Of course, there’s also this other festival on Saturday. I’m going to go ahead and assume that most everyone, including some who live under a rock know that the International Biscuit Festival will happen this Saturday in downtown Knoxville. There will be contests, booths, music and many, many, many biscuits. And that is the perfect prelude to what happens Sunday: Time to walk/bike/zumba and otherwise work off a few of those calories you packed in on Saturday at Open Streets Knoxville brought to you by Bike Walk Knoxville.
It’s the second round of the Open Streets event and it promises to be bigger and better than the first. Whereas the first had around sixty different activities along the way, you’ll find about eighty this time. The route will be stretched just a little, starting at Willow in the Old City (right around Crown and Goose) and flowing straight out Central a block past the Freez-o to Woodland.
Additionally, there will be other changes in response to the first event. A number of people said they needed more food. More food, you will find: Eight, count them, eight food trucks will be strategically posted along the route to ensure you don’t have to walk more than a few blocks without eating. Additionally, there will be a couple of food trucks posted in the parking lot at Hops and Hollers. Ladies and gentlemen, that’s ten food trucks.
Also reflected in the feedback last time was that the time period was too short. At just three hours, about the time people were feeling good about getting their groove on in the street, it was over. Sadness prevailed. This time it will be five hours long, starting at 1:00 PM and ending at 6:00 PM, giving everyone plenty of time to have fun in the street.
And then there is the app. I’ve downloaded mine and I’d encourage you to download yours. It includes map for finding the event. And a schedule. A food list and an activity map as well as “how to get there.” You’ll find a social media section @openstreetsknox and #openstreetsknox. It’s got everything your inner geek could desire.
As for what you’ll find there, if you are unfamiliar with the idea, you’ll learn about the last event here. Beyond that, I can tell you the street will be lined with most every imaginable (family friendly) form of physical exertion. Acrobatics, hooping, martial arts, zumba, Yoga, contra dancing, belly dancing and biking (rentals will be available) and more will happen at every turn along the way. Most all of these are participatory – they expect you to join in.
There will also be music, though not of the loudest sort. There will be multiple performance areas with great local music. Mostly singer song-writers and string bands, I think this will add greatly to the festive atmosphere. You’ll be able to hear The Katts, The Bad Hatt’rs, Plow and one my favorites: The Knox County Jug Stompers. It sounds more festive, already.
Of course, you can bring your own physical amusements, from hoops to bikes, from skateboards to jogging in the street, it’s all cool. And bring the children so they see what it’s like to play in the streets safely. And get involved so they see their parents getting exercise and having fun. It’s important.
And support the businesses along the way. Explore what they have to offer even if you don’t make purchases that day. Many of them are on board as sponsors this time around – and it takes a large amount of money to make this happen. Parking options are listed on the app so you can plug the address into your GPS.
Mostly come have fun. Take back the streets. See your city from a different perspective. The weather will be absolutely perfect. And here’s an announcement: Open Streets are here to stay. Mark your calendars for the third rendition on October 9. Say, “hello,” if you see me. I’ll be the guy with the camera.