The countdown is on. This time next week, Big Ears Festival will be in full swing.

The four-day celebration transforms downtown Knoxville into a walkable playground of performances, conversations, and art. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned attendee, here’s what to know before you go.

Festival dates + key info

Dates: Thursday, March 26-Sunday, March 29
Locations: Tennessee Theatre, Bijou Theatre, Mill & Mine, and Knoxville Civic Auditorium, plus churches, galleries, restaurants, and clubs across downtown
Tickets: Festival passes + single tickets are still available online.

Add a few performances at local churches to your schedule. | Photo by Taryn Ferro for Big Ears Festival

Lineup + must-see acts

Over 250 events are on the program, ranging from film screenings and live music to artist talks and literary events. Pro tip: Build your schedule early and prioritize your can’t-miss picks. Here’s what’s on our radar:

Music

David Byrne: “Who Is The Sky?” | Thursday, March 26 + Friday, March 27 | Knoxville Civic Auditorium
Laurie Anderson + John Zorn | Saturday, March 28 | Bijou Theatre
Shabaka | Saturday, March 28 | Mill & Mine
Flying Lotus | Saturday, March 28 | Mill & Mine
Hania Rani: Non Fiction (with Knoxville Symphony Orchestra) | Sunday, March 29 | Knoxville Civic Auditorium

Film

“Newport & The Great Folk Dream” | Thursday, March 26 + Friday, March 27 | Regal Riviera Cinema 1 + Regal Riviera Cinema 2
“Ellis Park” | Friday, March 27 | Regal Riviera Cinema 1
“Ethiopiques: Revolt of the Soul” | Saturday, March 28 | Regal Riviera Cinema 1

Conversations

Knoxville in Music History: Jack Neely | Thursday, March 26 | Postmodern Sound Exchange
Curious Listening in the Streaming Era | Saturday, March 28 | Postmodern Sound Exchange
Across the American Grain | Sunday, March 29 | Blue Note Lounge

This is why you don’t skip the late set. | Photo by Eli Johnson for Big Ears Festival

Insider tips

Still don’t know where to start? Attend Critics Picks: Navigating Big Ears 2026, where a panel of writers and cultural commentators will share their top recommendations for your schedule.

Once you’re in the swing of things, getting to your next session can feel like a race. Rent a bike through Big Ears partner Two Bikes, or take the free shuttle if you want to avoid scooters and rideshares.

Finally, stay updated by signing up for the festival newsletter, packed with real-time announcements, schedule changes, and more tips. And when it’s all said and done, send us your photos — you might see them featured in 865today.