The Halloween cobwebs are packed away, and the peppermint season hasn’t quite arrived—meaning it’s the perfect in-between weekend to enjoy something refreshingly local! From sparkling stones and handmade crafts to sword-fighting fairs and soulful concerts, this first full weekend of November is brimming with charm and community energy.

Let’s explore the best family-friendly events happening around Johnson City, Jonesborough, Kingsport, Greeneville, Gray, and Bristol.

📍 Gray / Johnson City / Jonesborough Area

💎 Tri-Cities Holiday Gem Show

🗓️ Friday – Sunday (Nov 7–9)
📍 Appalachian Fairgrounds, Gray, TN
🕙 Fri & Sat: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
🕛 Sun: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
💲 Admission: Adults $3, Students $1, Kids under 6 free
🧭 Why Go: This three-day gem extravaganza features stunning minerals, crystals, fossils, handmade jewelry, and live demonstrations like geode cracking and jewelry making.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Perfect For: Curious kids, rock collectors, early holiday shoppers, and anyone who loves shiny things!

🎨 Made Around Here Market

🗓️ Friday & Saturday (Nov 7–8)
📍 Jonesborough Visitor Center & Emporium, Jonesborough, TN
🕙 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
💲 Admission: Free to enter
🧭 Why Go: This 43rd annual market showcases nearly 100 local artisans selling handcrafted goods, seasonal décor, and gift ideas.
👩‍🎨 Pro Tip: Pair it with lunch in downtown Jonesborough for a cozy fall outing.

🎶 Gary Allan in Concert

🗓️ Friday, Nov 7
📍 Freedom Hall Civic Center, Johnson City, TN
🕖 Evening
💲 Ticketed (Prices vary)
🧭 Why Go: Country music fans won’t want to miss this well-known artist bringing his signature style to the region.

⚔️ Greeneville

🏰 The Faire at Greywood

🗓️ Saturday & Sunday (Nov 8–9)
📍 520 Doc Hawkins Rd, Greeneville, TN
🕙 Begins at 10:00 AM
💲 Admission: Adults $20, Kids $17, Ages 5 & under free
🧭 Why Go: Step into a fantasy land complete with sword-fighting lessons, gladiator battles, artisan vendors, and costumed characters.
⚔️ Family Bonus: Great for older kids and teens who love imaginative play and hands-on adventure!

🎉 Kingsport Area

🎡 Miller Perry Elementary Carnival

🗓️ Friday, Nov 7
📍 Miller Perry Elementary School, Kingsport, TN
🕠 5:30 PM Start
💲 Free Entry; rides and food cost extra
🧭 Why Go: A local, family-friendly evening featuring food trucks, games, and community fun. Perfect for families with younger kids who want to burn some energy after school.

🎸 Stuffin’ & Truckin’ - Scooter & The Gurus LIVE

🗓️ Friday, Nov 7
📍 Flanagan Brothers Bierworks, Kingsport, TN
🕢 7:30 PM – 10:00 PM
💲 Donation-based – All proceeds go to Second Harvest Food Bank
🧭 Why Go: Enjoy some live Grateful Dead-style jams while supporting a great cause.
🎵 Note: While the vibe is fun and laid back, this event may be best suited for adults and older teens.

🎶 Bristol Area

🎤 The Revivalists in Concert

🗓️ Friday, Nov 7
📍 Hard Rock Live, Bristol, VA
🕖 Evening
💲 Ticketed
🧭 Why Go: One of the most energetic rock bands touring today, The Revivalists are known for their live performances and high-octane stage presence.
🎸 Heads Up: Great evening option for date night or older music fans looking to get out of the house!

🙏 Matthew West – Don’t Stop Praying Tour

🗓️ Saturday, Nov 8
📍 Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Bristol, TN
🕖 Evening
💲 Ticketed
🧭 Why Go: A soulful, inspiring Christian concert perfect for families, church groups, and music fans who enjoy meaningful lyrics.

🧩 Bonus Round: Plan Your Weekend Like a Pro

Here’s a sample itinerary for a fun and balanced weekend:

🍂 Final Thoughts

This weekend in the Tri-Cities marks a gentle shift out of spooky season and into crafty, cozy fall fun. With options ranging from fantasy fairs and gem shows to carnivals and concerts, there’s no shortage of memories waiting to be made.

Whether you're looking for something magical, musical, or meaningful, this weekend offers it all—plus the perfect chance to start your holiday shopping while supporting local talent.

So grab a scarf, your favorite coffee, and a sense of adventure, and…

✨ Trailblaze your way into November in style! 🍁🧭