Mid-January

Chattacon Science Fiction Convention

Each year this science fiction convention takes place. Writers, artists, hucksters and more put on the convention. Put on by the convention is the Chattacon Art Show, which features a variety of artwork. Both flat and 3D artwork is showcased.

Late March – early April

Southern Writer’s Conference – Each year, Chattanooga hosts a literary festival, which provides educational opportunities to discuss and learn about the South's greatest writers and promising newcomers to the literary scene. Meet the authors and listen to their readings and lectures. 

Mid- June

The Riverbend Festival

423-756-2211

1001 Market Street, Chattanooga

Admission Charged

The event takes place at the beginning of June and spans across nine days. Over 540,000 people visit the festival each year. Musical performances range from jazz, blues, folk, country, bluegrass, classic and more. Reserved tickets can be purchased in advance.

Early June (First Monday of the Riverbend Festival)

Bessie Smith Strut – Providing the kickoff to Riverbend, the Bessie Smith Strut is a celebration of Chattanooga’s most prominent musical talent. Chattanoogans celebrate the music of the great Bessie Smith (Queen of the Blues) with a street festival featuring great music, food, and entertainment.

Late August

Southern Brewers Beer Festival

Each year, Chattanooga hosts a day-long beer festival in the heart of downtown next to Big River Grille and Brewing Works. Beer lovers can sample over a hundred varieties of award winning microbrewed beers  while watching live music and entertainment.

  Early September 

Culture Fest

Coolidge Park 423-267-1218

Celebrate the array of races and cultures in the Chattanooga area at the Arts and Education Council' s Culture Fest. Enjoy art, entertainment, food and interactive activities.

Mid-October – early November

Fall Color and Fall Leaf Cruises (423) 266-4488 or 800-766-2784

Board the Southern Belle Riverboat and sail through the Tennessee River Gorge en route to Chattanooga's annual Folk Festival. During the cruise, enjoy lunch, a live band and more. At the festival, listen to live music by the area's best folk artists and check out the handmade crafts and jewelry.

Weekly:  Year round

Chattanooga Market Cricket Pavilion 423-266-9270

This weekly open air market features hand-crafted works of art, seasonal farm fresh produce, chef demonstrations, a climbing wall, live music and art projects for kids. When it's time for lunch, try the Market Cafe, and let the kids expend their energy at the adjacent city skate park.

  Early December

  Annual Wine Over Water

5:00-8:00 pm

Cornerstones, the historical preservation society in Chattanooga, hosts its annual fundraiser on its most successful achievement, the Walnut Street Bridge. Celebrate the Historic Walnut Street Bridge while raising funds for the preservation of historical properties in Chattanooga. Enjoy wines, hors d' oeuvres and live music on five stages stretched out along the bridge. Tickets on sale. Call  423/265-2825

Holiday Starlight Parade December

  December

NCAA Division I AA National Championship Game – For many years, Chattanooga has hosted the national championship of the NCAA’s 2nd highest division. Finley Stadium, in Chattanooga’s vibrant Southside is the premier facility in Division I-AA.