Jonesborough Days Announces Main Stage Line-up

Town of Jonesborough News Release

For Immediate Release

Thursday, June 24, 2021

 

Contact Information

Melinda Copp

MelindaC@jonesboroughtn.org

423.791.3819

 

Jonesborough Days Announces Main Stage Line-up

Please find photos here:

https://www.dropbox.com/sh/gu5let6qter2ir2/AABPaDntbIrKo3ta805pVtH_a?dl=0.

The Jonesborough Days Main Stage, sponsored by BrightRidge, will feature the sounds of regional favorites along with exciting tribute bands during the 50th annual patriotic summer event July 3 to July 4.

The Main Stage entertainment kicks off at 6 p.m. on Saturday, July 3 beside the Washington County Courthouse in Downtown Jonesborough. The Main Stage welcomes the return of a few familiar faces to the Jonesborough Days musical line-up with The Beach Nite Band. Formally known as the Collegians, the Beach Nite Band combines a summer feel to popular R&B, soul, disco blues, classic pop and boogie music guaranteed to appeal to all ages.  Known for their “Carolina Beach Music” they offer a wide variety of music styles for dancing and listening, along with comedic showmanship from the group’s four members. Their performance will continue until 9 p.m.

On Sunday evening, July 4 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Jonesborough Days is excited to bring Storyteller and Musician Michael Reno Harrell to the Main Stage. His original songs and stories have been described as ‘Appalachian grit and wit’. Michael’s recordings top the Americana Music Association charts year after year.

Following Michael Reno Harrell on Sunday, July 4 from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m., Rumours ATL: A Fleetwood Mac Tribute takes the stage and suddenly you’ll be taken back to 1970 when the Jonesborough Days Festival first began. Formed in 2014, Rumours has taken the U.S. by storm with their stage scorching renditions of Fleetwood Mac songs. Fans from across the nation claim that Rumours is the band to see if you are looking for an authentic recreation of live Fleetwood Mac shows. The festival then wraps up with the annual fireworks display at 10 p.m.

For more information on the festival, please visit jonesboroughdays.com or call 423.753.1010.

Jonesborough Days Hosts MoonPie Eating Contest, Watermelon Social and More

Town of Jonesborough News Release

For Immediate Release

Tuesday, June 22, 2021

 

Contact Information

Melinda Copp

Email: MelindaC@jonesboroughtn.org

Phone: 423.791.3819

 

 

Jonesborough Days Hosts MoonPie Eating Contest, Watermelon Social and More

Please find photos here:

https://www.dropbox.com/sh/6ivl6ws6xj8e7zo/AAAzA-aVZ52gEmFNqyU9qSFpa?dl=0.

Jonesborough Days Festival will offer a MoonPie eating contest, a watermelon social, and an arti-find scavenger hunt during this year’s event.

On Saturday, July 3 at 4 p.m., join us for the 3rd Annual MoonPie Eating Contest in front of the Washington County Courthouse in Downtown Jonesborough. Come test your time on the snack known for being “as big as the moon”. There will be three categories including: 8 and under, 9 to 15 years and adult. Contestants will be challenged to see who can finish their MoonPies the fastest. Registration is free and begins at 3:30 p.m. in front of the courthouse, but space is limited. The winners of each category will receive free MoonPies for a year.

On Sunday, July 4 at 2 p.m. Ingles Market will host a Watermelon Social in front of the Washington County Courthouse in Downtown Jonesborough. Free watermelon will be provided until it’s all gone, so come gather ‘round with friends and family and beat the heat with a sweet taste of summer.

Celebrate Jonesborough Days 50th anniversary with an artifact find July 3 through July 4. Festival goers will begin the Jonesborough Days arti-find scavenger hunt at the Jonesborough History Museum located at the Visitors Center and end at the Chester Inn Museum. Attendees will travel through town, and through time, to find six artifacts related to Jonesborough Days past. Pick up arti-find cards in the Chester Inn Museum or Visitors Center, collect all the signatures for all six artifacts, turn in the completed cards at the Chester Inn Museum, and be entered into a drawing to win a gift basket.

For more information about these and other activities during the festival, please visit jonesboroughdays.com or Jonesborough Days on Facebook.

Jonesborough Awarded Event of the Year, Best Public Relations Campaign, Best Short Video, And More At The 24th Annual Pinnacle Awards

Town of Jonesborough News Release

For Immediate Release

Friday, June 11, 2021

 

Contact Information

Cameo Water, Tourism & Main Street Director

MelindaC@jonesboroughtn.org

423.791.3819

 

Jonesborough Awarded Event of the Year, Best Public Relations Campaign, Best Short Video, And More At The 24th Annual Pinnacle Awards

Note: Please find photos here:

https://www.dropbox.com/sh/2b17212fa86ffi4/AADUeWUHaqbrSDNl1FCdxE8xa?dl=0.

