Whether it’s stilettos prancing through a ballroom or tattered vans stomping on analog pedals, Knoxville’s musical taste has always been a pretty mixed crowd. Sporting some of the largest country acts in the world down to indie darlings looking for a big break, there’s always something to offer. This weekend, it’ll be hard to throw a rock down Gay Street and not hit an act with a Grammy or a gold record.
Big Ears Music Festival – Multiple Location (March 26 – 29, check specific showtimes) Knoxville’s premiere music celebration returns, with hundreds of talented musicians converging on the city to bring their wide-spanning, eclectic bouts of showmanship to over 20 stages across town. From the bouncy pop quirks of David Byrne to the slowcore southern rock of MJ Lenderman and S.G. Goodman, there’s a bit of every taste and Spotify algorithm in this year’s lineup.
Art of Storytelling and Concert with Concurrence – The Bottom (March 26, 7 – 8:30 p.m.) Some of the darkest chapters in America’s history are yielding one of music’s most striking performances in the form of a presentation of the new project, “Indivisible.” With pianist Paul Horton (Alabama Shakes) and Greg Bryant, improvisational music takes on an innovative dimension in this one-of-a-kind live music experience.
The Regulars and The Alpines – Preservation Pub (March 26, 8 p.m.) With the weather getting warmer, the tie-dye in the back of the closet gets more alluring by each rising degree. Thankfully, a few soul and neo-funk groups that share our southern sensibilities are kicking up the heat at a Knoxville mainstay. The double billing of the Regulars and The Alpines is an introduction point to many for the group, though it may be that their sound is reminiscent of something comfortable in an exciting way.
Treaty Oak Revival – Thompson Boling Arena at Food City Center (March 27, 7 p.m.) What started as a few crusty punk rockers from West Texas has slowly morphed into one of the hottest touring and recording acts in country music. Treaty Oak brings a raucous energy to the stages they occupy, which only seems to be getting bigger, but thankfully, their heavy southern soul can fill just about any room.
Springtime in Tennessee Annual Cat Show – Chilhowee Park & Exposition Center (March 28-29, multiple times) Our spry, furry friends are getting their time in the spotlight over this two day showcase and unique event that shows off the training regimen prescribed to champion tabbycats. Filled with displays, contests and exhibitions, guests can see the full extent of the feline in action.
Chesterton Chalk – Chesterton Academy of St. Margaret Clitherow (March 28, 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.) In support of students of the fine arts, the Chesterton Academy of St. Margaret Clitherow is now anticipating its third annual sidewalk chalk competition for artists of all ages. For a $10 entrance fee, you’ll compete or simply show off your skills with the proceeds going to support scholarship opportunities for students of the fine arts.
Spring Outdoor Market – Southern Market (March 28, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.) This is the first outdoor market of the year for Southern Market. Supported by live music throughout the day, local artisans showing off their handmade crafts will be spread throughout the grounds, with food trucks and local eateries peppered in between. With the first days of spring finally upon us, farmer’s market season in its truest form has finally arrived.
Yoga at the Garden – Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum (March 29, 1 – 2:30 p.m.) To work off the weekend calories or spirits, the Knoxville Botanical Garden is hosting this sunlight-based recovery program that prioritizes physical and mental health. Led by instructor Simon Bradbury, you’ll get a glimpse at one of the most popular exercise movements worldwide. In the event of unfavorable weather, class will be held in the Garden Club Room.
Adam Delahoussaye is a freelance writer for KnoxTNToday who loves telling stories about music, arts, and culture in and around his hometown. Have a story for Adam? He can be reached at delahoussaye1267@gmail.com or by text at 865-919-5059 with your story idea.
Follow KnoxTNToday on Facebook and Instagram. Get all KnoxTNToday articles in one place with our Free Newsletter.
