Events in Bristol today

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.

This event offers drop-in interviews for a range of roles across the organization. Job seekers at any stage are welcome, including those exploring entry-level paths, seasoned professionals, and people making a career change. For questions, call 276-388-9483.

Karaoke takes center stage at Kickback Jack's at the Pinnacle in Bristol, offering a relaxed night of singing paired with food and featured drink deals. Domestic pints are 3.50, craft pints are 4.00, all Vista Point wine is half price, the Bourbon Pain Killer is 6.50, and a Peach Tea Shot is 5.50.

Learn line dancing with Appalachian Boot Scootin'. Bring friends and enjoy practicing steps together for a fun time.

Happy hour at White Birch Food & Juice offers specials on drinks alongside bar bites in an easygoing downtown setting. It is a convenient way to unwind after work, catch up with friends, or kick off the evening.

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.

Karaoke with Bob features an easygoing night of singing for anyone who wants the spotlight. There is no cover charge.

Appalachian Highlands Healthy Babies offers a free breastfeeding meetup at the Parenting Sweet, providing support, information, and encouragement for those who are breastfeeding. The gathering is led by leaders accredited by LLL. Children are welcome to attend.

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.

Riftbound locals gather for Nexus Nights at 2 Dudes Gaming in Elizabethton, Tennessee. This recurring meetup brings the community together. Awards and entry fees vary based on turnout.

Theatre Bristol revives The Mockingbird Sings on its ARTspace Stage, a limited-run live production returning after sold-out performances. Rooted in Bristol’s musical heritage, this narrative intertwines a love story with the rise of early country music, building toward the landmark recording sessions that brought Jimmie Rodgers, Pops Stoneman, the Carter Family, and others to wider recognition. Written by Dr. Nancy Hamblen Acuff, Terry Harkleroad, and Sharon Cort, the show is directed by Susan McNabb and Barbara Walton and features a Bristol-area ensemble. At the center is Eddie Snow, portrayed by Nikalas Johner, whose journey is shaped by family, friends, and generations of song. Influences reach him through the Irish Singer played by Martha Hawk and his grandmother Eula Mae Broome played by Susan McNabb, even as his mother Lucy Snow, played by Sarah Maxfield, hopes for a different path. Eddie prefers making music with friends Arlee McKerr, played by Rob Nicar, and Royal Campbell, played by Reece Hilt, with bandmates Eamon Russell, Abby Cheek, and Reese Davis. King University student Mary Martha, played by Samarah Pace, turns away from Ray English, played by Johnny Archer, and falls for “our Eddie,” as narrator Chris McVey calls him. With Mary Martha’s support, Eddie finds the courage to perform at WOPI with announcer Troy, played by Tony DeVault, steps into the Bristol recording sessions, and ultimately reaches the Grand Ole Opry. Along the way he learns the blues from train porter Toney, played by Freddy Heath, and draws inspiration from an Old Codger, played by Richard Albright. Ralph Peer, played by Jordan Wines, arrives with Monique Peer, played by Hunter Wines, to capture performances by Pops Stoneman, played by Dennis Farris, joined by Stoneman family members Blair Atchley, Eliza Brown, Finn Hilt, Willow Maine, Emilia Scheuer, and Jayma Skeens; Jimmie Rodgers, played by Richard Albright; the Carter Family with Lorri Jones as Maybelle, Barbara Walton as Sara, and Tony DeVault as A.P.; and Eddie Snow. CanJoe*John appears in a featured role as himself. Additional roles include a Stage Manager played by Abby Cheek, a Registrar played by Reese Davis, and the Mother played by Jessica Scheuer, plus a Square Dance Caller played by Chester Williams with dancers Avery Brooks, Skylar Scheuer, Kensley Taylor, Natalea Wallace, and Aliana Williams, and townspeople played by Kealee Bowman and Leslie Jarrett. The onstage band features Barbara Walton on upright bass, Dennis Farris on banjo, Rob Nicar on fiddle, Eamon Russell on mandolin, Richard Albright on guitar, Martha Hawk on autoharp, and Susan McNabb on dulcimer and autoharp. The creative team includes stage managers Bethaney Hilt and Reece Hilt, costume designer Katie Cheek, props artisan Rebecca Ryan, graphic designer Camille Gray, scenic artist Faith Walker, tech director Albert Tester, and producer Samantha Gray. Presented by special arrangement with Terry Harkleroad and Sharon Cort and supported by title sponsor The Sessions Hotel, this Tennessee America 250 project is part of Theatre Bristol’s season celebrating stories from across the United States. Tickets are $16 for adults ($17.70 with fees) and $12 for seniors and students ($13.50 with fees).