(Pictured in photos: Amber Crumley – Visitors Center & Facilities Rental Manager, Nora Davis – Marketing & Promotions Coordinator, Melinda Copp – Events Coordinator, Cameo Waters – Tourism & Main Street Director)

The Town of Jonesborough was honored among the tourism industry’s top performers by the Northeast Tennessee Tourism Association on Thursday, June 3 during the 24th Annual Pinnacle Awards.

Ranked by a panel of judges within the tourism industry associated with the Southeast Tourism Society, 36 Pinnacle Awards were given to the top entry in each category.

Jonesborough was awarded event of the year with “Jonesborough’s St. Paddy’s Celebration”, best public relations campaign with their “We’re Here For You Campaign”, the roll with it award with “Halloween In Jonesborough”, best mailer with “All Things Local” and best long video with “We’re Here For You Video Series”.  Jonesborough resident, Dona Lewis, was awarded volunteer of the year for her outstanding work with numerous Town events.

Tourism is the second largest economic driver in Tennessee, with Northeast Tennessee generating more than $911 million in direct tourist spending, more than $194 million in payroll while employing nearly 7,000 people, and generating more than $27 million in local sales tax receipts annually and Jonesborough is proud to be a contribution to these numbers.

Jonesborough Days returns 4th of July Weekend

Town of Jonesborough News Release

For Immediate Release

Thursday, June 10, 2021

 

Contact Information

Melinda Copp

MelindaC@jonesboroughtn.org

423.791.3819

 

Jonesborough Days returns 4th of July Weekend

Note: Please find photos here

https://www.dropbox.com/sh/qxivpotkyxa80w1/AABgBh-qc_TkTMeND7c7KC_Na?dl=0.

Tennessee’s Oldest Town is excited to host the 2021 Jonesborough Days Festival on July 3 and July 4. This event includes family activities, live music, handmade local crafts, a patriotic parade, fireworks and storytelling. 

Admission to the festival is free and open to the public. The festival hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday, July 3 and 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Sunday, July 4. The festival begins Saturday, July 3 at 10 a.m. with a parade to kick off the festivities. Activities, music, contests and more will continue throughout the weekend. The fireworks display starts at 10 p.m. on Sunday, July 4 to wrap up the celebration.

The festival is voted as one of the top events in the southeast and is known for its community patriotism and nostalgic atmosphere. Pre-events are planned this year including a Progressive Church Service touring downtown churches on Wednesday, June 30 starting at 6 p.m. along with the Kick-Off Dinner offering a low county shrimp boil and entertainment on Thursday, July 1 at 6 p.m. Visit Jonesboroughdays.com to purchase tickets for the festival fundraiser. On Friday, July 2 Wetlands Water Park will host Jonesborough Days Pool Party from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Admission is $5 per person.

During the festival there will be various entertainment and activities taking place throughout the historic district on both days. Doc’s Front Porch will feature a variety of storytellers and musicians on the International Storytelling Center Plaza during the day. The Main Stage will feature entertainment each evening including the Beach Nite Band, Micheal Reno Harrell and Rumours, A Fleetwood Mac Tribute Band. Over 70 local artists and craftsmen will showcase a variety of handmade wares throughout downtown. There will be a variety of great festival foods offering something for everyone.

Children will have many activities to do in Discovery Park on Saturday and Sunday located on the lawn of Central Christian Church. Discovery Park will offer various activities for children and their families including McKinney Center Art activities, mining for gems hosted by The Crystal Raven, sprinklers and more. Heritage Games will also be hosted by the Heritage Alliance in front of the Christopher Taylor Cabin.

The festival will conclude on Sunday, July 4 at 10 p.m. with Washington County’s only fireworks display. Viewing of the show can be seen throughout the town limits. Electric 94.9 will air music synced with the fireworks show.

Parking is available at the Jonesborough Middle School for $5 per car and a free shuttle will run all weekend long. For a complete event schedule, tickets or more information about Jonesborough Days, call 423.753.1010 or visit JonesboroughDays.com. This year’s festival sponsors include First Tennessee Foundation, Food City, BrightRidge and Wolfe Development.

