Full Calendar Mobile
- April 24, 2026
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Masterpiece Mingle Fundraiser 2026
April 24, 2026 7:00 pm - 9:00 pmMcKinney Center at Booker T. Washington School, 103 Franklin Ave, Jonesborough, TN 37659, USA
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The Public Enemy at The Jackson Theatre
April 24, 2026 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Jackson Theatre, 121 W Main St, Jonesborough, TN 37659, USAApril 24 at 7pm The Public Enemy (1931)
Speakeasy Cinema
Pay What You Can
Speakeasy Cinema Series – Doors open at 6 pm, movie at 7pm. The night includes Jazz Music, Specialty Craft Cocktails (and Mocktails) for purchase along with our full selection of beverages at the concession stand. Complimentary light bites will we available.
Classic Gangster Film! One ruthless hoodlum rises up through the ranks of the criminal underworld, from the bottom tier to the very top, even as the threat of an explosive gang war looms in the distance.
Starring: James Cagney, Jean Harlow, Edward Woods, JoanBlondell, Beryl Mercer
Not Rated
Running Time 85 minutes
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- April 25, 2026
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Market and Mingle
April 25, 2026 10:00 am - 2:00 pm -
Free Theatre Tour at The Jackson Theatre
April 25, 2026 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Jackson Theatre, 121 W Main St, Jonesborough, TN 37659, USAThe Jackson Theatre originally opened in 1945 and closed in the early 1960's. It has now been fully restored in the heart of historic downtown. Serving as a vibrant hub for the arts, the Jackson Theatre now operates as a music venue, movie theater, and community rental venue bringing entertainment and culture to the community once again.
Learn about the rich history of our building through a presentation, short film and self guided tour.
Tour is free and last approximately 60 minutes
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- April 28, 2026
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Jonesborough Storytelling Guild
April 28, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
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- April 29, 2026
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The 'Burbs at The Jackson Theatre
April 29, 2026 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Jackson Theatre, 121 W Main St, Jonesborough, TN 37659, USAThe 'Burbs (1989)
Wacky Wednesday
Three neighbors try to discover why a new family only comesout at night.
Rated PG
Running Time 102 minutes
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- April 30, 2026
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Tea Party & Etiquette Class - Historic Eureka Inn
April 30, 2026 1:00 pm - 2:30 pmHistoric Eureka Inn & Event Center, 127 W Main St, Jonesborough, TN 37659, USA
We’re thrilled to introduce a brand-new weekly event! Thursday afternoon tea parties and etiquette classes at 1pm or upon request! First class next week, Thursday April 23rd so sign up now!
Join us in our 229 year old home to experience the history of the Inn, enjoy tea service, and learn about simple tea etiquette.Birthday parties, celebrations, a special time for mothers/daughters, or just for fun! This is designed to create magical memories for all!
Minimum class size of 6 guests, maximum 14.
Add on a keepsake corsage and fan for your memories of your special event. Perfect as a gift!
$25 per person (Keepsake corsage and fan for only $18).Get your tickets online at www.thehistoriceurekainn.com or
https://tinyurl.com/v8as9xsvFuture Advanced etiquette classes:
• Dining Etiquette
• Proper Introductions & Handshakes
• Interview Etiquette
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- May 1, 2026
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‘Even if…’Art Story and Reception with Karen Zimmerman
May 1, 2026 6:00 pm - 7:00 pmMill Spring Makers Market, 144 E Main St, Jonesborough, TN 37659, USA
Join is for the opening reception and art story featuring the latest work of Karen Zimmerman. This series features 6 oil on panel paintings highlighting bird and flower pairings. Karen Zimmerman is a local artist that focuses primarily on rural landscapes, highlighting nature’s beauty. Join us for an evening of celebrating local art and the beauty it brings.
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Rogue One: A Star Wars Story at The Jackson Theatre
May 1, 2026 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Jackson Theatre, 121 W Main St, Jonesborough, TN 37659, USARogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016)
Pay What you Can
A ragtag band of freedom fighters—including a formersoldier-turned-prisoner, a Rebel Alliance insider, a Jedi and a sentientrobot—work together to steal the Death Star's secret blueprints. The first ofseveral planned "Star Wars" spin-offs.
