From classic annual celebrations to cheese tasting, East Tennessee has plenty of spring festivals to choose from
Spring is quickly approaching, which means that festival season will be in full swing. As the weather warms up, it is the perfect time to get outside and explore what Rocky Top has to offer. Celebrating music, film, art, and more, there is a something here for everyone:
Big Ears Festival | March 21-24
Knoxville’s annual music festival returns this year, featuring artists like André 3000, Jon Batiste, Herbie Hancock, and Adrianne Lenker, as well as local artists like Tennessee Sheiks. Big Ears will also feature a film festival at Regal Riviera this year, showcasing the power of music within cinema.
COST: $115-$450, children 2 and under can attend for free
Downtown Knoxville
Banff Mountain Film Festival | March 25-27
Outdoor enthusiasts will love this film festival that celebrates all things mountainous. Knoxville Theater will welcome the return of the festival that will showcase films based on mountain wildlife, sports, expeditions, and more.
COST: $25-$60
Bijou Theater
Knoxville Cheese Fest | April 12-13
This cheesy festival is delicious and educational. Come try a variety of local and international cheeses or learn how to pair cheese with wine, ciders, and beer. East Tennessee favorites like Pine River, the world’s most awarded cheese spread, will be on hand.
COST: $20-$100
TAPestry Event Space at Barrelhouse
Bronco Super Celebration | April 17-20
Although this one isn’t technically a festival, this four-day car show is the world’s largest Bronco enthusiast gathering and is perfect for any gearhead. While the Bronco rejoined the Ford family in 2021, the event has actually been going on since 2006, so you’ll be sure to find the originals in tact and on display.
COST: $100+
Townsend Visitor Center
Rossini Festival | April 20-21
Presented by Knoxville Opera, this is Rossini’s first year as a two-day festival, featuring a variety of local performers with 90s cover band Teen Spirit headlining Saturday. If you register ahead of time online for free, then you can even receive some free swag!
COST: Free
Downtown Knoxville
Dogwood Arts Festival | April 26-28
Knoxville’s signature festival, which was ranked #2 in Cityview’s 2023 Best of the Best reader poll, is a celebration of art in all forms, featuring over 100 artists across the U.S. and over 40 live performances. Visitors will have the chance to watch artists work in real time and witness their artistic process.
COST: Free
Downtown Knoxville