Heat Up Your Summer with Heritage Alliance Trivia Night

Town of Jonesborough News Release

For Immediate Release

Thursday, June 10, 2021

 

Contact Information

Heritage Alliance –Anne G’Fellers-Mason, Megan Cullen Tewell

423-753-9580

Chester Inn Museum – Joe Spiker

423-753-4580

 

info@heritageall.org

http://www.heritageall.org/

 

Heat Up Your Summer with Heritage Alliance Trivia Night

The Heritage Alliance’s trivia night returns this summer with two in-person dates!

Join the Heritage Alliance at the Eureka Inn in Jonesborough on Thursday, June 24 and Friday, August 27 at 7 p.m. for general history-based trivia questions. The Eureka Inn will host both events in their outside courtyard and feature a “light bites” menu.

Trivia questions cover a wide range of topics and categories. Previous topics have included Odd Jobs, Pop Culture, Food & Drink, Sports and more!

Teams, of up to six people, can register up until the evening of the event, which will kick off at 7 p.m. and lasts an hour and a half. We request teams check in with the hosts prior to the event. Joe Spiker, Head Docent of the Chester Inn State Historic Site and Museum, and Megan Cullen Tewell, Programming Coordinator at the Heritage Alliance, will host the event, tally points and administer prizes to the winners. The event is family-friendly and open to all ages. Cost is $5 per team, and additional donations are appreciated.

Sign up for trivia at Heritageall.org. The link to sign up for the event is at the top of the page. Like and follow the Heritage Alliance on Facebook for more information.

This project is funded under an agreement with the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, Tennessee Historical Commission. For more information on the Chester Inn Museum, History Happy Hour or the Heritage Alliance call 423.753.9580, email info@heritageall.org or call the Chester Inn Museum at 423.753.4580.  Additional information about the Heritage Alliance and its mission can be found online at http://www.heritageall.org/. Follow the Chester Inn and Heritage Alliance Facebook pages for updates about events at the Chester Inn and other Heritage Alliance programs.

McKinney Center Offers Summer Camps and Workshops for Teens and Adults

Town of Jonesborough News Release

For Immediate Release

Wednesday, June 9, 2021

 

Contact Information

Theresa Hammons, McKinney Center Director

theresah@jonesboroughtn.org

423.753.0562

 

McKinney Center Offers Summer Camps and Workshops for Teens and Adults

Note: Please find photos here

https://www.dropbox.com/sh/r05bktysa2la3m3/AAD95RlfNTH3lFl1RKD806lYa?dl=0.

Spaces are available for The McKinney Center’s summer camps and workshops for teens and adults including sewing, pottery and clogging.

Class details include:

  • Simple Sewing (June 21 through June 25 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.) – For grades 5 through 12 and adults. Simple Sewing gives students the opportunity to learn basic sewing skills while making functional and fun items. Patterns, thread, and material will be included. Students will start with a pillowcase, applique pillow, beach bag, and their choice of a skirt or shorts.  Students should bring their own machines if they have them.  The McKinney Center does have a few that can be loaned but they must be reserved the machine at time of registration.
  • Pottery Studio 202 (June 21 through June 25 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.) – For grades 7 through 12.  In this class, students will learn hand-building techniques and the use of the potter’s wheel. The McKinney Center’s goal is for each student to produce five projects that will go home with them. Projects need time to dry and will be fired in a kiln; therefore, final projects will be available for pick up approximately 2 weeks after camp. The McKinney Center and camp instructors will notify parents when items are ready.
  • Clogging and Appalachian Folk Dance Camp (July 26 through July 30 from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.) – For grades 5 to adults. This course will focus on beginner’s clogging and folk dance, and will include basic rhythmic techniques, percussive footwork and precision teamwork in a socially-distanced manner. The camp will take place in the McKinney Center auditorium with a maximum of 16 students. No prior experience required. Clogging shoes are encouraged, but any closed-toed, flat-heeled shoe will suffice. Workout attire is also suggested. Music will vary from traditional old-time bluegrass to more contemporary pieces. Students will have the opportunity to perform what they have learned at the end of the week.

There are also one-day workshops available for ages 12 and up, including adults. In these one-time workshops, students will make either a butterfly, a garden stone, or a party platter out of clay. Students will learn basic clay hand-building techniques to make their work be used in their yard, home, garden, or kitchen!  These are great workshops to do with your children, grandchildren, family, and friends. These workshops will take place in the McKinney Center auditorium with a maximum of eight students.  There will be a 30 minute break, so bring lunch and snacks. Registration fee includes all supplies, clay, concrete, etc.  Students should bring an old towel, and should wear old clothing they don’t mind getting messy.

Class details include:

Butterfly Garden Sculpture Workshop (July 12, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.) – All ages welcome.

Garden Stone Workshop (July 14, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.) – All ages welcome.  Children ages 12 and under should register with an adult.

