☀️ Today’s Weather
Overcast skies with a high of 85°F and a low of 59°F. Only a 2% chance of rain — a good day to get outside.
😄 Only in Kingsport
Kingsport has been planning a new Fire Station 2 since roughly the time some of the firefighters who’ll work in it were born. The good news: it’s finally happening. The better news: no one is surprised it took this long.
🧠 Trivia Q&A
Question: What Kingsport historic site has been described as a place where traders met, travelers rested, and residents heard news from afar?
Answer at the bottom of today’s newsletter.
🔝 Top Stories
Pets Likely Lost in Kingsport House Fire
The Kingsport Fire Department responded to a house fire on Watterson Street, and officials indicated that pets were likely lost in the blaze. The incident has drawn an outpouring of community concern for the affected family. Residents are asked to keep those impacted in their thoughts.
Sponsored by
Crosscut Tree Services
Got a tree that’s leaning, dying, or just getting a little too comfortable with your roofline? Terry and the crew at Crosscut handle it all — removal, trimming, and 24/7 emergency service when a storm doesn’t wait for business hours. They’re local, they’re licensed, and if you’ve seen their reviews, you know they show up on time and do the job right the first time. Free quotes. No pressure.
Man Sentenced for Drug Distribution in Kingsport
A man has been sentenced after the U.S. Department of Justice said he was distributing drugs in Kingsport. The case is part of ongoing federal enforcement efforts targeting drug distribution in the region. Visit the link below for full details on the sentencing.
📅 Upcoming Events
Kingsport’s Red, White & BOOM Independence Day Celebration
Date/Time: Saturday, July 4, 2026 at 5:00 PM
Location: Main Street, Centennial Park area, Downtown Kingsport
Kingsport’s fifth-annual Independence Day celebration returns to downtown with food trucks, fireworks, and live music. Grand Funk Railroad headlines the free concert, with opener Nashville Yacht Club Band. New this year: a hot dog eating contest and a kids’ watermelon eating contest. The event is free and open to the public. Visit redwhiteboomkpt.com for updates.
Twilight Alive featuring Departure: The Journey Tribute Band
Date/Time: Friday, July 10, 2026 at 7:00 PM
Location: 100 Block of Broad Street, Downtown Kingsport
The Twilight Alive free concert series continues with Departure, a tribute to the iconic rock band Journey. Bring a lawn chair and enjoy food and beverages from downtown restaurants and on-site vendors.
View Twilight Alive schedule at ThisIsKingsport
Fun Fest Block Party Weekend
Dates: July 10–12, 2026
Location: Various locations across Kingsport
Block Party Weekend serves as the pre-kickoff of Kingsport’s beloved Fun Fest festival. Block parties can be private neighborhood gatherings or public events open to all. Visit funfest.net for details on how to find or host a party near you.
Fun Fest 2026
Dates: July 17–25, 2026
Location: Various locations across Kingsport; Sunset Concert Series at J. Fred Johnson Stadium
Kingsport’s signature nine-day summer festival returns with events across 50+ locations. This year’s Sunset Concert Series at J. Fred Johnson Stadium features Jeremy Camp and Katy Nichole (July 23), Daughtry and Switchfoot (July 24), and LeAnn Rimes and Brothers Osborne (July 25). The festival also includes hot air balloons, a parade, The Taste food event, and a street fair.
🤝 Community Partners
🧠 Trivia Answer
Netherland Inn, the historic inn and tavern on the South Fork Holston River that served as a hub of commerce, travel, and community life during the frontier era.