Here’s what’s happening around East Tennessee today, along with helpful community resources and interesting things to discover beyond our backyard.

Throwback Thursday

Remember when getting a photograph meant finishing the roll, dropping off the film, and waiting days to discover whether anyone had blinked?

Today in History

  • 1813 – Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry defeated a British fleet in the Battle of Lake Erie during the War of 1812.
  • 1846 – Elias Howe received a U.S. patent for his sewing machine.
  • 1963 – Twenty Black students entered previously segregated public schools in Birmingham, Mobile and Tuskegee, Alabama.

Tennessee Trivia

The tulip poplar is Tennessee’s official state tree.

😊 Today’s Smile

Why did the old camera stay positive? It always focused on the good things.

Today’s Highlights

  • Visit Knoxville and United Way Block Party — 11 a.m.–2 p.m., Market Square. The free community event kicks off United Way of Greater Knoxville’s 2026 fundraising campaign with live music, giveaways, community organizations and appearances by costumed Smokey and Smokey XII. A $10 lunch benefits the campaign. Details
  • WDVX Blue Plate Special with Nathan Morgan — noon–1 p.m., Market Square. The free live show moves to Market Square today as part of the Visit Knoxville and United Way Block Party. Details
  • Liquor Vault One Year Anniversary Celebration — 2–8 p.m., Liquor Vault Superstore, 2901 Tazewell Pike. The free anniversary celebration includes sales, giveaways and customer appreciation activities. Details
  • Food & Wine Pairing — 6–7 p.m., The Vault Room at Liquor Vault Superstore, 2901 Tazewell Pike. Sommelier Jason Drotar leads an approachable introduction to food and wine pairing; admission is $25. Details

Featured Resource

Tennessee Smart Yards and Friends Festival: Knox County Master Gardeners will host the program from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12, at the University of Tennessee Gardens. More information

Community Connections

  • Muse Knoxville: Find daily sessions, programs and activities for children and families. More
  • Zoo Knoxville: Check daily hours, animal experiences and special programs. More
  • KCS Calendar: Keep up with Knox County Schools dates, meetings and activities. More
  • Knoxville/Knox County Planning Commission: Find agendas, meetings, minutes and planning information. More
  • Local news: Follow breaking news, weather and community updates from WBIR, WATE and WVLT. More

Beyond Knoxville

  • Across Tennessee: Find entertainment, attractions and things to do across Tennessee. Read more
  • National: Catch up on the latest U.S. headlines. Read more
  • Sports: Follow the latest national sports headlines and scores. Read more
  • Around the World: Follow international developments through United Nations News. Read more

National Month

Healthy Aging Month — September encourages adults to focus on habits that support physical, mental and social well-being as they age.

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