The Dogwood Arts Festival

As the dogwoods bloom, Knoxvillians once again celebrate the coming of springtime with the Dogwood Arts Festival, hosting various events in and around the city throughout April, which all aim to promote the arts and historic preservation.

The festival, along with the Arts & Culture Alliance and Three Flights Up Gallery, will present a new exhibit this year, “the 2008 Fine Arts Show,” showcasing works by local and regional artists. The exhibit runs through April 18 and will feature both traditional and nontraditional work at the Emporium Center for Arts & Culture on Gay Street, with an opening reception April 4 from 5 to 9 p.m. The reception is free and will offer hors d’oeuvres.

Four organizations have also collaborated this year to offer a bus tour of Knoxville’s historic homes. Knox Heritage, the Knoxville Tourism and Sports Corporation, the Junior League of Knoxville and Historic Homes of Knoxville have developed two routes that include six of the seven public house museums in Knox County. On April 5, the three-hour tours will depart from James White Fort and Blount Mansion, making a handful of stops, including visits to the Ramsey House and Crescent Bend. Those interested may make reservations with Knox Heritage by phone or online at www.knoxheritage. com. Tickets are $15 for Knox Heritage members and $20 for non-members.

When the trees start budding pink and white, it’s time to head downtown for this local celebration! For more information about these events and the Dogwood Arts Festival, visit Dogwoodarts.com.