Blount Mansion, “the birthplace of Tennessee,” is partnering with the City of Knoxville, fellow members of the Historic Homes of Knoxville and Visit Knoxville for a celebration of the Volunteer State’s 225th birthday. The event will begin with a short procession led by Watauga Valley Fife and Drum Corps, students from South Knoxville Elementary School and interpreters in 18th century attire at James White’s Fort. The procession will end at Blount Mansion where Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee, Knoxville Mayor Indya Kincannon and Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs will share remarks. Guests will enjoy free MoonPies and other Tennessee-themed refreshments. The celebration is free and open to the public. Attire: Casual, business casual, business.

Lee will kick off his Untold Tennessee initiative, a year-long, statewide series of events and activities in each of the state’s 95 counties to commemorate 225 years of Tennessee statehood. Tennessee became the country’s 16th state on June 1, 1796.