Oak Ridge Lavender Festival 2025: A Full Weekend of Events, Lavender, and Local Charm

Oak Ridge Lavender Festival 2025: A Full Weekend of Events, Lavender, and Local Charm

  • SHANNON FOSTER-BOLINE
  • 06/6/25

Everything you need to know about the June 20–22 celebration in Jackson Square, Oak Ridge, TN.

Every June, the historic town square of Oak Ridge transforms into a fragrant, festive hub as the Oak Ridge Lavender Festival brings together herbalists, gardeners, artists, musicians, foodies, and families for a three-day celebration rooted in nature and community.

Now in its 25th year, the 2025 Lavender Festival runs June 20–22 and features ticketed events, free outdoor markets, local wine tastings, and a brand-new Fermentation Fair that blends science with flavor. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned festivalgoer, this guide covers everything you need to know to make the most of the weekend.

 

Friday, June 20: Herb Lunch + Garden Tour

12 PM – Herb Lunch (Ticketed Event)

Start the weekend with a plated herb lunch under the big tent in Jackson Square. This beautifully curated meal features locally grown herbs and seasonal ingredients, paired with an informative presentation from a featured speaker. It’s a long-standing favorite—and tickets sell out quickly, so don’t wait.

4 PM to 6 PM – Garden Tour (Ticketed, Two-Day Pass)

Join the Anderson County Master Gardeners for a two-day tour of five private gardens in the Oak Ridge area. Gardens are open for viewing Friday evening and again Saturday. This self-guided experience is perfect for plant lovers, design enthusiasts, or anyone seeking inspiration for their own backyard.


Saturday, June 21: Main Festival + Tennessee Wine Tasting

8 AM to 4 PM – Lavender Festival Main Event (Free Admission)

The heart of the Lavender Festival takes over Jackson Square with 150+ artisan and garden vendors, live music, children’s activities, and herbal presentations throughout the day. Stroll through booths offering everything from lavender plants and essential oils to handmade jewelry, pottery, natural skincare, and fresh local food.

You’ll also find:

  • Gardening demos and native plant booths

  • Herbalists sharing remedies and growing advice

  • Fresh-squeezed lemonade and lavender ice cream

  • Food trucks, market fare, and pet-friendly green space

Admission is free and open to all ages.

10:30 AM to 2:30 PM – Taste Tennessee Wines (Ticketed Event)

Head to 301 Broadway Ave. for a curated tasting of 24 Tennessee wines, benefiting the United Way of Anderson County. Each ticket includes:

  • A keepsake wine glass

  • A 6-compartment wine tote

  • Access to bottle purchases on-site

  • A “Bag Corral” to store your wine while you explore the festival hands-free

Please note: pets are not permitted in the tasting area (certified service animals only).


Sunday, June 22: Science on Tap – A Fermentation Fair (New!)

1 PM to 4 PM – Fermentation Fair in Jackson Square

New for 2025, the Lavender Festival partners with the American Museum of Science and Energy (AMSE) to host Science on Tap: A Fermentation Fair. Entry to the square is free, but tickets are required for tastings and presentations.

What’s included with the $30 ticket:

  • Six interactive learning sessions on fermentation

  • Tastings and demos from local makers (kombucha, pickles, sourdough, beer)

  • Beer + fermentation science session with Maryville College

  • Free samples from all participating vendors

  • A special take-home gift for attendees

Whether you're a science nerd, a foodie, or just curious about the world of fermentation, this event adds a flavorful finale to the Lavender Festival weekend.

Why It’s Worth the Trip (or the Move)

The Oak Ridge Lavender Festival isn’t just a celebration of herbs—it’s a showcase of what makes this area so special. From historic charm to a strong sense of community, Oak Ridge offers a lifestyle steeped in beauty, education, and accessibility to nature.

Just 30 minutes from Knoxville, Oak Ridge blends affordability with walkability and features:

  • Lakes, greenways, and hiking trails

  • Excellent schools and science institutions

  • A revitalized town center with year-round events

  • Friendly, close-knit neighborhoods with historic charm

If you’re thinking about moving to the Knoxville-Oak Ridge area, this is the perfect weekend to visit and see it all in bloom.

