Are you looking for an out of the ordinary way to occupy your weekend? Maybe you’ve got a musical itch to scratch with a unique bill of performers, or maybe you want a dive deep into the history around our great hometown. As the autumn leaves hit the ground and a Knoxville fall chugs along, there’s always plenty of fun ways to spend your cherished off-days no matter what piques your interest.

Film Fest Knox – Regal Cinebarre & Regal Riviera (November 14-17)

For the second year, multiple Regal Cinema locations will be hosting Knoxville’s own producer-centric, international film festival. The event is geared to promoting film production, an often overshadowed yet increasingly vital part of the independent filmmaking process. Attendees can purchase standard tickets or a VIP package, which allows some extra documentary and short film screenings as well as a VIP party at the end of the festival. Head over to the website linked above for Visit Knoxville to see the full lineup and ticket prices.

Arts & Culture Alliance Resource Fair – The Emporium (November 14)

Knoxville has become known for artists in recent memory, so it’s no surprise that this next generation comes to town with a lot of questions. The Arts & Culture Alliance has done a fantastic job of providing a one-stop shop for creatives and business owners to get their questions answered or have strategy pointed in the right direction. At the Emporium on Thursday, they’re inviting those creative minds in the community to gather and share experience on how to thrive in the Maker City.

Godspeed You! Black Emperor – Bijou Theater (November 14)

Hailing from Montreal, Canada, these neighbors to the north have been gathering a cult following of rockers and avant-garde musicians since the early 2000s. Their hypnotic, almost ethereal instrumental arrangements make for gorgeous compositions as well as hypnotic crescendos that have been leaving listeners in awe for now over two decades. Don’t miss this totally singular group for one night only in one of Knoxville’s most historic venues.

Knoxville Symphony Orchestra, The Firebird – Tennessee Theater (November 14/15)

Take flight with Knoxville’s premier classical music troupe as they play renditions of a number of arrangements that will have you levitating out of your seat! Some notable inclusions on the bill here include Auerbach’s “Icarus,” the iconic “Hedwig’s Theme” from the Harry Potter franchise as well as the show’s namesake, Stravinsky’s “The Firebird.” Tickets can be purchased through KSO’s website or the Tennessee Theater.

A Night with UKirk (November 15)

UKirk at UTK will be hosting a Night With UKirk dinner and fundraiser at Second Presbyterian Church to help fund this important ministry. During the night, participants will hear directly from students about all the UKirk means for their lives and faith. Tickets are $20 in advance Venmo @UPerkUTK and $25 at the door.

All Is Bright – The Pinnacle (November 15)

This early Christmas evening festival ushers in the arrival of Santa Claus to Turkey Creek, fit with a party to match his joy. Music, floats, a parade all under the magic of snowfall promises to make this event fun for the whole family. No ticket or reservation needed!

Holiday Market – Kern’s Food Hall (November 15)

Get ready to do some early holiday shopping at one of the hottest new eateries and shoppings centers in town! Choose a number of diverse and affordable vendors to help make your gift-giving a two way street by shopping for local and unique items for those special people in your life. Some of the featured vendors include Melm’s Top Shelf Pottery, LevelUp Studios and Vinlee’s Vintage.

Red Haired Mary – Laurel Theater (November 16)

The Laurel Theater continues to push sonic diversity here on Rocky Top, this time hosting a group that promotes a foreign sound not that far removed from the native ones we’re familiar with. Red Haired Mary sports a five-piece band, crooning on traditional and contemporary Irish and Celtic tunes. Tickets are available both online or at the door, 30 minutes prior to showtime.

The Search for Gen. John Sevier’s Head (& Hand) Begins! – East Tennessee History Center (November 17)

Get an up close look at sculptor Edgar W. Bowlin’s masterpiece, and embark on an investigative journey to see where the head and hand of this Tennessee legend may reside. Vandalized in 2002, there’s been much speculation about the true whereabouts of Sevier’s dexterities. The East Tennessee History Center is needing your help to get to the bottom of it. Come to this fun and informative event that’s totally free, and get a closer glimpse of the truth with some of Knoxville’s most storied historians.

Loss and the Holidays – First Farragut United Methodist Church (November 17)

Losing a loved one is never easy, and it can be made especially difficult for young people in a season that’s supposed to be intended for spreading joy to those you hold dearly. First Farragut UMC will be hosting an event on Sunday evening intended for youth and adults in the hopes of building a community and breaking down barriers when it comes to mental health. The event only requires a registration through the website linked above, and is open to all members of the public.

Adam Delahoussaye is a freelance writer for the 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 email  or text 865-919-5059 with your story idea.