Rated PG-13
Running Time 133 minutes
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- May 2, 2026
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Wetlands Polar Plunge
May 2, 2026 9:00 am - 10:00 amWetlands Water Park, 1523 Persimmon Ridge Rd, Jonesborough, TN 37659, USA
Wetlands Water Park invites the community to celebrate the start of pool season with a refreshing and exhilarating Polar Plunge on Saturday, May 2, from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. This exciting event is free to attend and open to participants ages 8 and up. The Polar Plunge promises a morning filled with laughter, energy, and unforgettable fun for all who are brave enough to take the leap.
Participants will dive into chilly waters as part of this lively community tradition that marks the transition into summer. Whether attendees are seasoned plungers or are experiencing it for the first time, the event offers an inclusive and spirited atmosphere designed to bring people together. Participants who brave the plunge will earn a free day pass to the Wetlands Water Park.
Community members are encouraged to bring their friends, courage, and sense of adventure as they join in this unique seasonal celebration. The Polar Plunge is a fun and memorable way to welcome warmer days ahead because nothing says summer is coming quite like a dip into icy water.
In addition, the Water Park will be accepting non-perishable food donations for the Jonesborough Area Ministerial Association (JAMA) Food Pantry, giving attendees an opportunity to give back to the community while enjoying the event.
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The Force Fest
May 2, 2026 1:00 pm - 6:00 pmJonesborough Area Merchants & Service Association (JAMSA) will host The Force Fest event on Saturday, May 2, from 1 to 5 p.m. throughout downtown Jonesborough.
The event will include Star Wars themed treats and character brick figures at participating stores, a town wide "Bounty Hunt", Star Wars films played at the Jackson Theater, Food Trucks, a Jedi Training Course, and many more exciting Star Wars themed activities.
The 501st Legion, Rebel Legion, R2D2 inside the Jackson Theatre, and Mandalorian Mercs in attendance will make this event out of this world! Plus, attendees can dress up and participate in the Costume contest with the following categories: Best Youth Costume (Ages 0-12), Best Teen Costume (Ages 13-18), Best Adult Costume (Ages 18 and up), Most Creative Costume, and Best Pet Costume.
Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at Jonesborough.com/tickets or call the Jonesborough Visitors Center at 423.753.1010.
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Jonesborough Community Dance Social
May 2, 2026 6:00 pm - 10:00 pmHistoric Jonesborough Visitors Center, 117 Boone St, Jonesborough, TN 37659, USA
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Star Wars: A New Hope at The Jackson Theatre
May 2, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Jackson Theatre, 121 W Main St, Jonesborough, TN 37659, USASponsored by Jonesborough Area Merchants & ServiceAssociation (JAMSA)
Pay What you Can
Luke Skywalker begins a journey that will change thegalaxy in Star Wars: A New Hope.
Nineteen years after the formation of the evil GalacticEmpire, Luke is thrust into the struggle of
the Rebel Alliance when he meets Obi-Wan Kenobi, who haslived for years in seclusion on the
desert planet of Tatooine. Obi-Wan begins Luke’s Jeditraining as Luke joins him on a daring
mission to rescue Rebel leader Princess Leia from theclutches of Darth Vader and the evil
Empire.
Rated PG
Running Time 121 minutes
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- May 3, 2026
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Treasure Planet at The Jackson Theatre
May 3, 2026 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Jackson Theatre, 121 W Main St, Jonesborough, TN 37659, USAFamily Series
Sci-fi update of "Treasure Island," in which aspaceship crew searches for a fabled planet where space pirates have stashedtheir loot. However, a mutiny disrupts plans along the way.
Rated PG
Running Time 96 minutes
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- May 5, 2026
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Jonesborough Storytelling Guild
May 5, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
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- May 7, 2026
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Senior Center-Veteran's Meet & Greet-Open to non-member Veterans
May 7, 2026 9:30 am - 10:30 am -
Tea Party & Etiquette Class - Historic Eureka Inn
May 7, 2026 1:00 pm - 2:30 pmHistoric Eureka Inn & Event Center, 127 W Main St, Jonesborough, TN 37659, USA
We’re thrilled to introduce a brand-new weekly event! Thursday afternoon tea parties and etiquette classes at 1pm or upon request! First class next week, Thursday April 23rd so sign up now!
