☀️ Today’s Weather
Overcast skies over Johnson City today with a high of 81°F and a low of 56°F. Just a 1% chance of rain — a warm spring Tuesday ahead!
😄 Joke of the Day
A Kingsport man, a Bristol man, and a Johnson City man were arguing about which city was the best. The Kingsport man said, “We’ve got industry!” The Bristol man said, “We’ve got the state line — two cities in one!” The Johnson City man just smiled and said, “We’ve got ETSU, the Tweetsie Trail, and a duckpin bowling alley opening downtown. Y’all can keep the rest.”
🧠 Trivia Q&A
Question: A new census report released in April 2026 revealed that Northeast Tennessee’s population has grown since 2020. What is the current population figure reported for the Northeast Tennessee region — and by what percentage has it grown since the 2020 census?
Answer: The Northeast Tennessee region now has a population of 532,283 — a 4.2% increase since the 2020 census.
🔝 Top Stories
Northeast Tennessee Population Tops 532,000 — Up 4.2% Since 2020
According to new census data, Northeast Tennessee’s population has grown 4.2% since 2020 and now stands at 532,283. The figures reflect continued growth across the region, underlining Johnson City and Washington County’s status as one of the fastest-growing areas in Tennessee. Residents and local leaders are likely to take note of the numbers as the region plans for infrastructure, schools, and development needs in the years ahead.
JC Planning Commission to Review Two Major Residential Projects — 190 New Homes on the Table
Johnson City’s planning commissioners are set to hear plans for a new major subdivision and the expansion of an existing neighborhood that would add a total of 190 new homes to Johnson City. The two projects — a new Claude Simmons Road subdivision and an expansion of the Cardinal Forest neighborhood — reflect the city’s continued growth pressures. Residents near the affected areas are encouraged to attend the planning commission meeting to learn more and weigh in.
Read more at Johnson City Press
Pennyman’s Diner Celebrates Ribbon Cutting at New Location
Pennyman’s Diner recently held a ribbon cutting celebration for its new location, marking an exciting milestone for the beloved local eatery. The owner described the journey as “one blessing after another put in place,” reflecting the community support that helped make the new location a reality. Fans of Pennyman’s Diner are invited to stop by and check out the new space.
413 Day: 4thirTEEN Reaffirms Commitment to Johnson City Community
Johnson City’s 4thirTEEN hosted its annual 413 Day celebration on April 13, 2026, marking the occasion that highlights the city’s area code and community pride. The event showcased 4thirTEEN’s ongoing dedication to supporting the Johnson City community through programming and local engagement. 413 Day has become a cherished annual tradition for residents who celebrate all things Johnson City.
GFWC Youth Poetry Contest Sends Local Young Voices to State Level
The General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) Youth Poetry Contest is lifting young local voices to the state level, giving Johnson City-area students a platform to showcase their creative writing talent. The competition encourages students to express themselves through poetry and represents a meaningful opportunity for recognition beyond the local community. Winners will advance to compete at the state level, representing Northeast Tennessee’s young literary talent.
Read more at Johnson City Press
📅 Upcoming Events
Johnson City Jazz Festival — April 15–19, 2026
The Johnson City Jazz Festival runs April 15–19, 2026, with performances on April 18 from 7:00 PM to 10:30 PM, and at The Jackson Theatre on April 19 from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM. This multi-day festival brings four days of live jazz music to Johnson City venues, celebrating the genre in the heart of East Tennessee. Check the festival’s website for the full lineup and ticketing details.
Read more at Johnson City Jazz Festival
Thirsty Orange Beer Festival — Saturday, April 18, 2026
The Thirsty Orange Beer Festival 2026 is scheduled for April 18 from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM. This popular annual craft beer celebration takes place in downtown Johnson City and is part of the Main Street Days festival series. Visit the Downtown Johnson City website for ticketing and details.
Read more at Downtown Johnson City
Forever Fest: West Walnut Block Party — Friday, April 24, 2026
Forever Fest: West Walnut Block Party is set for April 24 from 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM. The block party takes place on West Walnut Street in Johnson City and is part of the broader Forever Fest celebration. Check the visitjohnsoncitytn.com events page for full details and any ticketing information.
Read more at Visit Johnson City TN
Art·Struck Festival — Saturday, April 25, 2026
The Art·Struck Festival is scheduled for April 25 from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The Art·Struck Festival celebrates Johnson City’s thriving arts community, featuring live music, interactive art exhibits, food trucks, and family-friendly activities across multiple venues in downtown Johnson City. Visit the Downtown Johnson City event calendar for the full schedule and details.
Read more at Downtown Johnson City
Rail Jam! — May 2, 2026
Saturday, May 2, 2026 | 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Johnson City Railroad Experience — W King St, Johnson City, TN 37604
A free outdoor concert and museum event featuring live music from Jenny and the Weazels, Bratfolk, Ryan Brenard, and John Bill & the Academics. Food truck on site. Concerts and museum admission are completely free. Made possible by the Tennessee Arts Commission.
Mill Spring Makers Faire — Saturday, May 16, 2026
The Mill Spring Makers Faire is scheduled for May 16 from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. This creative market-style event celebrates local makers, artisans, and crafters in the Johnson City area. Visit visitjohnsoncitytn.com for location and additional details.
Read more at Visit Johnson City TN