More Info

FAQContact Us

The History of Fun fest

Fun Since 1981

In 1981, Kingsport’s Fun Fest was founded with an original theme of “Community Unity.” Fun Fest’s sole objective was “to promote unity, harmony, fellowship and cooperation among people in the greater Kingsport Area. In short, Fun Fest was created as an effort to promote the “Kingsport Spirit” and foster the belief that Kingsport is a caring community, a good place to live and to work, and to provide numerous opportunities for people to congregate and become acquainted while appealing to their interests in culture, athletics, arts and entertainment. In its 40+ years, Fun Fest has grown into 9 days of fun for the whole family, featuring 80+ events in 40+ locations around the Kingsport community. The festival gladly hosts 100,000+ residents and visitors from the region and beyond each year.

40+ Years of Good Music

From Willie Nelson to Keith Urban to MarcyMe and so many more, Fun Fest has hosted  incredibly talented musiciains. The first concert was hosted in 1981 and  has become a treasured festival tradition.

FAQ

What is Fun Fest?

Fun Fest is a 9-day Festival, featuring 80+ events in 30+ locations around Kingsport, TN. The majority of the events are free and open to the public. Events range from a parade, 8K races, sporting events, senior events, hot air balloons, concerts, food trucks, moonlight hikes, outdoor movies, block parties, gospel shows, FIREWORKS and more. Some events do require a ticket or pre-registration and that information can be found in the Event Schedule section of the website.

Does the weather affect Fun Fest Events?

Fun Fest events go on rain or shine. Events may need to be delayed due to weather, but we try to not cancel any event if possible. In the event of severe weather with thunder and lightning, events will stop or be delayed until we receive “all clear”. In those extreme cases, please be cautions and return to your vehicle or the nearest facility. Do not wait it out under a tree, tent, etc.

Fun Fest Concert Weather Statement:

  • Decisions on concerts depend on weather conditions that can change rapidly.
  • Concerts are delayed if lightning is in the area
  • If the stadium is evacuated due to lightning or unsafe conditions, you will be asked to return to your car and seek shelter.
  • Continuation of concerts depends on the safety of everyone.
  • In case of only rain, it is the artists’ decision when or if the concert can go on.
  • We make every effort to have a performance.
  • Tickets are non-refundable for all Fun Fest events
Do all ages require tickets to events?

Children 5 and under do not require a ticket to stadium concerts. Other events are based on if the event involves a reserved seat or meal and will notate on that ticket if all ages require tickets.

What is a Fun Fest Concert like?

Fred Johnson Stadium is a high school baseball/football stadium. Seating will be festival-type where you bring your own chair (without spike legs) or a blanket and sit on the field (which is artificial field turf). You can also choose to sit in the stands on either side of the stage. Seating is first come, first served. There is a small section of reserved VIP seating area directly in front of the stage.

When do the gates open for the SunSet Series Concerts?

Approximately 5 p.m. but several factors dictate gate opening (band arrival, sound checks, security, weather, etc)

What is allowed or not allowed in the stadium for concerts?

Fun Fest has a clear bag policy. No coolers or umbrellas are allowed in the stadium.

No smoking is allowed in the stadium.

Lawn chairs and bag chairs are allowed in the stadium, however bag chairs are subject to search and we ask that you remove the chair from the bag as you approach the gate.

Clear Bag Policy

  • Clear tote – plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed 12” x 6” x 12”
  • Clear Fun Fest totes sold from the Fun Fest Store
  • Plastic Storage bag – clear one gallon re-sealable bags
  • Small clutch – with or without a handle or strap, no larger than 4”x6”. Can be carried separately or within an approved plastic bag.
What is The Taste?

Outside of the concert stadium, in Memorial Park, we have 15-20 restaurants/food trucks set up selling their specialties ranging from pizza, BBQ, Mexican, Chinese, seafood, ice cream and treats. We also have concession tents where you can purchase drinks, sno-cones, kettle corn and more. This an alcohol-free event. The road in front of the park and stadium is shut down and you can bring chairs and blankets to set up a picnic space and enjoy the evening.

Is handicapped seating/access available at Fun Fest events?

Handicap Parking is available, first come/first served in the Dobyns Bennett Parking lot. Access from Eastman Road or Wilcox Drive to Sevier then turn on Midland Dr.

If you have specific questions or needs for a Sign Language Interpreter at concerts please email info@funfest.net.
Inside the concert stadium – there are metal bleachers on the Visitors side that have ramp access and spaces for handicap seating. Additionally it is a turf field so you can sit at whatever location throughout the venue that is most comfortable and accessible for you.

Lost Persons and Items

Lost individuals are taken to the nearest EMS/Fire/Police crew member. They will notify dispatch onsite. The concessions tents also have procedures for notifying the correct party as in many cases children have been told to go to a tent if they are separated and end up at one of those tents. First responders will work together to reunite any missing parties.

If you locate a lost child at an event that you do not see first responders present, locate the organizer or Fun Fest staff on site and remain with the child until finding someone to assist. If you can locate no one, dial 911 or the non emergency line 246-9111 and they can get someone to that location to assist or notify anyone near that event.

Lost items can be turned in to Fun Fest merchandise tents or at the Fun Fest office, 400 Clinchfield St. If you are searching for items please contact our office at 392-8800 or send a message to our facebook page, Kingsport Fun Fest!

Medical Emergency

First Responders and security are on-site at most events. If you have an emergency and do not see them immediately, dial 911 and they will notify the closest help to the area.

Have Questions?

Let us know how we can help.

Name

Thank you Sponsors