KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (Smokies.LIVE Events Center) — History will come to life in downtown Knoxville as the East Tennessee History Fair returns on Saturday, Aug. 15, with a full day of free activities celebrating the region’s heritage and America’s 250th anniversary.
The family-friendly event runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and features living history demonstrations, live music, hands-on crafts, educational exhibits and activities for all ages.
One of the featured stops during the celebration will be the historic Tennessee Theatre, where visitors can enjoy a lineup of special programs throughout the day.

The schedule includes:
- 11 a.m. – A rare screening of These Mountains Are Home, a 1976 Bicentennial documentary produced by former WATE news manager Allen Keller. The presentation also includes never-before-publicly screened outtakes from the film.
- Noon and 2 p.m. – Special open house tours of the historic Tennessee Theatre.
- 1 p.m. – Remix the Past, a showcase of short films inspired by the theme, “Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness.”
- 3 p.m. – A free screening of the classic musical film 1776, featuring Knoxville native John Cullum as Edward Rutledge.
The East Tennessee History Fair is designed to showcase the stories, people and traditions that have shaped the region while commemorating the nation’s semiquincentennial.
Admission is free, making it an easy way for families to spend a day exploring East Tennessee’s rich history while enjoying one of downtown Knoxville’s most iconic landmarks.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a movie buff or simply looking for a fun weekend outing, organizers say the East Tennessee History Fair offers something for everyone.



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