Events in Chattanooga, TN

After Family Storytime, grownups can chat and connect with one another while the kids play. It’s an opportunity to share and learn from each other.

Meet professionals from the Hixson-Chattanooga area who are interested in building relationships and creating opportunities for business growth. RGA is an inclusive, collaborative networking community focused on trust and shared value rather than lead quotas. Bring 28 business cards.

Connect with local business professionals, share and promote businesses, products, and services, and meet potential referral contacts at this free networking lunch. There are no membership, attendance, or category requirements, and buying food or drinks is optional. Attendees may bring business cards or flyers and, if they wish, a door prize. The gathering includes an event program along with optional open networking before and after.

Kick off the weekend early with live music from local favorite Gabe Newell, whose set includes songs by Bob Seger, Chris Stapleton, and Tyler Childers. Enjoy dinner and a drink while taking in the show.

The Pharoahs Car Club Chattanooga holds a monthly meeting for all divisions at a new location. There will be plenty to discuss.

Charlie Berens brings The Lost and Found Tour to Tivoli Theatre • Walker Theatre • Memorial Auditorium. A comedian, New York Times bestselling author, Emmy-winning journalist, and musician, he is known for Midwest-centered sketches like The Manitowoc Minute and for the podcasts Bellied Up and The Cripescast. His down-to-earth humor has attracted more than 10 million followers and over 3 billion views across social platforms. Expect material rooted in Midwest life that still connects with audiences nationwide. Ticket access includes artist, venue, promoter, and Live Nation presales, followed by a public onsale.

Enjoy a lively game that puts a musical twist on bingo. Mark song titles on your card as each round features a different music genre or era, and sing along as you play. Prizes are awarded in every round, with dinner available at The Farm.

Explore the connection, creativity, and musicality of Argentine Tango in a welcoming, grounded class. Weekly classes are open to beginners, returning dancers, and intermediate dancers, with no partner or prior experience required. Lessons focus on steps and technique, body awareness, connection, musical understanding, improvisation, and personal expression, allowing dancers to learn and develop at their own pace. Instruction is led by a tango dancer and teacher with international experience and a background in the Sistema Dinzel® approach.

Food Truck Friday brings a rotating lineup of local flavors to the Kitchen Incubator of Chattanooga, highlighting small businesses with a lively lunchtime atmosphere. This monthly series features the Thanks and Giving Street Eats theme, with food trucks and market vendors, live radio broadcasts, giveaways, free parking, and more.

Fresh kettle corn is available every Friday at Brothers Bagel, just off Hixson Pike.

Enjoy a fun evening with the family featuring free axe throwing, food trucks, unique vendor booths, and games and activities for all ages.

Students can climb with a half-price Day Pass and a free rental gear package on Friday afternoons. It’s a chance to take a study break, spend time with classmates, or enjoy a date night while trying new routes. Guests over 18 must show a valid student ID.

This ceramics exhibit features work created by participants in community outreach programs throughout the year. The programs offer people of all ages and backgrounds hands-on opportunities to explore ceramics and express themselves. At the opening reception, guests can view the exhibition, celebrate the artists, and learn about the partnerships and programs that make clay accessible throughout the Chattanooga community.

As part of Chattanooga’s citywide gallery crawl, Hart Gallery hosts a launch party for a new exhibit featuring one of its artists. The gallery supports artists living with mental or physical disabilities, experiencing homelessness, fleeing abusive situations, and other underserved populations. Light refreshments are served, and no RSVP is necessary. Guests can explore participating galleries using the gallery crawl map.

Enjoy a Commander gathering at Epikos, with players organized into pods. The pod winners receive a foil promo pack from the current set, and all other players receive a regular promo pack from the current set. Entry is $5.

Savor the holidays aboard a moving heritage railroad with a seated four-course dinner in a restored vintage dining car. As the train rolls through Chattanooga at night, city lights slide by your window while white tablecloth settings and attentive service create an atmosphere no traditional restaurant can match. The route returns to the starting point, yet the experience tends to linger. This evening outing includes a full four-course meal served on board a vintage rail car, and dates during the season are popular and often sell out.

A three-day event from Splintered Dreams Productions, “All the Chains are Broken” welcomes returning and new players. Preregistration for returning players includes a bed, food, and park passes. A discounted offer is available for new players. The organizers emphasize building a safe, inclusive, and respectful community where every player belongs.

Dustin Nickerson is a stand-up comic known for jokes about parenting, marriage, and the everyday frustrations of life. His comedy has earned hundreds of millions of online views, and his debut special, “Overwhelmed,” is among the highest-rated specials on Amazon Prime Video. He has appeared on television programs including The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, Comedy Central, Netflix’s Hart of the City, The Late Late Show with James Corden, and After Midnight with Taylor Tomlinson. Nickerson also hosts the podcast “Don’t Make Me Come Back There” and wrote “How to Be Married to Melissa,” an Amazon #1 New Release published by HarperCollins.

