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We are now able to take online payments using our University of Tennessee payment system. Please follow the links below to register. You will receive a payment confirmation an automatic email from our Wild Apricot system once you register. 

  • Event Registration

Upcoming events

  • Ursa Curiosa: A Garden Art Exhibit (Knoxville and Sugarlands)

    • 02/05/2026
    • 04/20/2026
    • UT Gardens, Knoxville
    • 0
    Join waitlist


    UT Gardens, Knoxville - 2026 Art in the Gardens

    -Details & Guidelines-

    Note: Forms Will Be Available for Pickup in early March and Completed Forms Will Be Due Back by May 15

    UT Gardens, Knoxville's successful Art in the Gardens program is growing! We are partnering with Friends of the Smokies for a new project for 2026 - Ursa Curiosa: A Garden Art Exhibit! Designed to promote community participation and artist collaboration, this fun and whimsical project will serve to raise awareness and support for the UT Gardens and Friends of the Smokies. Local artists are asked to decorate and/or embellish and then donate bear cub forms which will be put on display in the Gardens in Knoxville and at Sugarlands Visitor Center in the Park during the summer for all to enjoy. Pieces will then be auctioned off in September of 2026 with proceeds benefiting the UT Gardens and Friends of the Smokies.

    Registration, Pickup, and Payment
    • There are two 3-dimensional bear cub forms to choose from. The sitting cub  is approximately 21"w x 24"h x 15" d at its widest points. The standing cub is approximately 29"w x 18"h x 1 1/2"d at its widest points.
    • The registration fee is $20; limit one per artist or artist group.
    • Artists should be adults or teens; children ages 2-12 are encouraged to register for our kids' art program. Teens can choose to participate in either the kid's or the adult program.
    • The number of bears is limited; registration is on a first-come, first-served basis.
    • Once all bears are reserved we will start a waiting list, and artists on the list will be contacted, in order, if any become available.
    • Later in February, we will send artists an email with a link to schedule a pick up time at the UT Gardens, Knoxville.
    • Payment can be made online via credit card (link will be sent with scheduling info) or can be made at time of form pickup if paying by by cash or check.
    • Pick up times will be available in early March, generally Monday - Friday from 8am-5pm. 
    Artistic Media and Design
    • All artist supplies are the responsibility of the artist (or their sponsor).
    • Artistic, colorful, unique, and/ or whimsical designs are encouraged.
    • Finished pieces will be seen from a variety of perspectives so artists should paint/embellish all sides.
    • Please note: Any plan to substantially change the nature of the form must be approved in advance with Beth as this can alter the way the piece will be secured while on exhibit.
    • Names of individuals, groups, organizations, slogans, political messages, or businesses cannot be incorporated into design or visible on the finished product.
    • Art pieces must be suitable for all audiences and ages as they will be displayed in the UT Gardens, Knoxville and at Sugarlands Visitor Center in the National Park for public viewing. UT Gardens and Friends of the Smokies reserve the right to exclude any projects considered disrespectful or inappropriate.
    • The bear cubs, made of 1/2" marine-grade plywood, will be distributed unprimed; however, the artist may want to consider applying primer depending on their chosen medium. 
    • Art pieces will be subject to rain, direct sunlight, and other elements throughout the summer. Artists should work with materials and finishes that provide longevity to the piece and resistance to the elements. UT Gardens is not responsible for wear and tear.
    • Based on previous years' experience, we discourage the use of paper and/or alcohol inks as artistic media for this project. Neither holds up well to weather over the course of a summer. 
    • Artists may be asked to restore or touch-up works (due to weather or other damage) prior to the auction in September.
    • Please use nontoxic, exterior industrial-grade adhesives for securing surface artwork (i.e. additional embellishments, beads, sequins, tile, etc.) or secure mechanically. Hot glue guns do not hold up as an adhesive.
    • Clear coat sealant will be applied to each piece by UT Gardens after works are returned, unless the artist would prefer to seal their own piece. If so, the product used must be clear, non-yellowing, and UV resistant, suitable for exterior applications.
    Reception, Exhibition, and Auction 
    • Completed projects must be returned to UTG, Knoxville no later than Friday, May 15.
    • The completed work will become the property of the UT Gardens, and images of the artwork may be used in promotional materials.
    • Specific placement of the individual art pieces within the Gardens will be decided by the UT Gardens and Friends of the Smokies staff.
    • Works will be identified in the garden by a label with the following information: title of the piece, artist, sponsor (if applicable), media used (if provided), artist's statement (optional) and event sponsors.
    • An opening reception for the exhibit will be held on Friday, June 5, and we encourage artists to attend. More information will be sent to artists as the event approaches. 
    • Works will be on display throughout the summer of 2026.
    • All bears will be auctioned as a fundraiser for the UT Gardens and Friends of the Smokies in September 2026.
    • The artists will receive no monetary reimbursement for their artwork or materials. 
    • Any questions please contact Beth Shannon at 865-974-2712 or James Newburn at 865-974-7256.