Ceramic Party Platter Workshop (July 16, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.) – All ages welcome.  Children ages 12 and under should register with an adult.

Class sizes are small with six to 16 spots available, depending on the camp or workshop. Early registration is highly suggested. Students will be spread out as far as space allows and will have breaks outside.

For a full program and more information, including scholarships and payment options, please visit mckinneycenter.com or call 423.753.0562.

Heritage Alliance to Premiere Original Play “Nancy” on June 19 at Embree House Historic Farm

Town of Jonesborough News Release

For Immediate Release

Tuesday, June 8, 2021

 

CONTACT

Anne G’Fellers-Mason, Executive Director, Heritage Alliance

423.753.9580

info@heritageall.org

www.heritageall.org

 

Heritage Alliance to Premiere Original Play “Nancy” on June 19 at Embree House Historic Farm

The Heritage Alliance will host an original play, “Nancy,” in honor of Juneteenth on Saturday, June 19 at 1 p.m., 3:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. at the historic Embree House in Telford. The show will last an hour, and there will be a Q&A session and a chance to tour parts of the Embree House after each performance.

June 19 is recognized as Juneteenth, or Emancipation Day, a celebration of the day that word of emancipation finally reached a group of enslaved people in Galveston, Texas in June of 1865. The Heritage Alliance invites you to join them as they celebrate Nancy and tell her story.

In 1820, Elihu Embree published his newspaper The Emancipator on Main Street, Jonesborough. The seven edition paper is the first publication dedicated solely to the cause of abolitionism. Embree passed away in December of 1820, and the paper died with him. Even though it was short-lived, The Emancipator had over 2,000 subscribers and its reach went all the way to Boston and Philadelphia. In spite of his abolitionist beliefs, Embree himself was an enslaver. Nancy was an enslaved woman owned by Elihu Embree, and her story will be told in this original play “Nancy.”

Written by Anne G’Fellers-Mason, Executive Director of the Heritage Alliance, “Nancy” will follow a year in the woman’s life, from January 1820 when Elihu Embree wrote his will to January 1821 when his will was read before the Washington County court. The play is based on primary research relying heavily on documents from the Washington County Archives. The role of Nancy will be performed by local actress Ubunibi-Afia Short.

“I’ve wanted to tell Nancy’s story for a long time,” says Mason. “It’s an honor to have such an amazing actress to help tell it. I believe Nancy’s story shows just how complicated the system of enslavement was in the United States and how unjust it was. We know Embree’s story so well. It’s past time we know Nancy’s.”

Tickets are $12 and proceeds from ticket sales will help fund the educational programs of the Heritage Alliance. You can purchase tickets through Jonesborough’s online system at jonesborough.com/tickets or by calling the Visitor’s Center at 423.753.1010. Seating is limited, so purchase tickets in advance.

McKinney Center to host June Art & Craft “Mini” Markets

Town of Jonesborough News Release

For Immediate Release

Monday, June 7, 2021

 

Contact Information

Theresa Hammons

theresah@jonesboroughtn.org

423.753.0562

 

 

McKinney Center to host June Art & Craft “Mini” Markets

NOTE: Please find photos here:

https://www.dropbox.com/sh/i4cb84yoswt5yu6/AAAbAzeYtekUAHLRXQauvkQ9a?dl=0.

The McKinney Center will host the June “Mini” Market on Friday, June 11 from 12 p.m. through 6 p.m. and June 12 from 10 a.m. through 6 p.m.  Shane’s Place will offer lunch and dinner options both days.

The event is open to the public with a suggested donation of $1 per person for entrance. The building and parking are ADA accessible.

“The June market will feature even more crafters, artists, and makers,” stated McKinney Center Director Theresa Hammons. “As our region’s COVID numbers are lowering and restrictions are loosening, the McKinney Center has added more vendors indoors and outdoors to give customers more shopping options.”

Visitors will see returning vendors and new artists. Vendors include:

  • Grace Viola-Pearson of Made For Your Soul with Kokedama handmade crafts and terrariums
  • Selena Hayes of Sweet Pots pottery
  • Dinah Sluder with embroidered textiles
  • Bobbie Nestor of Art in Stones Jewelry
  • Pappy’s Wood Crafts with popular character ornaments and handmade toys
  • Stacy Larsen with River Button Bracelets
  • Michael DiNapoli pottery
  • Michael Bishop’s wood cutting boards
  • Suzy Hooven jewelry
  • Deborah Bays pet pillows and other home-goods
  • Ritchie Hayward with fine-art photographs
  • Donna Bird Fine Art portraits and paintings
  • Rob Scaffe Cabinetmaker fine furniture and millwork
  • Jay Flack paintings
  • Paige Smiley tea-time creations
  • Laura Darsch of Elegant Silver and Stones jewelry
  • Kelly Hall with Books & Cleverness wall art
  • The McKinney Center’s StoryTown Bake Sale
  • Jeanne G’Fellers with MtnCreative paper arts “Where Creativity & Disability Meet the Mountains”
  • Ann Florence lace and other creations

The June “Mini” Market is the fourth in a series of five. After June, there is one more “Mini” Market on July 9 and July 10.

