September 3, 2026

Happy Thursday, Mt. Juliet!

September is here, but apparently Mother Nature didn’t get the memo. 😂 It’s still hot outside, but we’re starting to see a little fall creeping into Mt. Juliet—and we’re not mad about it. Pumpkin flavors, fall events and plenty of local things to explore are giving us something to look forward to as we wait for those cooler days.

There’s a lot packed into this week’s newsletter, including a few fun finds around town, a great way to catch a Titans game for just $28, and a look at the impressive Labors of Love Garden. Plus, we’ve highlighted a few more things happening around town that you won’t want to miss. 🍂

So, grab a cool drink, and let’s catch up on what’s happening around Mt. Juliet! 🥤 🍂

Denise & Mike

Have you ever noticed the garden at the end of Charlie Daniels Park, just before the Cedar Creek Greenway Bridge, and wondered what it's all about?

It's the Jan Littrell Labors of Love Garden, and it's quietly doing some pretty amazing things for our community.

The garden was established around 2010 by Jan Littrell and has grown into about 27 raised beds, filled each year with tomatoes, cucumbers, spinach, peppers, squash, zucchini, eggplant, beans, cauliflower, garlic and greens.

But the vegetables aren't going home with the gardeners. All of the produce is donated to the Mt. Juliet Help Center and Mt. Juliet Senior Citizen Center, helping provide fresh vegetables to people right here in our community.

I recently spoke with David Bates, who shared the story of the garden and the dedicated volunteers behind it. Approximately 13–14 Wilson County Master Gardeners maintain the garden, meeting every Saturday throughout the planting and harvest season. Planting usually begins around the last week of April, with harvesting continuing into September or October.

And they're having an especially good year. The 2026 harvest has already topped 3,000 pounds of fresh vegetables!

The garden also has a strong educational side. Signs at each raised bed identify what's growing and provide information about the vegetable. Visitors are always welcome to walk through the garden, and if the gardeners are there, they'll be happy to explain what's growing and answer questions.

That commitment to education recently earned the garden the 2026 Tennessee Excellence Teaching Site Award, presented by the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture in Knoxville.

The gardeners also get a helping hand from a local business. Needham's Nursery in Mt. Juliet donates raised-bed soil and plants every year to help keep the garden growing.

It's easy to walk right past the garden without realizing just how much happens there. But behind those 27 raised beds is a group of volunteers putting in hundreds of hours to grow fresh food, share knowledge and give back to the community.

That's a pretty wonderful labor of love. ❤️

Volunteers who work in the garden must be certified Wilson County Master Gardeners. If you'd like to learn more about becoming a Master Gardener, classes are typically held in Lebanon beginning in January or early February.

Contact [email protected] for more information.

Somehow, we went from back-to-school chaos to September almost overnight. And while it may still feel like summer outside, there are already signs that fall is on its way.

September brings movie nights, a fall yard sale, Market Night and more reasons to get out around town. Here are a few dates to put on your calendar now…

College football is officially back, and if you're anything like us, Saturdays just got a whole lot more interesting. 🏈 Whether you're loyal to the Vols, yelling Roll Tide from the couch, cheering for the Commodores or simply looking for a good excuse to grab some wings and watch football with friends, there's plenty of action on tap this weekend.

Here's a look at some of our local favorites taking the field on Saturday:

11 AM
🐘 Alabama vs. East Carolina

12 PM
💙 Kentucky vs. Youngstown State

2 PM
🐯 Tennessee State at Georgia

2:30 PM
🧡 Tennessee vs. Furman
🐯 Auburn vs. Baylor

6 PM
⚓ Vanderbilt vs. Austin Peay
💙 MTSU vs. Murray State

Want to get out of the house and catch the games with other fans? Here are some local spots with plenty of TVs and a game-day atmosphere:

• Jonathan's Grille
• M.L. Rose
• Mt. Juliet Sport & Social Co.
• USA Sports Grill
• Hillside Hangout
• Buffalo Wild Wings
• Kat's Bar & Grille
• The Pub Bar and Grill
• East Nashville Beer Works - Lebanon
• Coach's Eastgate Grille- Lebanon

From wings and burgers to cold drinks and plenty of screens, Mt. Juliet has no shortage of places to settle in for a Saturday full of football. Just remember that every fan base will probably be looking for a TV this weekend, so arriving a little early might not be a bad idea!

