Festivals in Chattanooga: Where to Find Food and Fun
Situated between the Appalachian Mountains and Tennessee River, Chattanooga is a vibrant city known for rich history, mountain landscapes and friendly locals. One way to experience this local charm is to attend an event. Throughout the year, the city hosts festivals that celebrate music, arts, food and community spirit. Want to learn more? Read about the best festivals in Chattanooga visitors can’t miss.
Festivals in Chattanooga: Let the Fun Times Roll
Chattanooga Film Festival – April
Film enthusiasts flock to the Chattanooga Film Festival for its selection of independent films, documentaries and genre cinema. Known for quirky and misfit programming, the festival also features panels, workshops, and special events with filmmakers and industry professionals.
4 Bridges Arts Festival – April
The 4 Bridges Arts Festival is a premier event for art lovers, showcasing more than 150 local, regional and national artists. The festival features mediums including painting, sculpture, jewelry and photography. Set in First Horizon Pavilion, this weekend event also includes live music, artist demonstrations and a marketplace.
Chattanooga Seafood Bash – May
Love fresh seafood? The Chattanooga Seafood Bash is a must for seafood lovers. Held in Coolidge Park, this festival brings the best of the sea to the mountains with seafood dishes, from shrimp and crab to oysters and lobster. In addition, guests enjoy live music, cooking demonstrations, arts and crafts vendors, and family-friendly activities.
NightFall – May through August
Every Friday night throughout the summer, downtown Chattanooga comes alive in hopes to unite the community. For more than 35 years, NightFall’s summer concert series has showcased music, art and family-friendly activities. All ages are welcome to listen to music, eat at food trucks and shop local artists. There is also motorcycle parking and an area dedicated to roller skating.
Riverbend Festival – June
Ranked among the best summer festivals in Chattanooga, Riverbend Festival features a lineup of musicians spanning genres from rock and country to blues and hip-hop. Located on the banks of the Tennessee River, Riverbend has multiple stages, fireworks, food vendors, and lasts a full three days. Past performers include Hank Williams Jr., The Beach Boys and Ludacris.
Chattanooga Oktoberfest – October
What about a taste of Bavarian culture? Oktoberfest includes traditional music, dance and plenty of beer. Visitors will enjoy local and German brews, authentic German cuisine, and family-friendly fun. During the event, Chattanooga Market transforms into a shopping hub with vendors selling handmade crafts and seasonal produce.
3 Sisters Festival – October
For more than 15 years, the 3 Sisters Festival has honored bluegrass music. Over the years, the festival has become one of the best bluegrass festivals in the U.S. Past artists have included Del McCoury Band, Yonder Mountain Band, Ricky Scaggs and Rhonda Vincent. In addition to great music, guests love the free admission for all ages and vendors that come to Ross’ Landing.
Mainx24 – December
Mainx24 is a 24-hour festival that highlights the creativity and community spirit of Chattanooga’s Southside District. The festival features a nonstop schedule of activities including parades, live music, art shows, wrestling matches and late-night parties.
After reading about annual festivals in Chattanooga, find some attractions for families. Then browse these family-friendly vacation rentals in Chattanooga.