The Southeast's Dedicated K-Pop Convention
Knox Pop Con 2026 brought live concerts, dance battles, cosplay, and 30+ vendors to Knoxville, TN on May 2 — recap inside.
What is Knox Pop Con?
Knox Pop Con is East Tennessee's premier Asian pop culture festival and the Southeast's only convention dedicated to K-Pop, J-Pop, and anime fandom. Run by a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, KPC brings together fans of all ages for live concerts, dance performances, cosplay contests, and community celebration.
Unlike massive conventions where K-Pop is a side track, Knox Pop Con puts Korean and Japanese pop culture front and center. From the first beat to the last dance, every moment is designed for fans who live and breathe Asian pop culture.
What KPC 2026 Delivered
Live J-Pop Concert
International J-Pop artist Shihori headlined — the voice behind JoJo's Bizarre Adventure, Fairy Tail, and League of Legends. Her first East Tennessee performance.
K-Pop Random Play Dance
200+ songs, no sign-up required. If you knew the choreography, you jumped in. A survival round handed out prizes to the last dancers standing.
Cosplay Contest
YAMA-CON presented a cosplay contest with six categories and prizes. All skill levels were welcome — first-timers and veterans alike.
DJ & MC
DJ NINJ3FF3C7 and rapper None Like Joshua brought anime-inspired beats and nerd-core hip-hop all night long.
JDM Car Show
Subie Crew Knoxville showcased modified JDM builds, itasha wraps, and anime-themed vehicles you won't see anywhere else.
30+ Vendors
Vendors sold K-Pop merchandise, anime art prints, handmade accessories, cosplay supplies, and exclusive convention-only items.
Featured Performers
Shihori
J-Pop vocalist and songwriter — 100+ songs, 13 Gold Disc certifications, 18M+ YouTube views. Credits include JoJo's, Fairy Tail, Macross, and League of Legends.
NINJ3FF3C7
Anime DJ and EDM producer fusing J-Pop remixes, nerd culture, and electronic dance music. Multi-genre sets spanning anime OSTs to K-Pop bangers.
None Like Joshua
Nerd-core rapper and anime MC with millions of YouTube views. Known for anime rap battles and high-energy live performances.
TNT-K
Nashville's audition-based K-Pop cover dance crew. High-energy choreography covering LE SSERAFIM, BLACKPINK, NCT, and more.
Location & Getting There
Knox Pop Con 2026 is at Bridgewater Place, 205 Bridgewater Rd, Knoxville, TN 37923. Free parking available on-site.
Knoxville is centrally located in the Southeast, making it an easy drive from major cities:
- Nashville, TN: ~2.5 hours
- Atlanta, GA: ~2.5 hours
- Charlotte, NC: ~4 hours
- Asheville, NC: ~2 hours
- Chattanooga, TN: ~1.5 hours
- Lexington, KY: ~2.5 hours
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Knox Pop Con only for K-Pop fans?
Not at all! Knox Pop Con covers K-Pop, J-Pop, anime, cosplay, JDM car culture, and Asian pop culture broadly. Whether you're into BTS, Studio Ghibli, or itasha car wraps, there's something for you.
Is this a good convention for families?
Yes! Knox Pop Con is an all-ages event run by a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Kids under 10 get in free with a ticketed adult. We have a strict anti-harassment policy and prioritize creating a safe, inclusive space.
Can I cosplay?
Absolutely! Cosplay is encouraged. YAMA-CON hosts an official cosplay contest with six categories and prizes for all skill levels. Even if you don't compete, you'll see amazing costumes everywhere.
Where is Knox Pop Con?
Bridgewater Place, 205 Bridgewater Rd, Knoxville, TN 37923. Easy access from I-40/I-75 with free on-site parking. About 2.5 hours from Nashville and Atlanta.
What are the ticket prices?
Knox Pop Con 2026 has wrapped, so ticket sales for that event are closed. KPC 2027 applications open later this year — pricing and dates will be announced closer to the event.
Explore More
Anime Convention Guide
The full guide to Knoxville's anime convention — lineup, schedule, and tickets.
What to Expect
Your complete guide to attending your first anime convention.
Cosplay Contest Info
YAMA-CON cosplay contest details — categories, rules, and prizes.
K-Pop Dance Classes
$10 weekly classes in Knoxville — learn choreography from your favorite groups.
First-Timer's Guide
New to conventions? Tips, packing lists, and everything you need to know.
See How It Went
Knox Pop Con 2026 wrapped May 2 at Bridgewater Place in Knoxville, TN. The Southeast's K-Pop convention will be back in 2027 — sign up to hear when.