Enjoy a mix of original songs and covers in a live musical performance by The Dose.

Explore the cave and waterfall by hand-held lantern on a specialty tour with a relaxed pace, a smaller group, and extra time at the waterfall. The 1-mile round-trip walk includes uneven pathways and 36 stairs. Guests ages 10 and up should be comfortable walking and standing for up to 120 minutes and keeping pace with the group in low light. Advance reservations are required.

Anglers team up with Veterans for a friendly competition at the Fishing with a Veteran Tournament, hosted by Project Gallantly Forward. Teams made up of a boater and a Veteran head out from Holly Park Boat Ramp and aim for the heaviest overall catch, with a five fish limit per team. Prizes will be awarded for first, second, and third place at the weigh in, along with an award for the biggest fish. Boater entry is $100, while Veterans fish at no cost. All participants must follow TWRA regulations and have a valid fishing license. Advance registration is required. Project Gallantly Forward offers restorative time in nature for Veterans and their families at a rural Tennessee retreat, along with opportunities for local Veterans to connect. This tournament grew from a Veteran organizer’s experience finding calm and renewed purpose outdoors and a conversation with Lucas Lewis, PGF’s founder and president, who supported bringing the idea to life on Chickamauga Lake.

The 2026 Upchuck 50k is a minimally supported, point-to-point trail challenge that follows the technical singletrack of the Cumberland Trail. Runners will tackle major climbs and steep descents through Soddy Creek, Possum Creek, and Rock Creek. This course is built for experienced ultrarunners and will likely be among the slowest 50k efforts for many participants. It is not intended as a first 50k. Participants must have completed a 50k within the last 18 months in under 7 hours. Additional race details and registration links will be shared once all 2026 information is finalized.

VFW PFC Travis F. Haslip Memorial Post 1697 hosts a free community fitness gathering at Veterans Memorial Park of Collegedale that focuses on honoring military service, building connections, and strengthening body and mind. The event welcomes participants of every age and ability level. Options include a short honor walk of about a half mile that circles the park and reaches the Veterans Memorial Mural before returning, a 5K ruck in which participants wear a weighted vest or backpack along a route that loops the park and follows the Wolftever Greenway to the Collegedale Dog Park and back, and a 5K walk that follows the same course without added weight. An information tent will be available for those who prefer to spend time talking with Veterans, Auxiliary members, and families. Parking is available at the Ooltewah Youth Association Fields, Scooters Coffee, Collegedale Library, and Imagination Station. Quarterly donation drives are planned to align with this gathering, with details to be shared closer to each drive.

The Walk to End Alzheimer’s Chattanooga supports families affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia and raises awareness about the fight for a cure. Participants can walk in honor or memory of someone special, support the cause, join a team, create a team, or donate.

Paws and Give Thanks Rescue 5k and 1 Mile Run/Walk brings people and pets together at Heritage Park to celebrate rescue animals and raise vital support for local organizations. The course features a 5K fun run and a 1-mile fun run or walk, and friendly dogs are welcome to trot alongside their humans. In addition to the miles, there is a Paws and Give Thanks Market plus a donation drive and fundraiser with a $5,000 goal. Participants are encouraged to bring helpful items such as dog food and treats, blankets and towels, dog beds, leashes and collars, toys and enrichment items, cleaning supplies, and gift cards to pet supply stores. Monetary contributions can also be made through the race registration page. Every stride and tail wag helps provide food, medical care, shelter, and essential supplies for animals in the community.

The annual holiday market returns with a bigger selection and more family activities, bringing a full day of shopping, food, and community spirit under one roof at the Hixson Community Center. Explore an indoor marketplace of vendors offering merchandise and services, enjoy festive music throughout, and spend time in the family fun zone with games and face painting. Food trucks will be stationed outside, the first 100 shoppers will receive complimentary goody bags, and hourly giveaways keep the excitement going. This event also serves as an official Toys for Tots drop-off site supported by the United States Marine Corps. Attendees can bring a new, unwrapped toy to support local children during the holidays. Admission is free for all guests, and the celebration is presented by Vonzara Inc., highlighting small local businesses while supporting a meaningful cause.

Chattanooga Comic Con celebrates its fifth year at the Chattanooga Convention Center with a weekend devoted to comics and pop culture. It brings together fans with comic creators, artists, authors, celebrities, and exhibitors for programming that includes cosplay, gaming, panels, workshops, and more. Attendees can meet actors and voice actors, connect with artists and writers, explore an exhibitor floor filled with merchandise and art, take part in interactive sessions, and enjoy family-friendly activities. All ages are welcome. Kids 12 and under are admitted free with a paid adult membership.

