November is here, and the holidays are right around the corner. But so are many of the Scenic City’s highly anticipated events – from Head of the Hooch to the Erlanger Chattanooga Marathon Weekend. This month, treat yourself to a host of outdoor adventures, festive markets, and award-winning holiday extravaganzas that are sure to keep spirits bright.
2021 Warrior Market
November 6
Lakeview Middle School is bringing back its annual Warrior Market just in time for the holidays. Featuring craft vendors, a free kids’ zone, silent auction, photos with Santa, and concessions, this community event is a great way to support local businesses. The Warrior Market takes place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 416 Cross Street in Rossville, Georgia.
Glass Street Live Block Party
November 6
Glass Street residents, business owners, and local leaders have come together to plan this family-friendly block party that celebrates the East Chattanooga community. With live music, face painting, giant Jenga, board games, a car show, local eats, and much more, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. You can join in on the fun at the intersection between Glass Street and North Chamberlain Avenue between noon and 4 p.m.
Head of the Hooch
November 6-7
Experience one of the world’s largest rowing regattas at Head of the Hooch. This two-day event, which brings in participants from all over the world, will see 2,000+ boats racing on the Tennessee River (more than 1,200 boats race on Saturday alone). Spectators can head downtown to secure a spot at the Walnut Street Bridge, Coolidge Park, or along the Riverwalk – although the best place to view the finish line is from the grandstands at Ross’s Landing.
Erlanger Chattanooga Marathon Weekend
November 12-14
The countdown is on for the Erlanger Chattanooga Marathon! This jam-packed weekend includes five events: the marathon, half marathon, team relay, Chattanooga 5K, and kids’ fun run. Runners can also take the Chattanooga Challenge by participating in the 5K on Saturday and either the marathon, half marathon, or team relay on Sunday. In between races, check out one of several music-filled neighborhood parties as well as an expo of local vendors at First Horizon Pavilion.
Hike Bike Brew: Lula Lake Beer Festival
November 13
If delicious brews in the great outdoors sounds like your idea of a good time, then this festival is for you. The 6th annual Hike Bike Brew Festival at Lula Lake brings together nearly a dozen local brewers in a beautiful setting, all while supporting the property’s trail work and conservation efforts. Hike the “Beer Path Loop” – which leads to Lula Lake and Lula Falls – before rewarding yourself with snacks from Jack Brown’s Beer & Burger Joint and Pie Slingers Pizzeria. This afternoon event is for adults 21 and up.
Campfire Concert Series at Reflection Riding
November 13
Reflection Riding Arboretum and Nature Center’s Campfire Concert Series provides the perfect outdoor venue for listening to your favorite local artists, and on November 13, Rick Rushing and the Blue Strangers are scheduled to perform under the stars. Tickets to this event cover entertainment, beer, and the option to spend the night camping on the Reflection Riding property. The fun begins at 6:30 p.m. Don’t forget your sweater and a lawn chair!
Ice on the Landing
November 19 – December 19, January 5-25
Each holiday season, the historic Glenn Miller Outdoor Gardens at the Chattanooga Choo Choo transform into a winter wonderland complete with an open-air ice skating rink. This year, Ice on the Landing officially kicks off on November 19. Skating fees include skate rentals, so just bring yourself – and your loved ones – and enjoy this nostalgic experience; season passes are also available for those who know their way around a rink.
Rock City’s Enchanted Garden of Lights
November 19 – January 2 (closed December 24)
Enchantment awaits at Rock City’s festive winter event – a holiday tradition for locals and out-of-towners alike. Sparkling lights illuminate the gardens, where realms such as the Arctic Kingdom and Magic Forest come alive in a truly magical way. Gingerbread cookie decorating, visits to Santa’s workshop, and live music on the Rocky’s Tree Farm Music Stage are also in store. Tickets for this event are sold online only, and all guests must reserve an entry time in advance.
North Pole Limited at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum
November 20 – December 23
North Pole Limited is the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum’s most popular annual event, and it’s easy to see why. With storytelling, lighted displays, cookies and hot chocolate, and a magical train ride to the North Pole, families can get into the holiday spirit and even get a glimpse of Santa himself. All riders will also receive a keepsake boarding pass, bell, and letter to Santa, and each family will take home an ornament to commemorate the outing.
Thanksgiving Market
November 21
Shop local for your Thanksgiving table at the Chattanooga Market’s Thanksgiving Market. Held at First Horizon Pavilion from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., the market will have plenty of local meats, cheeses, breads, produce, and homemade foods that are sure to impress at all of your upcoming family gatherings. This is also your last opportunity to enjoy the Chattanooga Market outdoors this season, so don’t miss out!
Sportsbarn Turkey Trot
November 25
A Chattanooga Thanksgiving tradition, the Turkey Trot is back for its 31st year. This year’s event offers a timed 8K race, a three-mile walk/run, and the Kiddie K – all to take place at the Sportsbarn on Lee Highway on the morning of November 25. Race proceeds will go to support the Chattanooga Kidney Foundation.
Grateful Gobbler 5K Run/Walk
November 25
Before digging in to your Thanksgiving dinner, why not run a 5K? The annual Grateful Gobbler 5K Run/Walk starts and finishes at Northshore’s Coolidge Park, with on-site festivities to begin at 8 a.m. All proceeds from this event will benefit the Maclellan Shelter for Families, an emergency homeless shelter that provides a stable environment for families in need. Registration for the Grateful Gobbler is available online.
Thanksgiving on the River
November 25
The Southern Belle, one of the Scenic City’s most iconic attractions, cordially invites you to enjoy a Thanksgiving feast you don’t have to cook this year. A buffet of roast turkey breast, carved ham, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, corn pudding, and more – not to mention cheesecake for dessert! – will be provided on the Grand Chandelier Deck of Stationary Pier 2. After the meal, board the riverboat for a one-hour sightseeing cruise on the scenic Tennessee River.