Family events in Bristol, TN

Enjoy a day of tubing on the Watauga River in Elizabethton, TN. This outing works well for families and friends, corporate groups and team building, family reunions, scout groups, and bachelor or bachelorette celebrations. Reservations are required in advance, with a cutoff at 6 pm the evening before the trip. Call to book and secure a spot.

Enjoy a monthly pre-school storytime in the Nature Center Classroom at Steele Creek Park. Each session features nature-themed stories followed by a related, hands-on activity for the youngest naturalists, typically ages 2 to 5, along with their caregivers. There is no additional charge to attend, as participation is included with the $2 park entrance fee.

Enjoy a tubing trip on the Watauga River in Elizabethton, TN, suited for families, corporate groups, team building, reunions, scout troops, and bachelor or bachelorette celebrations. Reservations are required in advance and must be made by 6 pm the night before the trip.

The Build-A-Bowl Church Festival at Avoca Christian Church features live music by Karly Monday, craft booths, food trucks, mini golf, face painting, and plenty of games. Kids can enjoy water slides as part of the fun. Hosted by George and Jennifer Alter and presented by Leon Music Management.

Elizabethton Parks and Recreation brings back Bites by the Bridge, a monthly outdoor food truck court at Covered Bridge Park in Elizabethton. In its third year, the series features a rotating mix of local vendors with lunch, snack, and dessert options in one of the city’s most recognizable parks. Tents and tables will be set up for convenience, and lawn games will be available for all ages. It offers a relaxed way to take a midday break, meet friends, or spend time with family. Guests can pick up food to go or enjoy a meal in the park. The participating food trucks for September will be announced soon.

Enjoy a river tubing outing on the Watauga River in Elizabethton, TN, suited for friends and families as well as corporate gatherings, team building, reunions, scouts, and bachelor or bachelorette parties. Reservations must be made before the day of the trip, with a cutoff at 6 p.m. the night prior, and booking is by phone.

The second annual Abingdon Soap Box Derby brings homemade, gravity powered racers to downtown Abingdon for a full day of friendly competition. Entries from local businesses, families, youth, and community groups design and pilot their cars down a marked course with recognition, trophies, and other prizes at stake. Spectators can expect a festive, family friendly atmosphere with plenty of fast runs and creative builds. Racing is organized into three groups so everyone can take part. The Big Wheel Track welcomes children ages 3 to 7, the Youth Division is for ages 8 to 15, and the Grand Prix features competitors ages 16 and up. The day begins with check in and trial runs for youth and adults, alongside time on the Big Wheel Track, then official heats get underway. Winners will be announced and awards presented, followed by live music from Philip Bowen. This event also supports Feeding Southwest Virginia as it marks 45 years of service, and nonperishable food donations will be collected to help neighbors facing food insecurity. Registration is free.

Rescheduled due to weather, this Covered Bridge Jams performance brings Lost Creek Bluegrass Band to The Covered Bridge Park for a free evening of live music. Presented by the Elizabethton Parks and Recreation Department, the summer concert series is celebrating its 12th year. Lost Creek Bluegrass Band was formed in the 1970s by two cousins and has performed for audiences around the world. The lineup features Ed Stiner on guitar and vocals, Rick Fielden on mandolin and fiddle, Phil Clear on percussion and vocals, Rick Flynn on banjo and dobro, and Tim Carpenter on bass and vocals. The group has released seven albums, with four honored as Album of the Year by the North America Country Music Association. Food trucks on site include Beba's Rolling Meatball, Sideshow Station Concessions, and Yankee Doodle Doggie. Guests may bring a blanket or lawn chair for comfortable seating.

Enjoy a tubing outing on the Watauga River in Elizabethton, Tennessee. It suits families and friends, corporate groups, team building, reunions, scouts, and bachelor or bachelorette parties. Reservations are required in advance, and the cutoff to book is 6 pm the night before the trip. Call to reserve.