Blue Ridge Events

05/31/2026

The organization we partner with to bring the Creation Station to all of our events, Young Artisan Club is looking for volunteers! Sign up using the link below! Great for High School and College kids utilizing the HOPE Scholarship. No art skills necessary!

https://form.jotform.com/261484015893058

We NEED you! We are gearing up for our next Creation Station and we're looking for volunteers! Use the link below to sign up, remember we are a 501(c)3 and High School students...all your hours can help with the HOPE Scholarship!

https://form.jotform.com/261484015893058

05/30/2026

SMALL BIZ SNAPSHOT: GellyBall of East TN

Looking for a fun, action-packed experience the whole family can enjoy? Then it’s time to discover GellyBall of East TN — downtown Kingsport’s exciting glow-in-the-dark battle arena where friendly competition and unforgettable memories come together.

Located on Broad Street in the heart of downtown Kingsport, GellyBall of East TN brings a fresh twist to recreational fun with an activity that combines the excitement of paintball and laser tag — but with less mess, less pain, and even more fun. Using battery-powered blasters that shoot biodegradable water gel beads, players can dive into thrilling games like Capture the Flag, Last Man Standing, Search Party, and Top Gun.

One of the things that makes GellyBall so unique is that it’s designed for nearly everyone. Kids as young as five can safely participate with proper face protection, while teens and adults quickly discover they’re having just as much fun as the kids. Whether it’s a birthday party, church group, family reunion, bachelor or bachelorette party, team-building event, or festival, GellyBall creates an energetic atmosphere that gets everyone involved.

What truly makes GellyBall of East TN stand out is its focus on creating memorable experiences for families, friends, and groups of all ages. In a world increasingly centered around screens and busy schedules, they provide a place where people can unplug, connect, compete, and simply have fun together.

Whether you’re planning your next party or just looking for a new adventure in downtown Kingsport, GellyBall of East TN is proving that a little friendly competition can go a long way toward bringing people together.

05/29/2026

MEET THE MAKER: BACKLUND RIDGE CREATIONS

For Gene and Teri of Backlund Ridge Creations, jewelry is more than an accessory — it’s a story shaped by nature, craftsmanship, and creativity. As a husband-and-wife team, the pair combine their individual talents to create one-of-a-kind wearable works of art that reflect the beauty of the natural world around them.

Their creative process often begins outdoors, exploring rivers, streams, and hidden places in search of unique stones and natural treasures. Gene carefully cuts and polishes many of the stones himself, transforming raw materials into stunning focal pieces. Together, the couple then designs intricate wire sculpted pendants that highlight the natural beauty and character of each stone. For some of their rarer finds, they visit gem shows, while select cabochons are thoughtfully sourced to complement their handcrafted designs.

Teri’s artistry brings another layer of creativity to the collection through her handcrafted copper jewelry. Using a rolling mill, she embosses detailed textures and patterns into copper, creating rich depth and visual interest. She also uses torch techniques to produce vibrant colors and organic finishes before shaping the metal into beautiful pendants, earrings, and cuff bracelets. She has also recently taken a metal smithing class so look out for those additions coming soon. Each piece carries its own distinct personality, making every creation truly unique.

Backlund Ridge Creations blends nature, skill, and artistic vision into jewelry designed to be treasured for years to come. Their work reflects a passion for craftsmanship and a love for finding beauty in the unexpected — turning stones from a riverbank and sheets of copper into meaningful pieces that can be worn and enjoyed every day. Come see them in person at Blue Ridge Artisan Days June 12-13!

05/28/2026

SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT: LEAFFILTER GUTTER PROTECTION

This month, we’re proud to spotlight LeafFilter Gutter Protection, a trusted leader in gutter protection solutions for homeowners across the country.

Known for their professionally installed stainless steel micromesh system, LeafFilter helps protect homes by keeping gutters free from leaves and debris while allowing water to flow properly. Their goal is to help homeowners reduce maintenance and prevent costly water damage issues.

Since 2005, LeafFilter Gutter Protection has built a strong reputation for quality products, customer service, and community involvement. We are thankful for their support of Blue Ridge Events and their commitment to helping homeowners protect what matters most.