Did we miss your favorite place to watch college football? Let us know!

Titans fans have a special opportunity to celebrate franchise great Chris Johnson while supporting an important cause.

For the Titans' home opener against the New York Jets on Sunday, September 13, fans can purchase special $28 tickets—a tribute to Johnson's iconic No. 28 jersey. From each ticket sold through the offer, $5 will benefit the Vanderbilt ALS Research Center.

The game will be especially meaningful as Johnson is inducted into the Titans Ring of Honor during halftime. Earlier this year, the beloved former running back shared that he is living with ALS.

It's a chance to celebrate one of the Titans' all-time greats while supporting research into the disease he is now courageously battling. For ticket information, click here.💙

We may still be sweating through September afternoons, but our local restaurants are already giving us a taste of the season! 🎃🍎☕

Pumpkin, caramel, apple, cinnamon and all those cozy fall flavors are starting to pop up on menus around Mt. Juliet — and we’re here for it!

We’ve rounded up a few of our favorite fall drinks and treats we’ve spotted so far. Here’s what’s catching our eye and where you can find it!

🍵 7Brew
👉 What to try: Pumpkin Roll Shake
🍂 Fall flavor: Brown Sugar, Cinnamon, White Chocolate + Pumpkin
📍 Where: 11226 Lebanon Rd

☕ Billy Goat Coffee Cafe
👉 What to try: Apple Pie Latte
🍂 Fall flavor: Espresso, Brown Sugar, Cinnamon, Apple + Caramel
📍 Where: 3690 N. Mt Juliet Rd

❤ Just Love Coffee Cafe
👉 What to try: Lumberjack
🍂 Fall flavor: Espresso, Caramel Sauce, Maple Spice + Cinnamon
📍 Where: 63 Belinda Pkwy.

🎃 Breeden’s Orchard
👉 What to try: Apple Cider Donut
🍂 Fall flavor: Apple + Cinnamon
📍 Where: 631 Beckwith Rd

🍁 Scooter’s Coffee
👉 What to try: Pumpkin Caramelicious Latte or Muffin
🍂 Fall flavor: Sweet Pumpkin, Buttery Caramel + Warm Pumpkin Spices
📍 Where: 1526 N. Mt Juliet Rd

Know of a fall favorite we should try? Send it our way! We’re always looking for the next delicious find around town. 🍁

Looking for a creative outlet for your little artist? Hammer & Stain Mount Juliet is offering kids art classes for students in 1st through 8th grade, with new sessions starting this week!

Kids can choose between Tuesday or Wednesday classes, with options available for homeschool students and after-school schedules. Each session gives young artists a chance to get creative, explore different projects and have some hands-on fun.

Class options include:

If you have a creative kiddo who loves getting messy with paint and making something uniquely their own, this could be a fun opportunity to check out! Click here for more info.

We've spent the past few weeks taking a little trip back through Mt. Juliet's educational history, and this week we'll wrap up this series with two more old schoolhouses.

Don't worry—we're not done digging into Mt. Juliet's past! We'll find another way to bring some of our local history to life in the future. For now, let's take one last look at two schools that served families in the area many decades ago.

Built in 1898, Beckwith School was located in the Silver Springs community in the 2nd District, between Mt. Juliet and Lebanon, north of the Old Railroad Bed Road on Beckwith Road. The school eventually gave its name to the surrounding community and remained open until around 1956 or 1957.

It's hard to look at this little schoolhouse and imagine it as a place filled with students, lessons and the everyday activity of school life. Today, we have schools with gyms, cafeterias and technology in every classroom. Back then, things were a whole lot simpler!

Built in 1906, Cooks School—called Cookeville School in an insurance report—was located off Highway 70 behind Cooks Methodist Church on Cooks Road.

For a number of years, it was a two-teacher school, with two classrooms and a kitchen. By 1952, the school had one teacher.

Two little schoolhouses, more than a century old, and a reminder of just how different getting an education looked for Mt. Juliet-area children generations ago.

Thanks for taking this little walk through history with us! ❤️ We'll put the old school photos away for now, but there's plenty more Mt. Juliet history out there waiting to be uncovered.

Did someone in your family attend school here, or do you remember this building? Hit reply and share your memories with us!

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!

Interested in partnering with What's Up Mt. Juliet? Your business can reach thousands of engaged local readers while supporting a free community newsletter. Sponsorships start at just $10/week. Click here to learn more.

Kat at Kat's Bar & Grille has graciously agreed to extend last week's offer for another week! 💛

So if you didn't get a chance to use it, here's another opportunity to enjoy a FREE Happy Hour appetizer with any purchase! 😋🎉

$= There is a charge for these events

Friday, September 4

🏢  Your State Connection | Mt. Juliet Chamber of Commerce | 8:30 - 9:30 am

"Your State Connection" offers Chamber members and guests an interactive monthly opportunity to connect directly with state legislators and share their ideas. This month's session features guest speaker Senator Mark Pody, and attendees are asked to register in advance.

🐮  Cow Bingo | Mt. Juliet 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.

💐  U-Pick Flowers | The Flower Patch | 10 am - 3 pm | $

Flowers are BLOOMING! Visit The Flower Patch to pick your own flowers or buy a premade bouquet from their self serve stand.

🍺  Cider Fridays Happy Hour | Breeden’s Orchard | 4:30 - 9:00 pm

Come hang out at the orchard, sip your favorite Breeden’s cider or beer, and make the most of your weekend on the farm. 🍎🍺

🧺  Friday Night Vendor Market | Main Street Market @ Circle P Ranch | 4 - 7:00 pm

Spend a beautiful evening shopping, eating, and supporting local businesses in the heart of Mt. Juliet.

Just around the corner:

🐦 Paint Your Own Birdhouse | Cedars of Lebanon, Lebanon, TN | 2 - 3 pm | $

🍽 Durci after Dark: Late Summer Harvest Dinner | Durci Chocolate, Lebanon, TN | 6 pm | $

🌟 Astronomy Night Under the Stars | Cedars of Lebanon, Lebanon, TN | 7:30 - 10 pm

Saturday, September 5

🍅 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

🐶 Mt Juliet Animal Shelter Adoption Event | Compassion Coffeehouse | 9 - 11 am

Come grab your morning coffee, love on some adorable adoptable pups and kitties, and maybe leave with a new best friend!

💖 Biscuits & Rhinestones Pop-Up | Sweet Biscuit Co. | 9 am - 12 pm

Celebrate Dolly the Sweet Biscuit way—with a fun pop-up featuring fan favorites, biscuits, hashbrown casserole, and adding a little biscuit twist on Dolly's favorites.

🚜 Touch a Tractor | Breeden’s Orchard | 9 am - 9 pm

Kids can climb aboard real John Deere tractors and farm equipment for a hands-on farm experience they'll never forget. It's the perfect day for little tractor lovers to explore, climb, and play!

📖  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.

💐  U-Pick Flowers | The Flower Patch | 10 am - 1 pm | $

Flowers are BLOOMING! Visit The Flower Patch to pick your own flowers or buy a premade bouquet from their self-serve stand.

🍁  Fall & Halloween DIY Doormat Painting Night | Hammer & Stain | 6 pm | $

Enjoy a fun BYOB evening painting a customized coir doormat with your choice of autumn or Halloween designs. It’s a creative way to craft personalized entryway décor to take home that same night!

🦜  Lost in Paradise- A Buffet Tribute | Caribbean Vibes Venue | 7 - 9 pm | $

Join fellow Parrot Heads at this special concert paying tribute to Jimmy Buffet.

🪩  Lights Out Social DJ Dance Party | MJ Sport & Social Co. | 9 pm - 1 am

This Labor Day weekend, Lights Out Social brings club vibes, flowing drinks, and an elevated DJ to the Speakeasy Social Lounge for a special darkroom experience.

Just around the corner:

🏁 SLUSH Motorsports Festival | Nashville Superspeedway, Lebanon, TN | Gates open at 7:30 am | $

🏎 Nashville Cars and Coffee | Nashville Superspeedway, Lebanon, TN | 8 - 11 am

🐾 Paws at the Park | Wilson County Vendor Market, Lebanon, TN | 8 am - 2 pm

🛻 Rustin’ & Shinin’ Car, Truck and Bike Show | 310 Purple Tiger Dr., Watertown, TN | 8 am - 2:30 pm

🚂 Tennessee Wine Tasting Excursion Train | Tennessee Central Railway Museum, Watertown, TN | 10 am | $

💗 Drug Free Wilco Hope & Recovery Fest | Cumberland University Alumni Hall, Lebanon, TN | 10 am - 2 pm

🐿 Wilson County Pokefest | Farm Bureau Expo Center, Lebanon, TN | 10 am - 6 pm

🃏 Card Club | Hermitage Library, Hermitage, TN | 10:30 am - 4:30 pm

🥫 Food Preservation Workshop | Hermitage Library, Hermitage, TN | 2 - 3 pm

🍽 Durci after Dark: Late Summer Harvest Dinner | Durci Chocolate, Lebanon, TN | 6 pm | $

Sunday, September 6

🚜 John Deere Touch a Tractor | Breeden’s Orchard | 9 am - 5 pm

Kids can climb aboard real John Deere tractors and farm equipment for a hands-on farm experience they'll never forget. It's the perfect day for little tractor lovers to explore, climb, and play!

🪩  Lights Out Social DJ Dance Party | MJ Sport & Social Co. | 9 pm - 1 am

This Labor Day weekend, Lights Out Social brings club vibes, flowing drinks, and an elevated DJ to the Speakeasy Social Lounge for a special darkroom experience.

Just around the corner:

🧈 Butter Churning Class | Cedars of Lebanon State Park, Lebanon, TN | 1:30 - 3:30 pm | $

🐿 Wilson County Pokefest | Farm Bureau Expo Center, Lebanon, TN | 11 am- 5 pm

Monday, September 7

🀄 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.

⚡ Harry Potter Themed Trivia | The Goat | 7 - 9 pm

Assemble your team and get ready to put your Harry Potter knowledge to the test! From Hogwarts houses and magical creatures to spells, characters, and unforgettable moments, they’re covering it all.

Just around the corner:

🍔 Labor Day BBQ: Grilled Burgers & Beer Brats | East Nashville Beer Works, Lebanon, TN | 11 am - 5 pm

Tuesday, September 8

Just around the corner:

🎮 Teen Hangout | Hermitage Public Library, Hermitage, TN | 4:30 - 5:30 pm

Wednesday, September 9

🚴 Cyclists in Cadence Getting Coffee | Hamilton-Denson Park | 8 - 11 am

Two routes starting from Hamilton-Denson Park to Breeden's Orchard for coffee and conversion using Mt. Juliet's greenways, backroads, and bicycle infrastructure.

🀄  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:

✏ Writer Support Group | Hermitage Library, Hermitage, TN | 5:30 - 7:30 pm

🧘‍♀ Gentle Yoga | Hermitage Library, Hermitage, TN | 6 - 7 pm

Thursday, September 10

Just around the corner:

🧪 Library Lab: A STEAM Program | Hermitage Library, Hermitage, TN | 4:30 - 5:30 pm

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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!

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