Overview

INTRODUCTION

Big Ears is a four-day celebration of musical and artistic adventure and discovery, transforming downtown Knoxville, TN into an immersive playground for the senses. From March 26–29, 2026, over 35,000 attendees will experience nearly 250 performances, films, conversations, literary events, and art installations across 20 diverse venues, including historic theaters, churches, intimate clubs, and art galleries.

Founded in 2009, Big Ears is unlike any other festival—presenting iconic artists and bold new voices from around the globe. The programming crosses generations and genres, spanning contemporary classical, jazz, experimental, rock, folk traditions, ambient soundscapes, and beyond. With a festival pass, you’ll have access to all advertised performances (with the exception of separately ticketed, reserved seat concerts), giving you the freedom to follow your curiosity and encounter the unexpected.

FESTIVAL EXPERIENCE & PASSES

At Big Ears, a festival pass comes in the form of a wristband, which is scanned for entry as you move freely between nearly 250 unique events and 20 venues across Knoxville’s historic downtown over 4 days. An intimate experience by design, the festival limits the number of passes available each year to ensure that performances remain accessible, venues never feel overcrowded, and artists and audiences can connect in meaningful ways. Pass options are designed to suit a variety of experiences:
• Weekend: Access to all publicly announced performances and events over four days.
• Premier: Includes everything in the Weekend Pass, plus priority access at venues and added perks to enhance your experience.
• Sonic Explorer VIP: The ultimate Big Ears experience, with reserved seating at select venues, invitations to exclusive events, a curated merchandise package, and all Weekend and Premier-level benefits.
• Single-Day: If capacity allows, a limited number of day passes will be released after the daily lineup is announced. Perfect for those who can’t commit to a full weekend.
• Separately Ticketed Add-Ons: Due to the unique and special nature of certain performances, an add-on ticket will be required for select events. These tickets guarantee entry and include reserved seating. Any performance requiring an additional pass or ticket will be clearly advertised.

GETTING HERE & GETTING AROUND

Traveling to Big Ears is simple and easy, whether by plane or car. McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) is just 20 minutes from downtown and served by six major airlines with direct and connecting flights. Driving? Knoxville sits at the crossroads of I-40 and I-75, around 3 hours from Nashville or Atlanta, and only 4 hours from Cincinnati, Louisville, or Charlotte.

Once you’ve arrived downtown, getting around is a breeze. All venues, hotels, restaurants, and shops are within a walkable half-mile radius, and additional transit options make it even easier:
• Bike: Knoxville is a Bicycle Friendly Community with convenient bike parking throughout the festival footprint. Patrons can rent a bike through our partner, Two Bikes.
• Festival Shuttle: A free, fixed-route shuttle runs throughout the weekend with stops at or near all festival venues.
• Scooters: Lime and Bird scooters are widely available throughout downtown Knoxville. Download the app and ride.
• Rideshare: Uber and Lyft operate throughout the city and adjacent neighborhoods, including to and from the airport.

WHERE TO STAY

Staying downtown puts you right in the heart of the festival, with easy access to venues, restaurants, and nightlife. However, downtown hotel availability is limited and sells out quickly, so book early.

Many festival goers prefer to stay just outside the city center. Areas like Papermill / Bearden, Cedar Bluff, and Merchants Drive offer a wide range of comfortable hotels just 10–15 minutes from downtown. Getting in and out is easy, with ample parking near venues, free in many surface lots and city garages after 6 PM on weekdays, and all day Saturday and Sunday. Visit our hotel page for recommended properties.

Big Ears partners with our local tourism bureau, Visit Knoxville, to offer a special hotel portal with preferred rates, launching the day passes go on sale. Availability is limited and first come, first served.

SUPPORTING THE FESTIVAL & MISSION

Big Ears is powered by a community of supporters who believe in the transformative power of music and art. As a nonprofit, our organization and festival rely on more than just ticket sales—donations and support from individuals, businesses, and community partners are essential to making it all possible. There are many ways to get involved: make a gift to support our mission, join us as a sponsor or partner, or volunteer during the festival—our volunteers are essential in helping the event run smoothly and enjoy great perks, including access to performances and a front-row seat to the magic.

MORE INFORMATION

For details on passes, travel, lodging, and how to make the most of your Big Ears experience, explore the links in the sections above. Our FAQ page offers quick answers, while our email newsletter is the best way to get the latest updates, artist announcements, and insider tips delivered straight to your inbox. You can also follow us on social media for news, behind-the-scenes moments, and real-time festival highlights—or tune in to the Big Ears Podcast for in-depth conversations with artists and a deeper look into the music, ideas, and inspirations that shape the festival.

Ready to join us? Start planning your Big Ears adventure— click one of the links below to explore further. Secure your pass, book your stay, and make your travel plans now to join us in Knoxville, March 26-29, and immerse yourself in performances that will inspire, surprise, and stay with you long after the final note.