Urban Knoxville: Don't let the heat wave fool you – you can still chill out downtown
It's around noon on Friday, which means I'm probably hanging around my Bonnaroo campsite desperately trying to catch some shade. It's hot out there, folks, which got me thinking: What about a summer-focused newsletter?
OK, truth be told I've been out of the office not writing news and needed to put this together in advance. But don't let that fool you ... this is some of my best newsletter work and some of the most helpful information yet!
I'm Ryan Wilusz, downtown reporter and urban explorer, bringing you a weekend dose of ways to enjoy your summer around downtown Knoxville.
First, a partnership as old as time: hot air and cold liquid. If you're like me, that cold liquid is best served as a beer.
But if you're like me, then you also probably know all about the breweries around downtown Knoxville, so I won't waste my energy sharing a list. But I will share this story – an oldie but a goodie – about why Knoxville could still use some more breweries.
Since it published, Honeybee has added a brewery to complement its coffee operation. Xul Beer Company has opened in the downtown area, and so has Geezers Brewery on the same property.
Still, why not add another? I heard Ebony & Ivory Brewing, Knoxville's first Black-owned brewery, is getting closer to opening. I hope to have an update soon!
I also hope to have an update on what should be an incredible live music experience at River Breeze Event Center. I sure could go for a breeze right now.
While the venue is still under construction, two concerts already have been announced: UB40 on Aug.18 and Here Come The Mummies on Sept. 9.
Born & Raised Productions, which announced the return of Sunset on Central last week, also is planning to open The Outpost music venue soon.
Now, if you're reading this email, that probably means you are not at Bonnaroo. So, I won't rub this week's podcast in your face all about the improvements made to the festival, which actually has its origins rooted in canceled plans and Knoxville construction. Weird, I know.
I will, however, share a podcast we recorded around this time last year about the best patios in downtown Knoxville. The weather this weekend should be perfect for some outdoor snacking and sipping.
Speaking of snacks, you're probably looking for something fresh to try this summer. I have compiled a list of new Knoxville restaurants that will have your mouth watering, while my colleague Devarrick Turner has compiled a list of activities to enjoy on the water (specifically, the Tennessee River).
Now, back to the regularly scheduled programming. It's time to ...
Live like a local
Drink local: Fun fact: I get made fun of for saying MY-mosa. Another fun fact is that mimosas are absolutely delicious. Head down to Pour Taproom from noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday or Sunday for the weekly mimosa bar.
Celebrate local: Sunday is Juneteenth, and Knoxville has a lot planned throughout this long weekend, including the King & Juneteenth Celebration beginning at Chilhowee Park at 10 am. Monday.
Play local: There's a lot going on this weekend, and you don't want to forget about dad. Why not take him to Dick's House of Sport at West Town Mall to grab some new gear on Saturday? And while you're at it, check out the Adult Field Day that Knox Pride is hosting on the outdoor turf from 2-6 p.m. While the event is free, you have be a ScoreCard loyalty member to participate.
Happy Pride, Father's Day, Juneteenth and Bonnaroo. Signing off and staying scruffy, I'm Ryan Wilusz. Cheers to the weekend!
This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: Urban Knoxville: You can still chill downtown despite the heat wave
