KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Basketball fan favorite "Market Square Madness" is set to return to downtown Knoxville on Friday, Oct. 18.
The University of Tennessee's men's and women's basketball teams will take part in the third annual event, which is free on Market Square, according to the UT Athletics Department.
At 7 p.m. Oct. 18, fans can see and get photos with the mascot Smokey and members of the Tennessee Spirit Squads. There'll also be face-painting and opportunities to win prizes.
Members of the dance team will perform, and then the Volunteers and the Lady Vols will take to the square with "skill challenges" and fan contests, according to the department.
The event always draws a crowd. You're advised to get parked and settled early if possible.
There are plenty of parking options including downtown garages such as Market Square Garage, State Street Garage and Locust Street Garage. Parking there is free after 6 p.m.
Market Square has become a popular place to celebrate UT athletics. In June, UT's baseball team -- the NCAA Champs -- was feted after their victory in Omaha.
For the Lady Vols, this is the first year for new head coach Kim Caldwell.
The UT men, led by Rick Barnes, were 27-9 last season and won the SEC regular season title before advancing to the Elite Eight. The team includes senior guard Zakai Zeigler.