    You can view galleries of previous years' art pieces on our Facebook page:


    Show details

  • Ursa Curiosa: A Kids' Garden Art Exhibit (Knoxville)

    • 02/05/2026
    • 04/20/2026
    • UT Gardens, Knoxville
    • 11
    Register


    UT Gardens, Knoxville - 2026 Art in the Gardens (for Kids!)

    -Details & Guidelines-

    Note: Forms Will Be Available for Pickup in early March and Completed Forms Will Be Due by May 15

    UT Gardens, Knoxville is expanding on our successful Art in the Gardens program with a new kids art project for 2026! Just as with our adult program, this fun and whimsical project will serve to raise awareness and support for the UT Gardens. Local artists ages 2-12 (or teens) are asked to decorate and/or embellish and then donate a bear or acorn form which will be put on display in the Gardens during the summer for all to enjoy. Pieces will then be auctioned off in September of 2026 with all proceeds benefiting the UT Gardens, Knoxville.

    Registration, Pickup, and Payment
    • The bear form  is approximately 12.5"w x 11"h and the acorn form is approximately 12"w x 13.5"h.
    • The registration fee is $5 per form; limit of one form per artist. 
    • Artists should be children ages 2-12 or older (teens can choose to participate in either the kids program or the adult program) and adult artists are encouraged to register for our adult art program.
    • NOTE: to register multiple children as artists, please register one child and then add additional children as guests from your initial registration. 
    • Also note: if you want to register one artist (or more) for the bear head and another (or others) for the acorn you will have to make 2 separate registrations - any guests will be signed up for the same form as the original registration. For the second registration you can omit the email or use a different one. Please contact Beth at beth.shannon@utk.edu if you have any problems registering.
    • Later in February, we'll send registered artists an email with a link to schedule a pick up time, as well as a link for those who wish to pay online via credit card. 
    • Pick up times will be available beginning in early March and will generally be available Monday - Friday, 8am - 5pm.
    • Payment can be made ahead of pickup by credit card or can be made at time of form pickup by cash or check.
    • The number of forms is limited; registration is on a first-come, first-served basis.
    • Once all forms are reserved we will start a waiting list, and artists on the list will be contacted, in order, if any become available.
    Artistic Media and Design
    • All artist supplies are the responsibility of the artist and their parent/guardian (or their sponsor).
    • Artistic, colorful, unique, and/ or whimsical designs are encouraged.
    • Finished pieces will be exhibited against our Children's Garden wall so artists will only need to paint/embellish one side and the edges of their form.
    • Names of individuals, groups, organizations, slogans, political messages, or businesses cannot be incorporated into design or visible on the finished product.
    • Art pieces must be suitable for all audiences and ages as they will be displayed in the UT Gardens for public viewing. UT Gardens reserves the right to exclude any projects considered disrespectful or inappropriate.
