Northeast Tennessee

StoryTown Radio Show
2026-03-23 19:00 - 20:30 (America/New_York) | McKinney Center, 103 Franklin Ave, Jonesborough, TN, 37659, United States
The award-winning StoryTown Radio Show will celebrate 15 years of its popular live production at the McKinney Center with a special Gala performance on Monday, March 23 at 7 p.m.

StoryTown is reminiscent of old-time radio shows popular in the 1930s-1950s, filled with actors performing local stories, complete with live sound effects created on the spot. Each show also features one of the top music acts in the region. The Radio Show has many surprises planned for its 15th season, which officially started in February. Get a ticket to the March show, or better yet a 2026 Season Pass, and experience all the magic.

The special Gala performance is titled “Tell Me a Story: Radio Show Greatest Hits” and will feature popular stories and fan favorites from the past fifteen seasons, like Leon Overbay’s beloved tales from Boone’s Creek and the hilarious recollection of working at the Farm to Table Dinner. Cast members who haven’t been in the show for a while will be back on the McKinney Center stage, ready to celebrate. Drawn from true stories collected throughout Jonesborough and the Tri-Cities region, the skits range from heartwarming to outright funny. This month’s musical guest is local band Mr. Fancy, making their Radio Show debut. You won’t want to miss their country/rock tunes.

A gala will be held immediately following the performance, featuring various desserts and small bites from local stores and restaurants. Audience members will have an opportunity to mingle and talk with the cast, musicians, writers, and directors.

Tickets for the opening performance are $10 and available online at Jonesborough.com/tickets or by calling the Historic Jonesborough Visitors Center at 423.753.1010. Season Passes are only $90 and include a complimentary StoryTown Radio Show seat cushion. Don’t miss a show in our blockbuster, 15th season. Get your Season Passes today at Jonesborough.com/tickets, click on “Event Packages.”

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About StoryTown:
StoryTown is supported by an Arts Access Grant from the Tennessee Arts Commission, Mauk’s of Jonesborough, Gary and Sandee Denger, Wolfe Development, Herman and Beverly Jenkins, and Doug and Denise Gross. It is a part of Jonesborough’s Mary B. Martin Program for the Arts at the McKinney Center.

About the McKinney Center at Booker T. Washington: The mission of the McKinney Center at Booker T. Washington is to provide a comprehensive program through Jonesborough’s Mary B. Martin Program for the Arts, which teaches various art skills to all participants through a quality program of instruction open to all segments of Jonesborough’s population. In addition, a primary mission of the Center is to enhance minority participation in the planning and implementation in all activities in Jonesborough while specifically celebrating the contribution of the African-American community in the growth and development of the Town. The activities of the McKinney Center are designed to enhance the quality of life of all Jonesborough residents.

Stories 'n More
2026-03-24 19:00 - 20:00, 2026-03-31 19:00 - 20:00, 2026-04-07 19:00 - 20:00, 2026-04-14 19:00 - 20:00, 2026-04-21 19:00 - 20:00, 2026-04-28 19:00 - 20:00, 2026-05-05 19:00 - 20:00, 2026-05-12 19:00 - 20:00 and 13 more dates | International Storytelling Center, 116 W. Main St, Jonesborough, TN, 37659, United States
If you’re looking for the heart of storytelling in the town that basically invented the modern revival of the art, Stories ‘n More is where the magic happens.

Hosted by the Jonesborough Storytellers Guild, this weekly event is a staple of Tuesday nights in Tennessee’s oldest town. It’s less of a formal performance and more of a warm, communal gathering where the oral tradition truly breathes.

The Atmosphere
The vibe is intimate and authentic. Held at the International Storytelling Center (or occasionally nearby local venues like the McKinney Center), the evening feels like sitting in a very large, very talented living room.
What to Expect

Diverse Tellers: You’ll hear from seasoned professionals who have graced national stages, alongside guild members honing new material.

The “More” in the Name: While the focus is on spoken-word stories, you’ll often find the night peppered with poetry, acoustic music, or personal tall tales.

A Living Art: Unlike a recorded podcast, these stories change based on the energy of the room. It’s interactive, raw, and deeply human.

The Details

When: Every Tuesday night.

Time: Usually kicks off at 7:00 PM.

Location: International Storytelling Center, Jonesborough, TN.

Cost: Generally, a small donation is suggested at the door to support the Guild’s mission.

