New Resident Welcome E-Packet


Welcome to Athens! We are thrilled to have you as a part of our vibrant and diverse community. Nestled in
the scenic foothills between the bustling metropolitan hubs of Knoxville and Chattanooga, Athens,
Tennessee is a treasure trove of history and natural beauty. Known for our welcoming atmosphere, we take
immense pride in our reputation as the Friendly City, and it’s our people that make it so inviting.
Athens is a place of opportunities. Here, you’ll discover a place filled with friendly faces, a sense of
belonging, and an abundance of resources to help you make the most of your time with us. Whether you’re
looking for a peaceful sanctuary to unwind or the adventurous type, our prime location provides easy
access to both city amenities and the breathtaking mountains and waterways for activities like fishing,
hiking, and kayaking. Our Athens Regional Park, boasting 165 acres of recreational space, is a haven for
outdoor enthusiasts, featuring fishing lakes, hiking trails, playground, splashpad, sports fields, and disc golf
course. The renowned Eureka Trail provides an excellent avenue for hiking, biking and horse riding,
catering to individuals of all skill levels.
At the heart of our essence lies a commitment to enhancing the quality of life for our residents and their
families. Our calendar is brimming with engaging events such as the Athens Soap Box Derby, Fishing
Derby, Fireworks, and Mother Son and Daddy Daughter Dances. The city proudly honors our military
veterans with the Veterans Brick Ceremony. The final home port of the U.S.S. Charles R. Ware naval
destroyer is right here in Athens. Furthermore, our vibrant community celebrates diversity and culture
through events like MooFest, Pumpkintown, and Sounds of Summer festivals, heritage school, professional
performing arts, home-grown concert series, and community theater. You can also enjoy seasonal events
such as the Athens Farmers Market and Old-Fashioned Downtown Christmas.
Emphasizing education and environmental consciousness, the Wetlands at E. G. Fisher Public Library
highlight the rich biodiversity of our local ecosystem. Our downtown area thrives with shopping, dining,
and the Historic Downtown Walking Tour which delves into our historical roots including the Battle of
Athens in 1946.
We are delighted to have you move to our charming city and we hope that you get a taste of the warmth
and hospitality that defines us as the Friendly City. Once again, welcome to Athens, where history meets
hospitality.
To keep up to date information on the city, you can follow it on social media and the Channel 95 Education and Government Channel on Comcast services.