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👂 Tune into Big Ears
You might discover your new favorite artist at Big Ears. | Photo by Eli Johnson for Big Ears Festival
The countdown is on. This time next week, Big Ears Festival will be in full swing.
The four-day celebration transforms downtown Knoxville into a walkable playground of performances, conversations, and art. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned attendee, here’s what to know before you go.
Festival dates + key info
Dates: Thursday, March 26-Sunday, March 29
Locations: Tennessee Theatre, Bijou Theatre, Mill & Mine, and Knoxville Civic Auditorium, plus churches, galleries, restaurants, and clubs across downtown
Over 250 events are on the program, ranging from film screenings and live music to artist talks and literary events. Pro tip: Build your schedule early and prioritize your can’t-miss sessions.
Ijams Nature Center is growing thanks to a major land donation. The Presbytery of East Tennessee is closing its New Prospect Road church and gifting 15.7 acres. About 11 acres will remain protected woodland, while existing buildings will become Ijams Nature Preschool and a new early learning center. (WATE)
Civic
Knoxville City Council just approved its first Parks & Recreation Master Plan since 2009. The plan lays out strategies to enhance the city’s 100 parks and 125 miles of paved greenways. Flip through it to see what’s next for Knoxville’s outdoor spaces. (WATE)
Closing
Pour one out. Ebony & Ivory Brewing will shutter its taproom after Sunday, March 29. The team cited rising costs and shifting circumstances, but there’s a silver lining: Distribution will continue, so you’ll still be able to sip your favorite suds.
Opening
The historic Eugenia Williams House is in its soft opening phase. The grounds are open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. for picnics, walks, and exploration. House tours are available on Thursdays + Saturdays, and a public grand opening celebration is set for Saturday, April 11. (WVLT)
Plan Ahead
More details have been revealed about Bijou Jubilee, a festival-style party spotlighting local music + culture. This year’s celebration will spill out onto Gay Street, where attendees will share tables and square dance under the stars. All-inclusive tickets for the Saturday, June 6 bash go on sale at 10 a.m. today.
Community
Locals are restoring Longview Cemetery, a historically Black cemetery in Westview dating to 1915. Volunteers can join cleanups hosted by Keep Knoxville Beautiful and Knox Heritage to remove debris. 73 tires were cleared at the last event alone. (WBIR)
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City Guide
🥂 Cheers to the weekend
Do you prefer your eggs scrambled or sunny-side up? | Photo via South Made Marketing
We’ve compiled a whole bunch of weekend brunch options in Knoxville, along with menu recs and pro tips. All that’s left to do is text the group chat and make a reservation.
Editor’s note: All times listed are brunch-only.
Balter Beerworks|Saturday + Sunday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. | Come hungry to savor a plate of classic shrimp and grits or chicken and waffles. Pro tip: Order the Baltering Mary, a brunch cocktail made with their coffee oatmeal porter.
Sunspot | Saturday + Sunday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. | This rustic-chic spot serves up Southwestern fare inspired by Caribbean and Latin American flavors. Don’t sleep on the breakfast tacos.
STIR | Saturday + Sunday, 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. | Don’t miss the Filet Oscar Benedict with crab and a petite filet. Plus, no trip to STIR is complete without ordering a cocktail made with the restaurant’s signature artisanal ice.
Today marks the official first day of spring. To celebrate, we’re sharing our wardrobe must-haves for the season:
👚 Slip on this short sleeve cardigan for seamless warm weather layering.
☀️ Stay comfy and cute in this elevated casual gingham two-piece set.
👕 Opt for a lightweight henley tee on those chillier spring mornings.
👗 Flaunt this boho maxi skirt available in springtime hues like light pink, baby blue, and rose.
🩳 Lounge in these casual high-waisted shorts with pockets and a drawstring.
Say hello to spring — today is the spring equinox. Celebrate tomorrow at Old Sevier EquiKnox, a neighborhood block party with food, drinks, music, and local vendors. It’s an all-day affair, so soak up the sunshine and stroll the strip.
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