Pro Tip: Jonesborough takes its storytelling seriously, but the Guild keeps it accessible. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, it’s one of the most “authentic” Appalachian experiences you can find without needing to hike a trail.

Darren Knight (Southern Momma) with Red Squirrel & Special Guest Nicole Starnes
2026-03-27 19:30 - 21:00 | Jackson Theatre, 121 W. Main St., Jonesborough, TN, 37659, United States
Darren Knight (Southern Momma) with Red Squirrel & Special Guest Nicole Starnes – March 27

Jonesborough, TN — The Jackson Theatre welcomes Darren Knight aka Southern Momma, Red Squirrel, and special guest Nicole Starnes on March 27 at 7:30 PM in historic downtown Jonesborough.
Darren Knight, the comedic force behind “Southern Momma,” has taken the nation by storm. Hailing from Munford, Alabama, and named one of Variety’s “10 Comics to Watch,” Darren is one of the fastest-rising comedians in American history. Now, with his brand-new “Howz Ya Momma an ’Em Tour,” Darren is delivering fresh, high-energy material while staying true to his signature Southern humor. Whether on stage or online, he continues to bring unfiltered, relatable comedy that keeps fans coming back for more.

For over 14 years, Red Squirrel has been lighting up stages across the country with her unmistakable Southern charm, razor-sharp wit, and high-energy storytelling. Her hilarious take on everyday life, marriage, and the quirks of Southern living has made her a fan favorite nationwide. She spent eight years touring alongside Darren Knight (Southern Momma), proving herself as a comedic force and building a fiercely loyal fanbase. Now, as a headliner, Red Squirrel has performed at top comedy venues including Zanies Nashville, Comedy Zone Cherokee, Comedy Zone Jacksonville, the StarDome in Birmingham, and The Bottling Plant in Opelika, Alabama.
Special guest Nicole Starnes joins the lineup for the evening.

Tickets at www.thejacksontheatre.com. Follow @thejacksontheatre on social media for updates and upcoming events.

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About The Jackson Theatre: The Jackson Theatre is a fully restored theatre in the heart of historic downtown Jonesborough. Serving as a vibrant hub for the arts, it now operates as a music venue, theater, and film house, bringing entertainment and culture to the community again. For tickets and more information, visit thejacksontheatre.com or follow us on social media @thejacksontheatre.

Women and the Rails
2026-03-28 | TN

Easter Eggstravaganza
2026-03-28 11:00 - 15:00 | Downtown Jonesborough, 116 W Main St, Jonesborough, TN, 37659, United States
The Town of Jonesborough will host its annual Easter Eggstravaganza on Saturday, March 28, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in downtown Jonesborough. Event locations include the International Storytelling Center, Jimmy Neil Smith Park, Jonesborough Central Christian Church and the Christopher Taylor House.
This year’s event will feature photos with the Easter Bunny, face painting, children’s crafts, and a Touch-a-Truck experience with the Jonesborough Fire Department, Police Department, Street Department, and Water Department. Additional activities include an inflatable obstacle course and a petting zoo featuring miniature horses, sheep, goats and rabbits.
The egg hunt will take place at Jimmy Neil Smith Park, where children ages 12 and under can search for more than 5,000 candy-filled eggs. To provide a fun and equitable experience, the egg hunt will be divided into four age groups: 2 and under, 3 to 5, 6 to 8 and 9 to 12. The egg hunt schedule is as follows: ages 9 to 12 at 12:30 p.m., ages 6 to 8 at 1 p.m., ages 3 to 5 at 1:30 p.m. and ages 2 and under at 2 p.m.
The Jackson Theatre will host two free movies on March 28, sponsored by Christ Church of Jonesborough. Prince of Egypt will be shown at 3 p.m., followed by The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe at 7 p.m.
Visitors may also stop by the McKinney Center inside the Christopher Taylor Cabin for a free Easter craft. Central Christian Church will offer a 40-foot obstacle course (weather permitting), free nachos and cheese and a free Easter craft.
For more information about the Easter Eggstravaganza, pleasevisit jonesborough.com/easter or call the Jonesborough Visitors Center at 423.753.1010

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About the Town of Jonesborough: A unique 18th century town nestled in the Appalachian Mountains of Northeast Tennessee, Jonesborough’s natural beauty, charming architecture, and storytelling heritage have attracted visitors worldwide. Stay a day, a week or forever, and create your own stories in beautiful Historic Jonesborough. Visit www.jonesborough.com for more information