    • The forms, made of 1/2" marine-grade plywood, will be distributed unprimed; however, the artist may want to consider applying primer depending on their chosen medium. 
    • Art pieces will be subject to rain, direct sunlight, and other elements throughout the summer. Artists should work with materials and finishes that provide longevity to the piece and resistance to the elements. UT Gardens is not responsible for wear and tear.
    • Based on previous years' experience, we discourage the use of paper and/or alcohol inks as artistic media for this project. Neither holds up well to weather over the course of a summer.
    • Artists may be asked to restore or touch-up works (due to weather or damage) prior to the auction in September.
    • Please use nontoxic, exterior industrial-grade adhesives for securing surface artwork (i.e. additional embellishments, beads, sequins, tile, etc.) or secure mechanically. Hot glue is not appropriate as an adhesive; it will not hold up over the course of the summer.
    • Clear coat sealant will be applied to each piece by UT Gardens after all works are returned, unless the artist would prefer to seal their own piece. If so, the product used must be clear, non-yellowing, and UV resistant, suitable for exterior applications.
    Reception, Exhibition, and Auction 
    • Completed projects must be returned to UTG no later than Friday, May 15.
    • The completed work will become the property of the UT Gardens, and images of the artwork may be used in promotional materials.
    • Specific placement of the individual art pieces within the Gardens will be decided by the UT Gardens staff.
    • Works will be identified in the garden with the following information: title of the piece, artist name and age, sponsor (if applicable), media used (if provided), artist's statement (optional) and event sponsors.
    • An opening reception for the exhibit will be held on Friday, June 5 in the UT Gardens, Knoxville, and artists are encouraged to attend. More information will be shared as the event approaches.
    • Works will be on display throughout the summer of 2026.
    • All pieces will be auctioned as a fundraiser for the UT Gardens, Knoxville in September 2026. A link to the online auction will be provided to the artists as it opens.
    • The artists will receive no monetary reimbursement for their artwork or materials. 
    • For any questions please contact Beth Shannon at 865-974-2712 or James Newburn at 865-974-7256.

    You can view galleries of previous years' art pieces on our Facebook page:

    Galleries of adult/teen artworks:


    Show details

  • Ursa Curiosa: A Kids' Garden Art Exhibit (Crossville)

    • 02/05/2026
    • 04/20/2026
    • UT Gardens, Crossville
    • 0
    Join waitlist


    UT Gardens, Crossville - 2026 Art in the Gardens (for Kids!)

    -Details & Guidelines-

    Note: Forms Will Be Available for Pickup in early March


    UT Gardens, Crossville is joining in the fun of Knoxville's successful Art in the Gardens program with a new kids art project for 2026! Just as with our adult program, this fun and whimsical project will serve to raise awareness and support for the UT Gardens, Crossville. Local artists ages 2-12 (or teens) are asked to decorate and/or embellish and then donate a bear or acorn form which will be put on display in the Plateau Discovery Gardens during the summer for all to enjoy. Pieces will then be auctioned off in September of 2026 with all proceeds benefiting the UT Gardens, Crossville.

