Contributing Author: Gray Bennett
With summer in full swing and Independence Day quickly approaching, there’s no shortage of fun things to see and do in the Scenic City. If you’re searching for events to attend this month, look no further! Below, we’ve compiled a list of the hottest celebrations taking place in Chattanooga in July.
Pops on the River
July 3
Pops on the River will be returning this year on Wednesday, July 3, starting at 5 p.m. This free event will feature two concerts by Love, Peace & Happiness and the Chattanooga Symphony & Opera. Afterwards, the fireworks will begin and are set to conclude by 9:30 p.m. There will be food and beverages available for purchase at the event.
Fun on the Fourth
Independence Day Fireworks – Lookouts vs. Smokies
July 4
Join the Lookouts for Independence Day fun at AT&T Field as they take on the Tennessee Smokies, Double-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. With plenty of excitement on and off the field, fans can look forward to a great game followed by a spectacular fireworks show to celebrate America’s independence. See the full promotional schedule and get tickets online.
Throwback Thursday
July 4
Celebrate Independence Day with the Hunter Museum of American Art. From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., the museum will offer free admission to their permanent collection as well as their special exhibition, Art Deco Glass from the David Huchthausen Collection.
Nightfall Concert Series
July 5, 12, 19, 26
Nightfall will continue into July with four concerts at Miller Plaza and Miller Park. Each event will begin at 6 p.m. with an art market in the park, and food and beverages will be available starting at 6:30 p.m. The concerts will begin at 7 p.m. The event is free to attend, and the concert lineup can be found on Nightfall’s website.
Stars & Stripes
July 6
The fun doesn’t have to stop after Independence Day. Join Common House as they keep the party going and host a Stars & Stripes themed pool party from 2 to 6 p.m. Open to members and non-members alike, participants can enjoy yard games, drinks, cookout food, and music while they sit by the pool.
Peach Festival
July 7
This month, the Chattanooga Market will feature the Peach Festival at the First Horizon Pavilion. Along with the market’s usual festivities, vendors will incorporate peach scents, flavors, and more into their locally-made goods. Attendees will also have the opportunity to purchase peach treats like jam, salsa, pastries, and more.
Drink and Discover: CDM Games
July 12
This exclusive night at Creative Discovery Museum is for participants 21 years and older. From 7 to 10 p.m., come explore the museum and compete in thrilling games and challenges such as ping-pong and obstacle courses. Each ticket includes admission, one drink ticket, food, activities, and a souvenir cup to remember the evening. And you might just win a gold medal!
Free Movies Under the Stars
July 12
Head to the Hubert Fry Center along the Tennessee Riverpark for the last installment of their summer movies series: Free Movies Under the Stars. The event which will last from 8 to 11 p.m., is free to all, and will feature games, popcorn, food trucks, face painting, and more! The movie will begin at 9 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets and chairs for the movie viewing.
Burn Your Half Off by Run Chattanooga
July 13
Ready to put some fun in your run? The Burn Your Half Off by Run Chattanooga is a no-pressure race event perfect for joggers, walkers, and racers of all kinds. The course consists of a multi-loop out-and-back path along the Tennessee Riverwalk, and a giant aid station at the middle of the course will boast a plethora of snacks, drinks, and supplies for all racers to enjoy.
Q 'n Brew
July 13
Join the Chattanooga Zoo as they provide a summer cookout featuring locally-made barbecue and tasty beer. The event will also feature a live bluegrass band, tortoise races, and other animal meet-and-greets. While all ages are welcome to attend the event, two drink tickets will be provided for attendees over 21 years of age. Tickets can be purchased on the Zoo’s website.
Tuesday Matinee
July 23
On the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month, the Chattanooga Public Library offers a free movie for its patrons in the Downtown Library Auditorium. On July 23, head to the library at 2 p.m. to watch “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom.”
CDM Games
July 27
On Saturday, July 27, Creative Discovery Museum will kick off a week-long celebration of summer games and activities with a Parade of Nations down Chestnut Street at 11 a.m. featuring local community partners. Guests will “light” a large torch with their torch creations, then go into the museum to experience a variety of games and activities, including a gymnastics demonstration and photo opportunity with a three-tiered podium. The celebration continues during the week with partners highlighting several unique sports and activities, including volleyball, track & field, kayaking, and a visit from the Special Olympics. All events are free with museum admission.
