The Dogwood Arts Festival returns Friday, April 24–Sunday, April 26 for its 65th year, filling World’s Fair Park and its surrounding greenways with color, creativity, and crowds.

Knoxvillians can expect rows of fine art, live performances echoing through the park, hands-on activities, and plenty of food and drinks. Here’s your quick guide to doing it right.

🎨 Sign up for workshops

The Maker City and KnoxMakers are teaming up with Dogwood Arts for the Maker Experience, featuring hands-on activations, workshops, and live demonstrations on Friday and Saturday. Space is limited and each workshop costs $10, so now’s the time to lock in your reservation. Our top picks include creating a beaded keyring and bookbinding.

Kiddos can unleash their inner artist in the Creation Station. | Photo by Jared Worsham

🚕 Plan your arrival

Nothing kills festival energy faster than circling for parking. Plan ahead before you head out: Reserve a spot in advance through SpotHero or skip the stress entirely and get dropped off via rideshare at the festival gate on World’s Fair Park Drive.

🗺️ Find your favorite vendors

If browsing booths is your love language, this vendor map is your best friend. It lays out where everyone will be set up and gives a sense of pricing so you can head straight for your favorites. Pro tip: Screenshot the map before you go so other key stops (like restrooms, bars, and the kids’ zone) are always within reach.

Be sure to wear your boogie shoes. | Photo by Jared Worsham

🎸 Make time for live music

This year’s lineup is packed with local favorites, including Tinca Tinca, Kareem Ledell, and Redd and the Paper Flowers. Check the schedule ahead of time so you know exactly when (and where) to catch your top picks.

🍦 Come hungry, you’ll have options

Fuel your festival stroll with bites from Apple Thai, Mucho Gusto, Captain Muchachos, Dentons, Daddy D’s, Sleepy Dog Coffee, Mama Bear’s Sweet Treats, and Irvey’s Ice Cream.

Looking to sip? Craft beer and cocktails will be pouring from Sugarlands Distilling and Cherokee Distributing. Pro tip: Bring a reusable water bottle — free filtered refill stations from the AB Project will be on site.

One last thing: When the party's over, send your favorite festival photos to 865today for a chance to be included in an upcoming newsletter.