Big Ears presents extraordinary performances and arts experiences to connect more than 40,000 locals and visitors of all ages throughout the Knoxville community each year.
Founded in 2009, the Big Ears Festival is the flagship event of our organization. It explores the influences that inspire and connect musicians and artists, crossing the boundaries of musical genres as well as artistic disciplines. Every spring, Big Ears presents nearly 250 concerts, talks, workshops, film screenings, residencies, and more in over two dozen venues across downtown Knoxville. With a program budget of $3.5 million and a local annual economic impact of $68.9 million, the Big Ears Festival is one of the highest-profile arts events in the Southeastern U.S., garnering regular national media coverage, hosting numerous world premiere performances, and helping to define the cultural character of the region for many across the country.
As a free-standing nonprofit with a dedicated staff and mission, Big Ears’ activities have grown beyond the festival to include expanded community engagement programming and cultural events beyond the confines of the festival. These programs enable us to better reach underserved groups and lower barriers to their participation in the arts.