Fun Fest began in July 1981 to promote unity and civic pride. From the outset, leaders envisioned a city‑wide celebration open to everyone. What began as a one-week series of events has blossomed into a nine-day festival each July, featuring over 100 events across more than 50 venues in the city and drawing more than 100,000 attendees—locals and visitors alike. With events from parades to hot air balloons and road races, Fun Fest has become one of Tennessee’s longest-running and most beloved community celebrations.

Fueling Kingsport Pride

Fun Fest was built and sustained by dozens of local businesses, sponsors, and community volunteers, many serving as board members or planners without pay, all committed to raising the city’s spirit and visibility. Its inclusive, mostly free programming embodies the belief that Kingsport is a great place to live and come together.

Fun Fest has an extensive social reach with nearly 976,000 website visits, more than one million in Facebook reach, and over 8,000 t-shirts sold in 2024. In 2025, Fun Fest was recognized with the Gold Award for Best Festival or Event over $75,000 by the Southeast Festivals and Events Association.

Why Fun Fest Matters to Local Real Estate

It showcases Kingsport's vibrancy. Fun Fest showcases everything that makes Kingsport special—strong community ties, rich cultural life, family-friendly activities, and a welcoming spirit. Prospective homebuyers and newcomers experience firsthand the warmth and civic pride of this city, all while enjoying art, recreation, music, and festivities scattered throughout downtown and neighborhood venues.

It boosts local neighborhoods and businesses. Businesses get exposure and foot traffic they wouldn’t elsewhere. It’s a golden marketing opportunity for local real estate, pairing listings with neighborhood highlights during Fun Fest boosts appeal.

“It’s more foot traffic for Downtown Kingsport… a lot of people aren’t even aware that a lot of these downtown businesses exist.”Jacob Vitums, owner of Clay Gurus pottery

“It’s been super busy… We’ve had a lot of new customers and a lot of returning customers coming to see our new space.”Mindy Fore, owner of Cornucopia popcorn

It builds lasting emotional connections. Residents tie families and memories to the festival. Prospective buyers aren’t just buying homes, they’re buying into a sense of belonging and tradition.

“The community is very involved in the family Fun Fest parade… It’s just a way that everybody can come together and celebrate and have a sense of joy and fun.”Stephanie Valencia, visiting from Chattanooga

Interested in relocating closer to Kingsport and celebrating Fun Fest yearly?

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