World's Fair Park — Attraction in Knoxville

(TL;DR at the bottom) Only giving this four stars just because this is a park that is usually an event venue. Since reviews are typically for specific places that have specific facilities and things available to do/buy, it's hard to just review a location that can change so wholly based on what event is being hosted. That being said, I've been to World's Fair Park both during some events and also when nothing is going on, and it's just a park.

Obviously when a specific event is going on, it's hard to see the beauty of the park. The location itself is beautiful because of the central water fixtures (I believe there's a fountain or two, if I remember correctly), the foliage, the amphitheater, and the buildings around, like the Sunsphere. I'm probably missing something too. There are bathrooms on location as well, which is definitely a plus, and there are usually Port-A-Potties when events are hosted here.

When the scenery is hidden by the events' specifics though, it can be just as magical based on the event. I went here for the Asian festival, and I loved it. Second year in a row that I've gone, but it's dangerous because of how hot it gets in August and how little shading from the sun there is. If you go to an outdoor event at World's Fair Park, take precautions. Be sure to take as many breaks as you can, and drink as much water as possible. The amphitheater was packed during the Asian festival, both because of the shows being held there and because of the shade provided. Beyond that, my biggest gripe is parking during events. Knoxville parking is already a nightmare when a big event isn't planned so it's much, much worse when there is. Thankfully the 11 St. Parking Garage is free (on weekends only I think?), and it's right across the street from World's Fair Park; however, people are ridiculous so it's tricky to find parking in there if people park in a silly way, which is common in cities in my experience.

TL;DR

Beautiful park to just walk through; during an event hosted here, it can be fun, but if it's an outdoor event, do take care of yourself and drink lots of water. Also beware of people parking like...

💁‍♀️So, picture this: the smell of smoked wings swirling in the air, people buzzing with excitement, and me standing there, overwhelmed by the sheer audacity of flavors. That’s right, I went to the Big Kahuna Wing Festival, and let me tell you—it was a cluckin' good time. Exotic wings in every variety imaginable—some I didn’t even know existed—each one more flavorful than the last. And just when I had reached nirvana, the night wrapped up with a seriously awesome fireworks display that made me smile with how surprisingly good it was. Folks, this was the most fun I've had at World's Fair Park since the World's Fair in '82!

But wait, there’s more wing goodness to digest (pun intended). The 2024 Big Kahuna Wing Festival on September 1st was a celebration like no other. Marking its 11th annual event, this festival wasn’t just about the wings (although, let’s be real, the wings stole the show). It was about honoring the iconic Buffalo Wing—a finger-licking masterpiece first whipped up by Teresa Bellisimo at the Anchor Bar back in '64. Now, chicken wings have clawed their way to the top of America’s appetizer food chain, with a staggering 20 billion devoured annually. That’s billion—with a B. And 1.25 billion of those were scarfed down on Super Bowl weekend alone. 🏈

This festival isn't just about gluttony—though, let’s not kid ourselves, there was plenty of that. It’s about bringing together wing-lovers from all corners, celebrating local talent, and supporting a great cause. With 100+ sauces from 25 teams—including local restaurants, businesses, and even the culinary geniuses at the University of Tennessee—the variety was nothing short of epic. And in case the mouth-watering wings didn’t warm your heart enough, the whole event helps raise money for charity. So, you can chow down and feel good about it.

Next year, don’t sleep on those tickets when they go on sale in July. You’ll want to be there, wing in hand, fireworks in the sky, wondering how on earth you’ll ever eat another wing without comparing it to the Big Kahuna extravaganza. Trust me, your taste buds (and your inner foodie) will...

This place was bursting with energy and color, but I will never again visit here due to the way the homeless people were harassed and mistreated. I don't know why they were treated like dirt but those people are humans too. Nobody, not even Adolf Hitler or Osama bin laden deserved the treatment the homeless got here. I'm completely disgusted and I've lost most of my faith in humanity. Everyone deserves to live and exist happily wether they have a home or not. How could anyone be so horrible to the homeless. I spent some time with a lot of them because I felt bad for how they were treated and most of the homeless folk were the nicest people you will ever meet in your life. They hadn't eaten in days, yet they still offered us food and money and cigarettes. They are kind and caring because they know what it's like to suffer. Most of the homeless were even cleaning up the park just to have something to do. Who can be mad at someone who did hours of work for absolutely no pay? This park is a disgrace to America and the world itself. The beauty and liveliness of this place was completely ruined by the way people were treated. If you don't have a billion dollars, this people here will treat you like the scum of the earth. If you bring your kids here make sure to teach them to not treat anyone the way the staff of the park and the police treated...