Celebrate pets, community, and gratitude at a family-friendly event featuring a pet-friendly 5K, a market of local vendors and makers, shopping, food and treats, and activities centered on four-legged friends. There is something to enjoy for pet owners, animal lovers, and anyone looking for a fun day out. A portion of proceeds benefits local animal shelters, supporting their work to rescue animals, aid in recovery, and place pets into new homes. The event welcomes families, friends, and furry companions to share a feel-good day of movement, browsing, and bites while giving back to pets in need.

Presented by Primitive Survival School, this fully outdoor, hands-on workshop introduces the basics of mushroom identification followed by guided foraging in the field. It begins with about 30 to 45 minutes of instruction covering how to recognize key features, stay safe, and forage responsibly. The rest of the 2.5 hour session is spent exploring natural habitats, observing fungi, and practicing identification with guidance, helping participants build practical skills and confidence in real-world conditions. It is suited for beginners and curious naturalists who want to learn. The cost is $35 per person. Members can log in for a discount, and a 15 percent savings applies automatically when three or more classes are purchased.

The Parkinson’s Foundation symposium offers information about Parkinson’s disease symptoms, treatment options, and strategies for navigating the challenges of living with PD. Learning more can help people feel empowered to take an active role in their care and manage life with Parkinson’s. Lunch will be served.

New Earth Energy Market’s Autumn Festival brings together more than 30 booths featuring natural product vendors, healers, and readers, along with performances and music. The program includes indoor belly dancing, an outdoor drum circle and fire performance, live music from Spirit Horse, a soulful folk-rock duo featuring powerful vocals, percussion, and Native American flute, and a closing DJ set by the Late Circuit. The festival is hosted by a coalition of small business owners and local talents, with a focus on holistic lifestyles and cultural appreciation. Admission requires a $5 wristband, and free parking and a door prize drawing are offered.

Day of the Dead at The Mythical Market blends color, remembrance, and tradition, with lantern light and marigolds shaping a welcoming scene. The marketplace features local makers offering handcrafted treasures, crystals, plants, artwork, candles, seasonal decor, cozy treats, and other enchanting finds. Festive music, warm drinks, and delicious treats create a relaxed autumn atmosphere inspired by Día de los Muertos, a time to honor loved ones, celebrate life, and hold close the memories that continue to shine. Expect one of a kind local discoveries alongside marigold themed details and handmade pieces throughout.

An autumn gathering filled with playful activities and community spirit. Begin with games, hot dogs, and the thrill of a trebuchet launching pumpkins. Continue with live music from Dayton Speedway, then close the night around a big bonfire with friends. Expect friendly animals and the cozy feel of fall. All proceeds support a nonprofit.

This queer music and arts festival celebrates community, connection, and local artists. Created by and for queer folks, it features a diverse lineup and two dance parties. The festival is designed to be safer, accessible, inclusive, and fun, with a safety team, subtitles, and ASL interpreters at the venue.

The Crime Reads Book Club explores Jesse Q. Sutanto’s mystery about Vera Wong, a sixty-year-old tea-shop owner who discovers a dead man in her shop and decides to investigate the murder herself. A self-proclaimed tea expert and amateur detective, Vera brings a watchful eye and plenty of curiosity to the case. The book’s author is a Chinese-Indonesian novelist known for Dial A for Aunties and Vera Wong’s Unsolicited Advice for Murderers.

An adult game night featuring dinner, games, and plenty of laughs.

Enjoy dinner alongside a humorous, challenging true crime mystery set in the present day and unfolding in real time. The culprit is hidden in plain sight among the audience, and guests may even become prime suspects. With actors mingling among attendees, the show offers a social, interactive experience for adults, filled with intrigue, comedy, and unscripted moments.

Amber Autry brings the Happy Holler Tour to the stage with high-energy, relatable stand-up that reflects her rise as a headliner. Based in Nashville and a descendant of Gene Autry, she developed her comedy at Chicago’s Second City before shifting fully into stand-up. Her credits include appearances on Peacock TV, Drybar Comedy, Don’t Tell Comedy, and Netflix’s Introducing..., and she has performed alongside Fortune Feimster, Whitney Cummings, and Tim Meadows. After selling out clubs across the country and taping her first solo live special, she is launching her first theater run with this tour.

The Chattanooga Symphony & Opera presents Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back in Concert, featuring John Williams’ GRAMMY-winning score performed live to the film. Conductor Ben Palmer leads a symphonic performance accompanying the story of the Rebels’ pursuit by Imperial forces, Luke’s training with Jedi Master Yoda on Dagobah, and Darth Vader’s attempt to lure Luke to the dark side in Cloud City. The performance is sponsored by the First Horizon Foundation and O’Shaughnessy & Carter, PLLC. Guest artists are supported by Leslie M. Westbrook and Paolo Frigerio.

