☀️ Today’s Weather
Light drizzle with a high of 82°F and a low of 59°F — 33% chance of rain. Grab an umbrella just in case, but enjoy the warmth!
😄 Joke of the Day
A tourist stops a Kingsport local and asks, “Is it always this humid here?” The local thinks for a second and says, “Nope — sometimes it rains.”
🧠 Trivia Q&A
Question: Kingsport is home to the historic Exchange Place, a living history farm that once served as a tavern and trading post along an old frontier road. In what century was Exchange Place originally established, and what is the name of the historic road it sits along — a road that played a major role in westward migration and commerce in early America?
Answer: Exchange Place was originally established in the late 18th century (circa 1790s–early 1800s) and sits along the historic Great Road (also known as the Great Wagon Road or Old Stage Road), which was one of the most heavily traveled routes for settlers pushing westward through the Appalachian region.
🔝 Top Stories
🎭 Capitol Hall Theatre Reopens After Eight Years
A landmark moment for the arts in the region — Capitol Hall Theatre has officially reopened its doors after being closed for eight years. The historic venue’s return marks a significant milestone for the performing arts community in the area, offering residents a revived space for theatrical productions and cultural events. The reopening has been eagerly anticipated by arts lovers across Northeast Tennessee. Details on upcoming programming and performances are expected to be announced as the season gets underway.
🏥 Report: Rural Hospitals at Risk if Medicaid Cuts Move Forward
A new report is raising alarms about the potential closure of rural hospitals across the country if proposed Medicaid cuts are enacted at the federal level. The findings are particularly relevant for Northeast Tennessee, where health systems like Ballad Health serve as vital lifelines for communities spread across rural Sullivan County and surrounding areas. Advocates warn that cuts to Medicaid funding could destabilize already financially strained facilities. Local health officials and community leaders are being urged to monitor the situation closely as federal budget negotiations continue.
⛽ Rising Gas Prices Putting the Squeeze on Lawn Care Services
As spring kicks off in full force across the Tri-Cities, rising gas prices are hitting local lawn care businesses hard. Service providers in the region say increased fuel costs are cutting into already thin margins, and some are being forced to raise prices or adjust their service schedules. Customers can expect to see slight upticks in lawn care costs this season as a result. The trend mirrors what many small service businesses across the country are experiencing amid ongoing fuel price volatility.
🍩 Auntie Ruth’s Takes the Crown for Tri-Cities Best Doughnuts
Auntie Ruth’s has been named the winner of the Tri-Cities Best Doughnuts competition, earning recognition as the region’s top spot for fresh, handcrafted doughnuts. The beloved local shop has built a loyal following with its creative flavors and community spirit. Being voted the best in the Tri-Cities is a sweet achievement for the small business and a testament to the support of local customers. If you haven’t paid Auntie Ruth’s a visit yet, now’s a great time to see what all the buzz is about.
🌿 Ballad Health Doctor Shares Tips for Fighting Spring Allergies
With spring in full bloom across the region, a Ballad Health provider is offering practical advice to help residents manage seasonal allergies. Common recommendations include monitoring local pollen counts, keeping windows closed during high-pollen days, and consulting a doctor about antihistamines or other treatments. Northeast Tennessee’s lush landscape, while beautiful, is notorious for producing high pollen levels in the spring months. Residents experiencing symptoms are encouraged to reach out to their healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
🚦 Multiple Traffic Incidents on Kingsport Roads Overnight
The City of Kingsport issued a flurry of traffic alerts late Thursday evening, with incidents reported at several locations including VFW Road, Fort Henry Drive, Lynn Garden Drive, West Stone Drive, and East Stone Drive. Multiple updates were issued as conditions changed throughout the night. Motorists are reminded to allow extra time during peak travel periods and to stay alert for unexpected delays in these corridors. Residents can sign up for real-time traffic alerts through the City of Kingsport’s official website.
📅 Upcoming Events
🔥 Iron Pour Scratch Mold Workshops — Kingsport Cultural Arts
Kingsport Cultural Arts is bringing back its popular Iron Pour event on April 18 during the Kingsport ARTS Festival. To participate, you must first attend one of the remaining scratch mold workshops where you’ll scratch a unique design into a 5-inch sand mold — which will then be cast with molten iron by sculpture artist Joe Bigley and his team. Cost is $23 per person. Ages 18+ (children 6–17 welcome with an adult). All materials provided.
Remaining workshop dates: April 10 (6–8 PM), April 11 (2–4 PM), April 17 (6–8 PM)
Location: The Inventor Center, 118 Shelby Street, Kingsport
Register on Eventbrite or visit artskingsport.org for more info.
🐾 Petworks 6th Annual Fundraising Furball — “Paws & Pearls: A Mardi-Paws Masquerade!”
Join Petworks for their 6th Annual Fundraising Furball, a fun evening of cocktails, silent and live auctions, dinner, live music, and dancing — all in support of sheltering, caring for, and rehoming adoptable animals in the region. It’s a great night out for a great cause!
Date: Saturday, April 11
Location: Meadowview Convention Center, Kingsport
Visit ThisIsKingsport.com for more details
🎨 Kingsport ARTS Festival 2026
The Kingsport ARTS Festival returns for another exciting year, bringing together local and regional artists, artisans, live music, and more in the heart of downtown Kingsport. This year’s festival also coincides with the Iron Pour event. Mark your calendar for a full day of arts and culture!
Date: Saturday, April 18, beginning at 12:00 PM
Location: 100 Shelby Street, Kingsport, TN 37660
Visit artskingsport.org for more details
🍽️ Taste of Small Business — Kingsport
Come out and celebrate Kingsport’s thriving small business community at the Taste of Small Business event! Attendees with a purchased ticket can go table to table to meet local business owners and sample food from various Kingsport establishments. A delicious way to shop and dine local!
Date: Monday, April 20, 5:00–7:30 PM
Location: Kingsport, TN (see source for venue details)
Visit ThisIsKingsport.com for more details
🌱 Tennessee Plant Show 2026 — Mother’s Day Weekend Celebration
Green thumbs and garden lovers, don’t miss the Tennessee Plant Show’s Mother’s Day Weekend Celebration! This popular event brings together plant vendors, growers, and enthusiasts for a fantastic shopping and learning experience. A perfect outing to kick off your spring garden — or to find the ideal Mother’s Day gift!
Date: Saturday, May 9, beginning at 8:00 AM
Location: MeadowView Conference Resort & Convention Center, 1901 Meadowview Pkwy, Kingsport, TN
Visit AllEvents.in for more details
🎤 Smoky Mountain Fan Fest 2026
Get ready for Smoky Mountain Fan Fest 2026, coming to Kingsport this spring! This exciting fan festival at the MeadowView venue promises a lineup of entertainment, activities, and experiences for attendees. Check the source link for the latest lineup and ticket information as the event approaches.
Date: Friday, May 29, beginning at 1:00 PM
Location: MeadowView Conference Resort & Convention Center, 1901 Meadowview Pkwy, Kingsport, TN
Visit AllEvents.in for more details