Contributing Author: Gray Bennett
Though the holiday season may be over, there’s still plenty of fun things to do in Chattanooga this winter. From some last-minute holiday light viewings to four different races and much more, check out the different events and celebrations offered in the Scenic City this January.
The Whiskey Run
January 1
Kickstart your year with Chattanooga’s 5th Annual Whiskey Run. Choose from a half-marathon, 10K, or 5K and join the community for an exhilarating race. Whether you run or walk, the fun doesn’t end at the finish line – celebrate your achievement with great company and, of course, whiskey!
Holiday Lights Train
January 1-5, 10-12
Still feeling the Christmas spirit in the new year? Climb aboard the Holiday Lights Train at the Tennessee Valley Railroad. Running for select dates in early January, this 45-minute experience takes guests on a 6-mile round trip to enjoy the festive lights at the train’s depot and the station’s “North Pole.” Guests will also enjoy refreshments and storytelling during the ride.
January Dance Social
January 3
For those looking for a New Year’s resolution, consider learning how to dance with Dance Tonight Chattanooga. On January 3, guests are invited to attend the January Dance Social at their studio in Southside. Starting at 7 p.m., this two-hour social will feature multiple types of dances including rumba, tango, swing, and cha-cha, with instructional segments occurring throughout the evening.
Tennessee Running Tour – Trail of Tears 10K
January 11
In its 46th year, this race is part of the longest state park running series in the United States. The Trail of Tears race starts at 11 a.m. at the lodge of the Red Clay State Historic Area. An interesting course including one major hill and lots of frogs and cows along the way, this nearly seven-mile course takes runners across the Georgia state line and back.
Chattanooga Speed Dating
January 11
Love is in the air! Or, maybe it’s at Nic & Norman’s. Head to the popular American restaurant on January 11 from 2 to 4 p.m. for Chattanooga Speed Dating. Open to Chattanooga locals and newcomers alike, attendees can enjoy a free drink and exclusive food and drink specials while meeting new people in the area.
Freeze Your Half Off
January 15
Presented by Run Chattanooga, Freeze Your Half Off offers a half marathon, 10k, and 5k along the beautiful Tennessee River. The course is mostly flat, paved, and features small inclines and declines. Included in the registration fee, runners will receive race swag, a coffee mug medal, and access to aid stations throughout the race. All races will begin at 9 a.m.
Lookout Wild Film Festival
January 17-19
Outdoors and movie lovers, this one’s for you! Join Gearhead Outfitters as they host the Lookout Wild Film Festival. Celebrating its 13th year, the festival showcases a wide variety of captivating films featuring outdoor adventure and recreation, all over the course of a weekend. This year, the festival will be held at The Signal.
UTC Women’s Basketball vs. Mercer
January 18
Go Mocs! Support the UTC Women’s Basketball team as they take on Mercer on Saturday, January 18 at 2 p.m. Held in the McKenzie Arena, ticket prices range from $6 to $16. Tickets can be purchased through UTC’s website, and guests should remember to follow the arena’s clear bag policy.
Polar Plunge and Fun Run
January 18
Baby, it’s cold outside! Head to Lula Lake Land Trust on January 18 to participate in the Polar Plunge and Fun Run, the only day of the year that the public is allowed to swim in Lula Lake. This 3-mile race takes runners through the preserve and ends at the polar plunge launch point. After braving the cold, participants can enjoy cider, cocoa, and beer, provided by Chattanooga Whiskey.
City Arts at the Library
January 18
Join the Chattanooga Public Library for their City Arts program, held on the library’s fourth floor. From noon to 2 p.m., attendees can meet artists from Creative Discovery Museum, who will guide guests through different mediums to create with. This event is open to all ages.
“Pretty Woman: The Musical”
January 24-26
Head to the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Auditorium for “Pretty Woman: The Musical,” based on one of Hollywood’s most beloved romantic stories. Featuring an original score by Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance and a book by the movie’s director Garry Marshall and screenwriter J. F. Lawton, this musical is sure to sweep you off your feet. Available tickets range from $65 to $151, and they can be purchased on the theater’s website.
Pink! Gala
January 25
Celebrating its 20th year, the Pink! Gala is the CHI Memorial Foundation’s signature black-tie event. Alex and Lacy Burd, son and daughter-in-law of MaryEllen Locher, will co-chair the 2025 event at the Chattanooga Convention Center with the theme “20 Years of Impact: MaryEllen Locher’s Legacy.” All proceeds from Pink! stay within the community to support the mission of the MaryEllen Locher Breast Center at CHI Memorial.
