May Events in Maryville: Mudders Day, Car Shows, and the Best Family Festivals
Mother's Day weekend is creeping up on us (May 10th), which means May in Maryville is full of family events, fundraisers, and things to do that keep the kids entertained while giving you a reason to get out of the house.
Here is what I found worth knowing.
14th Annual Mudders Day Madness Mud Run — May 9
This is the big one for May. Harmony Family Center has been running this for 14 years, and it happens the Saturday before Mother's Day — perfect timing if you want to honor moms by letting the kids (and you) get gloriously muddy.
There is a 5K for ages 8+ with 20 obstacles on Camp Montvale's trails — Adversity Hill, Tire Traverse, A-Frame Climb, the works. There is also a family-friendly Fun Run for ages 4+, about 1.2 miles with trail running, field running, obstacles, and mud. It is untimed, which is the part that makes it fun for younger kids.
When: May 9, 2026. The 5K starts around 10am, Fun Run at 11:15am. Where: Camp Montvale, 4907 Montvale Rd, Maryville, TN 37803. Cost: Register at runsignup.com — early bird pricing has passed but online registration is still open (until capacity fills). Bring: Old clothes you don't mind ruining, tape for your shoes (they strongly recommend it — you don't want to lose a shoe in the mud), and a towel. Changing areas and outdoor showers are available after. Parking: Do not arrive before 8:15am. All vehicles park in the designated fenced-in area at the front of the property. Why it matters: All funds support Harmony's therapeutic programming at Camp Montvale — equine therapy and camps for foster and adoptive children and families. It's a great way to combine a family workout with supporting local kids who need it.
Maryville Makers Market Spring Event — May 2
If you like supporting local small businesses, this one is worth the trip. The Makers Market gathers 100+ handcrafted and scratch-made vendors at McArthur Pavilion on the Maryville College campus.
There is live music, artists painting live, free kids' creative activities, hands-on workshops, and tons of local food options. It runs from 9am to 3pm.
When: Saturday, May 2, 2026, 9am-3pm. Where: McArthur Pavilion, Maryville College Campus, 502 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Maryville, TN 37804. Cost: Free admission. Vendors are full (they closed applications in February), but browsing is wide open.
3rd Annual For The Kids Classic Car Truck & Cycle Show — May 17
Car lovers and kid lovers get a double win here. Registration for vehicles is $30 (includes a goody bag), but spectators get in free. There is an outdoor luncheon and dedicated kids' activities on-site.
When: Sunday, May 17, 2026, 12pm-4pm. Where: Rio Central, 370 S Long Hollow Rd, Maryville, TN 37801. Cost: Free for spectators. $30 for vehicle registration. Why it matters: All proceeds benefit children and relative caregivers across 17 surrounding counties. It's a solid local charity event.
Patio Palooza: Windy City Edition — May 1
A quick one to catch if you like live music and outdoor vibes. This is a kids' event at the Windy City location.
When: May 1, 2026. Where: 2641 US Highway 411 S, Maryville, TN 37801.
Community Day Soccer Festival — May 30
Community Day at the Sports Village hosts a soccer festival this date. Good for families with kids who play, or just want to spend a Saturday watching kids play soccer.
When: May 30, 2026. Where: 1850 South Court St, Maryville, TN 37803 (The Sports Village).
Knoxville-area pick: Smoky Mountain Bigfoot Festival — May 2, Townsend
If you're willing to drive 30 minutes west, the Smoky Mountain Bigfoot Festival happens the same day as the Makers Market in Townsend (just a short drive from Maryville). It won Best of Blount in 2026, which speaks for itself. Good to pair with a trip if you're already going west for the day.
That's the May lineup as of right now. Things fill up fast around Mother's Day weekend, so if any of these look good for your family, I'd recommend grabbing tickets or planning the day out before the calendar gets crowded. I'll keep this updated as more events get announced, so check back before you make plans.