Rossini Festival 2008 - Knoxville Tennessee
European flair took over downtown Knoxville on Saturday, April 19th, during the Rossini Festival. This East Tennessee tradition celebrates the sounds of classical Opera and the tastes of Italian cuisine. The festival was filled with activities ranging from world-renowned opera performances, wine tasting, and art exhibitions. 
Flickr photo by Jon Gustin
Walking down Gay Street on Saturday, you might have forgotten you were in Knoxville because it was transformed into a classic Italian Street fair. People soaked up the culture from noon to nine. There were three different stages spotlighting various different entertainment. People took in one of the performances while strolling through the Artesian Market. It was one tempting walk! The area was flooded with the smells of authentic Mediterranean food. It truly was a day for the whole family because kids loved playing in the special children area.
The festival culminated in a grand production of Tosca on Friday night and Sunday at the newly renovated Tennessee Theatre. This vibrate show about the life of famous Opera singer Floria Tosca, mesmerized the audiences with a tale of lust, love greed, corruption and mystery.
The Rossini Festival is just one of many exciting cultural activities happening this spring in East Tennessee. The third annual Jazz Festival starts on April 25th and is a can’t miss event for jazz lovers. The event will blend classic and modern jazz together for extraordinary weekend filled with unforgettable performances.
