Weekend Events Around the 865: October 16–18, 2026 |
A chronological Friday-to-Sunday guide to Knoxville sports, markets, music and community events |

Looking for something to do in Knoxville this weekend? From hockey and symphony music to farmers markets, a major football rivalry and a relaxed Sunday art market, October 16–18 offers plenty of choices.
Here is your day-by-day guide, with events arranged chronologically by start time.
Friday, October 16
10 a.m.–3 p.m. | disABILITY Resource Center Health Fair
A free community event focused on access to physical and mental health care services. Check the city event listing for venue and participation details.
7:30 p.m. | Knoxville Symphony Orchestra: Tchaikovsky’s Fifth Symphony
Tennessee Theatre on Gay Street. An evening of orchestral music in downtown Knoxville; tickets may be required.
7:30 p.m. | Knoxville Ice Bears vs. Evansville Thunderbolts
Knoxville Civic Coliseum. Celebrate the Ice Bears’ 25th Opening Night with professional hockey.
Saturday, October 17
8 a.m.–2 p.m. | West Hills Pickleball Tournament
West Hills community courts. A neighborhood tournament and skills clinic for pickleball enthusiasts; check participation details before arriving.
9 a.m.–1 p.m. | Market Square Farmers Market
Market Square, downtown Knoxville. Browse locally produced seasonal foods and goods at the open-air producer-only market.
3:30 p.m. | Tennessee vs. Alabama Football
Neyland Stadium, University of Tennessee. The Third Saturday in October rivalry brings big crowds to campus and downtown. Allow extra time for travel and parking.
Sunday, October 18
11 a.m.–4 p.m. | Old City Market
100 block of West Jackson Avenue, Knoxville. A Sunday street market highlighting local artists and independent makers.
Before You Head Out
Saturday’s Tennessee-Alabama game will bring heavier-than-usual crowds around Neyland Stadium, the university and downtown Knoxville. Build in extra travel time and check parking arrangements before leaving.
Event details and ticket availability can change. Verify arrangements with the organizer, especially for paid performances and activities requiring registration.
Whether you want to spend an entire day exploring or fit in one easy outing, there is something worthwhile happening around the 865 this weekend. |

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