    Registration, Pickup, and Payment
    • The bear form  is approximately 12.5"w x 11"h and the acorn form is approximately 12"w x 13.5"h.
    • The registration fee is $5 per form; limit of one form per artist. 
    • Artists should be children ages 2-12 or older (teens can choose to participate in either the kids program or the adult program) and adult artists are encouraged to register for our adult art program.
    • NOTE: to register multiple children as artists, please register one child and then add additional children as guests from your initial registration. 
    • Also note: if you want to register one artist (or more) for the bear head and another (or others) for the acorn you will have to make 2 separate registrations - any guests will be signed up for the same form as the original registration. For the second registration you can omit the email or use a different one. Please contact Shalena if you have any problems registering.
    • Later in February, we'll send registered artists an email with a link to schedule a pick up time. 
    • Pick up times will be available beginning in early March and will generally be available Monday - Friday, 8am - 4pm.
    • Payment can be made at time of form pickup by cash or check.
    • The number of forms is limited; registration is on a first-come, first-served basis.
    • Once all forms are reserved we will start a waiting list, and artists on the list will be contacted, in order, if any become available.
    Artistic Media and Design
    • All artist supplies are the responsibility of the artist and their parent/guardian (or their sponsor).
    • Artistic, colorful, unique, and/ or whimsical designs are encouraged.
    • Finished pieces will be exhibited against our Children's Garden wall so artists will only need to paint/embellish one side and the edges of their form.
    • Names of individuals, groups, organizations, slogans, political messages, or businesses cannot be incorporated into design or visible on the finished product.
    • Art pieces must be suitable for all audiences and ages as they will be displayed in the UT Gardens for public viewing. UT Gardens reserves the right to exclude any projects considered disrespectful or inappropriate.
    • The forms, made of 1/2" marine-grade plywood, will be distributed unprimed; however, the artist may want to consider applying primer depending on their chosen medium. 
    • Art pieces will be subject to rain, direct sunlight, and other elements throughout the summer. Artists should work with materials and finishes that provide longevity to the piece and resistance to the elements. UT Gardens is not responsible for wear and tear.
    • Based on previous years' experience, we discourage the use of paper and/or alcohol inks as artistic media for this project. Neither holds up well to weather over the course of a summer.
    • Artists may be asked to restore or touch-up works (due to weather or damage) prior to the auction in September.
    • Please use nontoxic, exterior industrial-grade adhesives for securing surface artwork (i.e. additional embellishments, beads, sequins, tile, etc.) or secure mechanically. Hot glue is not appropriate as an adhesive; it will not hold up over the course of the summer.
    • Clear coat sealant will be applied to each piece by UT Gardens after all works are returned, unless the artist would prefer to seal their own piece. If so, the product used must be clear, non-yellowing, and UV resistant, suitable for exterior applications.
    Reception, Exhibition, and Auction 
    • Completed projects must be returned to UTG no later than Friday, May 15.
    • The completed work will become the property of the UT Gardens, and images of the artwork may be used in promotional materials.
    • Specific placement of the individual art pieces within the Gardens will be decided by the UT Gardens staff.
    • Works will be identified in the garden with the following information: title of the piece, artist name and age, sponsor (if applicable), media used (if provided), artist's statement (optional) and event sponsors.
    • An opening reception for the exhibit will be held on Friday, June 6 in the UT Gardens, and artists are encouraged to attend. 
    • Works will be on display throughout the summer of 2026.
    • All pieces will be auctioned as a fundraiser for the UT Gardens in September 2026. A link to the online auction will be provided to the artists as it opens.
    • The artists will receive no monetary reimbursement for their artwork or materials. 
    • Any questions please contact Shalena at 931-484-034.

    You can view galleries of previous years' art pieces on the UT Gardens, Knoxville Facebook page:

    Galleries of adult/teen artworks:


    Show details

  • Ursa Curiosa: A Garden Art Exhibit (Crossville)

    • 02/05/2026
    • 04/20/2026
    • UT Gardens, Crossville
    • 0
    Join waitlist


    UT Gardens, Crossville - 2026 Art in the Gardens

    -Details & Guidelines-

    Note: Forms Will Be Available for Pickup in early March and Completed Forms Will Be Due Back by May 15


    UT Gardens, Crossville is joining in the fun of Knoxville's successful Art in the Gardens program with a new project for 2026 - Ursa Curiosa: A Garden Art Exhibit! Designed to promote community participation and artist collaboration, this fun and whimsical project will serve to raise awareness and support for the UT Gardens, Crossville. Local artists are asked to decorate and/or embellish and then donate bear cub forms which will be put on display in the Plateau Discovery Gardens during the summer for all to enjoy. Pieces will then be auctioned off in September of 2026 with all proceeds benefiting the UT Gardens, Crossville.

