🚁 Drones as first responders? Knoxville might do it soon

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Downtown’s quietly buzzing as we cruise into the last stretch of January. Between big shows, crafty meetups, and some seriously fun cultural pop-ups, there’s no shortage of reasons to bundle up or head out. And if you’re craving something casual and comfort-food-forward, we’ve got just the burger spot.

Scroll through and pick your favorites. Knoxville knows how to start a year strong.

🍔 The Burger Bar Everyone’s Moo-ving To

Winter has settled in and as game days stack up, MOOYAH brings the right kind of fresh meaty chaos. This neighborhood burger bar hums with fans, families, and the smell of never-frozen beef sizzling to order.

Fresh-baked buns, hand-cut fries (sweet potato fans, you’re seen), and real ice-cream shakes make it easy to linger through kickoff and commercials alike. Festive, filling, and proudly no-frills, this is how Knoxville does burgers!

🎩 Design Your Own Hat Downtown

See Scruffy City just opened with souvenirs and a hands-on custom hat bar that’s already drawing small groups and celebratory outings. If you’ve wandered Market Square lately, those new windows are worth a closer look.

You choose the hat, get it fitted, then add pins, charms, or burned-in initials. It feels social, creative, and rooted in local pride. Regular hours are currently 10:00 am to 6:00 pm Thursday through Sunday, and there’s already buzz about expanded offerings ahead.

🐼 Meet Khyana, Zoo Knoxville’s Newest Red Panda Star

The Gist: Zoo Knoxville welcomed a very special new resident. Khyana, a six-year-old red panda, has made her public debut at Boyd Family Red Panda Village. Born with a congenital issue that led to the amputation of one hind leg, Khyana has adapted beautifully and moves with confidence and ease. Her arrival continues the zoo’s long-standing commitment to animal care, conservation, and compassion.

Why It Matters: Khyana’s story highlights how thoughtful veterinary care helps animals not just survive, but truly thrive.

🚁 Knoxville Police Eye Drone First Responders

The Gist: Knoxville police are proposing a major upgrade to their drone program that would allow drones to launch within seconds of an emergency call. Instead of waiting for officers to arrive, drones would deploy from docking stations across the city and be piloted remotely from the Real Time Information Center. Police leaders say the change could sharply reduce response times and improve on-scene awareness.

Why It Matters: Quicker, clearer information can help protect both officers and the community during emergencies. City Council is scheduled to vote on the proposal Tuesday, Jan. 27.

Nadia is a four year old Staffordshire Bull Terrier with a resilient presence.

The new year brings a certain stillness to our Knoxville mornings, the perfect time for a companion who can make your home feel gentler. This world class snuggler is house trained and laid back, thriving as an only pet where she can soak up undivided love.

Her $300 adoption fee includes transport to our area. She is a funny, devoted soul ready for her next chapter.

To learn more about this friendly girl,

🎭 Free Pop Culture Art & Cosplay Expo | Hilton | Knoxville | 1/23–1/25 | More
A three-day downtown event packed with fandom art, cosplay, and special guests.

🖌️ Celebrate Japanese New Year | Market Square | Knoxville | 1/25 | More
A joyful afternoon of customs including fresh mochi, cultural arts, and interactive fun.

❄️ Princess Day | Zoo Knoxville | Knoxville | 1/25 | More
A sparkling winter-themed meet & greet with beloved ice princesses from 10am–2pm.

🎤 Knoxville Sings: One Night Only | Church Street United Methodist | Knoxville | 1/26 | More
A fast, fun choral experience: learn the music, sing it together, and capture it on video!

🎨 Monty’s Craft Circle | McClung Museum | Knoxville | 1/27 | More
Craft meetup where beginners and seasoned makers gather to stitch, chat, and create.

🎤 MJ: The Musical | Tennessee Theatre | Knoxville | until 1/25 | More
A Tony Award®-winning Broadway sensation bringing Michael Jackson’s music to life.

🎶 Bayker Blankenship Live | The Mill & Mine | Knoxville | 1/23 | More
Live show blending soulful vocals and electrifying beats in an intimate venue.

🎷 Assorted Chocolates & Flowers | The Bottom | Knoxville | 1/24 | More 
Meet the artist, enjoy a sax performance, and explore a striking new portrait series!

🎻 Guitar & Music EXPO | Jacob Expo Building, Chilhowee Park | Knoxville | 1/24 | More
From amps to banjos, vinyl & band tees: this is a must for music lovers and collectors.

💀 GHOST: Skeletour World Tour | Thompson-Boling Arena | Knoxville | 1/24 | More
Expect massive riffs, haunting visuals, and the debut of new frontman Papa V Perpetua.

😂 Kathleen Madigan Live | Bijou Theatre | Knoxville | 1/24 | More
Comedian and Netflix favorite Kathleen Madigan delivers laugh-out-loud observations.

💫 Nate Bargatze World Tour | Thompson-Boling Arena | Knoxville | 1/25 | More
Fresh off record-breaking tours, Nate Bargatze delivers his signature everyman humor!