Calendar of Events

The Market Square Farmers Market is an open-air, producer-only farmers market managed by Nourish Knoxville and held every Wednesday and Saturday, May through mid-November in the heart of downtown Knoxville. Everything at the Market Square Farmers Market is grown, raised, and/or made by our vendors within a 150-mile radius of Knoxville, TN. Products vary by season and include fresh fruits & vegetables, eggs, honey, pasture-raised meats, edible & ornamental plants, cut flowers, bread & baked goods, jams & jellies, coffee, artisan crafts, and more! We offer SNAP & SNAP Doubling services each market day, Nourish Moves – a free walking incentive program – every Wednesday, and Nourish Kids – a free kids activity – on the 2nd Saturday of each month.

Every Wednesday, May 7 – November 19, 2025, 10 AM – 1 PM
Every Saturday, May 3 – November 22, 2025, 9 AM – 1 PM
*** NO MARKET on Saturday, November 29, 2025.

https://www.nourishknoxville.org/market-square-farmers-market

John Craigie, Saturday, May 03, 8:00 PM at the Bijou Theatre.

Tickets at: https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/1B00623E883D5024

Bijou Theatre, 803 S. Gay Street, Knoxville, TN 37902. Information/tickets: 865-522-0832, https://knoxbijou.org/

“His natural and instinctive interpretations are second to none: his virtuoso technique allows him absolute command of the instrument, subtle phrasing, dazzling speed, beautiful tonal control... everything.”
— Classical Guitar Magazine

We are delighted to invite you to an enchanting evening with the internationally acclaimed guitarist and composer, René Izquierdo, presented by Knoxville Classical Guitar.

Event Details:
• Date: Saturday, May 3, 2025
• Time: 7:00 PM
• Venue: The Episcopal Church of the Good Samaritan, 425 N Cedar Bluff Road, Knoxville
The evening will commence with a performance by the 2025 KCG Guitar Ensemble, setting the stage for an unforgettable musical experience.

Born in Havana, Cuba, René Izquierdo has captivated audiences worldwide with his exceptional artistry and profound musical interpretations. A graduate of the Guillermo Tomás, Amadeo Roldán Conservatory, and Superior Institute of Art in Havana, René further honed his craft at the Yale University School of Music under the guidance of Benjamin Verdery.
René's illustrious career is adorned with numerous accolades, including victories at the JoAnn Falletta International Guitar Competition, the Extremadura International Guitar Competition, the Schadt String Competition, and the Stotsenberg International Guitar Competition. As a passionate educator, René serves as a professor of classical guitar at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, where he has built a world-renowned guitar program.

Following the concert, we warmly invite all attendees to join us for a delightful social gathering. This will be a wonderful opportunity to mingle with fellow music enthusiasts and discuss the evening's performance. Tickets are available now and can be purchased online or at the door. https://www.knoxvilleclassicalguitar.com/

Kentucky Derby Party at Fountain City Social, Saturday, May 3rd at 3:00 PM.
Get ready to don your biggest hat and raise a mint julep—Fountain City Social, 4842 Harvest Mill Way, your favorite 80s-inspired cocktail bar, is hosting a Kentucky Derby celebration you won’t want to miss!

Join us as we gather to watch the most exciting two minutes in sports. Whether you go all out with Southern-chic attire or just swing by as you are, we’ll have the vibes, the bourbon, and the race-day spirit waiting for you.

Expect: Big hats, Kentucky bourbon & classic mint juleps, The Derby on the big screen AND good times with great people!

So grab your crew and trot on over to Fountain City Social for an afternoon of timeless cocktails, Derby tradition, and 80s flair.

Community Appreciation Day at Little Ponderosa Zoo & Rescue, Saturday, May 3,
10 AM – 6 PM, 199 Tipton Hollow Road, Clinton, TN.
FREE Admission!
Bring the whole family and join in the fun at Community Day, a heartfelt tradition at the Little Ponderosa Zoo and Rescue! Created by founder James Cox as a way to give back to the community he loved, this special day continues in his honor—and it’s all about YOU, the community that supports the zoo year-round.

What to Expect: Up-close animal encounters, Live music and entertainment,
Delicious food and treats, Bounce houses and kids’ activities,
Fun for the whole family!

Whether you're a longtime fan or it's your first visit, Community Day is the perfect opportunity to explore the zoo, meet the animals, and enjoy a full day of free fun.