Join us in our 229 year old home to experience the history of the Inn, enjoy tea service, and learn about simple tea etiquette.Birthday parties, celebrations, a special time for mothers/daughters, or just for fun! This is designed to create magical memories for all!
Minimum class size of 6 guests, maximum 14.
Add on a keepsake corsage and fan for your memories of your special event. Perfect as a gift!
$25 per person (Keepsake corsage and fan for only $18).Get your tickets online at www.thehistoriceurekainn.com or
https://tinyurl.com/v8as9xsvFuture Advanced etiquette classes:
• Dining Etiquette
• Proper Introductions & Handshakes
• Interview Etiquette -
Miss Brown's End of the Year Program Student Art Show
May 7, 2026 6:00 pm - 7:00 pmMcKinney Center at Booker T. Washington School, 103 Franklin Ave, Jonesborough, TN 37659, USA
Join us to see the student artwork and performances from the Spring 2026 semester!
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The Sixth Sense at The Jackson Theatre
May 7, 2026 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Jackson Theatre, 121 W Main St, Jonesborough, TN 37659, USAHorror Series
A child psychologist comes to the aid of a tormented boy whohas visions of the dead. As the sympathetic doctor digs deeper into the child'sstrange powers, it leads to unexpected consequences for both of them.
Rated PG-13
Running Time 107 minutes
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- May 8, 2026
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School of Rock at The Jackson Theatre
May 8, 2026 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Jackson Theatre, 121 W Main St, Jonesborough, TN 37659, USAJack Black strikes all the right chords as a teacher whoturns his private-school pupils into a classic-rock band. Refreshing, screwballcomedy never takes itself too seriously. Written by Mike White, who costars asBlack's buddy.
Rated PG-13
Running Time 108 minutes
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- May 9, 2026
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Second Annual Afternoon Tea
May 9, 2026 11:00 am - 3:00 pmChester Inn State Historic Site and Museum, 116 W Main St, Jonesborough, TN 37659, USA
This Mother’s Day weekend, the Heritage Alliance invites the public to step back in time for the refined and elegant second annual Afternoon Tea on the historic Chester Inn porch. Taking place on Saturday, May 9, this Victorian-themed event offers a delightful way to honor the special women in your life while enjoying fine teas, delicious treats, and music in the heart of Tennessee’s oldest town.
Guests may choose from three seatings at 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and 2 p.m. Whether celebrating with mothers, grandmothers, sisters, or friends, this timeless experience promises an afternoon of elegance and togetherness. Men and families are also welcome.
Attendees are encouraged to dress in traditional afternoon tea attire, including striking hats, dainty gloves, and sparkling brooches. The best-dressed guest at each seating will receive a special gift.
The event will be held on the Chester Inn Museum porch in Jonesborough, Tennessee, with seatings available at 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and 2 p.m. Tickets are $50 per person, with an optional champagne upgrade available for an additional $15 per person. Reservations can be made online at www.jonesborough.com/tickets.
Seating is limited, and advance reservations are required. When booking, guests should specify their party name and total number of attendees to ensure proper table arrangements. Please note that the Chester Inn porch is not step-free and is not wheelchair accessible.
This event offers a unique opportunity to indulge in a timeless tradition while celebrating the women who inspire us.
For more information, please contact the Heritage Alliance at 423.753.9580.
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Wetlands Cardboard Boat Race
May 9, 2026 12:00 pm - 4:00 pmWetlands Water Park, 1523 Persimmon Ridge Rd, Jonesborough, TN 37659, USA
Get ready to build, paddle, and maybe even sink in style! Wetlands Water Park is thrilled to announce its first-ever Cardboard Boat Race on May 9, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. a fun-filled event that challenges creativity, teamwork, and a little bit of courage.
Participants of all ages (8 and up) are invited to design and build their own cardboard boats at home using only approved materials, then bring them to race across the pool for a chance to win exciting awards.
