News Summary
This week, Knoxville is bustling with summer events that cater to both locals and visitors. From trivia nights and roller derby to stargazing and a unique lightning bug event, there’s something for everyone. Families can enjoy splash pads, while music fans look forward to concerts and movie screenings. The inaugural Foodees Food and Culture Festival promises diverse culinary delights. The Mardi Growl Parade adds to the festivities, making this an exciting time for community engagement and entertainment in Knoxville.
Knoxville is set to host a vibrant array of summer events this week, appealing to locals and visitors alike. With a warm-up in temperatures reaching the 80s, the week features numerous activities including stargazing, trivia nights, square dancing, and roller derby. Families can rejoice as splash pads begin to open, providing a perfect way to cool off.
The downtown area is buzzing with excitement as it hosts a special “Where’s Waldo?” event, encouraging participants to hunt for Waldo in various local spots. For those looking for a unique outdoor experience, Ijams Nature Center is presenting a special evening event centered around lightning bugs. Attendees can explore the trails and learn about the fascinating bioluminescence of these insects. This event will be held from 9 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., and tickets are priced at $15.
In addition to nature events, live performances are also in full swing. A free concert featuring bassist Jon Hamar is set to take place at the Emporium from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Meanwhile, movie enthusiasts can catch a screening of “Moana 2” during the Sunset Cinema event organized by Knox County Parks and Recreation at Powell Station Park. This family-friendly event starts at 7 p.m., with the movie beginning at dusk.
Music lovers will enjoy a Neil Diamond tribute performance by Jay White at the Tennessee Theatre, beginning at 7:30 p.m. with tickets starting at $31. This week also marks the beginning of Tennessee’s largest pop culture event, which is expected to attract large crowds. Prominent guests including Helen Hunt, Alec Baldwin, Billy Dee Williams, Gene Simmons, William Shatner, Elijah Wood, and Tom Welling will be present, with premium weekend admission passes available for $109 through fanboyexpo.com/knoxville.
Food enthusiasts can look forward to the inaugural Foodees Food and Culture Festival at Chilhowee Park, featuring over 50 food trucks and artisans. This event will have free admission and promises a diverse display of culinary delights. Additionally, there will be a magical acrobatic show held at Ijams Nature Center from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. with tickets priced at $30 for adults and $15 for kids aged 7-12. This performance will include aerial acts and jugglers, providing entertainment for guests of all ages.
The festival season is kicking off with the Mardi Growl Parade and Festival scheduled for Saturday, adding to the exciting lineup of summer activities in Knoxville. As the Fourth of July festivities wind down, the city is alive with ongoing events that cater to a variety of interests. With this diverse lineup, residents and visitors are invited to partake in the summer spirit.
Residents are encouraged to stay tuned for more events and updates in Knoxville, showcasing the rich culture and community spirit the city has to offer.
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Additional Resources
- Knoxville Moms: Summer Activity Ideas
- Knox News: Weekend Things to Do
- WBIR: Knoxville Events
- WATE: July 4 Events
- Inside of Knoxville: Events Planner
- Wikipedia: Knoxville
- Google Search: Knoxville events
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Knoxville
Author: STAFF HERE KNOXVILLE WRITER
The KNOXVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKnoxville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Knoxville, Knox County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Dogwood Arts Festival, Big Ears Festival, and Knoxville Asian Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Knoxville Area Chamber Partnership and United Way of Greater Knoxville, plus leading businesses in healthcare, education, and energy that power the local economy such as Covenant Health, University of Tennessee, and Tennessee Valley Authority. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