Come celebrate, connect, and create memories that’ll last a lifetime—all for FREE.
Let’s make this Community Day the biggest and best one yet!!

https://littleponderosazoo.com/

North Hills Park (2419 Kennington Rd)

Celebrate the arrival of spring with one of Knoxville’s favorite green-thumb gatherings! The North Hills Garden Club invites you to their annual Plant Sale on Saturday, May 3 from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM at North Hills Park. This beloved community event features a wide variety of native and perennial plants grown and donated by residents of the historic North Hills neighborhood. From hardy shrubs to blooming annuals, herbs, and vegetables, you’ll find everything you need to refresh your garden and support local gardening efforts. But it’s more than just plants—visitors can also browse arts and crafts booths hosted by neighborhood makers, and explore the garden shed for great deals on outdoor tools, décor, and other treasures. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just getting started, this event has something for everyone. Bring the whole family and enjoy a fun-filled morning surrounded by flowers, friendly faces, and community spirit!

https://www.facebook.com/events/550984121359081

At Architectural Antics, 820 N Broadway, Knoxville
Starting late afternoon – until the music winds down

Join us for an unforgettable evening of fun, flavor, fashion, and philanthropy as we celebrate Kentucky Derby Day at one of Knoxville’s most unique venues - Architectural Antics - all while supporting humanitarian and medical efforts for Ukraine. This is more than a Derby watch party. It’s a lively community event where every bet, bite, and beverage supports a greater cause. Whether you're a horse racing fan, a lover of good food and music, or simply someone who wants to stand with Ukraine, there’s something for you.

We’ll have a live broadcast of the Kentucky Derby, so bring your lucky charm and pick your winning horse! You can join our friendly Derby pool, where a portion of each wager goes directly to fund Ukrainian humanitarian relief, and the rest goes to the winning bettors. It's a fun way to get involved and give back at the same time.

Enjoy a classic Southern favorite - mint juleps - in exchange for donations to our Ukraine fundraiser. Sip on something cool and refreshing while mingling with friends, old and new, and raising funds for people and animals impacted by war in Ukraine.

It wouldn't be Derby Day without fabulous fashion! Show up in your most extravagant or creative Kentucky Derby-style hat and strut your stuff. Prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners in our Hat Contest, so go bold with bows, feathers, florals, or even a Ukrainian twist!

Every guest receives one free raffle ticket upon arrival, and additional tickets are available with donations. Enter to win special gifts from Ukraine and generous donations from our local Knoxville businesses. From handcrafted Ukrainian keepsakes to unique local treasures, our raffle is your chance to give and receive.

Bring a dish to share and enjoy the flavors of our famous Architectural Antics potluck supper! Whether it’s homemade or store-bought, your contribution will add to a beautiful and bountiful meal shared by all. It’s BYOB, so bring your favorite drink - or stick with mint juleps all evening long!

Enjoy live music from a variety of local performers, including at least one Ukrainian musician, adding authentic flavor and heart to the evening. We’ll also be showing videos and photo slideshows from Ukraine to share the stories, spirit, and strength of the Ukrainian people.

All funds raised will support koloHUB, a Knoxville-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 2022. koloHUB is committed to improving the well-being of individuals and animals affected by the war in Ukraine through medical and humanitarian assistance. Even if you’re not placing a bet or sipping a julep, your presence and participation matter. Bring your energy, your generosity, and your good spirit. We’ll provide the food, fun, and a vibrant atmosphere where community and cause come together beautifully.
https://www.facebook.com/share/16XgCMrcFp/

First Friday Reception: May 2nd, 5:30 - 9 pm
May Featured Artist

Kimberly Collins, Photography
Kimberly is a storyteller. Whether she’s weaving a tale of fiction or exploring the world through the camera lens, story is the ultimate goal. Kimberly’s photography covers many areas across the country, but her favorite subjects make their home in Appalachia
—wild horses in West Virginia, a stream in the Great Smoky Mountains, an ancient magnolia tree, or the delicate blooms on a dogwood. She hopes to share the magic and wonder of Appalachia through her photography. Kimberly is board member of the Art Market Gallery in Knoxville, Tennessee (2025). Kimberly is also a published author and her latest historical fiction series, Mingo Chronicles (Blood Creek and The Massacre), depicts the coal mine wars in West Virginia. Set in the early 1900s, this pivotal labor struggle includes one of the largest armed insurrections in the history of the United States. Kimberly is a writer, a photographer, a dreamer—creating worlds with the magic of words and images.

Art Market Gallery, 422 S. Gay St, Knoxville, TN 37902. Hours: Tu-Sa 11-6, Su 1-6. Information: 865-525-5265, www.artmarketgallery.net, www.Facebook.com/ArtMarketGallery

The 2025 Epiphone Student Guitar Design Exhibition & Auction includes 20 guitars designed and painted by youth artists from across East Tennessee.

Dogwood Arts Gallery, 123 W Jackson Ave, Knoxville, TN 37902

The 2025 Epiphone Student Guitar Design Exhibition & Auction includes 20 guitars designed and painted by youth artists from across East Tennessee. The exhibition will be on display in the Dogwood Gallery during the month of May and at Southern Skies Music Festival on May 10th. The guitars will be auctioned online to benefit youth art programs at Dogwood Arts.

Participating schools: Bearden High School, Concord Christian School, Farragut High School, Gibbs High School, Home School, Jefferson Middle School, Karns High School, L&N STEM Academy, Maryville High School, and West Valley Middle School.

