The spots, by neighborhood
"From the Tennessee Theatre's Mighty Wurlitzer to the Pilot Light's back room, the whole range is walkable downtown."
On the calendar
More →Good to know
Where do touring acts usually play in Knoxville?
Bigger touring acts hit the Tennessee Theatre and the Bijou on Gay Street or the Mill & Mine in the Old City. Club and indie shows land at the Pilot Light, Open Chord, and the bars around the Old City and Market Square.
Where can I hear free live music?
The WDVX Blue Plate Special is a free live-radio concert at noon (Monday through Thursday and Saturday at the Visitor Center, Fridays at Barley's), and Barley's and the Market Square bars run free shows many nights.
What is the all-ages option?
Open Chord on Kingston Pike is an all-ages music store and venue, and the Tennessee and Bijou theatres are all-ages for most shows.
Venue list from Visit Knoxville; the Tennessee Theatre and Bijou Theatre (803 S Gay St) are documented historic Gay Street venues. Verified June 2026.