Plan a spring visit to Knoxville in May to enjoy the annual Biscuit Festival. Running May 14–16, the event celebrates all things biscuit with a variety of activities suitable for families, food lovers and anyone who appreciates Southern tradition.
The festival schedule includes creative and competitive shows such as biscuit songwriting, a boutique featuring biscuit-themed fashion, and a biscuit art competition at the Emporium Center Gallery (May 1–31). On May 16, the Biscuit Bazaar runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., where vendors display and sell the latest biscuit-friendly products and specialty items.
A marquee moment of the festival is the crowning of Miss or Mr. Biscuit. Contestants are judged on biscuit-making skill, presentation and biscuit-related talent, making the pageant a unique twist on a classic contest. For bakers, there’s a biscuit baking competition where amateurs and pros can showcase their best recipes.
Food is a central focus, highlighted by an outdoor Blackberry Farm Biscuit Brunch that features signature regional dishes prepared by chefs from Blackberry Farm. The brunch is a chance to taste elevated Southern cuisine centered on the humble biscuit.
Live music provides a lively backdrop throughout the weekend. Past performers have included acts like Subtle Clutch, Grits & Soul and Jimmy Brown Johnson and the Band of Awesome, offering a mix of sounds to match the festival’s convivial atmosphere.
Whether you come for the contests, the food, the shopping or the music, the Biscuit Festival in Knoxville offers a memorable spring weekend celebrating a beloved culinary icon.