The event is open to participants ages 8 and up. The cost is $5 per boat. Teams can consist of 1 to 3 participants per boat. All boats must be built in advance and brought to the event. If participants need cardboard, Wetlands Water Park can provide assistance. All participants who enter the water will receive a free day pass to Wetlands Water Park. Participants under 48 inches tall must bring their own U.S. Coast Guard approved lifejacket.
Whether your boat glides like a dream or sinks in spectacular fashion, this is one event you won’t want to miss. Pre-registration is required. For more information and to register, visit https://jonesboroughtn.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=94.
Come make waves and show off your creativity at Wetlands Water Park!
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Washington County's Got TEEN Talent at the Jackson Theatre
May 9, 2026 7:00 pm - 9:30 pm
Jackson Theatre, 121 W Main St, Jonesborough, TN 37659, USAThe Jackson Theatre will host Washington County’s Got TEEN Talent on Saturday, May 9 at 7:00 PM. This community event will showcase talented high school students from across Washington County as they take the stage to perform for the public.
Presented in partnership with 4Thirteen, the Town of Jonesborough, Washington County Schools, Johnson City Schools, and the McKinney Center, the event will feature performances from students in grades 9–12 and highlight the creativity and talent of local teens.
Admission to the event is free. Guests are encouraged to bring a non-perishable canned food item to help support those in need in the local community.
Washington County’s Got TEEN Talent aims to celebrate and uplift the incredible talent found within our local schools while bringing the community together for an evening of entertainment and encouragement.
The event will take place at The Jackson Theatre in historic downtown Jonesborough. High school students interested in performing can sign up online here: https://forms.gle/NhnXoJiAngyoSFBQ9 and community members can reserve their seats at thejacksontheatre.com.
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- May 10, 2026
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Breakfast at Tiffany’s at The Jackson Theatre
May 10, 2026 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Jackson Theatre, 121 W Main St, Jonesborough, TN 37659, USABreakfast at Tiffany’s (1961)
Cinema ClassicsA Manhattan sophisticate escorts wealthy men, taking extravagant gifts and money but not their affections: she has commitment issues.Rated TV-G
Running Time 115 minutes
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- May 11, 2026
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Board of Mayor and Aldermen Meeting
May 11, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pmJonesborough Town Administration, 123 Boone St, Jonesborough, TN 37659, USA
Meeting agenda will be available at Town Hall and online.
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- May 12, 2026
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Jonesborough Storytelling Guild
May 12, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
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- May 13, 2026
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The Naked Gun: Files of Police Squad! at The Jackson Theatre
May 13, 2026 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Jackson Theatre, 121 W Main St, Jonesborough, TN 37659, USAThe NakedGun: Files of Police Squad! (1988)
Wacky Wednesday
Wildly inept L.A. cop Frank Drebin tries to foil a plot toassassinate Queen Elizabeth II. Inspired by the 1982 TV series, itself a spoofof detective stories.
Rated PG-13
Running Time 85minutes
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- May 14, 2026
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Tea Party & Etiquette Class - Historic Eureka Inn
May 14, 2026 1:00 pm - 2:30 pmHistoric Eureka Inn & Event Center, 127 W Main St, Jonesborough, TN 37659, USA
We’re thrilled to introduce a brand-new weekly event! Thursday afternoon tea parties and etiquette classes at 1pm or upon request! First class next week, Thursday April 23rd so sign up now!
Join us in our 229 year old home to experience the history of the Inn, enjoy tea service, and learn about simple tea etiquette.Birthday parties, celebrations, a special time for mothers/daughters, or just for fun! This is designed to create magical memories for all!
Minimum class size of 6 guests, maximum 14.
Add on a keepsake corsage and fan for your memories of your special event. Perfect as a gift!
$25 per person (Keepsake corsage and fan for only $18).Get your tickets online at www.thehistoriceurekainn.com or
https://tinyurl.com/v8as9xsvFuture Advanced etiquette classes:
• Dining Etiquette
• Proper Introductions & Handshakes
• Interview Etiquette -
Historic Zoning
May 14, 2026 6:00 pm - 7:00 pmJonesborough Town Administration, 123 Boone St, Jonesborough, TN 37659, USA
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Paint in the Park. - Canoe on the Lake
May 14, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pmLincoln Park, 307 E Main St, Jonesborough, TN 37659, USA
A monthly series for all ages to paint with Jonesborough Parks & Recreation and the Jonesborough Senior Center. Local artist Tania Dirks guides you through a fun and creative paint evening!
