☀️ Today’s Weather
Overcast skies today with a high of 90°F and a low of 67°F — just a 14% chance of rain, so leave the umbrella at home but maybe keep it close.
😄 Only in Johnson City
Fall arrives in Johnson City the same way every year: the leaves are still green, it’s 90 degrees, and somehow every coffee shop is already out of pumpkin syrup.
🧠 Trivia Q&A
Question: Johnson City’s “Little Chicago” nickname was tied largely to what illegal Prohibition-era trade?
Answer at the bottom of today’s newsletter.
🔝 Top Stories
Johnson City Public Library’s Shirefest Celebrates Tolkien, Appalachian Culture
The Johnson City Public Library recently hosted Shirefest, a community event celebrating both the world of J.R.R. Tolkien and the region’s own rich Appalachian culture. The event brought together fans of fantasy literature and local heritage in a one-of-a-kind celebration. For more details on what was featured, check out the full story.
Know a Local Business That Should Be Here?
If you send us a business that becomes a sponsor, we’ll pay you $50 for it. No cap, no catch. Just hit reply with their name and we’ll take it from there. (We still make the final call on fit, same as any other pitch.)
‘The Beatles’-Themed Variety Show Coming to Johnson County
A Beatles-themed variety show is coming to Johnson County, giving area residents a chance to enjoy a musical tribute experience close to home. Details on dates, times, and venue can be found in the full story linked below.
1st Annual Up & At ‘Em Golf Tournament
The first-ever Up & At ‘Em Golf Tournament is coming to the area, marking a new annual tradition for local golf enthusiasts. Check the full story for information on how to participate or support the event.
Walk to End Alzheimer’s Preview
The annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s is coming up, giving Tri-Cities residents an opportunity to show support for those affected by the disease and raise awareness in the community. Details on the upcoming walk, including how to register or donate, are available at the link below.
Weekend Events: Bass Pro Shops Night Race, Sorghum Festival
The Tri-Cities region has a packed calendar this weekend, highlighted by the Bass Pro Shops Night Race and the beloved Sorghum Festival among other local happenings. Whether you’re a racing fan or looking for a taste of Appalachian tradition, there’s something for everyone nearby this weekend.
📅 Upcoming Events
Event details are pulled from public listings and can change. Please confirm dates and times on the official event page before making plans.
Courtyard Stargazing – Fall Equinox Hangout
Date/Time: Monday, September 21, 2026 at 7:30 PM
Location: 117 W. Fairview Ave, Johnson City, TN
A fall equinox stargazing gathering in the courtyard. For more details, visit the event listing.
FREE Appalachian Fair Home Show
Date/Time: Friday, September 25, 2026 at 12:00 PM
Location: Appalachian Fair, Johnson City
A free home show at the Appalachian Fair grounds. For full details, check the event listing.
Jericho Shrine Circus Spectacular
Dates/Times: Friday, September 25 at 7:00 PM; Saturday, September 26 at 10:30 AM, 3:00 PM, and 7:30 PM; Sunday, September 27 at 1:00 PM and 6:00 PM
Location: Freedom Hall Civic Center, 1320 Pactolas Rd, Johnson City, TN
The Jericho Shrine Circus Spectacular comes to Freedom Hall featuring thrilling stunts, acrobats, and animals. Attendees can arrive one hour before showtime to ride the animals and meet the circus stars. Tickets are available — visit the link for pricing and purchasing.
Read more at Visit Johnson City TN
Autumn Harvest Glow: A Seasonal Botanical Skincare Experience
Date/Time: Wednesday, September 30, 2026 at 5:30 PM
Location: Shakti in the Mountains, Johnson City
A seasonal botanical skincare experience welcoming the autumn harvest. For more information, visit the event listing.
Taco Trek | October
Date/Time: Tuesday, October 6, 2026 at 6:30 PM
Location: 110 W Market St, Johnson City, TN
Trek Bicycle Johnson City hosts its monthly Taco Trek social group ride — a fun, free ride perfect for friends, family, and taco lovers alike. For more details, visit Eventbrite.
Stories from the Pumpkin Patch
Date/Time: Saturday, October 10, 2026 at 3:00 PM
Location: 2620 S Roan St, Johnson City, TN
A fall-themed storytime event at a local pumpkin patch setting. For more information, check the event listing.
The Temptations and The Four Tops at ETSU Martin Center for the Arts
Date/Time: Thursday, October 15, 2026 at 7:30 PM
Location: ETSU Martin Center for the Arts, Johnson City, TN
Legendary Motown acts The Temptations and The Four Tops perform together live in Johnson City. For ticket information, visit the event listing.
Fall Festival at The Mall at Johnson City
Date/Time: Saturday, October 17, 2026 at 1:00 PM
Location: The Mall at Johnson City
A fall festival event at The Mall at Johnson City. For more details, check the event listing.
Annual Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament
Date/Time: Monday, October 12, 2026; Brunch & check-in 10:30 AM–11:45 AM, Shotgun start at Noon
Location: Blackthorn Club, 1501 Ridges Club Dr, Jonesborough, TN
The Johnson City Area Chamber of Commerce hosts its annual golf tournament. For registration information, visit the Chamber event calendar.
Read more at Johnson City Chamber of Commerce
📜 Today in Johnson City History
Ninety-five years ago today in 1931, a manhunt through the mountains along the North Carolina line ended with the capture of Robert Hyder, accused of shooting his half-brother during a drunken argument over a hidden gallon of whiskey. Two sheriff’s posses combed the border woods before finding him at a home in a remote section of Unicoi County.
For more details, subscribe to the Today in Johnson City History newsletter by Rebecca Henderson.
🤝 Community Partners
🧠 Trivia Answer
Bootlegging — the illegal production and distribution of alcohol during Prohibition, which flourished in the Johnson City area and helped earn it the Little Chicago nickname.