Daily editionThursday, August 21st, 2025
Good morning, Johnson City.
The Daily Johnson City Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 21st of August.
Community
Farmers hurt by Helene's flooding met in Washington County for a field day hosted by the University of Tennessee to learn how to restore lost topsoil—state agriculture commissioner Charlie Hatcher said that changing planting methods may be needed to recover the land.
WCYBRead more
The Appalachian Fair is in full swing today with carnival rides, a monster truck show featuring driver Jessie Turner, and a country music concert as headliner Zach Top performs at WCYB Appalachian Arena — drawing thousands of fans to the fairgrounds.
The fair continues through the week with more shows and rides for families.
WCYBRead more
Culture
ETSU band created an award-winning documentary that shows their Macy’s parade journey + it features live videos and interviews from the event.
The band now prepares for a new season with its Rhythms of Rio show celebrating Brazil’s Carnaval as Dr. Joe Moore returns after a medical break.
The East TennesseanRead more
Sports
ETSU football had nine Buccaneers earn Preseason All-SoCon Honors—an improvement over last season—and placed fourth in the Preseason Coaches’ Poll.
The team will open its season against Murray State on Aug. 30 at Bank of Tennessee Field at William B. Greene Jr. Stadium in Johnson City with a 5:30 p.m. kickoff.
The East TennesseanRead more
Johnson City Events
SPANKthe80s Tribute Concert
Saturday, August 23rd, 2025 · 7:30-9 p.m. — ETSU Martin Center for the Arts — Tickets available — Experience the ultimate 80's throwback with high-energy hits and vibrant performances.
Bladesmithing: Railroad Spike to Knife
Sunday, August 24th, 2025 · 1-3:30 p.m. — The Inventor Center — Registration required — Get hands-on experience forging a knife from a railroad spike while learning about blacksmithing techniques.
Spirits of the Carnival
Thursday, August 28th, 2025 · 6-9 p.m. — Tennessee Hills Brewstillery — Ticket required — Craft unique cocktails inspired by fairground flavors with charcuterie in a festive atmosphere.
Jam in JC 2025
Saturday, August 30th, 2025 · 12-2 p.m. — King Commons Park — Free entry — Celebrate local culture with music, food, and art at this vibrant outdoor festival.
2025 Tennessee State Pickleball Championships
Friday, September 5th, 2025 · 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. — Memorial Park Community Center — Registration fees apply — Compete for medals in various pickleball divisions across multiple skill levels.
Soggy Doggy: Dog Swim
Saturday, September 6th, 2025 · 10 a.m.–3 p.m. — Legion Street Pool — $5 per dog (2 dogs per handler) — Let your pups dive into a splash party with toys and fun at this dog-only swim event.
Sorghum Festival and Breakfast
Saturday, September 13th, 2025 · 8 a.m.–4 p.m. — Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site — $10 with breakfast, $6 without — Experience traditional sorghum making, enjoy local music, and savor a delicious biscuit and gravy breakfast.
Pierre Bensusan Concert
Sunday, September 14th, 2025 · 7:30 PM – 1:30 AM — Down Home — Tickets required — Experience the extraordinary guitar mastery of Pierre Bensusan bringing his unique sound to Johnson City.
Date Night in the Flower Field
Thursday, September 18th, 2025 · 6-8 p.m. — Harvey Family Farm — $75 per couple — Enjoy an intimate evening surrounded by blooms with a charcuterie spread and bouquet-picking experience.
Laniidae Live Concert
Saturday, September 20th, 2025 · 9-10:30 p.m. — Capone's — Ticket info not specified — Experience an incredible night of music featuring Laniidae, Mind the Drive, and The Dirty Secrets.