Join us for a relaxing and creative outdoor painting experience with local artist Tania Dirks our first paint night we will paint the Canoe on the Lake on an 11x14” canvas, all supplies included. Dress to be outside and must preregister with Square Link.
Date: Thursday, May 14, 2026
Time: 6-8 pm
Cost: $35 per person, must preregister with the Square link
Where: Lincoln Park 307 E Main St, Jonesborough, TN 37659
Under the pavilion by the pickleball court, unless weather is severe, we can use the senior center; we will announce this on social media. -
The Faculty at The Jackson Theatre
May 14, 2026 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Jackson Theatre, 121 W Main St, Jonesborough, TN 37659, USAHorror Series
High schoolers face an onslaught of aliens who have takenover the bodies of their teachers.
Rated R
Running Time 104minutes
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- May 15, 2026
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Senior Center-Volunteer Luncheon by RSVP Invitation only
May 15, 2026 11:00 am - 1:00 pm -
Wings at The Jackson Theatre
May 15, 2026 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Jackson Theatre, 121 W Main St, Jonesborough, TN 37659, USASpeakeasy Cinema
Pay What you Can
The first Best Film Oscar went to this aerial World War Iadventure about two fledgling aviators itching to take on the Kaiser's aces.Look for a very young Gary Cooper in an affecting turn as a veteran flier.
Rated PG-13
Running Time 139minutes
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- May 16, 2026
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Mill Spring Makers Faire
May 16, 2026 10:00 am - 4:00 pmMill Spring Makers Market, 144 E Main St, Jonesborough, TN 37659, USA
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The Right Stuff at The Jackson Theatre
May 16, 2026 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Jackson Theatre, 121 W Main St, Jonesborough, TN 37659, USAAmerica 250: 1776-2026
A profile of the earlydays of the American space program that focuses on the lives of the firstastronauts, as well as that of Chuck Yeager, the test pilot who initiallybreaks the sound barrier, but never becomes as famous as the men who go intospace.
Rated PG
Running Time 183 minutes
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- May 17, 2026
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The Lion King at The Jackson Theatre
May 17, 2026 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Jackson Theatre, 121 W Main St, Jonesborough, TN 37659, USAFamily Series
Simba idolizes his father, King Mufasa, and takes to hearthis own royal destiny. But not everyone in the kingdom celebrates the new cub’sarrival. Scar, Mufasa’s brother—and former heir to the throne—has plans of hisown. The battle for Pride Rock is ravaged with betrayal, tragedy and drama,ultimately resulting in Simba’s exile. With help from a curious pair ofnewfound friends, Simba will have to figure out how to grow up and take backwhat is rightfully his.
Rated PG
Running Time 118minutes
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- May 19, 2026
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Chuckey Depot Advisory Board Meeting
May 19, 2026 4:00 pm - 5:00 pmChuckey Railroad Depot Museum, 210 S 2nd Ave, Jonesborough, TN 37659, USA
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Jonesborough Regional Planning Commission
May 19, 2026 6:00 pm - 7:00 pmJonesborough Town Hall
The Planning Commission meets regularly the third Tuesday of each month, and reviews and approves commercial site plans, subdivision plans, signage, re-zoning and variance requests. All Planning Commission meetings are open to the public.
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Jonesborough Storytelling Guild
May 19, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
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- May 20, 2026
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This is Spinal Tap at The Jackson Theatre
May 20, 2026 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Jackson Theatre, 121 W Main St, Jonesborough, TN 37659, USAWacky Wednesday
"This Is Spinal Tap" shines a light on theself-contained universe of a metal band struggling to get back on the charts,including everything from its complicated history of ups and downs, goldalbums, name changes and undersold concert dates, along with the full host ofrequisite groupies, promoters, hangers-on and historians, sessions, releaseevents and those special behind-the-scenes moments that keep it all real.
