The Great TV Auction returns May 30–June 7, 2026, with live broadcasts June 3–7.

The Great TV Auction is Back for Year 43!

Get ready for one of the Upper Cumberland’s most exciting community traditions as the Great TV Auction returns for its 43rd year in 2026!

Hundreds of items, incredible local support, live entertainment, fun games, and unbeatable community spirit all come together for one unforgettable week benefiting your local public television station.

Preview the Auction Now!

The online Auction site is now open for preview, giving you an early look at some of the amazing items, packages, experiences, gift certificates, décor, local services, and one-of-a-kind finds that will be up for bid this year. Start building your wish list and planning your bidding strategy now! 

Bidding Opens May 30 – June 7

Online bidding officially begins May 30 and continues through June 7, giving viewers and supporters multiple chances to win while supporting WCTE and local programming throughout the Upper Cumberland.

Nightly Televised Showcase | June 3 – June 7

Join us each evening for the live Nightly Showcase featuring:

• Live local music
• Community guests
• Auction highlights
• Fun “Minute to Win It” style games
• Big laughs and even bigger prizes

The Nightly Showcase is where the excitement comes alive each night during Auction week!

Back by Popular Demand — The Nightly Firehouse!

Returning this year is the fan-favorite Nightly Firehouse, airing live nightly at 8:55 PM.

This fast-paced five-minute event will feature:

• Brand-new items never before seen during the Auction
• Exclusive deals and surprise packages
• Rapid-fire bidding excitement
• One chance only before the items close for good

If you love suspense, surprises, and last-minute bidding action, you will not want to miss the Nightly Firehouse!

Be Part of the Tradition

For 43 years, the Great TV Auction has brought the community together in support of public television, local storytelling, educational programming, and the people and businesses that make the Upper Cumberland special.

Bid big. Laugh loud. Support local.
The Great TV Auction 2026 is almost here!

Thursday, June 4 from 7 PM – 9 PM, join Avery live at Spankies for a special “Auction with Avery” community watch party!

Come enjoy the atmosphere from the patio, watch the Great TV Auction live, cheer on the fun, and be part of the excitement with fellow Auction fans and supporters.

• Actively bid on auction items
• Attend Auction with Avery at Spankies 
• Tell your friends and family to bid 
• Like, comment, and share social media posts. 
• Tune in and watch the Great TV Auction showcase on television!
• Sign up to participate in the nightly games.
• Volunteer!! 

• Advertise your business to over 1.3 MILLION VIEWERS!
• Your business will be featured on the longest running and largest station fundraiser in history!
• Build brand awareness with buyers through the Online Auction & TV Showcase
• Get buyers into your store or using your service
• Your business receives great multi-media exposure through online streaming on social media and websites, plus broadcast over the air
• Your donation supports WCTE PBS Central Tennessee

• The Great TV Auction has showcased 100’s of businesses and sold 1000’s of items donated by local businesses since the first auction in 1983.
• The Auction fundraiser has grown into a 9 day, 24/7 online auction with an on-air, LIVE, multi-night showcase.
• The online auction launched in 2020 and quickly gained over 2,000 active bidders that placed multiple bids on multiple items!
• The auction is a great opportunity for businesses to showcase their goods and services.
• This is the single largest fundraiser for WCTE PBS Central Tennessee

Follow us on Social Media and share your favorite items on Facebook or Twitter. Tag @WCTE for a live shout-out at the Great TV Auction!