Calendar of Events
Saturday, May 3, 2025
Little Ponderosa Zoo & Rescue: Community Appreciation Day
Category: Festivals, special events, Fundraisers, Kids, family and Science, nature
Community Appreciation Day at Little Ponderosa Zoo & Rescue, Saturday, May 3,
10 AM – 6 PM, 199 Tipton Hollow Road, Clinton, TN.
FREE Admission!
Bring the whole family and join in the fun at Community Day, a heartfelt tradition at the Little Ponderosa Zoo and Rescue! Created by founder James Cox as a way to give back to the community he loved, this special day continues in his honor—and it’s all about YOU, the community that supports the zoo year-round.
What to Expect: Up-close animal encounters, Live music and entertainment,
Delicious food and treats, Bounce houses and kids’ activities,
Fun for the whole family!
Whether you're a longtime fan or it's your first visit, Community Day is the perfect opportunity to explore the zoo, meet the animals, and enjoy a full day of free fun.
Come celebrate, connect, and create memories that’ll last a lifetime—all for FREE.
Let’s make this Community Day the biggest and best one yet!!
Derby Day on Broadway to support Ukraine
Category: Culinary arts, food, Festivals, special events, Fundraisers and Meetup
At Architectural Antics, 820 N Broadway, Knoxville
Starting late afternoon – until the music winds down
Join us for an unforgettable evening of fun, flavor, fashion, and philanthropy as we celebrate Kentucky Derby Day at one of Knoxville’s most unique venues - Architectural Antics - all while supporting humanitarian and medical efforts for Ukraine. This is more than a Derby watch party. It’s a lively community event where every bet, bite, and beverage supports a greater cause. Whether you're a horse racing fan, a lover of good food and music, or simply someone who wants to stand with Ukraine, there’s something for you.
We’ll have a live broadcast of the Kentucky Derby, so bring your lucky charm and pick your winning horse! You can join our friendly Derby pool, where a portion of each wager goes directly to fund Ukrainian humanitarian relief, and the rest goes to the winning bettors. It's a fun way to get involved and give back at the same time.
Enjoy a classic Southern favorite - mint juleps - in exchange for donations to our Ukraine fundraiser. Sip on something cool and refreshing while mingling with friends, old and new, and raising funds for people and animals impacted by war in Ukraine.
It wouldn't be Derby Day without fabulous fashion! Show up in your most extravagant or creative Kentucky Derby-style hat and strut your stuff. Prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners in our Hat Contest, so go bold with bows, feathers, florals, or even a Ukrainian twist!
Every guest receives one free raffle ticket upon arrival, and additional tickets are available with donations. Enter to win special gifts from Ukraine and generous donations from our local Knoxville businesses. From handcrafted Ukrainian keepsakes to unique local treasures, our raffle is your chance to give and receive.
Bring a dish to share and enjoy the flavors of our famous Architectural Antics potluck supper! Whether it’s homemade or store-bought, your contribution will add to a beautiful and bountiful meal shared by all. It’s BYOB, so bring your favorite drink - or stick with mint juleps all evening long!
Enjoy live music from a variety of local performers, including at least one Ukrainian musician, adding authentic flavor and heart to the evening. We’ll also be showing videos and photo slideshows from Ukraine to share the stories, spirit, and strength of the Ukrainian people.
All funds raised will support koloHUB, a Knoxville-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 2022. koloHUB is committed to improving the well-being of individuals and animals affected by the war in Ukraine through medical and humanitarian assistance. Even if you’re not placing a bet or sipping a julep, your presence and participation matter. Bring your energy, your generosity, and your good spirit. We’ll provide the food, fun, and a vibrant atmosphere where community and cause come together beautifully.
https://www.facebook.com/share/16XgCMrcFp/
Dogwood Arts: Epiphone Student Guitar Design Exhibition
Category: Exhibitions, visual art, Free event, Fundraisers and Kids, family
The 2025 Epiphone Student Guitar Design Exhibition & Auction includes 20 guitars designed and painted by youth artists from across East Tennessee.
Dogwood Arts Gallery, 123 W Jackson Ave, Knoxville, TN 37902
The 2025 Epiphone Student Guitar Design Exhibition & Auction includes 20 guitars designed and painted by youth artists from across East Tennessee. The exhibition will be on display in the Dogwood Gallery during the month of May and at Southern Skies Music Festival on May 10th. The guitars will be auctioned online to benefit youth art programs at Dogwood Arts.
Participating schools: Bearden High School, Concord Christian School, Farragut High School, Gibbs High School, Home School, Jefferson Middle School, Karns High School, L&N STEM Academy, Maryville High School, and West Valley Middle School.
First Friday Opening Reception: Friday, May 2nd from 5-8PM
Gallery Hours: M-F 10AM-5PM
123 W. Jackson Avenue, Knoxville, TN 37902
https://www.dogwoodarts.com/event-details/epiphone-student-guitar-design-exhibition