Knoxville, September 14, 2025
News Summary
Knoxville is set to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Pilot Light, a nonprofit venue for original music, with a block party on Jackson Avenue. This all-day event includes multiple performance stages featuring diverse musicians, local artist merchandise, and interactive installations, showcasing the community’s vibrant spirit and the contributions of the venue’s founder. As Pilot Light transitions to new leadership, the anniversary marks a celebration of its pivotal role in Knoxville’s underground music scene.
Knoxville Prepares for Pilot Light’s 25th Anniversary Block Party
Knoxville is gearing up for a significant milestone as Pilot Light, a nonprofit venue dedicated to original and experimental music, celebrates its 25th anniversary. The festivities are set for Sunday, September 14, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and will transform Jackson Avenue in the Old City into a vibrant all-day block party.
The anniversary celebration will feature three performance stages, including a main stage, a smaller venue, and a street setup designed for live acts. A diverse array of musicians and bands will entertain attendees, showcasing both established names and newer groups, such as Antidie, which features members younger than the venue itself. The event is a collective effort, emphasizing community involvement and is presented in partnership with the Tennessee Arts Commission. It promises various merchandise designed by local artists, including T-shirts and posters, to honor the occasion.
As part of the anniversary, attendees will encounter unique installations, such as a temporary graffiti-friendly bathroom, where guests can participate in contributing artwork, further highlighting the community spirit that Pilot Light fosters.
Jason Boardman, the founder who has managed Pilot Light since its establishment in May 2000, will pass the torch to the new executive director, Kat Brock, in January 2026. Instrumental in the venue’s growth, Boardman often ran the organization without pay, balancing it alongside a full-time job. Under his direction, Pilot Light has become a pivotal part of Knoxville’s underground music scene, frequently mentioned in 100% of discussions among local artists.
In January, George Rutsyamuka will join Pilot Light as the artistic director, bringing fresh ideas and experiences to guide the venue into its next chapter. The concert lineup will kick off with Maspeth at 10 a.m., concluding with DJ Mini Tiger for the after-party at 10 p.m.
This 25-year celebration not only highlights the contributions of Boardman but also celebrates the community bond that has flourished around the venue, often referred to as Knoxville’s “living room.” The space is known for promoting creative exploration across various genres while supporting artists without the confines of commercial success.
Background on Pilot Light
Founded in May 2000, Pilot Light quickly became recognized for its cultural significance and integrity in artistic expression. The venue has hosted numerous performances across a broad spectrum of genres, reinforcing Knoxville’s reputation for nurturing original and experimental music. Past guests and local acts alike have described Pilot Light as the heart of Knoxville’s music culture and a platform for emerging talent.
With an aim to continue the legacy of artistic freedom and community collaboration, the upcoming block party serves not just as an anniversary celebration but as a testament to the vibrancy and resilience of Knoxville’s music scene during challenges faced over the years.
Event Details
- Date: September 14
- Time: 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.
- Location: Jackson Avenue, Old City, Knoxville
- Activities: Three performance stages, merchandise from local artists, graffiti-friendly bathroom art installation
Further Information
Concertgoers, whether longtime supporters or first-time visitors, are warmly welcomed to join in on the celebration and experience the lively atmosphere that has shaped Pilot Light over the last 25 years.
FAQ
- What is Pilot Light?
- Pilot Light is a nonprofit venue in Knoxville dedicated to original and experimental music, serving as a community hub for musicians and artists.
- When is the 25th anniversary celebration?
- The anniversary celebration will take place on September 14 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
- Where will the event be held?
- The celebration will occur on Jackson Avenue in Knoxville’s Old City, which will be closed for the block party.
- What activities will take place during the block party?
- The event will feature performances across three stages, merchandise designed by local artists, and a unique graffiti-friendly bathroom for attendee contributions.
- Who are the new executive and artistic directors?
- Kat Brock will become the executive director in January 2026, while George Rutsyamuka will take on the role of artistic director at the same time.
Event Highlights
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date | September 14 |
| Time | 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. |
| Location | Jackson Avenue, Old City, Knoxville |
| Stages | Three performance stages |
| Merchandise | T-shirts and posters by local artists |
| Special Feature | Graffiti-friendly bathroom |
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Additional Resources
- Knox News: Pilot Light’s 25th Anniversary
- Inside of Knoxville: Pilot Light’s 25th Anniversary Block Party
- Knox News: Inside Pilot Light
- Google Search: Knoxville Pilot Light
- 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.