Rated R
Running Time 82minutes
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- May 21, 2026
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Tea Party & Etiquette Class - Historic Eureka Inn
May 21, 2026 1:00 pm - 2:30 pmHistoric Eureka Inn & Event Center, 127 W Main St, Jonesborough, TN 37659, USA
We’re thrilled to introduce a brand-new weekly event! Thursday afternoon tea parties and etiquette classes at 1pm or upon request! First class next week, Thursday April 23rd so sign up now!
Join us in our 229 year old home to experience the history of the Inn, enjoy tea service, and learn about simple tea etiquette.Birthday parties, celebrations, a special time for mothers/daughters, or just for fun! This is designed to create magical memories for all!
Minimum class size of 6 guests, maximum 14.
Add on a keepsake corsage and fan for your memories of your special event. Perfect as a gift!
$25 per person (Keepsake corsage and fan for only $18).Get your tickets online at www.thehistoriceurekainn.com or
https://tinyurl.com/v8as9xsvFuture Advanced etiquette classes:
• Dining Etiquette
• Proper Introductions & Handshakes
• Interview Etiquette -
McKinney Center Advisory Committee Meeting
May 21, 2026 3:30 pm - 4:30 pmMcKinney Center at Booker T. Washington School, 103 Franklin Ave, Jonesborough, TN 37659, USA
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Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee Meeting
May 21, 2026 6:00 pm - 7:00 pmHistoric Jonesborough Visitors Center, 117 Boone St, Jonesborough, TN 37659, USA
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- May 23, 2026
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Wetlands Water Park Opening Day
May 23, 2026 10:00 am - 5:30 pm -
The Secret Sisters at the Jackson Theatre
May 23, 2026 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Jackson Theatre, 121 W Main St, Jonesborough, TN 37659, USAJoin us on Saturday, May 23rd at 7pm for The Secret Sisters.
Since their 2010 self-titled debut, The Secret Sisters have brought their spellbinding harmonies to songs that untangle the thorniest aspects of life and love and womanhood. In the making of their new album, Mind, Man, Medicine, Alabama-bred siblings Laura Rogers and Lydia Slagle found their songwriting transformed by a newfound sense of self-reliance and equanimity, threading their lyrics with hard-won insight into the complexities of motherhood, commitment, compassion, and self-preservation in an endlessly chaotic world. Centered on a kaleidoscopic sound that boldly blurs the edges of country-folk, the duo’s fifth full-length ultimately confronts many of modern life’s harshest challenges while leading the listener toward a more open-hearted state of mind. “In our previous records there was a feeling that we had something to prove, but now we’re leaning toward a place of peaceful acceptance and trying to stay immersed in the present,” says Slagle, noting that their shared experience in parenting young children greatly informed that shift in perspective. “There are definitely still moments of frustration and anger on this album, but there’s also a little more light,” Rogers adds. “I think a lot of that came from getting older, and from letting go of the pressure we put on ourselves in the past. We finally reached the point of saying, ‘Let’s just write the songs honestly as we can, and trust that they’ll reach whoever they’re meant to reach.’” The follow-up to Saturn Return—their 2020 Grammy-nominated LP co-produced by Brandi Carlile and lavishly praised by the likes of Rolling Stone—Mind, Man, Medicine finds The Secret Sisters co-producing alongside Ben Tanner (Alabama Shakes, St. Paul & the Broken Bones) and John Paul White (formerly of Grammy-winning duo the Civil Wars). “On Saturn Return we’d gotten much more confident as far as directing the sound of the record and knowing how to capture our voices in the most honest way, so it felt like the right time for our first foray into production,” says Rogers. The latest in a series of critically lauded releases, the album came to life at FAME Studios (the historic spot in their hometown of Muscle Shoals) and at Sun Drop Sound in nearby Florence, with contributions from such esteemed musicians as Alabama Shakes bassist Zac Cockrell and legendary multi-instrumentalist Larry Campbell (Paul Simon, Willie Nelson, Levon Helm). Referring to The Secret Sisters’ latest chapter as “one where we seek, savor, and settle,” the duo lifted the title to Mind, Man, Medicine from a lyric in “Same Water”: a gorgeously bluesy meditation on the search for healing in a profoundly troubled world, channeling both weariness and empathy with soulful conviction. “There’s a line in ‘Same Water’ that says ‘Mind or man or medicine/I have tried them all,’ which feels like it encompasses everything