Event Volunteers
The Garden hosts a variety of community and fundraising events throughout the year that could not happen without the support of our volunteers. Opportunities include a wide range of roles, including auction check out, parking guidance, face painting, event setup and clean up. Come be a part of the special days that bring our community together.
Spring Plant Sale | Friday April 11 & Saturday April 12, 2025
A delightful opportunity to engage with community, providing helpful plant information to customers and check-out support to the Horticulture staff. What’s not to love about a weekend spent with plants and the people who love them? Friday is a fun, members’ only preview provided early access to those with Garden memberships.
Easter Sunrise Service | Sunday April 20, 2025
This special early morning gathering honors the importance of the Easter holiday, especially in the Black Christian community here in Knoxville. Taking place in LeConte Meadow overlooking the mountains, community gathers to watch the sun rise above the skyline and to listen to sacred texts and spiritual reflections offered by local church and community leaders. Volunteers arrive in the early morning hours to setup chairs, support parking, pass out programs, and clean up.
Hats In Bloom | Friday April 25, 2025
A truly one-of-a-kind fundraising event, Hats In Bloom is a spring brunch that invites guests to wear their best floral fascinator or purchase a designer hat from milliner Patricia Frankum. Volunteers will enjoy the festive attire and spring atmosphere while supporting guest check-in and event flow.
Summer Solstice | Friday June 20, 2025
On the longest day of the year, Garden supporters gather for cocktails al fresco, live music, and a solstice meal to raise funds for the Garden. A special chance to work alongside members of the Garden’s Board of Directors, volunteers will help serve dinner as the light lingers and good conversations unfold.
Symphony at the Garden | Thursday September 4, 2025
In partnership with the Knoxville Symphony, the Garden hosts a free evening of music that invites community to discover pockets of music throughout four garden spaces on the property, with a culminating set in the Rita Johnson Garden where musicians play as the evening light fades and the sun reflects on the floor to ceiling windows of the Dogwood Center. Garden navigation and parking guidance are the key volunteer roles that make this event smooth and enjoyable for all.
Green Thumb Gala | Sunday September 28, 2025
The Garden’s largest annual fundraiser, Green Thumb Gala, celebrates the Garden’s accomplishments and brings together supporters for an evening of music, food, silent and live auctions. With more than 400 attendees, the event requires strategic parking guidance, event check-in support, and auction check-out support.
Fall Festival | Sunday October 26, 2025
A celebration of the season, this free community event features hay rides, music, food, local artisans, partner nonprofit organizations, and a lot of fun. Volunteers help with craft stations, face painting, hay ride lines, setup, clean up, and more. This is one of our volunteers’ favorite events of the year!