The City of Knoxville’s largest event of the year, Festival on the 4th, returns to the World’s Fair Park Festival and Performance lawns on Monday, July 4. Event sponsors are WBIR Channel 10, University of Tennessee, Pilot Company, Visit Knoxville, STAR 102.1, Awesome 93.1 and Mayfield Dairy Farms.
Activities and live music performances begin at 5 p.m., culminating at 8 p.m. with the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra’s 38th Annual Free Pilot Company Independence Day Concert and a fireworks show launched from the Henley Bridge at approximately 9:40 p.m.
Planners canceled the event in 2020 due to the risks of spreading COVID-19 with large gatherings, and 2021’s was a modified celebration over the course of two nights. This year, Festival on the 4th includes all the elements guests have come to expect: food trucks; free activities including mini golf games, water balloon fights and paddle boats; and live music from Jenna Rose, followed by ‘80s cover band The Vibraslaps on the Festival Lawn starting at 5 p.m.
“It has been so much fun planning this year’s festival,” says Office of Special Events Director Kyndra Brewer. “It is a night to create memories with your family and friends.”
The event is rain or shine, so guests should come prepared. Bring chairs, blankets, sunscreen and water bottles to fill at the water station located next to the Performance Lawn entrance or the Knoxville Utilities Board’s water station.
No alcohol or personal tents/canopies will be permitted on the fair site. Please leave pets at home for their own safety and comfort.
Free parking is available in the World’s Fair and Blackstock parking lots and the following garages: 11th Street (includes ADA parking), Locust Street, Walnut Street, State Street and Market Square.
For more information about Festival on the Fourth and other events produced by the City’s Office of Special Events, visit here or call 865-215-4248.
