This week we are joined by Maggie Sidlinger and Michele Mazzu. They are the leaders of Knoblin Fest, an annual music festival in Donelson, Tennessee. Knoblin Fest is a part of Friends of Donelson, a non-profit organization with deep roots in the community. Friends of Donelson originated with the Merry Mingle, a Chritstmastime celebration, and has since embarked on a broader mission to involve all community groups to create fun free events that include everyone.
Knoblin Fest was a fun event accessible to people of all ages and background. Its name comes from the concept of the Knoblin, a cryptid reported to live on Todd’s Knob in Donelson from at least the early nineteenth century that would regularly eat townsfolks’ crops and livestock. Maggie and Michele highlight the unclear appearance of the Knoblin as a way to encourage artistic expression, culminating in a costume contest at the festival. The Knoblin Fest had a marketplace with about 85 vendors, a play area for small children, and an art show. Their art show will display many works from artists in Donelson and beyond.
Beyond Donelson, Knoblin Trail consists of 28 small businesses in Nashville working in conjunction to promote the festival and give back to the community. Maggie and Michele have been pleasantly surprised at how well organized and thoroughly supported Knoblin Fest has been, from individuals including local artists in the community to institutions like the local library.