The meetup spot is the lower trailhead by the restrooms. Afterward, the plan is to get together at Mean King brewing for food and drink.

Free live music fills the Chattanooga Market as a big band takes the stage with crowd-pleasing energy that keeps the dance floor lively. Expect a mix that ranges from classic and contemporary big band to swing, Latin, and waltz, offering plenty for dancers and those who simply want to listen. The day also includes a Veterans Day recognition with a Quilts of Valor presentation ceremony on the Sunday Funday Stage, continuing a Market tradition of honoring service.

Almanac Supply Co. and The Woodland Witch host the sixth Witch Walk, a sidewalk market alive with magick, mystery, and maker-made goods. Spend a mystical afternoon browsing vendors offering spellcraft supplies, ritual tools, artwork, and curious treasures crafted for discerning witches. Meander a charming street market, meet other night-minded souls, and let intuition guide discoveries that feel meant to be yours. This gathering honors the season’s spirit and the wisdom of the wild.

Join bestselling author and illustrator Jessica Roux for a hands-on introduction to junk journaling, a creative practice of layering paper, images, stickers, found objects, and other treasures into personal pages. Learn the basics and Jessica’s collage composition tips, then create pages of your own. A copy of The Collector’s Curio: A Sticker Treasury, a sketchbook, and workshop materials are included. You may also bring personal paper scraps, photographs, ephemera, pressed botanicals, ticket stubs, or other keepsakes to incorporate. No experience is necessary.

Pokémon trainers can take part in a Pokémon League hosted by Epikos. Entry is free, and each participating player receives a prize pack.

Meet New York Times best-selling illustrator Jessica Roux, whose work brings together flora, fauna, and folklore. She will sign copies of her newest work, The Collector's Curio, as well as a selection of her books, decks, and art prints. Fans and newcomers alike can enjoy a chance to meet the artist behind these nature-inspired creations.

The Chattanooga Symphony & Opera presents Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back in Concert, featuring John Williams’ Grammy-winning score performed live to the film under the direction of conductor Ben Palmer. The concert brings the story of the Rebels’ continuing struggle against the Empire to life, from Luke’s journey to train with Jedi Master Yoda to Darth Vader’s trap in Cloud City. The performance is sponsored by the First Horizon Foundation and O’Shaughnessy & Carter, PLLC, with guest artists supported by Leslie M. Westbrook and Paolo Frigerio.

Create a small hand stitched leather medicine bag while learning the essentials of traditional leathercraft. This beginner friendly workshop covers how to handle leather, prepare your pieces, punch stitching holes, and use time honored hand stitching techniques to assemble the bag. Instruction is led by Ryan “The Handy Maker” DeLoach, who brings more than 27 years of leatherworking experience. No prior experience is needed, and everyone completes a functional piece to take home. Recommended for ages 10 and up. Participants younger than 17 must attend with a parent or guardian. Chaperones may observe at no cost, and anyone who wants to make a bag should register as a participant. Please pre register so materials can be prepared. Pricing is $45 for non members and $40 for CAS members. Future offerings may build on these skills with projects like wallets, small bags, and other handcrafted leather items.

Explore Ayurveda in a practical, welcoming kitchen setting with a monthly, hands-on immersion that turns timeless wisdom into everyday habits. This practice-focused workshop clarifies the reasons behind Ayurvedic food guidelines and then brings them to life through clear instruction on meal timing, mindful food combinations, and straightforward cooking techniques to support digestion, sleep, and skin health. A live cooking segment features a traditional reset-style meal, with dishes such as split yellow mung dal, yusha whole mung soup, or kitchari. Gluten-free options are available, though strict food allergies cannot be accommodated. The experience concludes with a simple, warm meal shared on the back porch if the weather allows, giving participants a chance to apply what they learned in the moment. Attendance is intentionally limited to keep the conversation personal and the kitchen experience comfortable. The cost is $35 per session.

A friendly monthly meetup for people who enjoy miniatures. The club gathers on the second Wednesday each month to share ideas, work on fun tiny projects, learn from one another, and build connections with fellow enthusiasts. Beginners are welcome, and the setting encourages a relaxed, creative time with others who love all things small.

Enjoy a continental breakfast while connecting with local professionals at a friendly networking gathering. Guests are welcome to bring a friend or arrive ready to meet new contacts and engage with others doing business in the area. There will be plenty of coffee. Please RSVP with Mike at mkey@allegroliving.com or 706-287-5045 by the Wednesday prior.

Inspired by Friends, this crafting weekend centers on creativity, laughter, coffee, and community. Over the course of three days, participants have plenty of time to work on scrapbooks, handmade cards, photo albums, and unfinished projects while trading ideas with fellow makers. The program includes themed games, prizes, and cheerful surprises throughout the weekend. Many arrive with crafty friends and many leave with new connections, as conversation and shared creativity shape the experience.