Special Exhibit | Boot Scootin’ History: The Craft and Stories of Cowboy Boots
2026-04-06 08:00 - 17:00 | Birthplace of Country Music Museum, 520 Birthplace of Country Music Way, Bristol, VA, 24201, United States
Dates: October 14, 2025 – April 6, 2026
Location: Special Exhibits Gallery, Birthplace of Country Music Museum
Cowboy boots are an iconic element of country music. Bespoke boot maker Lisa Sorrell’s creations illustrate how cowboy boots can fulfill both art and function. Boot Scootin‘ History: The Craft and Stories of Cowboy Boots explores the history and craft of boot making and cowboy boots, shares a behind-the-scenes view into the materials and techniques used, and considers the impact of cowboy boots in country and bluegrass music. With more than 35 of Sorrell’s boots on display – accompanied by personal stories and insights from Sorrell – along with a few cowboy boots connected to industry stars and professionals, visitors will encounter a riot of color and craft, gaining a deeper understanding and appreciation into the boot making tradition and the important place of cowboy boots in country music history.
There will be several complementary programs to go along with Boot Scootin‘ History: The Craft and Stories of Cowboy Boots. Sign up for BCM’s newsletter or pay close attention to the Events page on our website for more information.
This programming is made possible through the support of the United Company Foundation.
About Lisa Sorrell

Sorrell Custom Boots was established in 1996 in historic Guthrie, Oklahoma, by Lisa Sorrell. Lisa is a master bootmaker and fine artist whose canvas is the cowboy boot. Every boot she builds is custom fit and handcrafted for each client. Inspired by the art of the cowboy boot, its heritage and tradition, Lisa’s work has been featured in several books, numerous magazines, and the PBS series “Craft in America.” Distinguished by intricate leather inlay, overlay and topstitching, Sorrell Custom Boots has a reputation of pleasing the most discerning clients with boots that invite investigation and tell a great story.
BOOKS:
Written by Lisa: “The Art of Leather Inlay and Overlay” 2015, Schiffer Publishing
Featured in: “The Art of the Boot” by Tyler Beard, “Cowboy Boots” by Tyler Beard, “Cowboy Boots: The Art and Sole” by Jennifer June, and “Portraits of the American Craftsman” by Tadd Myers
SELECTED EXHIBITIONS AND AWARDS:
2022
Oklahoma-themed boots installed at the Oklahoma State Capitol as part of their permanent art collection
2020
Academy of Western Artists
Boot Maker of the Year
2016
International Efficiency Contest of the Shoemaker’s Trade, Wiesbaden, Germany
Award: Gold Medal and Silver Master Cup, Luxury Shoe category
2013
International Efficiency Contest of the Shoemaker’s Trade, Wiesbaden, Germany
Award: Gold Medal, Luxury Shoe category
2011
Western Design Conference, Teton Home and Living Magazine, Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Award: Best Artist, Leather category
2010
International Efficiency Contest of the Shoemaker’s Trade, Wiesbaden, Germany
Award: Gold Medal, Luxury Shoe category
2009
“17th Annual Western Design Conference”, Teton Home and Living Magazine, Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Award: Honorary Mention, “Art to Wear”
2008
Western Design Conference, Teton Home and Living Magazine, Jackson Hole, Wyoming
“Craft in America”, National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
2007
“15th Annual Western Design Conference”, Teton Home and Living Magazine, Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Award: Best Artist, “Art to Wear”
2005
“Boot and Saddlemaker’s Roundup”, Eddie and Kathy Kimmel, Wichita Falls, Texas
Award: First Place, Master Category

An Evening with Jon Stetson
2026-04-18 19:00 - 21:00 | Appalachian Auditorium at St. James, 3220 St. James Rd., Greeneville, TN, 37743, United States
Date & Time

Sat, Apr 18, 2026
7:00 PM – 9:00 PM EDT

Location

Appalachian Auditorium at St. James
3220 Saint James Road
Greeneville, TN 37743

Description

Optional dinner starts at 5 pm (menu to be announced). Reservations are appreciated at 423-329-4453.
Jon Stetson is the one Entertainer/Speaker who understands the importance of capturing the Mind share and the Heart share of his audiences. As America’s Master Mentalist, he was the inspiration for the show “The Mentalist”.
The Stetson Experience is intelligent, interactive, sophisticated fun. Along with hundreds of corporate appearances, Jon has performed for three U.S. Presidents, The King of Sweden, The Royal Family of Monaco, and has appeared on several major Television Networks.
Interjecting uproarious comedy into each program, Jon creates a hilarious and unique presentation that never fails to blow the audience away. Stetson blends the art of Mystery with the study of Psychology, the predictability of human nature and the power of intuition, with a disarming sense of humor as he really like fun and games like WoW Classic, learn more about this game here. The result is slack jawed amazement, where the most skeptical of audience members begin to feel a renewed sense of wonder as impossibilities become realities.
Jon Stetson’s engaging programs are packed with audience participation. Imaginations are wowed, stretched and captured, as thoughts are revealed and minds are being read, with Jon’s intriguing games of mind to mind contact.

