From Little Italy to Little Tokyo to Little Tibet, Toronto is among the best cities in the world at showcasing diverse cultures. Soon, it will receive a visit from a Southern neighbor with its very own Little Tennessee. Hosted by the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, Little Tennessee is a free four-day event showcasing the state’s authentic tastes, experiences and live music imported from—or inspired by—Tennessee. From June 15 to 18, 2023 in front of Liberty Village’s Allan A. Lamport Stadium Park, visitors can immerse themselves in culinary creations from Nashville, the Smoky Mountain region, Memphis, Knoxville, Chattanooga and Franklin, along with other Tennessee flavors like the Tennessee Whiskey Trail.

In collaboration with Canada’s North by Northeast (NXNE) music festival, more than 20 of Tennessee’s hottest and emerging acts will grace the stage during the four-day event, highlighting the state’s vibrant musical heritage. King Calaway, Mono Neon and Tommy Prine are set to headline nightly concerts, with additional acts to be announced. In addition to daily performances in Liberty Village, The Drake Hotel will host a launch celebration June 14 and transform into iconic Tennessee venues including Robert’s Western World from Nashville, Ole Red Gatlinburg and Memphis’ world-famous Beale Street.

“Whether you come for our incredible music or our rich Southern flavors and stunning outdoors, Tennessee has something for everyone,” said Mark Ezell, Commissioner, Tennessee Dept. of Tourist Development. “We have always held a special connection with our neighbors in Toronto and look forward to sharing a little taste and a few surprises direct from Tennessee.”

Tennessee’s authentic Southern hospitality will come to life at Little Tennessee through whiskey tastings, specialty cocktails, Nashville Hot Chicken, Memphis-style barbeque and a rock-climbing wall. The family-friendly event offers something for everyone from pets to kids alike, with an on-site dog park and children’s games. Little Tennessee will also offer a flower market, live mural paintings, craft artisan demonstrations and more.

There has never been a better time to visit Tennessee, with five nonstop routes from Canada to Nashville and dozens of connections at any of the states five airports. Click here for a full line of activities and events.

About the Author

Bryen Dunn is a freelance journalist based in Toronto with a focus on tourism, lifestyle, entertainment and community issues. He has written several travel articles and has an extensive portfolio of celebrity interviews with musicians, actors and other public personalities. He’s willing to take on any assignments of interest, attend parties with free booze, listen to rants, and travel the world in search of the great unknown. He’s eager to discover the new, remember the past, and look into the future.