Homeschool Day features 50% off day passes for homeschool students and parents. It is a simple way to enjoy a memorable experience together.

Celebrate tartan style at this monthly Kilt Night, where kilts are encouraged and the focus is on laid-back fun. Enjoy whiskey specials offered throughout the evening, and ask an associate for details about the deals. Whether you have a favorite kilt or are trying one for the first time, this casual gathering keeps the plaid spirit going month after month.

An indoor market featuring local artisans and craft vendors, bringing handmade goods together under one roof. Vendor coordination is handled by a single contact, and applications are accepted only through the official form when it becomes available. For questions or vendor communication, send a message to the event page, text, or email stevenpaulsignup14@gmail.com, and use these channels for all vendor inquiries.

This car show fundraiser at Catoosa Colonnade in Ringgold, GA supports Christmas for Kids and first responders. Attendees can enjoy door prizes, a 50/50, a silent auction, music, and great food.

This first event after phase 1 wraps up features a 500 point tournament that retains the same roster construction limits used previously. Additional details are available on the Escalation League website.

An open-house celebration marks the grand reopening of the Anna Safley Houston Museum of Decorative Arts, offering an afternoon focused on art, music, and community.

Ashley McBryde brings Into The Wild to Tivoli Theatre • Walker Theatre • Memorial Auditorium in Chattanooga. A Grand Ole Opry member and recipient of GRAMMY, ACM, and CMA honors, she has been noted by the Los Angeles Times for her dependable, refined songwriting. Her album Wild unfolds across 11 tracks and reaches the moment just before she stopped drinking, drawing from life in the Ozarks, the lasting influence of a strict religious upbringing, the consequences of excess, and the hard-fought journey to sobriety. Blending classic country with high-voltage rock and roll, her songs pair candid storytelling with soulful intensity for a fearless self-portrait that reclaims her most untamed side.

Facial hair takes the spotlight at the Chattanooga Market with a Beard and Mustache Contest celebrating No-Shave November. Spectators can gather at the Sunday Funday Stage to enjoy the show, and anyone interested in competing can sign up at the stage and step into the lineup. Each category winner receives a swag bag of gifts along with plenty of bragging rights. Categories include Most Festively Decorated, where beards or mustaches can be adorned in any holiday style, Coolest Mustache, open to any mustache style as long as the hair is above the upper lip only, and Longest Beard, measured from the bottom of the lower lip to the beard’s longest point. Whether entering the contest or cheering from the crowd, expect a lighthearted Sunday at the Market.

Celebrate four decades of Jim Henson's Labyrinth with a cinematic concert experience that pairs a full screening with live music. The film is presented in high definition while a band performs the complete soundtrack in sync with David Bowie's vocals, featuring favorites such as "Magic Dance" alongside the score by Bowie and Trevor Jones. Costumes, singalongs, and cheers are welcome as Jareth the Goblin King, Sarah, and the imaginative creatures from Jim Henson's Creature Shop fill the screen. Directed by Jim Henson and starring Jennifer Connelly and David Bowie, this tribute marks the film's 40th anniversary with live accompaniment.

This book club discussion centers on Melanie Trenholm’s Christmas at her historic Tradd Street home, where the excavation of an old cistern brings financial strain, Colonial-era artifacts, and unsettling ghosts into her life. As Melanie and her husband care for their twin babies, a past adversary pursues a rumored Revolutionary War treasure said to be buried on the property, putting everything they hold dear at risk. The discussion features the work of Karen White, a bestselling author of 38 novels.

Connect with local business professionals, promote your business, products, and services, and meet potential referral contacts. The gathering includes a program and optional open networking before and after. Attendance is free, with no membership, dues, attendance requirements, category restrictions, or exclusions. Food and drinks are available to purchase if you wish. Attendees are welcome to bring business cards or flyers, invite business contacts, and contribute an optional door prize.

This Incredible Business Networking lunch gathering brings professionals together at Mas Tequila Bar and Grill for connections and conversation. The format features optional open networking before and after the main program, with the core session in between, and attendees may order food or drinks if they choose. There is no cost to participate, no membership is required, there are no category limitations or attendance commitments, and everyone is welcome. Participants can share their business, products, and services while building new referral relationships. Bringing a generous stack of business cards or flyers is encouraged, and an optional door prize is appreciated if you would like to contribute. The meeting is led by Corey Ballew of The Ballew Team at REAL and Joel Atkins of Booster AI. Local support comes from Tradebank of Chattanooga, Corey Ballew of The Ballew Team at REAL, Chattanooga Signature Events, and Building New Beginnings.