Thought Reading has never been this much fun! Check him out: https://vimeo.com/912436407/f5d6e00f59

Mind Reading Confiendtial
2026-04-19 14:00 - 16:00 | Appalachian Auditorium at St. James, 3220 St. James Rd., Greeneville, TN, 37743, United States
Sun, Apr 19, 2026
2:00 PM – 4:00 PM EDT

Location

Appalachian Auditorium at St. James
3220 Saint James Road
Greeneville, TN 37743

Description

When does a magician/mind reader ever divulge his secrets? The answer is on this day at the Appalachian Auditorium at St. James! Jon Stetson, America’s Master Mentalist and inspiration for the show The Mentalist, will share some of his secrets with us!

Masterpiece Mingle
2026-04-24 19:00 | McKinney Center, 103 Franklin Ave, Jonesborough, TN, 37659, United States
The popular event bringing together art, music, and great food returns to the McKinney Center this year on April 24 from 7 to 9 p.m. This is the largest fundraiser for the McKinney Center each year as proceeds support scholarships for K-12 grade students who have financial needs and other educational programming throughout the year. The event provides plenty of opportunities for art and music lovers to meet and mingle in a fun and elegant atmosphere as they admire the work of art they get to take home, or even exchange with another adventurous guest.

This event, which sells out well in advance each year, will feature an exhibit of 120 different works of art, and each guest will take one of these works home. The artwork, which has been donated by regional artists, includes such mediums as watercolor, acrylic, ceramics, fabric art, jewelry, woodwork, and more. All pieces will be on display for guests to admire throughout the evening until the event is over, and each guest takes their corresponding piece of art home with them. The fun part is, that guests receive their artwork at random. Each artwork is assigned a number, and each program the guest receives will correspond to one of those numbers.

Guests can keep their original mystery masterpiece, or find other guests with whom they may “swap.” Amid the fun atmosphere, guests will enjoy live jazz music by a combo from the Jazz Exchange. They will also enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres and a silent auction featuring more exquisite art, great books, and even top-quality art supplies. Beer and wine will be for sale by Main Street Café and Catering.

This unique event serves as the signature annual fundraiser for the McKinney Center. Tickets are $55, which includes the event, food, music, and the original piece of art each guest will take home.

Tickets are limited to one-hundred twenty as this is the number of works of art that have been donated. To purchase tickets, call the Visitor Center at 423.753.1010 or purchase online at Jonesborough.com/tickets.

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About the McKinney Center at Booker T. Washington: The mission of the McKinney Center at Booker T. Washington is to provide a comprehensive program through Jonesborough’s Mary B. Martin Program for the Arts, which teaches various art skills to all participants through a quality program of instruction open to all segments of Jonesborough’s population. In addition, a primary mission of the Center is to enhance minority participation in the planning and implementation in all activities in Jonesborough while specifically celebrating the contribution of the African-American community in the growth and development of the Town. The activities of the McKinney Center are designed to enhance the quality of life of all Jonesborough residents.

TedX Johnson City
2026-06-26 18:00 - 20:00 | TN
TEDxJohnson City
Friday, June 26, 2026 • 6:00 pmTEDxJohnson City, an independent, community-led event, was introduced to the region in the Summer of 2023. The annual event aims to highlight real change agents in Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia, encourage residents to be loud and proud of who they are and where they come from, and draw more attention to our region from across the country and the world through TED’s international platform.
This year’s speakers are as follows: Alexandra Battle, Kate Craig, Dr. Sarah Long, David Nelson, and Jessica Stollings of Johnson City, TN; Joshua Britt of Tucker, GA; and Dr. Karah Sprouse of Lebanon, TN. These individuals were selected through a highly-competitive application process with 100+ submissions from 25 states and 2 additional countries. The event will also showcase local artists and performers.