    Registration, Pickup, and Payment
    • There are two 3-dimensional bear cub forms to choose from. The sitting cub  is approximately 21"w x 24"h x 15" d at its widest points. The standing cub is approximately 29"w x 18"h x 1 1/2"d at its widest points.
    • The registration fee is $20; limit one per artist or artist group.
    • Artists should be adults or teens.
    • The number of bears is limited; registration is on a first-come, first-served basis.
    • Once all bears are reserved we will start a waiting list, and artists on the list will be contacted, in order, if any become available.
    • Later in February, we will send registered artists an email with a link to schedule a pick up time. Pickup will be from UT Gardens, Crossville.
    • Payment can be made at time of form pickup by cash or check.
    • Pick up times will be available in early March, generally Monday - Friday from 8am-4pm. 
    Artistic Media and Design
    • All artist supplies are the responsibility of the artist (or their sponsor).
    • Artistic, colorful, unique, and/or whimsical designs are encouraged.
    • Finished pieces will be seen from a variety of perspectives so artists should paint/embellish all sides.
    • Please note: Any plan to substantially change the nature of the form must be approved in advance with Shalena because this can affect how the piece will be secured while on exhibit.
    • Names of individuals, groups, organizations, slogans, political messages, or businesses cannot be incorporated into design or visible on the finished product.
    • Art pieces must be suitable for all audiences and ages as they will be displayed in the UT Gardens, Crossville for public viewing. UT Gardens reserves the right to exclude any projects considered disrespectful or inappropriate.
    • The bear cubs, made of 1/2" marine-grade plywood, will be distributed unprimed; however, the artist may want to consider applying primer depending on their chosen medium. 
    • Art pieces will be subject to rain, direct sunlight, and other elements throughout the summer. Artists should work with materials and finishes that provide longevity to the piece and resistance to the elements. UT Gardens is not responsible for wear and tear.
    • Based on previous years' experience, we discourage the use of paper and/or alcohol inks as artistic media for this project. Neither holds up well to weather over the course of a summer. 
    • Artists may be asked to restore or touch-up works (due to weather or other damage) prior to the auction in September.
    • Please use nontoxic, exterior industrial-grade adhesives for securing surface artwork (i.e. additional embellishments, beads, sequins, tile, etc.) or secure mechanically. Hot glue guns do not hold up as an adhesive.
    • Clear coat sealant will be applied to each piece by UT Gardens after works are returned, unless the artist would prefer to seal their own piece. If so, the product used must be clear, non-yellowing, and UV resistant, suitable for exterior applications.
    Reception, Exhibition, and Auction 
    • Completed projects must be returned to UTG, Crossville no later than Friday, May 15.
    • The completed work will become the property of the UT Gardens, and images of the artwork may be used in promotional materials.
    • Specific placement of the individual art pieces within the Gardens will be decided by the UT Gardens staff.
    • Works will be identified in the garden by a label with the following information: title of the piece, artist, sponsor (if applicable), media used (if provided), artist's statement (optional) and event sponsors.
    • An opening reception for the exhibit will be held on Friday, June 5, at the Plateau Discovery Garden, and we encourage artists to attend. More information will be sent to artists as the event approaches. 
    • Works will be on display throughout the summer of 2026.
    • All bears will be auctioned as a fundraiser for the UT Gardens, Crossville in September 2026.
    • The artists will receive no monetary reimbursement for their artwork or materials. 
    • Any questions please contact Shalena at 931-484-0034.

    You can view galleries of previous years' art pieces on the UT Gardens, Knoxville Facebook page:


    Show details

  • Be Well & UT Gardens: Mocktails at the Gardens

    • 03/24/2026
    • 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
    • South Greenhouse 122
    • 0
    Join waitlist

    Join us for a fun and informative Be Well program at UT Gardens, Knoxville. Free for UT employees, this program will be a great opportunity to meet people, learn about making mocktails (non-alcoholic mixed drinks), and improve your own wellness. All materials will be provided. Preregistration is required, and UT Gardens reserves the right to cancel the program due to low registration.

