Knoxville Arts Districts looking to make list of Best in the U.S. for a third year in a row
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — For the last two years, Knoxville has been named to USA Today's 10 Best Arts Districts list and this year, it's looking to be featured once again.
Every year, USA Today holds its 10 Best Readers' Choice lists, allowing people from across the country to vote for their favorite places to travel, including for the best museums, beer scenes, and cruises.
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This year, Knoxville's Arts District is up against 19 other cities, including Portland, Oregon; New Orleans, Louisiana; and Los Angeles, California for a place in the 10 Best Arts Districts List. Memphis, Tennessee also made the list of nominees.
When talking about Knoxville's Arts District, many may think of the galleries in downtown Knoxville, and the First Friday Art Walks, but the district is also known for open air markets in Market Square and the Old City, in addition to the artistic talents of the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra, Knoxville Opera, Knoxville Jazz Orchestra, an official poet laureate each year, theater companies and dance studios.
Along with the these, Knoxville is also home to several annual festivals and events highlighting the arts including the Rossini Festival, Big Ears Festival, and the Dogwood Chalk Walk.
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In 2023, Knoxville was named as the 4th Best Arts District on USA Today's list, and in 2024, Knoxville jumped to the No. 2 ranking on the list.
Those hoping to support Knoxville's Arts District being named to the list once again can vote once per day on USA Today's website. Voting will close on Monday, February 17, and the top 10 winners will be announced on February 26.
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