As school resumes, Knoxville is getting back into the swing of things with educational and recreational activities throughout town this weekend. Some are still celebrating America’s recent milestone, while others are preparing for the future and the fall in East Tennessee. Whatever the case, most patrons of the arts and outdoor venues will have a pretty packed schedule.
Glow-in-the-Dark Dance Party – Farragut Community Center (August 14, 4 – 9 p.m.) Farragut is hosting a dance party this weekend, and everyone is invited! With music from the hit video game “Just Dance” as the soundtrack, participants can take part in a synchronized number or find their own beat to toe tap to. Admission for this event is $2.
Hummingbird Festival – Ijams Nature Center (August 15, 7 a.m. – 1 p.m.) Presented by Wild Birds Unlimited Knoxville, this festival focuses on the preservation and study of one of East Tennessee’s most prized possessions. Small-group sessions will be available for further education about the bird, with on-site research banding. Admission for this event is $12.
East Tennessee History Fair – East Tennessee History Center (August 15, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.) As Tennessee’s semiquincentennial celebrations come to a close, the East Tennessee Historical Society is focusing the microscope in our little valley between the Smokies. Archival footage, historical films and cultural celebrations will be taking place all day at this free event put on by Poet Laureate Linda Parsons.
Crystalline Light Expo – Rothchild Catering & Conference Center (August 15, 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.) If you’re due for a chakra realignment, then look no further. This gathering of healers and specialists will walk through various lectures, methods, and best practices of crystal healing and therapy. Admission is $10 for this event.
Enchanted Chalkwalk – Ancient Lore Village (August 15, 4 p.m.) Artists from around town will be sketching and filling in some intricate designs along the walkways of Ancient Lore Village, where patrons can admire the creativity and talent on their stroll through fantasyland. Guests are invited to meet the artists and take photos throughout the afternoon. One mocktail is included in a ticket purchase for this event.
Craft Supply Swap – KnoxFill (August 15, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.) For the makers and creators, a good way to get rid of unused materials and gather new ones will be taking place all day at KnoxFill. Come meet fellow craftspeople and barter for new items, or purchase them for cash. Bringing craft supplies is not a requirement, though there is a $5 donation in lieu of materials.
Yacht Rock Concert – Mayor Ralph McGill Plaza (August 15, 6 – 9 p.m.) Summer is going out with a bang in Farragut, where the America 250 celebration sees its final draped in Hawaiian t-shirts. Bands will be playing favorites of the genre, with food and beverage available for purchase and a kid-geared area on the grounds. Admission is completely free.
European Culture Festival – Market Square (August 16, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.) The first of its kind, this festival celebrates European history and heritage through education and some fun-filled activities. From the Tudors to the Beatles, a piece of European history from every era will be found and enjoyed by all ages. Admission is completely free.
Adam Delahoussaye is a freelance writer for KnoxTNToday who loves telling stories about music, arts, and culture in and around his hometown.
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