~ from Trees Knoxville
Trees Knoxville invites the community to celebrate our community forest at its annual Tree Fest on Friday, April 24, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Baker Creek Preserve. This free, family-friendly event brings together residents of all ages to learn about, appreciate, and actively support Knoxville’s urban tree canopy.
Tree Fest is a hands-on opportunity for the community to engage in preserving and growing our tree canopy through free tree adoptions, educational experiences, and interactive activities.
Attendees can adopt a free tree to plant at home, explore educational booths, participate in crafts, and enjoy live music and local education vendors. The event also features a BioBlitz, as part of the City Nature Challenge, tree-themed games, and live t-shirt screen printing by Ashton Ludden.
Event Highlights Include:
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Tree Adoption: 4:00–7:30 p.m.
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BioBlitz: 5:00–7:00 p.m.
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Live Screen Printing (Ashton Ludden): 4:30–7:30 p.m.
Entertainment Stage:
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Welcome: 4:00 p.m.
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Tree Trivia: 4:15 p.m.
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Music by Nat McCormick: 5:15 p.m.
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Arbor Day Recognition & Tree Talk: 6:15 p.m.
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Music by Brooks Coker: 6:45 p.m.
Kid Activities (4:00–7:30 p.m.):
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Tree crafts and knot tying
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Tree scavenger hunt
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Tree climbing (begins at 4:30 p.m.)
Why Tree Fest Matters
Trees play a critical role in urban environments, providing shade, reducing air pollution, managing stormwater, and improving overall public health. In a growing city like Knoxville, expanding and maintaining a healthy tree canopy is essential for combating heat, enhancing neighborhoods, and creating more livable spaces for all residents.
Tree Fest connects the community to these benefits in a meaningful way, turning awareness into action. By putting trees directly into residents’ hands and creating opportunities for education and engagement, the event helps build a stronger and more connected Knoxville.
“We’re excited to bring the community together once again for Tree Fest,” said Melissa Hinten, Executive Director of Trees Knoxville. “This event is all about sharing the importance of trees with the community, while giving people the tools and knowledge to make a real difference in their own neighborhoods.”
Trees Knoxville thanks its 2026 sponsors and community partners for making Tree Fest possible.
For more information about Tree Fest or to get involved, visit www.treesknoxville.org or contact Melissa Hinten at melissa@treesknoxville.org or 865-333-0924.
