On July 3 and 4, 2026, Tennessee’s Oldest Town celebrates the 56th Annual Jonesborough Days Festival. For two days, downtown is filled with music, food, handmade goods, family activities, and fireworks. It is one of the most loved Independence Day traditions in Northeast Tennessee.
This year’s America 250 theme adds even more meaning as the nation moves toward its 250th anniversary. In Jonesborough, you do not have to look for the history. It is already there when you walk downtown.
The Parade Runs Straight Through Main Street
Things kick off July 3 at 10 a.m. with the Jonesborough Days Parade on Historic Main Street. Floats, music, and local groups move through downtown as people line the sidewalks.
Most folks bring a chair and find a spot along the route. People start showing up early and Main Street just keeps filling in.
By the time it starts, the whole street is already buzzing.
Downtown Is the Experience
During the festival, downtown Jonesborough becomes the heart of everything happening.
Live music and storytelling take place at the Jackson Theatre throughout the day. Just steps away, more than 50 vendor booths line the streets with handmade goods like pottery, jewelry, soaps, spoon rings, and local art.
Food trucks and festival favorites are spread throughout downtown, so it is easy to grab something and keep walking around.
Something for Every Age, All Weekend Long
Patriot Park, located behind the International Storytelling Center, is a favorite stop for families. Kids will find inflatables, water play, and hands on crafts from the McKinney Center.
And yes, the 8th Annual MoonPie Eating Contest is back again. It is messy, funny, and always draws a crowd.
Made by Hand, Found in Downtown Jonesborough
One of the best parts of Jonesborough Days is how much of it is made by hand.
Vendors bring in everything from pottery and jewelry to soaps, art, and unique gifts. You can take your time walking around and see what catches your eye.
A New Addition for America 250
This year also brings something new.
Jonesborough Days 2026 American-Made Classic Car Show will take place on July 3 in the Washington County Library parking lot. It is part of the America 250 celebration and highlights vintage American vehicles and the craftsmanship behind them.
Stay for the Fireworks
Each evening brings live music from 8 to 10 p.m. on the Main Stage.
Then on July 4 at 10 p.m., the festival ends with fireworks over downtown Jonesborough. It is a simple moment, but one that brings the whole weekend together.
Plan Your Visit
Jonesborough Days takes place July 3 to 4, 2026 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. each day. Admission is free.
For full details and updates, visit JonesboroughDays.com.
