KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT) — Knox County leaders are considering a long-term lease that could pave the way for a new agricultural center and potentially a future home for the Tennessee Valley Fair.
A letter of intent attached to the Knox County Commission’s August meeting agenda outlines plans for the county to lease approximately 120 acres of Strong Stock Farm’s 167-acre property at 8217 Rutledge Pike. The site is currently made up of undeveloped farmland and wooded areas.
According to the proposal, Knox County would be allowed to use the property only for agricultural purposes, including the construction of agricultural facilities and offices. The agreement specifically lists county fairs among the approved uses, opening the door for the Tennessee Valley Fair to eventually relocate to the property.
The fair’s future location has been a topic of discussion in recent years. The Tennessee Valley Fair has operated at Chilhowee Park for more than a century, but changes are on the horizon. Muse Knoxville is scheduled to move into the Jacob Building following the 2026 fair season. The building has traditionally served as a major venue for exhibits, vendors, shopping areas and fair events.
Questions have also surrounded the future of Chilhowee Park itself. Plans by the City of Knoxville to sell the property to the Emerald Youth Foundation faced opposition and ultimately stalled after voters decided they wanted a direct say in the property’s future.
The fair’s current lease with the city runs through 2029. However, Tennessee Valley Fair spokesperson Abby Villas said the agreement includes provisions that allow the city to make adjustments in March of 2027, 2028 and 2029. While the Jacob Building will no longer be available after the 2026 fair, Villas said future changes at Chilhowee Park could potentially improve available fair space.
Villas also noted conversations about relocating the fair have taken place, but discussions remain in the early stages. The proposed Rutledge Pike lease has not yet been approved, and Knox County has not assumed control of the property.
Under the proposed agreement, Knox County would pay $150,000 during the first year of the lease. The annual payment would increase based on federal economic data. The initial lease term would last 20 years, with three additional 10-year renewal options available to the county.
Knox County Commission is expected to discuss the proposed lease during its August meeting.