For vendor information and space availability for July, please visit

www.mckinneycenter.com.

McKinney Center Director Theresa Hammons designed McKinney “Mini” Markets as a smaller, safer venue providing an opportunity for artists to showcase their work, and for patrons to peruse and shop from area artisans and crafters in a socially distanced environment.

The market will adhere to the latest guidelines for safety in both inside and outside venues.  Extra cleaning measures are in place, and attendance in the building will be monitored and kept below half-capacity throughout the day.

For more information on this or upcoming markets, please call the McKinney Center at 423.753.0562.

Mill Spring Makers Faire to be held Saturday, June 5

Town of Jonesborough News Release

For Immediate Release

Wednesday, June 2, 2021

 

Contact Information

Melinda Copp

Email: MelindaC@jonesboroughtn.org

Phone: 423.791.3819

 

Mill Spring Makers Faire to be held Saturday, June 5

Note please access photos here:

https://www.dropbox.com/sh/dbxggfnn75r4o2d/AAC4aMWu3CmBQeQYYZu4XuJCa?dl=0.

Mill Spring Makers Market in Downtown Jonesborough is excited to host the Makers Faire which will showcase artists, craftsmen and makers from the region. The event takes place Saturday, June 5 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. along Spring Street and throughout Mill Spring Park.

The outdoor market will feature over 40 regional makers offering handmade goods including jewelry, pottery, fine art, metalworks, home goods, plants, macramé, furniture and more. There will also be demonstrations including blacksmithing, quilting, mosaics and painting. An area for Young Makers under 16 years of age will be featured at the event and you can purchase and support their artistic talents. Food will also be on hand and you can catch music and performances throughout the day from the gazebo in the park. Bring a blanket and enjoy some local talent!

Mill Spring Makers Market will celebrate their 3rd anniversary in July, and the store takes pride in offering the best selection of local, quality, handmade goods. With over 55 artists and craftsmen featured at their 144 E. Main Street location, the Market is excited to offer this same quality at the outdoor Makers Faire. The store offers a Makers Space where artists teach classes and workshops on everything from oil and watercolor painting, mosaics, jewelry making and more. Be sure to follow Mill Spring Makers Market on Facebook and Instagram for event updates and other information about their store or visit their website at millspringmakers.com.

About the Town of Jonesborough: A unique 18th century town nestled in the Appalachian Mountains of Northeast Tennessee, Jonesborough’s natural beauty, charming architecture, and storytelling heritage have attracted visitors worldwide. Stay a day, a week or forever, and create your own stories in beautiful Historic Jonesborough. Visit www.jonesborough.com for more information.

Main Street Brews and Tunes returns for the Summer

Town of Jonesborough News Release

For Immediate Release

Wednesday, June 2, 2021

 

Contact Information

Melinda Copp

Email: MelindaC@jonesboroughtn.org

Phone: 423.791.3819

 

Main Street Brews and Tunes returns for the Summer

Please find photos here:

https://www.dropbox.com/sh/xsv9n0vwc4z3act/AACjB_YNfLqW0_z9DLC7MnGda?dl=0.

Craft brews, live music and some good eats is all returning for the 6th season of Main Street Brews and Tunes in Downtown Jonesborough. Starting June 6 join us on the International Storytelling Center Plaza every Sunday afternoon through September. Food and beer will begin to be served at 4 p.m. with live music from 5 p.m. through 7 p.m.

Every week a different brewery will be featured along with rotating food trucks which will offer a variety of foods including barbeque, pizza, tacos and more. Gypsy Circus Cider will offer a cider, and non-alcoholic local root beer will be available. The music line-up for this season will feature some local favorite groups and singer/songwriters.

Join us for a secret show this Friday! We’ll be bringing back live music in Tennessee’s Oldest Town taking place at the International Storytelling Center Plaza at 6 p.m.

For more information go to Main Street Brews and Tunes on Facebook or call the Visitors Center at 423.753.1010. This year’s event is sponsored by the Jonesborough Area Merchants Services Association (JAMSA), Main Street Café & Catering and The Jonesborough Group.

The music and food schedule is as follows: