August 13, 2026
Happy Thursday, Mt. Juliet! 🌞
The Wilson County Fair starts today! 🎉 If you’re heading to the Fair, be sure to grab our Wilson County Fair Guide before you go. It has everything you need to know about schedules, food, entertainment, parking and more—plus 7 exclusive fair vendor coupons you won’t find anywhere else- including one for last year’s Best of the Fair award winner!
And while the Fair may be the big story this week, we’ve got plenty more happening around town. We’re talking hummingbird migration, sharing a local hidden gem, kicking off a new Mt. Juliet history photo series, rounding up upcoming events and bringing you a KND Cheesecakes coupon (trust us, you don’t want to miss that one!). Back-to-school routines are settling in, the Tennessee heat is still doing its thing, and we’re all just trying to keep up. 😂
So grab your iced coffee, find a shady spot and let’s see what’s happening around town! ☀️🐦🎡
Denise & Mike
In this week’s newsletter…
Wilson County Fair
Hummingbird Migration
A Look Back: Mt. Juliet’s History in Photos
Hidden Gem: Blade’s Bread Shed
Pets of the Week
Inside Deals: Exclusive Subscriber Coupons
Things to Do in Mt Juliet This Week
Weekly weather forecast
🎪 The Wilson County Fair Kicks Off Today!
Today is the day! The 2026 Wilson County Fair/Tennessee State Fair kicks off today and runs through August 22, bringing ten days of rides, entertainment, food, competitions, and family fun to our community.
Last week, we shared our complete 2026 Wilson County Fair Guide, and we’re featuring it again this week because if you’re going to the Fair, you’ll want to have it handy! We’ve included 7 exclusive coupons that can only be found inside the guide, giving you a chance to save while you enjoy the Fair. And one of those coupons is a BOGO deal on the food item that won last year’s Best of Fair award! Definitely worth checking out before you go.
We’ve also packed it with everything you need to plan your visit, including ticket information, daily schedules, entertainment, food vendors, parking tips, special events and more.
Whether you’re heading to the Fair for the first time or continuing a longtime family tradition, we hope our guide helps you make the most of your visit—and saves you a little money along the way! 🎡
Speaking of the Wilson County Fair… our family is gearing up for some serious fair fun!
We’re planning to go, try all the favorites, and soak up as much of the fair experience as we can.
We’ll be sharing a fun fair photo each day on our Facebook page, so if you’d like to follow along with our adventures (and maybe get a little fair inspiration along the way), be sure to follow us at www.facebook.com/whatsupmtjuliet.
🗒 Wilson County Fair Poll
You just walked through the gates at the Wilson County Fair… where are you going FIRST? 😋
We’ll share your answers next week!
Tiny Travelers: Mt. Juliet’s Hummingbirds Are Getting Ready to Head South
Have you noticed your hummingbird feeder getting extra busy lately? You’re not imagining it! Late summer is prime hummingbird season in Mt. Juliet, and right now, these tiny visitors are fueling up for a very long trip south.
The ruby-throated hummingbird is the one you're most likely to see around Mt. Juliet and the only hummingbird species that regularly breeds in Tennessee. The males have those shimmering red throats, while females are mostly green and white. Migration can begin as early as July, but mid-August through early September is often the busiest time, when young hummingbirds join the adults and everyone is stocking up on energy for the journey.
The Incredible Journey
Here's the really amazing part: some ruby-throated hummingbirds fly nearly 500 miles across the Gulf of Mexico without stopping. That's roughly 18–20 hours of nonstop flying over open water for a bird that weighs only a few grams! After crossing the Gulf, they continue toward wintering grounds in southern Mexico and Central America.
How You Can Help
If you have a feeder, keep it out! Use 1 part white sugar to 4 parts water—no red dye, honey or artificial sweeteners—and change the nectar every 3–4 days, or more often during hot weather. Keep the feeder clean, too.
And don't worry that leaving your feeder up will keep hummingbirds from migrating. Their migration is triggered primarily by changes in daylight, not food availability. In fact, it's a good idea to leave your feeder up for a couple of weeks after your last sighting to help any late travelers passing through.
Most of our hummingbirds will be gone by early October, although a few may stick around longer. The good news? They'll be back before we know it, with the first hummingbirds typically returning to Tennessee in mid-to-late March.
So enjoy the show while it lasts. Those tiny flashes of green and ruby red are getting ready for one seriously impressive road trip! 🐦❤️
📸 A Look Back
With a new school year beginning, we thought it would be fun to take a walk down memory lane and look back at a little Mt. Juliet educational history. Over the next several weeks, we'll be sharing a different historic photo each week, offering a glimpse into how our community has grown and changed over the years.
This is a great one to start with. This photo, taken around 1967, shows Mt. Juliet's school bus drivers posing in front of the buses they drove. A lot has changed since then—but it's always fun to look back at the people and places that helped shape our community. If you know anyone in this group, we’d love to hear from you!
A special thank you to Wilson County Archivist Linda Granstaff for generously providing these wonderful photos for us to share with the community. We hope you enjoy this journey through Mt. Juliet's past!
Hidden Gem: Blade’s Bread Shed 🍞
Sometimes the best local finds are the ones tucked away in our own backyard. This week’s Hidden Gem takes us to one of Mt. Juliet’s many roadside stands — Blade’s Bread Shed, located just off S. Mt. Juliet Rd. south of Providence.
This little bread shed is filled with homemade goodies, including fresh sourdough loaves, cookies, muffins, and specialty items that are made with care by a local family. Supporting places like this means supporting our neighbors, and that’s exactly what makes these hidden gems so special.
If you’re a chocolate chip cookie fan, you’ll definitely want to try the Browned Butter Chocolate Cookies. In case you missed it, they were a fan favorite during our Best of Mt. Juliet Chocolate Chip Cookie Quest, and it’s easy to see why!
Whether you’re grabbing a loaf for your family, picking up a sweet treat, or trying something new, Blade’s Bread Shed is a fun local stop worth checking out.
Support local, shop small, and enjoy some homemade goodness right here in Mt. Juliet!
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🐾 Pets of the Week: Meet Jack and Jill!
Jack
Jill
If you’re looking for a little extra puppy love in your life, Jack and Jill might be just the pair to meet! These adorable 9-week-old Great Pyrenees/Mountain Cur mix puppies are not only incredibly cute, but they have the sweetest, most laid-back personalities.
They’re the kind of puppies that make you stop for a second and say, “Okay… I need to cuddle you.” ❤️
The Mt. Juliet Animal Shelter is working toward an adoption goal, and they’re still trying to get there. Maybe Jack or Jill—or even both—could be the ones to help make it happen!
If you’ve been thinking about adding a furry friend to your family, stop by the shelter and meet these two sweet pups. You might just fall in love. 🐶💕
❤️ Interested in adopting these cuties? Visit the Mt. Juliet Animal Shelter during business hours or stop by their Ice Cream Social Adoption event this Saturday from 11-2!
What’s Up Mt Juliet Shortcuts:
💸 Insider Deals
If you haven't discovered K.N.D. Cheesecakes & Chicken yet, now's the perfect excuse! This local favorite serves up crispy fried chicken, delicious fried fish, wings, and comforting Southern favorites—but don't leave without trying one of their incredible house-made cheesecakes. Rich, creamy, and available in a variety of flavors, they're the perfect way to end your meal (or take home for later!).
This week's exclusive coupon: Enjoy 10% OFF your order at K.N.D. Cheesecakes & Chicken. Treat yourself to a delicious meal and an unforgettable dessert!
We’ve also included a sneak peek at one of the coupons available in our 2026 Wilson County Fair Guide. Make sure you check them out!
This Week’s Line Up
$= There is a charge for these events
Friday, August 14
🐮 Chick-Fil-A Bingo | MJ Chick-Fil-A | 9 - 10 am
Join in on a fun game of cow-themed bingo for a chance to win prizes! While you're there, treat yourself to a chicken biscuit or frosted coffee for the perfect morning outing.
📖 Story Time | Breeden’s Orchard | 10 - 11 am
A sweet morning on the farm for little ones—Story Time at Breeden’s Orchard features engaging stories, fresh air, and relaxed playtime in a cozy outdoor setting.
🎵 Live Music | Burger Republic | 6 - 9 pm
Looking for a fun way to spend your evening? Grab a burger, your favorite drink, and enjoy live music from a local band while soaking up the great atmosphere.
🎨 Paint Your Partner Night with Catered Dinner | Hammer & Stain | 6 pm | $
Participate in the latest trend where you paint a portrait of your spouse, partner, or bestie! This special evening includes a catered Olive Garden Dinner.
🤣 Belly Laughs Comedy Show | Billy Goat Coffee | 7:30 pm | $
Come out for a night of family-friendly laughs with Myles Weber. All ages are welcome.
🦊 Movie in the Park: Zootopia 2 | Charie Daniels Amphitheatre | 8:05 pm
Bring your blankets and lawn chairs and join MJ Parks and Rec for a free movie under the stars! Concessions will be available for purchase.
Just around the corner:
🎪 Wilson County Fair | Wilson County Fairgrounds, Lebanon, TN | 4- 10 pm | $
🐿 Reading Ranger Story Time | Cedars of Lebanon State Park, Lebanon, TN | 11 am - 12 pm
🎵 3 Bean Soup LIVE | Stars & Stables Farm, Lebanon, TN | 7:00 - 10:00 pm | $
🥾 Sunset Hike | Cedars of Lebanon State Park, Lebanon, TN | 7:30 - 8:30 pm
Saturday, August 15
🍅 Farmer’s Market | Charlie Daniels Park | 8 am - 1 pm
This event brings together local farmers, artisans, and food vendors to create a lively, welcoming community market. It’s a fun way to shop while supporting local small businesses
🐶 Ice Cream Social Adoption Event | Mt. Juliet Animal Shelter | 11 am - 2 pm
August is Clear the Shelters month! Stop by the animal shelter to meet amazing dogs and cats waiting for their forever families.
🎹 Dueling Pianos | Mt. Juliet Sport & Social | 7:30 - 11:30 pm
Get ready for a night of high-energy, sing-along fun as two talented pianists go head-to-head, taking your requests and battling it out.
Just around the corner:
🧘 Rise and Shine Yoga in the Park | Cedars of Lebanon State Park, Lebanon, TN | 8:30 - 9:30 am
🎪 Wilson County Fair | Wilson County Fairgrounds, Lebanon, TN | 10 am- 10 pm | $
🃏 Card Club | Hermitage Library, Hermitage, TN | 10:30 am - 4:30 pm
🌠 Astronomy Night Under the Stars | Cedars of Lebanon State Park, Lebanon, TN | 7:30 - 10:00 pm
Sunday, August 16
Just around the corner:
🎪 Wilson County Fair | Wilson County Fairgrounds, Lebanon, TN | 12- 9 pm | $
🐦 Paint Your Own Birdhouse | Cedars of Lebanon State Park, Lebanon, TN | 2:30- 3:30 pm | $
Monday, August 17
☕ Bingo Night | Compassion Coffeehouse | 5 - 7 pm
Come out for a fun round of Bingo and a chance to win free coffee! ☕️🎉 Grab your friends, play a few games and see if your lucky number comes up!
🀄 Mahjong Night | Braingineers Lab | 6 - 8:30 pm | $
Mahjong night is a great excuse to get out, have some fun, and enjoy a little friendly competition! Bring your game face, grab your friends, and join in for a fun night around the table.
Just around the corner:
🎴 Mahjong | Hermitage Library, Hermitage, TN | 10:30 am - 12:30 pm
🎪 Wilson County Fair | Wilson County Fairgrounds, Lebanon, TN | 4- 9 pm | $
🐮 Cow Cuddles and Coloring | S&G Legacy Farm, Lebanon, TN | 5 pm | $
🖼 Art Night at the Library | Hermitage Library, Hermitage, TN | 6:00 - 7:00 pm
Tuesday, August 18
💵 Mt. Juliet Job Fair | Goodwill of Mt. Juliet | 10 am - 12 pm
Meet with employers, explore career opportunities, and learn about the free resources available through Goodwill Career Solutions.
💻 Computer Class: Internet Security and Online Safety | Mt. Juliet Library | 11 am - 12 pm
Join the library staff for a free class covering practical tips for internet security and online safety — register in advance, as space is limited.
Just around the corner:
🎪 Wilson County Fair | Wilson County Fairgrounds, Lebanon, TN | 4- 9 pm | $
🎮 Teen Hangout | Hermitage Public Library, Hermitage, TN | 4:30 - 5:30 pm
🏦 Sojourner Truth Living History Exhibit | The Hermitage, Hermitage, TN | 7:00 - 8:30 pm | $
🎸 Grand Ole Barn Hit Songwriter’s Night | Stars & Stables Farm, Lebanon, TN | 7:00 - 10:00 pm | $
Wednesday, August 19
🀄 Mahjongg Afternoon | Billy Goat Coffee Cafe | 1 - 4 pm
Enjoy a friendly game of Mahjongg, meet new friends, and have fun each week. Whether you're a seasoned player or still learning, everyone is welcome!
Just around the corner:
🎪 Wilson County Fair | Wilson County Fairgrounds, Lebanon, TN | 4- 9 pm | $
🧘♀ Gentle Yoga | Hermitage Library, Hermitage, TN | 6 - 7 pm
Thursday, August 20
Just around the corner:
🀄 Mahjong | Hermitage Library, Hermitage, TN | 10:30 am - 12:30 pm
🍩 Classic Movies and Donuts | Hermitage Library, Hermitage, TN | 10:30 am - 1:00 pm
Looking for even more to do? Browse the complete What's Up Mt. Juliet Community Calendar for live music, trivia, poker, karaoke, markets, festivals, and other upcoming events happening in and around Mt. Juliet.
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Meet the Team
Denise is a SoCal native who has called Middle Tennessee home for 25 years. A self-proclaimed foodie, she’s always on the hunt for the area's latest and greatest restaurants—though during football season, you’ll likely find her locked into a game.
Mike originally hails from New Jersey and has lived in Mt. Juliet for over 30 years. When he isn’t cheering on his favorite college and pro football teams, he loves getting out to catch some live local rock music.
Together, we started What’s Up Mt. Juliet because we believe there is so much to love about this great city. Each week, our goal is to bring you the best of Mt Juliet…and hopefully brighten your day along the way!
Thanks for letting us be a small part of your week!
Publication Disclaimer:
While we work hard to keep all information accurate and up to date, event details can change unexpectedly. We highly recommend double-checking the event links directly before heading out to ensure you have the latest updates. This newsletter contains affiliate links, meaning we may receive a commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. We deeply appreciate your support, which helps keep our content running.