Fly fishers of all ages and skill levels are invited for a few hours of relaxing fishing, typically on the Watauga River or on larger streams within about a half hour of Elizabethton. Meet at O'Reilly Auto Parts in Elizabethton, then a river or stream will be chosen based on conditions that day. New fly fishers, anyone needing gear, or those wanting to learn more can contact the organizers for assistance. Activities do not take place during severe weather or major club events, and ad hoc fishing days may be scheduled outside First Saturdays.

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.

Riverside Wellness Day brings together local wellness professionals, artisans, healthy food vendors, and community organizations for a day of connection by the water. Hosted by Yoga Farm and the Elizabethton Elks BPOE 1847 at the Elizabethton Elks Lodge, the experience includes yoga, Qi Gong, breathwork, and other live demonstrations, with a calming sound session by the river to close. Explore wellness focused businesses, enjoy nourishing food and beverages, and meet others who share an interest in holistic health and community. Since activities take place outdoors beside the river, attendees may want to bring a chair or blanket for comfort.

A woodland hike focused on observing plants, mushrooms, and signs of wildlife. The route spans roughly 2 to 3 miles with a gentle incline followed by a return descent, and trails may be wet or muddy. Participants should be in good physical condition and wear appropriate hiking attire. Expect a mix of learning, relaxation, and exercise. A suggested $15 donation benefits the PHCP Scholarship Fund.

Set sail for a weekly One Piece TCG locals gathering. Participation rewards and prize support are on offer. Both the entry fee and prize structure depend on attendance.

Enjoy a class I to II paddle with APEs on the Watauga River in Elizabethton, Tennessee. A two generator dam release creates big waves and very cold water, so wear non-cotton insulating long sleeves or a splash top or paddling jacket. Bring the required gear: a whitewater kayak with flotation or a sit-on-top kayak with thigh straps, a helmet (bike helmets are not acceptable), a personal flotation device, a spray skirt, and a paddle. Recreational sit-inside kayaks without spray skirts are not permitted. There is a break about halfway down the run, so pack power snacks. Directions to the put-in start from West Elk Avenue, turning onto West Mill Street by the MISO Teriyaki House. Take the first left onto Ash Street, follow it to the end to reach the river, then turn left into the small paved lot near the covered picnic area and keep an eye out for boats. For more information or to see if others have extra cold-water gear to share, contact Debbie Briscoe at 423.534.3636 or ldcakes@hotmail.com.

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.

Riftbound fans can connect at weekly Nexus Nights hosted at 2 Dudes Gaming in Elizabethton, Tennessee. The gathering takes place on both Fridays and Mondays, providing a regular meetup for locals. Prizing and entry fees are determined by attendance.

Crossroads Craftworks hosts a weekly open mic dedicated to live stand-up comedy. Audience members pay a $5 cash cover, while comics get in free. The show is unfiltered and uncensored, so it is for adults only. There is a bring-your-own policy, and snacks and drinks are available for purchase. Anyone interested in performing can add their name to the sign-up sheet. New and experienced comics are welcome to bring notes or a laptop, try out material, and gather feedback from fellow performers.