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😄 Only in Kingsport
Kingsport has a historic inn that hosted three U.S. Presidents, a park with wolves and a planetarium, and a speedway under Friday night lights — and on any given weekend, all three have something going on at the same time.
🧠 Trivia Q&A
Question: Kingsport’s Bays Mountain Park is the largest city-owned park in Tennessee — but in what year did it open its doors to the public, and what annual attendance figure does the park draw each year?
Answer: Bays Mountain Park opened in 1971 and draws more than 150,000 visitors each year. This May, the park is celebrating its 55th anniversary.
🔝 Top Stories
Netherland Inn Celebrates Re-Opening by Honoring America’s Upcoming 250th
The historic Netherland Inn on the banks of the Holston River recently celebrated its seasonal re-opening with a special tribute to America’s approaching 250th anniversary. The event drew visitors to the National Register site, which has welcomed travelers since the early 1800s and once hosted three U.S. Presidents. The Netherland Inn is open for tours May through October on Saturdays and Sundays.
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Bays Mountain Park to Celebrate 55th Anniversary
Bays Mountain Park and Planetarium is marking a major milestone — 55 years of serving the Kingsport community — throughout the month of May 2026. Opened in 1971, the park is the largest city-owned park in Tennessee and draws more than 150,000 visitors each year. The City of Kingsport is inviting the community to join in the month-long celebration.
THSO to Bring ‘Operation Hands Free’ Bus to I-26 in Kingsport on Tuesday
The Tennessee Highway Safety Office is bringing its “Operation Hands Free” bus to I-26 in Kingsport to raise awareness about distracted driving. The initiative is part of a statewide effort to encourage drivers to put down their phones while behind the wheel. Visit the source link for specific date, time, and location details.
SCSO K-9 Bonnie to Receive Donation of Body Armor
The Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office’s K-9 Bonnie is set to receive a donated set of body armor, providing an added layer of protection for the four-legged officer on duty. The donation reflects ongoing community support for local law enforcement and their animal partners. Visit the source link for more details on the donation.
Two 14-Year-Olds Charged After Multiple Car Thefts in Colonial Heights
Two 14-year-old juveniles have been charged in connection with multiple car thefts in the Colonial Heights area of Sullivan County. The cases are part of an ongoing effort by local law enforcement to address a series of vehicle-related crimes in the community. Visit the source link for full details on the charges.
📅 Upcoming Events
Tennessee Plant Show 2026 — 2nd Annual Mother’s Day Weekend Celebration
Date/Time: Saturday, May 9, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM | General Admission: $10
Location: MeadowView Conference Resort & Convention Center, 1901 Meadowview Pkwy, Kingsport
Tennessee’s largest plant event returns to Kingsport for Mother’s Day weekend, featuring thousands of plants and vendors from across the region. The show offers something for the whole family in an atmosphere centered around gardening and community.
Kids at Bays Day
Date/Time: Saturday, May 16, 2026
Location: Bays Mountain Park, Kingsport
Bays Mountain Park’s popular annual “Kids at Bays Day” returns, giving young visitors a special day of exploration and nature programming at one of the region’s most beloved parks. Visit the Bays Mountain Park website for full schedule and activity details.
Read more at Bays Mountain Park