    This event is only open to current UT employees (faculty and staff).

    Show details

  • Soil Science and Art

    • 04/04/2026
    • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Pavilion
    • 14
    Register

    April 2026 Student Lecture Series

    Join us as we explore the scientific properties and artistic possibilities of East Tennessee soil. UT Gardens Intern and Soil Sciences student Mandy Boggs will teach us the essentials of soil science for home gardens, including texture, structure, and classification. We’ll also try soil painting with materials from the UT Gardens and UT Compost facility.  

    Please add each additional member of your group as a guest for registration.



    Show details

  • Kitchen Garden Diagnostics

    • 04/15/2026
    • 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
    • Kitchen Garden
    • 15
    Register

    April 2026 Student Lecture Series

    As the growing season begins, our gardens quickly fill with life. Understanding which organisms are helping versus harming plants is a crucial part of effective garden management. Join Kitchen Garden Assistant Manager Emily Whitehead to explore some of the most common diseases, pests, and beneficial insects, in a guided pest scouting walk through the Kitchen Garden. 

    Please add each additional member of your group as a guest to you registration.



    Show details

  • Eco-Printing for Junk Journals

    • 04/22/2026
    • 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
    • South Greenhouse
    • 17
    Register

    April 2026 Student Lecture Series

    Get ready to take your journaling to the next level! Join UT Gardens education intern, Madison Turner, to learn how to use eco-printing techniques in junk journals – a scrapbooking method that encourages recycling and imperfection. This class can help you plan your dream garden or just hone your junk journaling abilities. Bring your own journal; if not, paper for bookmarks and vision boards will be provided.  

    Please add each additional member of your group as a guest to you registration.



    Show details

  • Plant Health Monitoring—How YOU Can Help!

    • 04/28/2026
    • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Virtual
    Register

    In a world of global trade and changing climate there are more frequent new threats to plant health, and early detection is the key to successful management. Participating in this virtual workshop will help you to recognize signs of these pests and diseases and to know how to react. Presentations from UT Gardens Education Coordinator Whitney Hale and Dr. Midhula Gireesh, UTIA Extension Specialist in entomology, will cover national, regional, and garden-specific efforts in plant health monitoring. 

    Show details

  • Streams! From the Smokies to your School

    • 04/30/2026
    • 9:30 AM - 2:30 PM
    • Sugarlands Visitor Center, Gatlinburg, TN
    • 7
    Register

    Discover techniques to learn and play with students outdoors!

    • Teachers of all grades and subjects are welcome!
    • Find methods to bring social emotional learning out of the classroom and into your schoolyard.
    • Network with other teachers interested in environmental education.
    • Find methods to bring math and science to life!

    Presented by: Education Coordinator, Whitney Hale & Park Rangers, Jessie Snow Neeley & Nicole Nadasen

    Location: Sugarlands Visitor Center, 1420 Fighting Creek Gap Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

    Food Catered by Whole Earth Grocery:

    • Veggie Wrap Cold   Hummus, spring mix, tomatoes, red onion, bell peppers, carrots, & cucumbers in a whole wheat tortilla (Vegan)

    • Lentil Burger Wrap  Lentil burger topped with spring mix, tomatoes, red onions, and vegan mayo rolled in a whole wheat tortilla (Vegan)

    • Chicken Salad Sandwich  Served on sprouted grain bread, topped with spring mix and tomatoes 

    • Egg Salad  Served on sprouted grain bread, topped with spring mix and tomatoes (Gluten-Free Available)

    • Organic Blue Corn Chips (V/GF) as a side for all meals

    The Knox County Board of Education and Knox County Schools do not sponsor or endorse this advertisement or solicitation.

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