeing people at the end of events say, 'Hey, I feel like we could really be friends. Can I get your phone number?'—that's been amazing."

In a world where many creative hobbies are often pursued in solitude, Craft and Yap offers something increasingly valuable: a welcoming space where women can create, connect, and cultivate lasting friendships.

For women looking for community, creativity, and meaningful conversation in the Hardin Valley area, Craft and Yap is proving that sometimes the best connections begin with a simple craft project and a willingness to talk.

To become a part of the Craft and Yap community, join the group called 'Craft and Yap' on Facebook.

This Saturday, there's a special gathering happening for the men and women who have served this country — and everyone is invited to come show their appreciation.

The Vietnam Veterans of America, Captain Bill Robinson Chapter 1078 is hosting a FREE "Welcome Home" Picnic for Veterans of all conflicts, Active Duty Military, Guard, Reserves, and their families on June 20th at French Broad Veterans Memorial Park (2413 East Gov. John Sevier Highway).

Here's how the day unfolds: Opening ceremonies begin at 11:00 AM, followed by the chow line opening at 11:30 AM (closes at 1:00 PM). Lawn chairs are welcome — come settle in and enjoy the afternoon with fellow veterans and community members.

Parking is available at the Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery (2200 E. Gov. John Sevier Highway), with free shuttle buses running continuously starting at 9:30 AM from John Sevier Veterans' Cemetery to the park.

Whether you're a veteran yourself, a family member of someone who served, or simply a neighbor who wants to say thank you - this is a beautiful opportunity to gather, honor, and connect.

If your dog turns into a nervous wreck the moment fireworks start, you are not alone — and there's something you can do about it before the holiday arrives.

Zoom Room (10938 Spring Bluff Way) is hosting a special educational event on June 22nd at 6:30 PM: Trainer Talk: A Calm 4th of July with Dr. Taylor Martin of Purrfect Practitioner. Dr. Martin will walk attendees through practical, expert-backed tips on how to help your pup stay calm, comfortable, and confident during Fourth of July festivities — whether your dog experiences mild concern or full-blown anxiety when the fireworks start.

This is a human-only event (leave the pups at home for this one), so you can focus and take notes without distraction. Pizza and beverages will be provided, and you'll leave with real tools you can put to use right away.

Admission is FREE for VIP Plus Members and $5 for non-VIP Plus guests. Reserve your spot ahead of time — space is limited.

Sign up by calling (865) 378-7200 or emailing [email protected].

Appalachian Arts Craft Center is hosting Appalachian Voices: Stories, Laughter & Creativity — a special community luncheon celebrating creativity, storytelling, and the rich culture of Appalachian life. The event takes place at the Oak Ridge Conference Center (1403 Oak Ridge Turnpike, Oak Ridge) on August 28th from 11:45 AM to 1:15 PM.

The headliner is Andi Tillman, an Appalachian comedian and actor whose storytelling brings laughter, connection, and stories rooted right here in Appalachian life. If you haven't seen her perform, this is the perfect introduction — in an intimate setting, over a catered lunch, surrounded by people who love this region as much as you do.

Guests will enjoy a catered lunch with vegetarian options available, browse a silent auction featuring handmade and unique items, and gather in support of the arts education and outreach programs that Appalachian Arts brings to youth, adults, and seniors throughout the region.

This is an afternoon of good food, genuine laughter, and real community — and every ticket supports a nonprofit that has been championing Appalachian craft and creativity since 1970. More Info & Tickets

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

Recurring events

🗓️ June 16th-21st -If you have ever dreamed of stumbling upon a Golden Ticket, now's their chance to live it. Knoxville Children's Theatre is staging a live production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory running June 5th-21st. More Info

🗓️ June 16th-21st -Knoxville Children's Theatre is presenting The Hobbit — Patricia Gray's stage adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien's beloved classic — with multiple showtimes throughout the run. Performances are Thursdays and Fridays at 7:00 PM, Saturdays at 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM, and Sundays at 3:00 PM, giving families plenty of chances to catch it. More Info

🗓️ June 16th-24th - Camp Webb offers more than 70 summer camps - welcoming kids from age 4 (Camp Wonderoo for pre-K) through rising 7th graders for a summer packed with adventure, sports, specialty skills, and memories. More Info

🗓️ June 16th-July 30th - Concerts on the Square, presented by First Century Bank, returns to Market Square for its summer series of free Jazz Tuesday concerts, running every Tuesday in June and July from 7:00 PM–9:00 PM. More Info

🗓️ June 17th - Ancient Lore Village (7107 Sevierville Pike) is hosting a Starlight Movie Night featuring Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone from 7:00 PM–10:00 PM at their enchanting property — and the setting alone makes this an unforgettable evening. More Info

🗓️ June 18th - Grooves in the Garden — the annual signature summer event of UUNIK Academy — returns to the stunning Knoxville Botanical Garden from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM. More Info

🗓️ June 18th, 20th - The season closes with two performances of The Tragedy of Carmen — a 90-minute adaptation of Bizet's iconic Carmen - at the Historic Grove Theatre in Oak Ridge. More Info

