Daily editionWednesday, October 15th, 2025
Good morning, Johnson City.
The Daily Johnson City Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 15th of October.
Community
CSX announced that its 83rd Santa Train will run on November 22 from Shelbiana, Kentucky to Kingsport on a 110-mile journey to deliver 15 tons of toys and winter accessories to thousands of families—Bryan Tucker said the event creates cherished memories for the community.
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Culture
Twenty-two high school bands from eight states will compete in the Ballad Health East Tennessee Regional Championship this Saturday at the ETSU Ballad Health Athletic Center (gates open at 8:30 a.m., first round begins at 8:45 a.m., and finals start at 7:30 p.m.).
Four bands from East Tennessee will join competitors from several states as 12 advancing bands are set to vie for the championship later that day.
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Jonesborough’s Mary B. Martin Program for the Arts at the McKinney Center will host the Halloween Haunts and Happenings exhibit this Friday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.—nearly 40 local artists will display sculptures, paintings, and photos with some pieces available for purchase.
The exhibit will run until November 7.
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Health
A Johnson City family founded Kari’s Heart Foundation in 2008 after losing daughter Kari to heart disease so that families with hospitalized children receive financial relief and care packages.
The foundation— which has aided over 2,000 families— will host Kars for Kari through Oct 31, an online auction from Nov 6 to 8, and a world-record dive in Aug 2026 to raise funds.
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Johnson City Events
Tennessee Veterans Festival
Saturday, October 18th, 2025 · 1-7 p.m. — Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site — $10.00 per person — Celebrate veteran culture with art, music, and a bustling crafts village.
Blue Ridge Artisan Days: Autumn Market & Craft Fair
Friday, October 24th, 2025 · 3-7 p.m. — Appalachian Fair — Free entry — Celebrate fall with unique handmade goods, warm treats, and festive vibes for the whole family.
Johnson City Zine Fest 9
Saturday, October 25th, 2025 · 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. — 324 E Main St, Johnson City, TN — Free entry — Explore the creativity of over 40 zinesters and their unique artwork.
Scarecrow Skedaddle & Shindig
Sunday, October 26th, 2025 · 1:45-4 p.m. — ETSU/Ballad Health Athletic Center — Event entry fee applies — Enjoy a festive family celebration with races, games, and fall fun.
Wake Forest vs East Tennessee State Basketball Exhibition
Wednesday, October 29th, 2025 · 7-8:30 p.m. — Freedom Hall Civic Center Arena — Charity event — Enjoy an exciting exhibition match while supporting local charities.
An Evening in Conversation with Kenny Chesney
Saturday, November 1st, 2025 · 3:00 – 4:30 PM — ETSU Martin Center for the Arts — Includes signed book — Discover the inspiring journey of Kenney Chesney from a young musician to a country music star.
Elf The Musical
Monday, November 3rd, 2025 · 7:00 – 8:30 PM — ETSU Martin Center for the Arts — Tickets available — Experience a live adaptation of the holiday classic with dazzling stage effects and festive cheer.
Elf The Musical
Tuesday, November 4th, 2025 · 7-8:30 p.m. — ETSU Martin Center for the Arts — Ticket prices may vary — Experience the magic of the beloved holiday film transformed into a spectacular live theater event.
MANIA: The ABBA Tribute
Wednesday, November 5th, 2025 · 7:30-9:00 p.m. — ETSU Martin Center for the Arts — Cost Info — Celebrate the timeless music of ABBA in a fun and nostalgic tribute concert.
Book Club: The Russian Concubine
Thursday, November 6th, 2025 · 7-8:30 p.m. — Barnes & Noble — Free entry — Dive into a historical romance amid the chaos of 1920s China with spirited discussions and new faces.