Rhinestone Fest: For the Love of Dolly

A full day dedicated to Knoxville’s favorite hometown legend — Rhinestone Fest fills the Old City with Dolly-inspired art, music, and costume energy, drawing a crowd that shows up in their best rhinestone-and-fringe looks. Expect a genuinely festive atmosphere built around one of East Tennessee’s most beloved icons.

Free to attend, so it’s easy to swing through even if you’re not planning to make a day of it — though the costumes alone make it worth lingering. Old City’s bars and patios are all within stumbling distance, so pair the festival with a stop at a favorite spot. Wear your best Dolly tribute, or just come to see everyone else’s.