As the weather turns cool and the leaves begin to fall, bundle up and grab your friends and family to celebrate your favorite holidays in the Scenic City. From festivals to food to football, you are sure to find fun!
Candlelight Concert
November 3 & 10
Experience the serenity of orchestral music surrounded by the soft glow of candlelight at First Cumberland Presbyterian Church. On November 3 and 10, classical music enthusiasts can hear a medley of Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, Astor Piazzola, and more. On November 10, the concert will feature a set list of film composer Hans Zimmer’s most popular arrangements, from Inception’s haunting “Time” to The Lion King’s “This Land.” Tickets are selling fast, so claim your seat today!
Gala of Hope
November 4
The American Cancer Society’s annual black tie event, Gala of Hope, is set to be a festive evening sparkling with hope. Guests can expect a live auction, cocktail hour, dinner, live music, dancing, and more, all in support of the American Cancer Society’s mission to celebrate and save the lives of people impacted by cancer.
UTC Military Appreciation Salute to Heroes Game & Tailgate
November 4
Pack your favorite tailgating supplies and join the UTC in supporting our local heroes at the First Horizon Pavilion. Free admission for veteran and active military personnel, police, fire fighters, EMS, first responders, and medical personnel with ID. Tailgating with food and giveaways will take place 10:30 a.m – 1:30 p.m. Then, stick around to cheer on the Mocs as they face Furman in their final regular season home game.
Head of the Hooch
November 4 & 5
Head out to Ross’s Landing for the Head of the Hooch Regatta, the world’s second-largest rowing event. With 200 clubs competing in 2,000 boats across 99 race events, this weekend is sure to be a thrill for participants and spectators alike! The first boats start at 9:50 a.m. on Saturday, and spectators are encouraged to view the races from the Walnut Street Bridge, Coolidge Park, or the Chattanooga Riverwalk.
Hamilton County Fair
November 10-12
To celebrate Veterans Day, Little Debbie is sponsoring the Hamilton County Fair at picturesque McDonald Farm. The fair offers three packed days of rides, rodeos, games, and shows. On Saturday, Grand Ole Opry star Lauren Alaina and hometown singer Brandon Davis will perform live! The festivities will close with a bang with the Tennessee Valley Federal Credit Union’s firework show. Tie down your spot and plan your weekend at the farm!
Gratefull
November 16
All are welcome at Gratefull, Chattanooga’s free community-wide Thanksgiving luncheon. The meal will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in front of the Bessie Smith Cultural Center. Party Bites will provide turkey and dressing, and other area businesses will donate sides and drinks. Attendees are encouraged to bring nonperishable food and hygienic supplies to benefit the Maclellan Family Shelter.
Asian Lantern Festival at the Chattanooga Zoo: Opens November 16
November 16
This year’s Asian Lantern Festival boasts an all-new collection of 38 illuminated lantern displays and nine interactive displays. From 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. on selected nights, visitors can explore the zoo and enjoy this special celebration of art, culture, and the beauty of traditional Asian lantern festivals.
Enchanted Garden of Lights (Rock City): Opens November 17
November 17
Ring in the season with Rock City’s 29th annual Enchanted Garden of Lights. Experience the magic of Christmas on a nightly journey through the wonder of twinkling lights and displays. The enchantment begins at 4:30 p.m. and ends when the park closes at 9 p.m. on weekdays and 10 p.m. Friday through Sunday. Tickets must be purchased online here.
Chattanooga Fashion Expo
November 17 & 18
This year’s Chattanooga Fashion Expo will be a two-day event full of breakthrough fashion from emerging and established professionals. On Friday, industry experts will lead an educational program followed by an opening night event at Sleepyhead Coffee. All-day runway shows and curated shopping will be available on Saturday from 3 to 8 p.m., followed by a ticketed after-party at Walden Peak Farm.
Thanksgiving on the River
November 18 & 23
Spice up your holiday with Thanksgiving on the River on the Southern Belle Riverboat. The Southern Belle offers a one-of-a-kind Thanksgiving dinner experience on a two-hour cruise. Diners will be served holiday favorites like roast turkey breast and sweet potato casserole as the boat glides across the Tennessee River. You can choose to celebrate Friendsgiving on the 18th or bring your loved ones on Thanksgiving day.
Thanksgiving Market
November 19
The Chattanooga Market is holding one final outdoor market of the year from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the First Horizon Pavilion. Sweet Georgia Sound will serenade shoppers as they browse the variety of hand-crafted gifts made by local artisans and prepare to stock their pantries with local and homemade desserts, cheeses, produce, and meat. The market is the perfect place for all of your Thanksgiving needs! You can find more details here.
2023 Grateful Gobbler 5K
November 23
Sprint to Coolidge Park for the Grateful Gobbler 5K Walk/Run sponsored by Crown Automotive Group. Participants can cross a 5k off their bucket list as they walk or run through downtown Chattanooga on Thanksgiving morning. All proceeds go to the Maclellan Shelter for Families, a homeless shelter that provides a safe place for families seeking long term housing. Don’t miss this chance to give thanks and give back to your community!
Turkey Trot
November 23
Chattanooga’s longest standing Thanksgiving road race returns for its 33rd year! Race events Include an 8k race, a three-mile family walk and jog, and a Kiddie-K. Dogs and strollers are welcome. Proceeds benefit families and patients aided by the Kidney Foundation of Greater Chattanooga.
Ice on the Landing: Opens November 24
November 24
Slide into the season with the Chattanooga Choo Choo! The Chattanooga Choo Choo’s Christmas favorite, Ice on the Landing, has a new look. Previously held at the Glenn Miller Gardens, the Choo Choo has chosen the First Horizon Pavilion as the new home of the skating rink. Check the Ice on the Landing official site for updates on events and entertainment and book your tickets!
Ian Musnick: The Buffalo Roams Tour
November 25
Rising country music star Ian Musnick and special guest Chancey Williams will perform hits from his sophomore album, White Buffalo, at The Signal. Musnick brings his Wyoming stylings and personal musings to Chattanooga for a night of country music fun.
North Pole Limited Christmas Train: Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum: Opens November 18
November 18
The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum combines the wonder of Christmas with the beauty of classic trains for an unforgettable holiday experience. From Christmas cookies and hot chocolate to storytelling and letters to Santa, the train ride has everything you need for a perfect night in a winter wonderland. The ride even features a visit from the jolly old man himself. Spots fill fast so purchase your tickets to the North Pole today!
