It’s homecoming week, though there’s a number of talented people native or otherwise putting their skill set on display this weekend. Whether it’s local writers debuting new work, a look back at what history holds for our town, or just some plain old fun live music. There’s plenty to do and celebrate for those returning to a place they once called home, or natives who love to celebrate their Scruffy City every weekend. Remember, too, with Veterans Day on Monday, the weekend is extended!
Suzy Trotta – Knoxville Writers Guild (November 7)
Local author Suzy Trotta will be the guest speaker at the Knoxville Writers Guild program this Thursday. Trotta plans to read her newest novel published under Howling Hills Publications, titled Open House, a book about *mostly* true experiences Trotta came across during her time in real estate. The reading will be held at the historic Mabry-Hazen House with signed copies of the book available for purchase.
Dawes with Winnetka Bowling League – Mill and Mine (November 7)
Music is at its best when it’s a family affair. Taylor and Griffin Goldsmith, known on stage as Dawes, seem to prioritize that line of thinking as they’ve now been touring together for 15 years and making a serious name for themselves in the indie scenes during that time. Get a jumpstart on your weekend fun at this one-of-a-kind performance Thursday night. Admission is 18+.
Morrissey – Tennessee Theater (November 7)
One of the most influential singers and artists in British music and former frontman for The Smiths, Morrisey has been making waves through popular music that can still be felt four decades after the height of his success. Now, he’s taking his talent and his legacy to one of Knoxville’s most historic stages for one night only. Don’t miss out on witnessing history that spans far past our valley with this world-class act.
Man Night: Chili Cook Off with Rick Barnes – Grace Baptist Church (November 7)
Bring your best chili recipe or just an eager set of taste buds for this night of good food and good fellowship. Grace Baptist will be hosting its competition for bragging rights as the GBC chili champion. Stick around after for guest speaker Rick Barnes. The event is totally free and welcomes all men in the community.
Artist In Action with Keerthana Duddu – Maker Exchange (November 9)
Come interact with the hands that could be behind your new favorite living room piece. Keerthana Duddu will be at the Maker Exchange Saturday alongside some of her stunning work for a show and sale. Drinks will be available at the bar for a casual, relaxed Saturday to do some interactive shopping that could lead to potential redecorating.
Farragut Museum Veterans Salute and Battle of Campbell Station Presentation – Farragut Community Center (November 10)
For the history buffs, the Farragut Museum Committee will be hosting a presentation of the historic Battle of Campbell Station at 1 p.m. at the Farragut Community Center. The event will involve a recognition of POW and MIA soldiers as well as a presenting of flags to honor all veterans. Stick around after the show for a discussion with local historians like Bill Rhodes to get some answers to your questions over refreshments.
Knoxville Opera Goes to Church – New Covenant Baptist Church (November 10)
The Knoxville Opera, led by Jeanie Turner Melton, is celebrating the 15th anniversary of its beloved tradition this Sunday at New Covenant. Tickets can be reserved online for the event, and you too can witness gospel and opera split the stage and collaborate in a one-time musical opportunity. Seating is limited, so make sure to reserve your spot to see some classic and contemporary songs with this unlikely but beloved pairing of musical styles.
Knoxville Veterans Day Parade (Monday, November 11)
American Legion Post 2 invites you to attend their 99th Veterans Day Parade beginning at 10:40 a.m., traveling down Gay Street. Join in honoring our nation’s veterans.
Debut Poets Amber Albritton & Bess Cooley at UT Creative Writing Series (November 11)
The UT Creative Writing Program is excited to present a reading by Amber Albritton & Bess Cooley: Sharing the stage at 7 p.m. in the Lindsey Young Auditorium of John C. Hodges Library on the UT Campus. The event is free and open to the public.
Amber Albritton is the author of the poetry collection The Indignity of Knowing: Perspectives in Verse of a Military Life. She lives with her family and dog in Knoxville, Tennessee. She teaches for the English Department at the University of Tennessee, in Knoxville, where she is currently working on two more books.
Bess Cooley is the author of a poetry collection, Florence. She is co-founding editor of Peatsmoke Journal and teaches at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
Adam Delahoussaye is a freelance writer for the 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 email or text 865-919-5059 with your story idea.