Plan Your Visit

Location: Jackson Square, Oak Ridge, TN
Parking: Street and lot parking available (arrive early Saturday)
Pets: Welcome at the festival, except in wine tasting areas

Quick Event Recap:

Day Event Time Ticket Required?
Friday Herb Lunch 12 PM Yes
Friday Garden Tour (Day 1 of 2) 4–6 PM Yes
Saturday Main Festival 8 AM – 4 PM No
Saturday Wine Tasting 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM Yes
Saturday Garden Tour (Day 2 of 2) All day Yes
Sunday Science on Tap: Fermentation Fair 1–4 PM Yes (for tasting)

Looking to Explore Homes Nearby?

As local real estate experts in Oak Ridge and West Knoxville, we’d love to help you find a home near Jackson Square or any of East Tennessee’s thriving, beautiful communities. Whether you’re just visiting for the festival or ready to make a move, we’re here to help.

Contact us today or start your Oak Ridge, TN home search now.

Oak Ridge Lavender Festival 2025: A Full Weekend of Events, Lavender, and Local Charm
Oak Ridge Lavender Festival 2025: A Full Weekend of Events, Lavender, and Local Charm
Oak Ridge Lavender Festival 2025: A Full Weekend of Events, Lavender, and Local Charm
SHANNON FOSTER-BOLINE

SHANNON FOSTER-BOLINE

About The Author

ABOUT SHANNON FOSTER-BOLINE

Buying or selling a home is one of the most significant financial decisions people make — and it deserves thoughtful, strategic guidance, not pressure.

I’m Shannon Foster-Boline, a Realtor serving the Greater Knoxville area, including West Knoxville and surrounding communities. I work with buyers, sellers, and relocation clients who value clear communication, strong preparation, and a calm, informed approach — especially in higher-value and more complex transactions where details truly matter.

My role goes far beyond opening doors or managing contracts. I help clients evaluate options, anticipate challenges, and make confident decisions aligned with their long-term goals. Many of my clients are busy professionals, move-up buyers, and established homeowners who want an experienced advisor they can trust to manage the process efficiently and thoughtfully.

With more than 1,100 homes sold and over $270 million in lifetime sales, I bring deep local market knowledge and real-world experience to every transaction. I’ve represented a wide range of clients — from first-time buyers to luxury sellers — and I tailor my approach to fit each client’s priorities, timeline, and decision-making style.

MY APPROACH

Clients often describe working with me as steady, strategic, and reassuring.

I believe:

  • Strategy matters more than urgency

  • Local market insight matters more than national headlines

  • Clear communication reduces stress and leads to better outcomes

  • Preparation creates leverage — whether you’re buying or selling

My approach is best suited for clients who are prepared to engage thoughtfully in the process — with clear financial readiness, defined priorities, and an appreciation for strategic guidance.

I’m especially well-suited for clients navigating:

  • Move-up purchases and higher-value sales

  • Coordinated buy-sell timelines

  • New construction and well-designed modern homes

  • Established and architecturally distinctive neighborhoods

  • Complex negotiations requiring experience and composure

EXPERIENCE & LEADERSHIP

In addition to client work, I’ve been deeply involved in real estate leadership and education throughout East Tennessee. I’ve served in multiple leadership roles within East Tennessee Realtors® and Tennessee Realtors®, including President of East Tennessee Realtors®.

I hold several advanced professional designations, including:

  • Certified Residential Specialist (CRS®)

  • Graduate Realtor Institute (GRI®)

  • Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR®)

  • Real Estate Negotiation Expert (RENE®)

  • Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES®)

These credentials reflect my commitment to education, ethics, and professional excellence — but my focus always remains on delivering thoughtful guidance and strong results for my clients.

BEYOND REAL ESTATE

Outside of work, I’m a mom, partner, and avid gardener who values community, connection, and a well-lived life.

I love travel, historic architecture, and exploring neighborhoods — both locally and abroad. Those experiences shape how I connect with clients who are navigating meaningful transitions and making big, often emotional, decisions.

CONSIDERING A MOVE?

Whether you’re actively planning a move or simply thinking ahead, I believe good decisions start with good information.

If you’re looking for an experienced, steady, and strategic real estate advisor — someone who values quality over volume — I’d be honored to help. If you’d like to better understand my approach and who I work best with, you can learn more about how I work with clients here.

Work With Us

We understand the elements of the individual needs and the unique process of each transaction. At the end of the day, we want you to walk away feeling that you have received an amazing experience with our team and that you have been able to realize your dream of selling or buying a home!

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