October Events in Jonesborough: Fall Fun in Tennessee’s Oldest Town

September 23, 2026
Blog
October is one of the most exciting times of year to visit Jonesborough. As the leaves begin to change and fall settles into Tennessee’s oldest town, downtown comes alive with festivals, local food, live entertainment, history, storytelling and plenty of Halloween fun. Whether you are planning a weekend getaway, looking for something fun to do with the family or simply want to enjoy the beauty of fall in Jonesborough, there is something happening throughout the month.
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Top Things to Do in Tennessee’s Oldest Town

May 11, 2026
Blog

Whether you are visiting for a weekend getaway or just passing through for the day, you will find plenty to enjoy in a town rich with history and artistic charm. From guided tours and antique shopping to theatre performances and art galleries, Jonesborough offers something for those who appreciate culture and creativity.

Founded in 1779, Jonesborough is Tennessee’s oldest town, with a rich heritage that is still visible today in its preserved architecture and historic charm.

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The First and Last Town in Tennessee, Original Play Commemorates 250 years of American History as Told Through Local Storie

February 3, 2026
Blog
The McKinney Center will debut a new play in February that is 250 years in the making. The First and Last Town in Tennessee shares stories from Jonesborough’s past and present to commemorate America’s Semiquincentennial. Written by Program Manager Anne G’Fellers-Mason, the play takes the audience on a journey from 1779, the year of Jonesborough’s founding, to present day.
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Valentine’s Day in Jonesborough: Chocolate, Dinner, Movies, Flowers & Community

January 22, 2026
Blog
Nothing says Valentine’s Day quite like chocolate. Jonesborough Chocolate Fest is a must-visit for couples, friends, and families. Downtown merchants fill Main Street with chocolate treats, desserts, and specialty items. Enjoy sampling sweet creations while strolling through historic downtown and soaking in the festive atmosphere. Get your tickets now at jbochocolatefest.com
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Santa’s Reindeer Visits Jonesborough

December 5, 2025
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Santa’s Reindeer Makes a Surprise Visit to Gabriel’s Christmas in Jonesborough Tennessee

Jonesborough, TN – Holiday magic came early this year at Gabriel’s Christmas when an unexpected visitor leapt through the store window last night, a local deer who seemed to mistake the shop for Santa’s workshop.
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A True and Chilling Tale – “An Earful”

October 20, 2025
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Tennessee’s oldest town, Jonesborough, is known for its rich history, charming streets, and storytelling. Below is just one of many true and chilling tales that linger in the crisp fall air of Jonesborough, Tennessee.To hear more, join one of the True and Chilling Tales Tours presented by the Heritage Alliance each October. Tours begin at the Chester Inn State Historic Site and Museum.
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Get Ready for a Special Game Show Edition of the StoryTown Radio Show

July 22, 2025
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Trivia with Budds is taking over the StoryTown Radio Show on Monday, July 28th in a special edition. We’ll be talking about “Kitchen Disasters and Culinary Fails” and Quizmaster Ryan Budds will be asking questions from three, themed categories. This is a first for the Radio Show, and you don’t want to miss it. There will be three winners, complete with prizes, so come and try your luck and test your knowledge.
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Can’t Get Away with This – A True Cold Case from 1928

July 9, 2025
Blog
It was 2016, or thereabouts, when I first ran across information about Officer James Hood and his murder in August of 1928. I was working for the Heritage Alliance at the time and actively doing museum theatre. I was working on a play about another mysterious murder from Jonesborough’s past, and I mentioned Officer Hood’s death to my director. She told me I’d have to wait on that one. It was too soon to bring that story up again because of the hurt feelings that lingered. That of course made me want to know more.
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