The arrival of February heralds some of the Scenic City’s favorite annual events, from Romance at Ruby to the Houston Museum’s Antiques Show & Sale. Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day, Mardi Gras, Black History Month, or the final weeks of winter, Chattanooga has something unique and festive to offer.
National Wear Red Day®
February 3
Celebrate American Heart Month with the American Heart Association by wearing red on the first Friday in February, also known as National Wear Red Day®. People of all ages and backgrounds can support this great cause and shine a light on heart health by simply sporting a red shirt, shoes, or hat – whatever is sitting in your closet! You can also show your support through donations, spreading the word, and, most importantly, creating lasting change for a healthier heart.
My Fair Lady
February 3-4
You have three chances to catch My Fair Lady at the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Auditorium as part of the Tivoli’s Broadway at the Memorial Auditorium. The mesmerizing musical tells the story of Eliza Doolittle as she’s transformed into a “proper lady” by linguistics professor Henry Higgins. The show features classic songs including “Wouldn’t It Be Loverly,” “I Could Have Danced All Night,” and “On the Street Where You Live.” Show times are 8 p.m. on February 3 and 2 and 8 p.m. on February 4.
Romance at Ruby
February 10-12, 14
One of Chattanooga’s most iconic attractions is celebrating Valentine’s Day with Romance at Ruby. This date night includes a special Lantern Tour, professional keepsake photo, and themed gift. Guests will also hear tales of local legendary romances, including the love story of founder Leo Lambert and his wife, Ruby. Tours are $89.95 per couple and available via advance reservation only.
Valentines Date Night at The Sweet & Savory Classroom
February 10-14
Looking for a way to spice up your Valentine’s Day celebrations with your significant other? Then look no further than The Sweet & Savory Classroom’s Valentines Date Night: Savannah in Style. Available over five evenings, couples can create (and enjoy!) a Southern-style menu featuring roasted red pepper soup, pan-seared beef tenderloin and shrimp, grits, praline pound cake, and more. Registration for the three-hour class is available online.
Valentine Train Ride at the Tennessee Valley Railroad
February 10-14
If a romantic train ride is more your speed, there’s no better Valentine’s Day celebration than at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum. Its Valentine’s dinner train includes four delicious courses aboard a restored 1924 dining car. The train departs from Chattanooga’s Grand Junction Station and travels at a leisurely pace through portions of urban East Chattanooga. This two-hour experience is like stepping back in time and is one of the Tennessee Valley Railroad’s most popular excursions!
Cupid’s Chase 5K
February 11
Presented by Community Options, the Cupid’s Chase 5K invites runners, walkers, and rollers (baby strollers and wheelchairs included) to participate in this annual race, where proceeds support housing and employment for people with disabilities. The event takes place at 10 a.m. at the Tennessee Riverpark at 4301 Amnicola Highway.
Mardi Gras 2023: Lucky Strike
February 11
This authentic Mardi Gras celebration at The Read House boasts a full Cajun buffet, drinks, party favors, dancing, live Dixieland Band, and the crowning of the Chattanooga Mardi Gras king and queen. It’s hosted by the Mystikal Krewe of Indulgences, and proceeds will go to support local organization Downside Up, Inc. Revelers must be 21 years old to attend, and attire is black tie optional. The fun begins at 7 p.m.
Be Caffeinated Caffeine Run
February 12
Be Caffeinated and Run Rhino have partnered up to bring us our two favorite things in one event: running and coffee. Runners have their choice of a 5K, 10K, and half marathon, while walkers can participate too using the shorter 1.5-mile loop, all located near the Chattanooga State location of Be Caffeinated. All participants will receive a t-shirt, a branded ceramic mug, baked goods, and, of course, a full cup of coffee upon completion of the race. A portion of the event proceeds will benefit local nonprofit Be the Change Youth Initiative.
49th Annual Antiques Show & Sale
February 17-19
Recognized as one of the South’s premier antiques shows, the Houston Museum’s 49th Annual Antiques Show & Sale is sure to have something for every antiques collector. This year’s show, to take place at the historic Read House, will feature more than 20 dealers from around the country displaying a diverse selection of merchandise. General admission for all three days is $10, with proceeds benefiting the Houston Museum of Decorative Arts.
Black History Festival
February 18
Families of all backgrounds are invited to come out and celebrate African culture with our area’s Black artists, authors, and business owners at the Black History Festival. This fun-filled event will be held at East Lake Community Center from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. With free admission, you can experience art, live music, dance, poetry, vendors, giveaways, food, and much more. One thing is for sure – you won’t leave empty-handed!
Bubbles of Fun Run
February 25
The Austin Hatcher Foundation is bringing back its Bubbles of Fun Run for the third year. Participants have their choice between a one-mile fun run, 5K, and 10K, with funds going to provide a brighter future for families faced with pediatric cancer. There will be bubbles blown as participants cross the finish line of the course. Entire families are invited to come out to support, walk, or run!