🗓️ June 18th-28th - PAT, the acclaimed one-woman play written and performed by Lisa Soland, returns for a limited engagement, now making its debut at the Jenny Boyd Theatre on the campus of the University of Tennessee - UT's newly opened performance space. More Info & Tickets

🗓️ June 19th - The Annual MLK Jr. Parade/March and Juneteenth Celebration returns with a full day of community, history, and joy honoring the end of slavery in the United States. The parade steps off at 10:00 AM from Chilhowee Park and makes its way to Dr. Walter Hardy Park (2089 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave), where the Juneteenth Celebration runs from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM with live music, dancing, food, local vendors, and more. More Info

🗓️ June 19th - Dancing Machine: A Tribute Band to the Jacksons takes the stage at Market Square from 7:00 PM–9:00 PM as part of the City of Knoxville's Variety Thursdays – Concerts on the Square series. More Info

🗓️ June 19th-20th - Mabry-Hazen House presents "...And Then I Became Free: Stories of Emancipation at Mabry-Hazen House" — a special series of guided tours held in the Julia-Meek Guest House on the Mabry-Hazen campus, exploring the stories of enslaved African Americans connected to this historic property and their many paths to freedom. More Info

🗓️ June 20th - Knoxville AnimeDay 2026 (Summer Edition) — the 17th installment — runs from 10:00 AM–6:00 PM at the Holiday Inn Knoxville West – Cedar Bluff (9134 Executive Park Drive), and it's everything you love about anime conventions without the price tag. More Info

🗓️ June 20th - Powerhouse Diesel is throwing a Dads Day Out celebration from 10:00 AM–2:00 PM at 7664 Maynardville Pike — and whether you're a diesel devotee, a proud dad, or just a family looking for a great Saturday outing, this event has something for everyone. More Info

🗓️ June 20th - Founding Fathers Fest: Grilling and Games in the Park is from 3:00 PM–7:00 PM at the Rustic Pavilion on the east side of Lakeshore Park (6014 S Northshore Drive) — and it's completely free and open to everyone. More Info

🗓️ June 20th - Taste of Summer: Wine and Food Festival returns to the Knoxville Museum of Art (1050 World's Fair Park Drive) from 5:00 PM–9:00 PM — an elegant, immersive evening where the culinary scene takes center stage. More Info

🗓️ June 20th - RiverView Family Farm (12130 Prater Lane) is throwing a Barn Dance from 6:00 PM–9:30 PM - an open-to-the-public evening of live line dancing instruction, great food, and the kind of genuine good time that's hard to find. Admission is just $10 per person, and children under 5 get in free.

🗓️ June 20th - Celebrate summer in full bloom at the Lavender Festival from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Jackson Square. This free, family-friendly event transforms the historic district into a vibrant day of shopping, music, food, and fun. More Info

🗓️ June 20th - Knoxville Brewfest returns to World's Fair Park, with 60+ local and regional breweries pouring from 4:30 PM–8:30 PM — including gluten-free and non-alcoholic options. Live music, local food vendors, and a beautiful outdoor setting make this one of Knoxville's most beloved annual events. More Info

🗓️ June 21st - Looking for a Father's Day that's a little more epic than brunch? B&B Indoor Foam Dart Arena (6709 Maynardville Pike) is making it easy to give Dad an unforgettable day with their Father's Day Special from 11:00 AM–8:00 PM. More Info

🗓️ June 21st - Get ready for a citywide celebration of music as Make Music Knoxville returns! For one exciting day, music will fill the streets, parks, patios, stages, sidewalks, and public spaces across Knoxville, transforming the city into one giant free music festival. More Info

🗓️ June 21st-27th - Steve Kaufman's Acoustic Kamp celebrates its 30th Annual Bluegrass Week June 21st–27th at Maryville College — and it's widely considered one of the finest acoustic music camps in the country. More Info

🗓️ June 23rd - The Farragut Museum's History Hour continues at 11:00 AM at Farragut Town Hall (11408 Municipal Center Drive, Farragut) — and this month's featured speaker is someone who really knows his history. Tim Holder — author, radio host, and history professor — will take the audience through the lives and legacies of the nation's first six presidents in what promises to be an engaging, accessible, and genuinely fascinating hour. More Info

🗓️ June 23rd - Used Book Sale at the Carter Branch Library (9036 Asheville Highway) | 1:00–7:00 PM More Info

🗓️ June 24th-27th - The 2026 AAU Girls Basketball World Championships comes to Knoxville from June 24th–28th, with games taking place at the Knoxville Convention Center (701 Henley Street) and the adjacent World's Fair Exhibition Hall. More Info

🗓️ June 24th-27th - Nief-Norf SYNNERGY comes to Knoxville - a four-day contemporary music festival and conference that's genuinely unlike anything else happening in East Tennessee this summer. Think cutting-edge new music performed live by world-class artists, with 12 free public concerts woven throughout the week. No ticket required. Just show up and listen. More Info

