2 Special Events To Celebrate Hurricane Helene Resilience

Cocke County is coming together to celebrate resilience one year after Hurricane Helene with 2 special events

First up, Shine on Newport, Friday September 26, from 5 to 10pm in Historic Downtown Newport. It’s an evening to showcase the incredible spirit, strength, and courage displayed by our community and the enduring hope we have for a bright future one year after Hurricaine Helene. Explore local vendors and artisans along McSween Avenue, enjoy live music at the River Walk, follow a story map trail highlighting businesses impacted by the flood, and witness the unveiling of a beautiful new mural by a local artist. Interactive exhibits from C5 and the ABC bus add extra fun. Plan to park and walk to see all the surprises spread throughout Downtown Newport — a night to shine together! This event is presented by the City of Newport, Newport Main Street Association and Cocke County Long Term Recovery Group.

Next, Roots & Reins, a free community celebration honoring the resilience of Cocke County one year after the flooding caused by Hurricane Helene. Join the fun at the Cocke County Fairgrounds on Saturday, September 27th starting at 4 p.m. with free food, face painting, giant inflatables, train rides, and the “Touch a Truck” Emergency Responder Rally. From 6 to 8 p.m., you can experience the New Pickens Rodeo with bull riding, mutton busting, barrel racing, trick riding, and a chance to meet Miss Rodeo Tennessee, Kaylee Lentz-Zierer. The evening wraps up with live music from Big Creek Bluegrass and The Davisson Brothers. A perfect night for the whole family — because Cocke County is Stronger than the Storm. The Roots and Reins event is presented by the Cocke County Long Term Recovery Group.