Community Calendar

Come see some high energy bluegrass/jamgrass with nationally touring act Dirty Grass Players

The StoryTown Radio Show will be sharing stories about fathers and father figures on June 22nd at the McKinney Center. From sporting rivalries, to life lessons, and even “dad jokes,” we’ll be celebrating “Dear Old Dad” in a myriad of ways. We’ll also be sharing stories from Jonesborough’s father figures over the years, including Alfred Greenlee. This show will be a great way to cap off the Father’s Day weekend. This show is sponsored by Mauk’s of Jonesborough.

The music guest is Thee Tim Smith, making his Radio Show debut. “Tim Smith’s resounding saxophone, positive lyrics and expressive voice have been heard from Compiegne, France to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and from Sarotov, Russia to the Carolinas. This phenomenal musician and powerful songwriter earned a Bachelors Degree in Jazz Saxophone Performance from Oberlin Conservatory. Tim Smith moved on to create an impressive musical performance resume. He has made music with such bands as The Squirrel Nut Zippers, Chris Stamey, Jazz Squad, The Velvet Curtain, Sol and Funk Root, Countdown Quartet, Swing Street Band, Carolina Moondogs, Raleigh Jazz Orchestra and more; touring nationally and internationally.”

“Dear Old Dad” takes place at 7PM on June 22nd at the McKinney Center. Tickets are $10 and are available online at Jonesborough.com/tickets or by calling the Historic Jonesborough Visitors Center at 423-753-1010. The shows have been selling out, so make sure you get your tickets today.

The Radio Show is also recorded for broadcast on local NPR station WETS 89.5 out of Johnson City, which can be heard the last Wednesday of the month at 8PM. StoryTown is sponsored by the Tennessee Arts Commission, Gary and Sandee Degner, Terry and Sandy Countermine, Herman and Beverly Jenkins, Doug and Denise Gross, the Wild Women of Jonesborough, Wolfe Development, and Mauk’s of Jonesborough.

The Toe River Chamber Ensemble invites you to their two free concerts this season for an evening of live orchestral music.

The Annual Spring Concert will be held Tuesday, June 9, at 7:30 p.m. at First Baptist Church on the Burnsville Square. A second outdoor performance is scheduled for the evening of Tuesday, June 30, 7 pm at Homeplace Beer Company, weather permitting. Both events are open to the public; donations are warmly appreciated and help support the ensemble’s ongoing work.

Director R. Kevin Paul will lead the ensemble in a program of classic and spirited selections. Known for his enthusiasm, humor, and dynamic leadership, Paul keeps the musicians energized with engaging and challenging repertoire.

Founded in 1976, the Toe River Chamber Ensemble is a true community orchestra, bringing together 25–30 volunteer musicians from Yancey, Mitchell, and Madison counties. Members span a wide range of ages and professions, united by their shared love of music and weekly rehearsals.

Originally organized under Toe River Arts, the ensemble became an independent organization in November 2022. The group extends its gratitude to Toe River Arts for decades of support and partnership.

The ensemble is a North Carolina nonprofit, unincorporated organization and relies solely on community donations. The musicians also express deep appreciation to First Baptist Church, which generously provides rehearsal and performance space.
For updates and additional information, visit the ensemble on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/toeriverchamberensemble

Come join us for the Rainbow Festival on June 27th, 2026!

This year we’re partnering with the Philosopher’s House for an unforgettable event!

If you’ve ever been to a Pride event you know how magical it is to be surrounded by community. Please help us create a safe inclusive space, where our community can come together and connect.

“We deserve to live, and we deserve to live openly.”
Marsha P. Johnson

If you'd like to volunteer, please click here: https://app.unison.io/schedules/6tRAtx5CGenfhSHSawPguN

The Rosen-Schaffel Competition for Young and Emerging Artists is a prestigious annual event dedicated to discovering and nurturing the talents of the next generation of classical musicians. Hosted in partnership with the Hayes School of Music at Appalachian State University, this competition invites promising young instrumentalists from across the nation to showcase their skills in a vibrant and supportive environment.

Participants compete for a chance to win generous cash prizes that support their musical careers. The competition features a panel of distinguished judges, including renowned musicians and educators, who provide invaluable feedback and mentorship to the contestants.

Named in honor of Mrs. Muriel Rosen and two of Mrs. Rosen’s family members, Nancy and Neil Schaffel, the Rosen-Schaffel Competition continues to uphold a legacy of excellence and artistic growth. This event is a cornerstone of Appalachian State University’s commitment to fostering the arts and providing exceptional opportunities for young musicians to achieve their dreams.

Join us each year in celebrating the extraordinary talent and dedication of these young artists as they embark on their musical journeys and inspire audiences with their performances.