First Friday is an event in Knoxville that is packed with music, art and unique experiences. Whether you are into interactive art, live performances, poetry or just want to explore all Knoxville has to offer, there is something for everyone.
First Friday is a must-do for anyone living in Knoxville, so here are six of the best events happening March 7.
Cullen Kehoe and The Can’t Understanding at Boyd’s Jig & Reel
101 S Central St
9:00 p.m.
Lovers of live music will not want to miss music artists Cullen Kehoe and The Can’t Understanding take the stage at Boyd’s Jig & Reel. Kehoe has won many awards in songwriting and is known for his high-energy performances. Join him and his band at this 21 and up event for a fun night of pop, country and everything in between.
Kite Symphony: A multidisciplinary exhibition at the UT Downtown Gallery
100 S Gay St
5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Art and music are intertwined in an innovative collaboration between musician Roberto Carlos Lange and visual artist Kristi Sword. Kite Symphony will feature drawings, experimental films and live performances — connected through sound and movement. This project is being premiered on the first Friday of March and will be on display through April 5.
Extended Hours at Addison’s
126 S Central St
6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
For book lovers, every first Friday Addison’s keeps its doors open three hours later than normal. Whether you want to browse their vintage books, grab a coffee or soak in this iconic atmosphere, this is the perfect place to unwind after a long Friday.
Poetry Night at Union Ave Books
517 Union Ave
6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Every First Friday, Union Books offers a poetry night featuring talented authors and scholars from around the world. This is a free event but be sure to RSVP to hold your spot and help organizers plan accordingly.
This First Friday will feature Noah Soltau, managing editor of The Red Branch Review who also teaches art, literature and society in East Tennessee, Kelsey Solomon, a poet and professor at Walters State Community College, Nome Emeka Patrick, a Nigerian poet, Cave Canem fellow and Pushcart Prize nominee, and lastly, Wesley Scott McMasters, a poet and fiction writer, author of “Trying to be a Person” and “The Bathtub Madonna.”
Join lovers of literature for an intimate evening of poetry and thought-provoking discussions.
Tavern Notes: Evelyn Jack at Maker Exchange
710 Clinch Ave
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
The Maker Exchange is Knoxville’s go-to spot to celebrate the city’s artistic community and First Friday does just that. Hosted by Dogwood Arts, Tavern Notes is the perfect blend of community, craft and music. Tavern Notes will feature over 150 art pieces by local artists and a live set from Knoxville’s own Evelyn Jack.
First Friday Art Walk
For those who want to try a little bit of everything Knoxville has to offer, the Art Walk is the best way to experience First Friday. Galleries, studios and businesses around downtown Knoxville open their doors for a night of performances, live music and visual art. Look for Art Walk flags to guide you through the city’s vibrant arts scene and stop by as many unique exhibits as you want.
Downtown Knoxville is full of incredible restaurants, bars and late-night spots — perfect for continuing the fun after the First Friday events wrap up. Whether you end your night with a delicious meal at Osteria Stella or a drink at Alice in Appalachia, there is always something new to discover in Knoxville.
