Unique Cultural Celebrations

Chattanooga, rich in cultural vitality, hosts a variety of unique festivals and events celebrating its diversity. Visitors and locals alike have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a vibrant tapestry of music, arts, heritage, and culinary experiences.

Music and Arts Festivals

• Chattanooga Film Festival: Independent Film Showcase

  The Chattanooga Film Festival is a must-attend event for film enthusiasts, showcasing innovative and independent cinema from around the globe. This festival provides a platform for burgeoning filmmakers, offering screenings, workshops, and networking opportunities amid Chattanooga's eclectic arts scene. Known for its emphasis on fostering a love for creative storytelling, the festival attracts a diverse audience and has become a staple of the local cultural calendar.

• Songbirds Guitar Museum Events: Celebrating Musical Heritage

  Dedicated to preserving and promoting musical heritage, the Songbirds Guitar Museum hosts a variety of events throughout the year. These include live performances, educational programs, and curated exhibitions showcasing rare and vintage guitars. Music lovers will appreciate the museum's commitment to celebrating the guitar's role in shaping musical history, making it a haven for both musicians and enthusiasts.

• 4 Bridges Arts Festival: Contemporary Art Displays

  An annual highlight, the 4 Bridges Arts Festival draws artists from all over the country to a weekend filled with breathtaking contemporary art. Set against the scenic backdrop of the Tennessee River, this juried art show features diverse artistic expressions, from painting and sculpture to photography and mixed media. Attendees can engage with artists, purchase unique pieces, and enjoy live performances, making this festival a dynamic celebration of creativity.

Heritage and History

• Rock City’s Southern Blooms Festival

  Celebrating the vibrant blooms of spring, Rock City's Southern Blooms Festival is a tribute to the natural beauty of Chattanooga. Visitors explore Rock City Gardens, experiencing stunning floral displays, gardening workshops, and guided tours designed to educate and inspire. This festival not only highlights the region's horticultural prowess but also fosters an appreciation for environmental conservation.

• The Annual Native American Heritage Festival

  This festival honors the rich history and culture of Native American tribes in the southeastern United States. Held annually, it is an opportunity to experience authentic tribal dances, traditional music, storytelling, and crafts. Visitors gain insight into the vibrant and enduring legacy of Native American communities, making it a cultural experience not to be missed.

• Juneteenth Festival: Honoring Freedom

  Chattanooga's Juneteenth Festival is a poignant celebration of African American culture and freedom. Observed historically as the end of slavery in the United States, this festival features music, food, arts and crafts, and a series of educational activities. It provides a platform for discussions on history, social change, and community empowerment, and serves as a meaningful reminder of resilience and hope.

Food and Beverage Events

• Chattanooga Taco Festival: Spicing Things Up

  For taco lovers, the Chattanooga Taco Festival is a savory spectacle offering a delightful array of flavors. With vendors serving up a variety of tacos, from traditional to uniquely inspired creations, this festival is a culinary adventure. Attendees can enjoy live music, contests, and family-friendly activities, making it a vibrant community gathering.

• Wine over Water: A Unique Tasting Experience

  Known as one of the most anticipated wine-tasting events in Chattanooga, Wine over Water offers the chance to sample fine wines from over 150 wineries while enjoying scenic views from the Walnut Street Bridge. Complemented by offerings from local restaurants and live jazz music, this event provides a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere for wine aficionados and casual sippers alike.

• Chattanooga Craft Beer Festival: Local Brews

  Craft beer enthusiasts will find plenty to toast at the Chattanooga Craft Beer Festival. Featuring a selection of local and regional breweries, this festival allows attendees to taste a wide range of unique brews. Beyond sampling, visitors can learn from brewmasters, witness brewing demonstrations, and indulge in food pairings, all within a lively and festive setting.