News Summary
Coffeeshops in Knoxville are evolving into vibrant community hubs, offering more than just beverages. These establishments host a variety of events that promote inclusivity, wellness, and engagement among residents. From karaoke and open mic nights at South Press Café to yoga classes at CommonPlace Coffee & Community and support gatherings for veterans at Vienna Coffee Company, these spaces cater to diverse groups. Additionally, Fable Hollow Coffee & Bookshoppe and The Empty Cup offer literary events and support for local adoption initiatives, underlining the community-focused mission of these shops.
Knoxville—Local coffeeshops are serving more than just drinks in Knoxville; they are also becoming hubs for community engagement through various events and missions. These establishments prioritize inclusivity, wellness, and support for various groups, fostering a vibrant atmosphere for residents and visitors alike.
South Press Café in South Knoxville focuses on creating a friendly environment for the LGBT community. The café hosts a range of events aimed at promoting inclusivity, including karaoke sessions every Wednesday evening from 6 to 8:30 p.m. In addition to karaoke, the café also organizes monthly open mic nights, offering a platform for underrepresented artists to showcase their talents.
CommonPlace Coffee & Community contributes to community wellness by offering yoga classes twice a week. These classes take place every Tuesday and Thursday evening from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., with a participation fee of $10. This initiative encourages both physical and mental well-being, allowing participants to connect in a supportive environment.
In a different commitment to community, the Vienna Coffee Company in nearby Maryville hosts a weekly gathering specifically for veterans. Every Wednesday afternoon from 2 to 4 p.m., veterans can connect with one another in a space designed for camaraderie and support.
Fable Hollow Coffee & Bookshoppe enhances community engagement by organizing two monthly book clubs, alongside author events held on Sundays from 6 to 8 p.m. The next author event is scheduled for May 18, providing a platform for literary discussions and engagement with local writers.
Another significant contributor to the community is The Empty Cup, located in Cedar Bluff. This nonprofit coffeeshop focuses on supporting local adoption initiatives and regularly hosts various community events, with all proceeds directed towards its mission. The Empty Cup opened its doors on February 25, 2016, driven by the owner’s commitment to adoption and fostering. The owner has adopted three of her four children, leading to a deep commitment to the Knoxville foster care community. The shop operates on weekdays from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., currently remaining closed on Sundays.
Seed Coffee Co., which opened on Sutherland Avenue on June 24, is co-owned by Andi Land and Morgan Benson and promotes a diverse community atmosphere. This coffeeshop collaborates with Cafe Kreyol to provide fair trade Haitian coffee and commits to donating 25% of its profits to SEED International, which focuses on development projects in rural Haiti. The shop’s aesthetic features an inviting design with a spacious outdoor seating area, catering to a broad clientele including working professionals, families, and college students. Seed Coffee Co. aims to create a “third space” for community interaction beyond the home and workplace.
In summary, Knoxville’s coffeeshops extend their roles far beyond serving beverages. They actively cultivate community engagement through a variety of events tailored to different demographics and causes, from supportive LGBTQ-friendly environments to wellness sessions and veteran gatherings. This trend reflects a broader movement within the city to create inclusive and supportive spaces for all residents.
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Additional Resources
- Knoxville Moms: Knoxville Coffee Shops
- WBIR: Community Raises Thousands
- UT Daily Beacon: The Empty Cup
- WATE: Gateway Coffee Shop
- Wikipedia: Coffeehouse
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Coffeehouse