05/27/2026

PET OF THE MONTH: Louie

This month’s Pet of the Month is the adorable and oh-so-sassy Louie — an 8-month-old tuxedo cat with a big personality and an even bigger heart.

Louie’s story began in Indiana just as Hanna & her boyfriend were preparing for a major life change and getting ready to move. One day, two boys doing yard work around the yard at Hanna's parents house, handed her a tiny kitten and simply said, “We have something for you.” From that unexpected moment on, Louie quickly became part of the family.

Not knowing whether the tiny kitten had a mother nearby, Louie’s new cat mom stepped in to care for him herself — bottle feeding him every day until he was strong enough to eat solid food. Even more impressive? Louie was her very first kitten, making the experience both a learning adventure and a labor of love from the very beginning.

Today, Louie has grown into a playful, affectionate cat who loves being outside, soaking up attention, and getting plenty of head scratches. His unique personality keeps life entertaining, and his owners say he has truly been a blessing to both of them.

From surprise rescue kitten to beloved companion, Louie’s story is a reminder that sometimes the best friendships come along when we least expect them. And with his charm, sass, and lovable spirit, it’s easy to see why Louie has stolen so many hearts.

To submit your pet to be "Pet of the month" please use this link, https://form.jotform.com/260467965479072

05/25/2026

This memorial we give thanks for the men and women who have lost their lives defending our country. Our prayers are with their families whose lives have been altered by their sacrifice.

05/24/2026

FLAVOR OF THE MONTH: COMFORT FOODS Royal Red Stew

This month, we’re turning up the flavor with a product that brings warmth, tradition, and convenience straight to the kitchen table — Royal Red Stew from Comfort Foods Inspired by authentic African recipes and crafted with all-natural ingredients, this ready-to-eat gourmet stew sauce is quickly becoming a favorite for families looking to create delicious meals with ease.

Founded by Helen Okpokowuruk, Comfort Foods was created with a mission to introduce African flavors and cuisine to people from all backgrounds. Drawing inspiration from treasured family recipes passed down through generations of exceptional home cooks and restaurant owners, Helen combined her culinary heritage with her Food Engineering background from Cornell University and experience in food product development to bring Royal Red Stew to life.

What makes Royal Red Stew stand out is its balance of flavor, nutrition, and convenience. Made with tomatoes, fresh onions, and spices, the stew contains no MSG, no added sugars, no preservatives, and is both vegan and gluten-free. Best of all, it comes ready-to-eat, making it easy to transform everyday meals into something memorable in just minutes.

Whether you prefer mild and savory flavors or something with a little extra heat, there’s a variety for every palate. From Original and Curry to Mildly Hot, Spicy Curry, and Extra-Extra Hot, Royal Red Stew can be used in everything from beef stew and chili to scrambled eggs, rice dishes, vegetables, soups, seafood, and more.

Comfort food means something different to everyone, but across cultures, hearty stews and rich savory dishes are often at the center of those memories.

For anyone looking to add bold flavor, authentic tradition, and easy meal inspiration to their kitchen, Royal Red Stew truly lives up to its slogan — “The Flavor of Heaven in a Jar.”
Come try a taste at Blue Ridge Artisan Days June 12-13!

05/23/2026

Are you going to out and about today? While you're out stop by Parkers Chapel Freewill Baptist Church in Kingsport and support local American Heritage troops and other youth makers!

05/23/2026

✨ Sparkle Into Summer at Blue Ridge Artisan Days! ✨

Discover beautiful handmade jewelry and boutique accessories at the upcoming Blue Ridge Artisan Days: Summer Festival! From handcrafted earrings and necklaces to unique gemstone pieces, bracelets, rings, and statement accessories, you’re sure to find the perfect piece to add to your collection or gift to someone special.

Shop talented artisans, support small businesses, and explore one-of-a-kind treasures you won’t find anywhere else!

📅 June 12 | 3PM–7PM
📅 June 13 | 9AM–3PM

📍 Appalachian Fairgrounds
100 Lakeview St.
Johnson City, TN

Come shop local, shine bright, and find your new favorite piece this summer! 💎