Take on a round-the-clock track challenge at Ringgold High School in Ringgold, GA. Presented by Chattanooga Track Club, creators of the Mad Backyard Ultra and the Locomotion Endurance Event, this 3rd Circle Series event puts endurance front and center. Participants circle the track, rest when needed, and aim to cover as much distance as possible within 24 hours. Strategic pacing, careful nutrition, and strong mental focus are essential as runners navigate fatigue and the inevitable highs and lows of a full-day effort. It is a demanding yet rewarding test of physical and mental stamina.

RoCo Jeep Militia is partnering with Misfit Jeeps of Cleveland, TN for A Ride to Remember, an off-road benefit ride in support of Alzheimer’s awareness at Prentice Cooper State Forest. The route is friendly to stock vehicles, so participants can enjoy trail driving while helping raise funds for the cause.

This class focuses on essential lifesaving skills, including adult, child, and infant CPR, how to respond to choking, how to use an automated external defibrillator, and some basic first aid. The fee is $23.50 and can be paid on the day of the class with exact cash, check, or a credit card.

Holiday on Hamill Market offers a family-friendly celebration focused on community and generosity. Explore booths from local vendors, pick up delicious bites from food trucks, and enjoy seasonal activities for kids and adults. Guests can take complimentary photos with Santa, discover unique gifts, and treat themselves to festive snacks. Attendees are invited to donate toys in support of the Forgotten Child Fund, turning holiday spirit into meaningful help for children while also supporting local businesses.

This market ushers in Thanksgiving week with a wide array of fresh, locally sourced foods for the holiday table. Look for seasonal produce, hearty breads, cranberry sauces, pies, and all the small touches that help make a family meal feel special. Fall flowers and greenery are on hand too, ideal for creating a warm, welcoming centerpiece. Ice on the Landing brings a festive, wintry backdrop to the experience. A dedicated chill zone offers extra seating, casual games, and cozy places to gather as the season shifts from autumn into the holidays. After Thanksgiving weekend, there will be a short pause before the festivities move indoors to the Chattanooga Convention Center for two weekends of Holiday Market fun. It is a chance to stock up, spark new ideas, and set a joyful tone for the season.

Start Thanksgiving week at a lively market showcasing fresh, local essentials for the holiday table. Find seasonal vegetables, artisan breads, cranberry sauce, pies, and all the final touches that make a shared meal feel complete. Stalls also feature autumn flowers and greenery suited for a welcoming centerpiece. Ice on the Landing adds a festive winter backdrop beside the market, and a relaxed area provides extra seating, casual games, and comfortable spots to gather as the season shifts from fall to the holidays. After Thanksgiving weekend, the market takes a short pause, then moves indoors to the Chattanooga Convention Center for two weekends of Holiday Market offerings, giving shoppers more opportunities to prepare for celebrations and gather inspiration.

The Kevin Prater Band shares its “Coal-Fired, Pure Kentucky Bluegrass,” alongside classic country, bluegrass gospel, original songs, and vintage rock with a bluegrass twist. Kevin Prater brings decades of experience, including twelve years with the James King Band, to a group featuring mandolin, guitar, bass, banjo, and fiddle. The band is finishing its first all-original recording project, and its single “Kentucky Mountain Memories” reached No. 6 on the Roots Music Charts in May 2024.

Christkindlmarkt makes its debut at Coolidge Park, transforming the grounds into an Old World winter village filled with the glow of twinkling lights, lanterns, and candlelit accents. Stroll through rows of charming vendor stalls with European façades to find handcrafted wares, artisan-made gifts, and one-of-a-kind holiday treasures. Traditional décor, seasonal greenery, and classic details create an immersive European feel throughout the market. Savor hallmark flavors of the season with Glühwein in both red and white, along with European-inspired fare, festive sweets, and warm beverages. Organizers are committed to enhancing the experience each year, expanding authentic elements and enriching the ambiance to bring the spirit of a true Christkindlmarkt to life. This edition is the first Christkindlmarkt at Coolidge Park and follows a separate weekend’s market held the week before due to the Thanksgiving weekend schedule. Whether browsing for special gifts, tasting traditional flavors, or soaking up the cheerful scene, visitors can expect a memorable holiday outing for the whole community.

Celebrate the holidays at the Chattanooga Choo Choo during a Christmas market featuring a curated mix of vendors, unique shopping, and a beer tent with a Christmas theme. Festive music fills the space as sparkling lights and seasonal decorations transform the venue into an enchanting setting for browsing and taking in the atmosphere. It is a warm celebration of shopping, music, and holiday magic.

A festive one mile Whobilation through Cambridge Square in Ooltewah supports Kelsey’s Christmas for Kids. This relaxed walk focuses on spreading cheer rather than racing. Participants can wear holiday attire, bring a new coat, a warm hat, or gloves to donate, and enjoy hot cocoa with marshmallows at the finish. A portion of proceeds supports Kelsey’s Christmas for Kids to help make the season warmer for children. Finisher medals will be handed out to mark the accomplishment.

