John Gunther thought Knoxville was "the ugliest city" in America. Locals formed the Dogwood Trails (and later, the festival) ...

Its goal throughout the year and during an incredibly busy spring season: Make "life a little more interesting." ...

The first Dogwood Trail was created in 1955 and incorporated six areas of town. The Dogwood Arts Festival began in 1961 and introduced programming from community organizations alongside the trail.