we were trying to say on this record,” Slagle explains. “In a lot of these songs we’re struggling with our own minds and emotions, with our relationships, and with whatever we’re using to try to cope and find relief.” In a lovely introduction to the album’s expansive sound, Mind, Man, Medicine opens on a hypnotic number called “Space.” With its stark yet sprawling arrangement of luminous piano, otherworldly synth, and moody guitar tones—achieved in part through Slagle’s performance on rubber bridge guitar—“Space” infuses an element of dreamy psychedelia into The Secret Sisters’ contemplation of human connection and all its intricacies. “It’s about recognizing that loving someone isn’t always going to be easy, especially when they have a belief or a political leaning that you disagree with,” says Rogers. “It’s so simple to project your desires onto someone else, but in the end you have to hold onto what you love and value about them, even when it gets tough.” In its lived-in exploration of what holds us together and tears us apart, Mind, Man, Medicine delves further into nuanced social commentary on “If the World Was a House.” “We’ve all heard about moments in history where people collectively experienced something very challenging, but ended up coming out of it stronger,” says Rogers. “When I look at the world around us, it seems like the pandemic didn’t have that effect—if anything, it feels like we’re even more divided now. That song iswrestling with a longing for everyone to take better care of each other, and to recognize that every person you share the planet with matters just as much as you do.” Astute observers of the heart’s most intimate dimensions, The Secret Sisters also offer up such wildly effusive love songs as “Paperweight”—a prime showcase for their deep-rooted country sensibilities, graced with galloping rhythms and a bit of exquisitely nimble fiddle work from Campbell. “I tend to go with the flow in a way that can be unhealthy, where I sometimes hold back from speaking up for myself because I don’t want to ruffle any feathers,” says Slagle. “But one thing that’s always made everything feel solid and stable is my relationship with my husband, so I wrote ‘Paperweight’ about having that person who keeps you grounded when you feel like you might just float away.” Meanwhile, on “All The Ways,” singer/songwriter Ray LaMontagne lends his raspy vocals to a slow-burning track touched with all the sublime simplicity and low-slung grooves of classic R&B. “I love those moments in a live show when everyone sings together and there’s a feeling of the artist and audience sharing in the song’s performance,” says Rogers. “I wanted to create a chorus like that—something everyone can sing at the top of their lungs—and eventually it evolved into a song about feeling strong and powerful in your own femininity.” Elsewhere on Mind, Man, Medicine, The Secret Sisters bring their layered introspection and boundless sensitivity to such complicated subjects as fractured friendships (“Never Walk Away”), the interconnectedness of love and advocacy (“I’ve Got Your Back”), the loss of identity often experienced in the early stages of motherhood (“Bear With Me”), and the singular joy of truly conditional love (“I Can Never Be Without You Anymore”). “Through our experience in raising children, Lydia and I have both had the realization that there’s nowhere we could go on this entire planet where our hearts won’t be with our kids,” says Rogers in discussing the inspiration behind “I Can Never Be Without You Anymore.” “That can be a difficult reality at times, but it’s glorious as well. I’m really proud of that one, and of the fact that we were able to write a love song that comes from a less painful place than many of our love songs in the past.” Looking back on the creation of Mind, Man, Medicine, The Secret Sisters reveal that the immense support of their fans played a major role in their willingness to tread previously uncharted emotional terrain. “I remember playing a show last fall and expressing my gratitude to the crowd that they’d come out to see us, because as mothers of young children we now understand how challenging that can be,” says Rogers. “Later on that night a woman came up to us with her daughter and husband and said something like, ‘I know it’s so hard to leave your babies—but you leaving your babies at home for a little while is what makes moments like this happen for other families.’ It was so gratifying to hear that, and reminded me of the whole purpose behind the music that we make: it’s to benefit the hearts of other people, anyone who needs that healing or validation or connection, or even just the space to cry. That’s why we keep doing this.”
For tickets, visit thejacksontheatre.com.
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