John Mulaney brings his newest stand-up tour, Mister Whatever, to Tivoli Theatre, Walker Theatre and Memorial Auditorium. The writer, comedian and actor has earned four Emmy Awards as well as Critics Choice and WGA honors. Recent work includes the Netflix talk show Everybody's Live with John Mulaney, a continuation of Everybody's in LA with monologues, guests, filmed sketches and musical segments. In 2024 he appeared on Broadway in All In: Comedy About Love with Fred Armisen, Richard Kind and Renée Elise Goldsberry, and he will appear in the Amazon MGM Studios biographical sports drama Madden directed by David O. Russell. Ticket options include public onsale, artist, venue and Live Nation presales, Citi cardmember presales and preferred tickets, plus VIP packages.

Tommy Emmanuel, CGP brings the Living In the Light Tour to Tivoli Theatre • Walker Theatre • Memorial Auditorium. Recognized by NPR’s World Cafe as one of the foremost acoustic guitarists, he began performing professionally at six with his family’s band in Australia. As a teen he became a sought-after sideman and session player, and in his early twenties he performed on hit records and worked with acts including Air Supply and Men at Work. Guided by inspiration from Chet Atkins, who later became a friend, mentor, and collaborator, he launched his solo path in 1979 and has since released a series of acclaimed instrumental albums that expanded his audience at home and around the world. Ticket access includes a public onsale along with artist, venue, Live Nation, and VIP package presales.

Explore the foundations of Buddhist philosophy in a course designed for newcomers and those seeking deeper understanding. The sessions focus on a concise 14-verse text that outlines the stages of the path as taught by the Tibetan sage Je Tsongkhapa and carried forward in the tradition of the 14th Dalai Lama, with practical guidance for bringing these teachings into everyday life to cultivate calm, clarity, and insight. Offered in person at Center Space in the St. Andrews Center as well as online. The fee is $65 and includes a brief text, and scholarships are available for those who need them.

Santa’s cozy kitchen comes to life in a festive photo experience featuring Santa and a special guest. Little helpers can stir and sprinkle while capturing sugar‑kissed smiles as Santa shares cheer from the North Pole. A sweet treat adds to the fun, and the focus is on keepsake photos that celebrate the magic, the playful mess, and the memories of the season. Taking place at Berywood Farms.

Choral Arts partners with the Chattanooga Symphony to present Handel's Messiah. This collaboration brings the two ensembles together for a shared presentation of the work.

Hosted by the FJC's Men PACT program, this quarterly networking fair offers a welcoming space for people dedicated to supporting men, fathers, and youth. Attendees can connect with leaders and advocates of all identities who share this commitment, explore partnerships that expand collective impact, and spark collaborations on events, programs, and funding to work more efficiently and effectively. The aim is to grow a meaningful network that uplifts both the communities served and those doing the work. Refreshment sponsorship is provided by Therapeutic Interventions.

Ohio-based comedian Damon Darling brings his national Nobody’s Perfect Tour to the stage. He has performed across the United States with prominent names in the industry and now headlines shows nationwide. His sets blend jokes with real-life experiences, and he keeps things interactive with spontaneous crowd work and on-the-spot humor. Online, he reaches more than 2.6 million followers on TikTok with over 48 million likes, along with 2.6 million followers on Instagram.

At the Chattanooga Convention Center, this indoor Holiday Market returns for two weekends with approximately 200 local and regional makers, all selling work they create themselves. Browse hand crafted jewelry, woodworking, bath and body goods, toys, artisan foods, and other giftable finds while supporting local businesses in a cheerful holiday setting. Admission is free.

Chattanooga gets a citywide dose of holiday cheer with a Santa-themed pub crawl that highlights local bars across town. Dress up in a Santa suit or wear whatever feels right, then make your way from the Northshore toward the Southside at your own pace, with the freedom to circle back to any open venue. A wristband grants entry with no cover at participating spots and comes with a map, a list of specials, and details on what is happening at each stop so you can chart your own route. Look for more than 20 locations offering festive deals and plenty of entertainment, including DJs, live music, karaoke, and other holiday activities. A toy drive is part of the celebration, with a discounted wristband for anyone who brings a new toy, and donations are intended to brighten the season for kids facing financial hardship. Proceeds from wristbands also support local nonprofits, and an event text line will be available for assistance. Participating venues include The Big Chill & Grill, Home Bar & Restaurant, Sing It or Wing It, Atmosphere, Moxy Nooga, Wiseguy's Lounge at Goodfella's Pizzeria, Wanderlinger Brewing Co., Shady's Corner, Whiskey Cowgirl, and Southside Social, with more partners to be announced. Presented by Nooga Nightlife and sponsored by Hits 96.

