Nate Bargatze – Food City Center (May 28, 7:30 p.m.) Tennessee native Nate Bargatze has made a career acting as America’s average joe. Through comedy specials, books and now a feature film, the funny bone of suburbia is at the mercy of a dad who’s still just figuring it out as he goes along. Now, he’s on his biggest tour yet, hitting arenas full of regular people across the country to poke and prod at the little quirks of daily life.
Punch Brothers – Tennessee Theater (May 28, 8 p.m.) The bluegrass renaissance continues, and it keeps barreling its way through the heart of the genre right here in Knoxville. This week, the Punch Brothers quintet will take one of Tennessee’s most illustrious stages as they remember their roots while finding new and exciting ways to push them forward. It’s easy to see, and hear, why critical acclaim is often left in their wake.
Tennessee Statehood Day – Marble Springs State Historic Site (May 29, 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. & May 30, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.) There are some big anniversaries across the country this year, and in tandem with America’s 250th, the state of Tennessee isn’t too far behind in age. To celebrate our 230th birthday, Marble Springs is hosting a two day circuit that includes children’s activities, guest lectures, food, drinks and more. Both days are free and open to the public.
Yoga at the Zoo – Zoo Knoxville (May 29, 4 – 6 p.m.) The mats are being rolled out right next to the enclosures this weekend with Yoga at the Zoo, a unique exercise experience that matches wellness with the wellbeing of our many critters that call Zoo Knoxville home. An optional dress code for this event is “dress like your favorite animal,” and prices start at $39.
Knoxville’s Largest Kids Party – World’s Fair Park (May 30, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.) There’s a party on the front lawn of Knoxville to kick off the kids’ summer season, and they’re all invited. From petting zoos to visits from princesses and superheroes, this block party is geared toward winding down the end of the school year in fashion. Tickets are $15 per person, with proceeds going to Childhelp Tennessee. Kids aged two and under get in free.
Murals & Music Festival – Emory Place (May 30, 12 – 8 p.m.) This stroll through North Knoxville will turn into an immersive experience as paint goes up and patrons get down to some live music all afternoon. Guests can peruse local favorites as they watch artists hard at work, and even have a chance to judge and purchase some of the finished products. This event is completely free.
Knoxville Margarita Festival – Mill & Mine (May 30, 6 – 9 p.m.) Knoxville after dark is coming with a travel itinerary in hand, as guests of the Mill & Mine can peruse a plethora of margarita samples accompanied by local food vendors and live music. No matter how you take this signature cocktail, there’s bound to be an option for everyone. This event is strictly for guests aged 21 and older.
Rachmaninoff & Friends – Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus (May 31, 5:30 p.m.) This season of Cathedral Concerts is coming to a close, and its exit is poised to be one of epic proportion. Highlighting all of the most iconic composers, the real headliner of the evening may be soprano Sunwoo Park, winner of the 2025 William Sullivan Foundation Award. Even playing the hits may yield a few surprises.
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.