First Friday Opening Reception: Friday, May 2nd from 5-8PM
Gallery Hours: M-F 10AM-5PM
123 W. Jackson Avenue, Knoxville, TN 37902
https://www.dogwoodarts.com/event-details/epiphone-student-guitar-design-exhibition

"I present a curated collection of self-portraits created over my 30-year artistic career. These works chronicle my life from husband to father to widow. The work follows not just what I looked like, but my seasons of life and artistic influences. To quote Vincent Van Gogh: People say, and I’m quite willing to believe it, that it is difficult to know oneself, but it’s not easy to paint oneself either. Other than high school art classes and a scholarship to Governors School for the Arts, I am largely self-taught. I paint in acrylic, using an airbrush and more recently a paintbrush as I have come to value brush strokes. I count among my artistic influences: Salvador Dali, Chuck Close, Van Gogh, and M.C. Escher."

The Arts & Culture Alliance is pleased to present five new exhibitions at the Emporium Center in downtown Knoxville opening on Friday, May 2, from 5:00-9:00 PM. A free gathering with the exhibiting artists will also feature live music by Robinella and friends. At the Emporium Center, 100 S. Gay Street, Knoxville, TN 37902. The Emporium is open to the public Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Saturday (May 3 & 10), 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM; and additional hours TBA. Please note, the Emporium will be closed on Monday, May 24, for the holiday. Most of the works on exhibition will be for sale and may be purchased by visiting in person or the online shop at knoxalliance.store. For more information, please see knoxalliance.com or call (865) 523-7543.

Born and raised in East Knoxville, Sheryl Sallie holds a bachelor’s in education from Knoxville College and a master’s in educational psychology from the University of Tennessee. She taught in the Knoxville City School System and the Knox County School System for 35 years. After retirement, she wanted to try something new, and after several tries at different art forms, she chose mixed media because it became a natural fit. Sallie is also a poet, honored in several poetry contests including winning first place in the Tennessee Writers Alliance Poetry Competition in which Nikki Giovanni served as final judge. Her artwork has exhibited at the Fountain City Art Center, the Oak Ridge Art Center and the Emporium. She lives in Karns with her husband, Reginald.

I picked this collection to highlight some of my favorite pieces as well as introduce new pieces. Mixed media is ideal because it allows me to express myself by using everyday objects in extraordinary ways. I use layers of collage, paint, image transfers, and found objects to create texture and substance in my art. Currently I am adding works to a group of paintings depicting Goddesses: strong, beautiful women, as I see them. Goddesses exist everywhere women gather. I hope the viewers will see something that brings joy and will touch something deep within.

Instagram @sheryl_j_sallie

The Arts & Culture Alliance is pleased to present five new exhibitions at the Emporium Center in downtown Knoxville opening on Friday, May 2, from 5:00-9:00 PM. A free gathering with the exhibiting artists will also feature live music by Robinella and friends. At the Emporium Center, 100 S. Gay Street, Knoxville, TN 37902. The Emporium is open to the public Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Saturday (May 3 & 10), 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM; and additional hours TBA. Please note, the Emporium will be closed on Monday, May 24, for the holiday. Most of the works on exhibition will be for sale and may be purchased by visiting in person or the online shop at knoxalliance.store. For more information, please see knoxalliance.com or call (865) 523-7543.

Whispers from the Root and River explores the quiet space where nature and spirit meet. Through abstract landscapes and felted, mixed media figures made of wool, branches, and cloth inscribed with blessings, Laura McRae Hitchcock evokes the presence of the wild feminine and the sacred voice of the land. Her process is slow and meditative—felting wool with barbed needles until it becomes form, or painting layer upon layer—mirroring the journey back to self and ancestral memory. This collection is an invitation to remember that we, too, are part of the mystery that lives in root and river, body and breath.

Laura McRae Hitchcock is a painter and mixed media artist whose work is rooted in memory, nature, and the unseen forces that shape our inner landscapes. She holds a degree in art from Agnes Scott College. Hitchcock is the co-founder of Wild Hair Adventures Art Retreats, and her art has been exhibited in solo and juried shows nationwide and in Europe. She is a member of the National Association of Women Artists and its South Carolina chapter. Recently, she moved from the Lowcountry of South Carolina to the foothills of the Smoky Mountains of East Tennessee where she finds great joy being surrounded by rolling mist, the hush of old trees, and the whispers of the mountains.

LauraMcRaeHitchcock.com | Instagram @lmcraehitchcock
wildhairartretreats.com | facebook.com/LauraMcRaeHitchcockFineArt

The Arts & Culture Alliance is pleased to present five new exhibitions at the Emporium Center in downtown Knoxville opening on Friday, May 2, from 5:00-9:00 PM. A free gathering with the exhibiting artists will also feature live music by Robinella and friends. At the Emporium Center, 100 S. Gay Street, Knoxville, TN 37902. The Emporium is open to the public Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Saturday (May 3 & 10), 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM; and additional hours TBA. Please note, the Emporium will be closed on Monday, May 24, for the holiday. Most of the works on exhibition will be for sale and may be purchased by visiting in person or the online shop at knoxalliance.store. For more information, please see knoxalliance.com or call (865) 523-7543.