🏈 Rocky Top gets the spotlight... and biscuits, books & belly rubs

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We love a good spotlight moment, and Knoxville’s getting a big one this weekend. ESPN’s GameDay is back on Rocky Top, and the energy’s already building.

But even beyond the stadium, there’s plenty worth showing up for. Think flaky breakfast biscuits, emerging artists, mimosas for a cause, and a dog named Alba who just wants a buddy.

It’s one of those weeks where Knoxville really shows its colors!

🥐 Breakfast Biscuits People Line Up For

Matt Robb’s Biscuits has Knoxville lining up early for good reason. Every biscuit is handmade, hot, and unforgettable, whether it’s blueberry bursting with juice or cheddar garlic dripping with butter.

Matt runs the whole show himself, chatting with folks and scribbling local tips while keeping trays full of golden perfection. They sell out quick, so if you’re serious about breakfast, this is the place worth setting your alarm for. Learn more here.

🏈 From Quarter Bins to Crown Jewels

Sports Treasures has been the go-to card shop in the Southeast since 1989, and it’s still full of surprises.

Whether you’re digging through quarter boxes for hidden gems, chasing the latest rookies, or hunting vintage treasures, this spot makes collecting feel like an adventure.

The team here knows their stuff (and remembers your favorite players), making it as welcoming as it is legendary. Even Pokémon collectors will find plenty to love. Learn more here.

📺 GameDay Returns to Rocky Top

The Gist: The orange and white spotlight is back on Knoxville as ESPN’s College GameDay sets up on campus for the first time in three years. The crew will broadcast live from Ayres Hall Saturday morning before the Vols take on Georgia at Neyland. Fans are already speculating on who might be the celebrity guest picker, with local favorites like Dolly Parton, Morgan Wallen, Tony Vitello, Rick Barnes, or Peyton Manning topping the list.

Why it matters: It’s a proud moment that puts Tennessee and our game day spirit on the national stage. Read more here.

🎨 Emerging Artists Find Support at Old City Market

The Gist: Dogwood Arts’ Emerging Makers Program is giving local creators a leg up by providing free tents, one-on-one guidance, and a chance to showcase their work at the Old City Market. Launched in 2022, the program helps artists focus on their craft while learning the business side of selling art.

Why It Matters: It makes the arts more accessible in Knoxville, giving new voices a place to grow and connect with the community. Details for joining are here.

Alba is a one-year-old pup with a sparkle in her eyes and a love for belly rubs!

She loves playing fetch and wrestling. She’s housebroken, co-dog friendly, and would shine even brighter with a buddy to show her the ropes.

Spayed, microchipped, and fully vetted, she’s traded her stray days for a fresh start and is eager to settle into a home that will treasure her quirks. Adoption fee $350.

To learn more about this beautiful girl, click HERE.

🏡 East TN Homestead Alliance Festival | Hardin Valley Event Center | Knoxville | 09/12-09/13 | More
Roll up your sleeves for two down-to-earth days of homestead know-how.

🎶 Kidstuff Live | WDVX | Knoxville | 9/13 | More
A toe-tapping, kid-first, grownup-approved hour of live music with host Sarah Pirkle.

🎡 Tennessee Valley Fair | Chilhowee Park | Knoxville | until 9/14 | More
Rides that light up the midway, live music, action sports, competitions, & more!

💥 Back to School Bash | Main Event | Knoxville | 9/18 | More
Spend an easygoing afternoon with games, music, vendors, and giveaways!

💃 Concert on the Square | Market Square, Downtown | Knoxville | 9/18 | More
Lace up those comfy shoes and do-si-do under the string lights!

🚐 Pantene Diner on Wheels | Ace Miller Way | Knoxville | 09/11-09/14 | More 
Kelsea Ballerini helped kick things off, and now they’re rolling into the Valley Fair!

⚡️ Red Bull Championship Run | Volunteer Landing Park | Knoxville | 09/12 | More 
Competitors sprint up a freshly greased, inclined pole hanging over the water.

📚 Tennessee Book & Reader’s Convention | Expo Center | Knoxville | 09/13-09/14 | More 
Book lovers, sharpen those tabs and grab your favorite tote with a big weekend of stories!

🥃 Jack Daniels Country | Olympus Car and Coach | Knoxville | 09/16 | More 
Soak up late-summer scenery on a relaxed ride down to Lynchburg.

If you want to read any of our previous issues, check them out HERE on our website.