After a brief pause last year for the event coordinator's maternity leave, this long-running Christmas tradition with Boynton United Methodist Church returns. Attendees can look forward to holiday photos with Santa and Mrs. Clause, sparkling light displays, a petting zoo, hot cocoa, festive crafts with carols, and a live nativity scene. Parking will be available at a separate location. Additional details will be announced after the summer.

A welcoming pageant celebrates big smiles, bright lights and genuine confidence in a supportive setting. It is ideal for first-time participants, and no prior experience is required. Contestants step on stage to express themselves, and everyone is honored with a tiara and a trophy. Families are encouraged to attend. For more information, email Linda@Sunburstbeauty.com and include your state.

Chattanooga’s Holiday Market returns indoors for two weekends, featuring approximately 200 local and regional artists and makers. Goods are producer only, so everything is offered directly by the people who create it, making it easy to support local while checking off your holiday gift list. Expect a broad range of handmade jewelry, woodwork, bath and body products, toys, artisanal foods, and more in a cheerful, festive atmosphere. Admission is free.

Explore the Last Minute Market at The Commons in Collegedale for a festive holiday shopping experience. Wander among stalls dressed with sparkling lights and garlands as local artisans showcase handmade treasures. Find unique gifts, home decor, and gourmet treats to round out your list. Live music, food trucks, and a lively dose of holiday cheer create a warm atmosphere for wrapping up seasonal preparations.

Race day features packet pickup, a Kids Dash that meets at the start line with participants guided to the starting area, followed by the national anthem and the race start. Participants can choose from 5k, 10k, or 15k distances with chip timing, live results, awards, free photos, and treats waiting at the finish line. A 1 Mile option is untimed and includes a custom bib, a designer shirt, and a custom finisher medal. The Kids Dash is a short, untimed run for ages 10 and under, and registration includes a mini bib, a youth sized shirt, and a medal created just for this event. Children who prefer to take part in the Kids Dash without the included items may run at no cost. Results and awards are available at the registration tent immediately after participants finish. Youth based pricing is offered for the 5k and 10k, with entries for ages 12 and under set at $22. Every 5k, 10k, and 15k registration comes with a custom bib, a designer shirt, and a custom finisher medal. The event emphasizes a friendly, family focused atmosphere that welcomes every pace and fitness level, whether aiming for a personal record or showing up for the fun.

Participants meet at Cambridge Square in Ooltewah, then travel along Highway 64 to Checkers on 25th Street in Cleveland to link up with the Cleveland Air Cooled group. The cruise continues on Highway 60 to the Sinclair historic filling station in Georgetown for a photo stop, then heads to Dayton for lunch at Referees Sports Bar & Grill. All makes and models are welcome, with air-cooled vehicles leading and other cars following behind.

At Elaruna Sanctuary of Sound and Light, Soul Surrender offers a monthly space for spiritual and energetic care that helps participants set down what feels heavy and reconnect with a clear inner center. Guided practices weave meditation, breath, sound, and reflection to gently release lingering emotions so the weeks ahead can be met with a steadier heart and a fresher view of relationships, work, and daily life. This gathering welcomes those moving through challenging seasons as well as anyone seeking ongoing maintenance for the soul. Open to both men and women, it invites a return to the quiet wisdom of what is and encourages letting go of what no longer belongs. For comfort and reflection, attendees may bring a journal and pen, a water bottle, and layers. Yoga mats are provided on site, and personal mats are also welcome.

Competitive youth volleyball comes to East Ridge Middle School and East Ridge High School, with divisions for 12U through 18U competing for the Keys to the City. Organized by Just Believe Sports with officiating by local Chattanooga referees, this local tournament kicks off the club season and draws teams from across the region. Registration is open on AES.

Hosted by Ink Masters Tattoo Show, this three-day Chattanooga Tattoo Expo takes place at the Embassy Suites by Hilton and features live, on-the-spot tattooing and piercings available to the public. Artists spanning a wide range of styles, from realism to traditional in black and grey or color, will be available to help plan and create the designs you have in mind. Tickets are sold at the door only, with daily admission priced at $25 and weekend passes available for $40. Free raffle giveaways feature $1200 worth of tattoo work with the attending artist of your choice, and entry into the raffle is included with the purchase of an entrance pass. Participants must be 18 or older with a valid ID to enter the raffle and must be present to win. All ages are welcome to attend, with children accompanied by an adult, and tattoo services are limited to guests who are 18 or older with a valid ID.

Runners face the sixth annual MAD Backyard Ultra, a qualifier for Big Dog's Backyard Ultra. The format is simple yet unforgiving. Complete a 4.1667 mile loop within one hour to keep going, fall short and your day is over. The hourly loops continue, the field narrows, and the challenge persists until a single competitor remains. It is an endurance showdown that blends pacing, resilience, and determination. Each successful lap earns another chance to line up again, inviting participants to dig deeper with every hour.