School is back in session, but there’s no shortage of ways for kids and teens to get out, get active, and have fun!
Here’s a guide to the best youth-friendly happenings in the area from Wednesday, August 12, through Tuesday, August 18, and more.
Baby Bookworms: Wednesday, Aug. 12, 10-10:30 a.m. | Norwood Branch Library. Designed for infants through age 2 with caregivers, featuring songs, clapping, bouncing, and early literacy activities. Free. Event information
Middle School Crafternoon: Origami, Friday, Aug. 14, 4-5 p.m. | Knox County Public Library A hands-on origami program geared toward middle school-age youth. Event information
East Tennessee History Festival Saturday, Aug. 15 | East Tennessee History Center and downtown Knoxville. A daylong festival with living-history demonstrations, live music, crafts, film screenings and children’s activities. An all-ages family option. Event information
ALL PLAY LIVE Saturday, Aug. 15, 10:30 a.m.-noon | Knoxville: An interactive family experience built around parents and children competing, laughing and playing together. Event information
Mayor’s Emerging Leaders Council – Application Deadline, Monday, Aug. 17, 11:59 p.m. | City of Knoxville. The City of Knoxville is accepting applications from young adults ages 18-24 as of Sept. 1, 2026. Applicants must submit a resume, cover letter and required references. The program offers experience with city government, leadership and civic engagement. Event information
Knox County Parks & Recreation: There are activities all summer, so check out the links here.
Ongoing all week of August 12– August 18. While not scheduled at fixed times for youth groups (unless you check individual organizations), these places are great options any day of the week — call ahead for specific hours & classes:
- Muse Knoxville is an interactive children’s museum with daily sessions.
- Zoo Knoxville is open daily; special feeds/talks may have times posted onsite.
- Fort Kid @ World’s Fair Park is a play area with general hours of operation.
- Knox County Public Library often has weekly story times, LEGO clubs, craft sessions, and teen gaming nights. Check their weekly calendar.
Outdoor Knoxville: A calendar produced by Legacy Parks Foundation has a comprehensive list of upcoming local outdoor events. Find it here.
This weekly column will provide opportunities for all youth in Knoxville, Knox County, and the surrounding areas.
Please send your youth activities to news@knoxtntoday.com
Follow KnoxTNToday on Facebook, Instagram, X, and LinkedIn. Get all KnoxTNToday articles in one place with our free newsletter. Comments may be sent to news@knoxtntoday.com.
