Johnson City’s First Main Street Days Festival Unites Community

Photo bycourtesy of Johnson City Convention and Visitors Bureau

JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. – Downtown Johnson City transformed into a bustling hub of activity on Saturday as merchants, artists, and community members gathered for the first-ever Main Street Days, a street festival aimed at uplifting local businesses and showcasing the region’s unique talent.

The festival, which ran from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., featured over 80 vendors, including local crafters, crocheters, and specialty merchants like a honey seller. More than 30 restaurants and five local breweries offered visitors a taste of Johnson City’s culinary diversity, while multiple antique and clothing retailers added to the vibrant atmosphere.

Billed as a “celebration of community, empowerment, and resilience,” Main Street Days was created to foster a sense of unity and showcase the entrepreneurial spirit that powers the downtown area. The festival allowed visitors to discover unique treasures while supporting the backbone of the local economy—small businesses.

Lindsey Jones, director of Johnson City’s Main Street program, said the event was realizing a long-held community vision. “We’ve had requests for years to bring back street festivals downtown,” Jones explained. “Seeing this idea come to life is amazing. Planning took a couple of months, but the enthusiasm from both merchants and residents made it happen.”

The event was especially significant for the community, coming just weeks after Hurricane Helene devasted the Tri-Cities region. Jones expressed the festival's importance in offering residents joy and togetherness.

“It’s wonderful to see everyone out, smiling and enjoying the beautiful weather,” Jones said. “We’ve had a lot going on, so this day of celebration and supporting local businesses is just what we needed.”

In addition to shopping and sampling local food and drinks, attendees enjoyed live music performances and art demonstrations across multiple corners of downtown.

According to organizers, Main Street Days is designed to be more than just fun. It’s about building a more vibrant local economy and showcasing Johnson City’s diversity, individuality, and unique offerings. "Our small businesses are the backbone of our community, and this festival is a celebration of them,” the event’s website noted. “It’s also about reminding people of the faces behind the storefronts—entrepreneurs who pour their hearts into their businesses.”

With its strong turnout and enthusiastic support, organizers confirmed plans to make Main Street Days an annual event that will continue to uplift local talent and small businesses.