Knoxville is growing, and so are its pockets of town that populate a diverse array of residents. So many different kinds of people call Knoxville home, and there’s a lot of celebration to be had in that fact on any given day. This weekend especially, though, it seems that we’re taking that to heart and celebrating the many people who call this town home.
Nief-Norf Summer Festival – University of Tennessee, Knoxville (June 14 – 28, multiple times) There’s a world of music waiting to be heard in the halls of the Natalie L. Haslam Music Center. The Nief-Norf Festival has been known to highlight an eclectic, innovative group of composers and musicians with this year’s slate hoping to continue on the cutting edge. With dozens of musicians spanning all styles and expert levels, there’s something for everyone at this totally singular event.
Concerts on the Square – Market Square (June 18, 7 – 9 p.m.) In honor of Juneteenth, the Concerts on the Square are hosting a revival of the music of the Jackson 5. The hits have never been more accessible, with Dancing Machine replaying Motown classics and adhering to the showmanship standards that carried pop music’s most prolific group straight to the top. Concerts on the Square are completely free.
Juneteenth Celebration – Chilhowee Park & Exposition Center (June 19, 10 a.m.) The march for social justice continues with the Juneteenth holiday and a commemorative march honoring the heroes of the Civil Rights Movement. Aside from the march itself, food and live music will be available to indulge in during this celebration of culture and a continued push for liberation.
Red Canyon Bluegrass – Preservation Pub (June 19, 8 – 11 p.m.) The hills of East Tennessee are alive with the sound of bluegrass, even if that picking is now tinted in neon. Covers of Ralph Stanley, Doc Watson, and more can be heard at Preservation Pub from Red Canyon Bluegrass. The stomp and holler isn’t just found deep in the hills, as it’s making its way back to the town square.
SoKno Pride – Sevier Avenue (June 20, 10 a.m.) SoKno Pride is exactly as its name suggests: a moment to reflect on and celebrate our diversity and the differences that make a community thrive. This all-day festival will feature food from South Knoxville’s most prolific spots, as well as live entertainment, and the creators and makers give this neighborhood its distinct character.
Knoxville Brewfest – World’s Fair Park (June 20, 2:30 p.m.) A Disney World experience for beer and brew aficionados is continuing on its tradition of bringing some cold suds to the throes of the summer heat. Whether you plan on sampling all the available merchandise or just want an excuse to have a drink outside, Knox BrewFest matches the energy of whatever frequency your taste buds are on.
Marble City 5K – John Tarleton Park (June 21, 7:30 – 10:30 a.m.) Sponsored by Fas’ Movement, the race is on early Sunday morning as runners loop around one of Knoxville’s favorite parks. This event is complete with a fun run for kids, too. Whether you’re prepping for that next marathon or trying to burn a few calories in the summer heat, this trot has a pace for every athlete.
Make Music Knoxville – Multiple Locations (June 21, 9 a.m.) Since 1982, this celebration has invited musicians of all backgrounds and experience levels to join in harmony on street corners across the country. It’s coming to Knoxville with that same intention, to help find that next generation of songwriter or song player. Locations all across town will have tunes pouring out of them all day on Sunday, and there’s no charge to stop by and listen.
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.
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