🗓️ June 25th - B&B Indoor Foam Dart Arena (6709 Maynardville Pike) is hosting their premier summer event of the season: the Blitzfire Summer Battle Event, running from 3:00 PM–10:00 PM. This isn't a regular open-play day. Blitzfire brings extended play sessions, special game modes, and a competitive format that gives everyone — from first-timers to regulars — something to rise to. The event is recommended for ages 12 and up. More Info

🗓️ June 25th - Music for Seniors: Love Notes - A Musical Afternoon of Romance comes to the Episcopal Church of the Ascension (800 S. Northshore Drive) from 2:00 PM–3:00 PM, presented by the acclaimed Knoxville Opera. More Info

🗓️ June 26th - Kathleen Madigan - The Day Drinking Tour comes to the Bijou Theatre at 7:00 PM — and if you've ever caught her on a late-night show, her Netflix specials, or heard her on the radio, you already know what you're getting: razor-sharp, relatable, laugh-until-it-hurts comedy delivered by someone who has been doing this at the highest level for three decades. More Info

🗓️ June 27th - The Third Annual Blackberry Festival and 5K takes over 2910 W Emory Road in Powell from 9:00 AM–2:00 PM, hosted by Powell Presbyterian Church — and the lineup is everything a perfect summer Saturday should be. More Info

🗓️ June 27th - The Women's Basketball Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony comes to the Tennessee Theatre (604 S. Gay Street) — one of the most prestigious nights in women's basketball, and it happens right here in Knoxville, home of the WBHOF. More Info

🗓️ June 27th - Used Book Sale at the Karns Branch Library (7516 Oak Ridge Hwy) | 10:00 AM–5:00 PM More Info

🗓️ July 1st - Josiah & The Bonnevilles bring their Redline North American Tour to the Bijou (803 S. Gay Street) at 7:30 PM — and if you haven't heard this band yet, you're in for a treat. More Info

🗓️ July 4th - The City of Knoxville's Festival on the 4th returns to World's Fair Park Performance and Festival Lawns from 5:00 PM–10:00 PM — and with free admission, free parking, live music, and fireworks over the downtown skyline, this is the quintessential East Tennessee Fourth of July. More Info

🗓️ July 10th-12th - FanBoy Expo takes over the Knoxville Convention Center (701 Henley Street) for three action-packed days — and with over 30,000 fans attending each summer event, this is one of the biggest and most electric weekends on the Knoxville calendar. More Info

🗓️ July 11th - WIVK's Southern Life Expo, presented by Visit My Smokies, is coming to the Knoxville Expo Center from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM — and the best part? It's completely free to attend. More Info

🗓️ July 11th - Mark your calendar: the America's 250th Anniversary Celebration at the Cove comes to The Cove at Concord Park for a full day of free, family-friendly festivities presented by Visit Knoxville and Knox County, starting at 11:00 AM. More Info

🗓️ July 29th - One of the most celebrated voices in rock history is coming to Knoxville. Graham Nash brings his Live on Tour 2026 to the Bijou on July 29th at 7:30 PM — and with a career spanning more than six decades, this is as close to a living history of contemporary music as you can get in one evening. More Info

🗓️ July 31st-August 1st - The Kuumba Festival — East Tennessee's largest African American Cultural Arts Festival — returns to Market Square, and it is exactly what it sounds like: a full, joyful, free celebration of culture, community, craft, and creativity in the middle of the city. More Info

🗓️ July 31st-August 2nd - CreepyCon 2026 celebrates its 10th Anniversary at the Knoxville Convention Center (701 Henley Street) from July 31st through August 2nd — and Tennessee's biggest Halloween and horror convention has never looked better. More Info

🗓️ August 8th - Irish Fest on the Hill returns at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in downtown Knoxville, from 2:00 PM - 10:00 PM. The event honors Knoxville's deep Irish heritage through an afternoon of live Irish bands, traditional Irish dancers, kids' games, and classic Irish food — the kind of spread that leaves everyone happy and full. More Info

🗓️ August 15th - History Hootenanny returns to the East Tennessee History Center (601 S Gay St) and Krutch Park, running 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM — and the best part is that it's completely free and open to the public. More Info

🗓️ August 22nd - GermanFest Knoxville returns to First Lutheran Church (1207 Broadway) from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM — a full nine hours of German culture, Southern hospitality, and the kind of sheer, wholehearted fun that you can only find at a festival that includes competitive dachshund racing. More Info

🗓️ August 30th - The 13th Annual Knox Asian Festival takes over World's Fair Park and the Knoxville Museum of Art from 10:30 AM to 6:30 PM. Presented by the Asian Culture Center of Tennessee, this is one of the most genuinely immersive cultural events in the entire state — and it's right here in Knoxville. More Info

🗓️ September 16th - Big Kahuna Wing Festival at World's Fair Park; Thousands of pounds of wings; Competitive wing cook-off; Wing eating contest; Live entertainment; Kids activities; Pyro musical fireworks show. 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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