☀️ Today’s Weather
Rain. High 86°F, Low 65°F. 30% chance of rain.
😄 Only in Kingsport
Kingsport has a free transit day, a crab feast at the cider house, an IMAX opening next month, and Fun Fest on the horizon — and somehow residents still say there’s “nothing to do” come July.
🧠 Trivia Q&A
Question: The Kingsport Carousel’s rounding boards show scenes from what subject?
Answer at the bottom of today’s newsletter.
🔝 Top Stories
Sinkhole Shuts Down Tri-Cities Airport’s Main Runway
A sinkhole has forced the closure of the main runway at Tri-Cities Airport, with flights affected as a result. The disruption has prompted evaluation and repair efforts, though no reopening date has been publicly confirmed. Travelers are encouraged to check with their airlines for updated flight information.
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ALICE Data Illuminates Financial Struggles in Sullivan County
New ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) data sheds light on the financial challenges facing many Sullivan County residents. ALICE households earn above the federal poverty level but still cannot afford basic necessities such as housing, food, childcare, and transportation. The data provides a fuller picture of economic hardship in the region beyond traditional poverty measures.
📅 Upcoming Events
Lights, Camera, Music: Summer Musical Revue
FHG Productions presents their summer musical revue June 11-14 at 2152 Hawthorne St in Kingsport. The show features live musicians, ensemble performers, and choreography celebrating memorable moments from cinema. Thursday through Saturday at 7pm, Sunday at 3pm.
More info at FHGProductions.org
3rd Annual SouthEast Crab & Cider Feast
The 3rd Annual SouthEast Crab & Cider Feast takes place at Gypsy Circus Cider House in Kingsport on Saturday, June 21. The event offers all-you-can-eat fresh Blue Crabs, Fish & Chips, one complimentary craft beer or beverage, and music in a family-friendly environment. Tickets are limited — check the event page for availability.
Kingsport’s Red, White & BOOM Independence Day Celebration
Kingsport’s fifth-annual Red, White & BOOM Independence Day Celebration takes place on Saturday, July 4, 2026, beginning at 5:00 PM on Main Street in the Centennial Park area of Downtown Kingsport. The event features food trucks, live music, and fireworks. Grand Funk Railroad will headline the free concert, with fireworks to follow at approximately 9:45 PM.
More info at VisitKingsport.com
Fun Fest 2026 Block Party Weekend
Fun Fest’s pre-kickoff Block Party Weekend is set for July 10, 11, and 12. Block parties can be private neighborhood gatherings or public events open to anyone. Visit funfest.net for details on how to host or find a block party near you.
Fun Fest 2026 — Kingsport’s Annual Summer Festival
Fun Fest runs July 18 through July 26, 2026, with events happening across Kingsport at more than 50 locations. The festival features the Sunset Concert Series at J. Fred Johnson Stadium, with headliners including Daughtry & Switchfoot (July 24) and LeAnn Rimes & Brothers Osborne (July 25). Key locations include Downtown Kingsport, Dobyns-Bennett High School, Allandale Mansion, and Kingsport Farmers Market.
More info at VisitKingsport.com
🤝 Community Partners
🧠 Trivia Answer
Kingsport’s history, with the painted panels around the carousel depicting scenes and landmarks from the city’s past and celebrating its heritage.