Chattanooga, September 8, 2025
News Summary
Chattanooga is set to welcome the International Bluegrass Music Association’s (IBMA) World of Bluegrass event in 2025. This five-day celebration features a business conference, music showcases, awards, and a festival, marking the first time the event will take place in Chattanooga. Attendees can expect an array of sessions, performances by emerging talents, and the prestigious Bluegrass Music Awards. With various pricing options, this event is anticipated to bring a vibrant atmosphere to the city and showcase its music scene.
Chattanooga is gearing up to host the International Bluegrass Music Association’s (IBMA) World of Bluegrass event from September 16-20, 2025. This marks a significant moment for the city as it welcomes this vibrant festival for the first time following its relocation from Raleigh, North Carolina. The five-day celebration will feature a business conference, showcases of new talent, an awards ceremony, and a two-day bluegrass music festival.
Event Details
The IBMA Business Conference will take place at the Chattanooga Convention Center, located at 1 Carter St., from September 16 to 18. Pre-registration opportunities will be available on September 15 from 1-5 p.m., with on-site sales continuing from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. each day from September 16 to 18. Attendees can expect a variety of sessions focusing on different facets of the music industry throughout the conference.
Conference Schedule Highlights
- September 16:
- “ReString Appalachia” covering instrument donations post-Hurricane Helene
- “Women Who Lead” panel discussion
- Keynote address by notable musicians Billy Strings and Tom Power
- Evening kickoff party
- September 17:
- Tai chi session with songwriter Jim Lauderdale
- Festival planning session
- Celebration of bluegrass musician Hazel Dickens
- Diversity, equity, and inclusion town hall
- September 18:
- IBMA town hall session
- Informational session for emerging artists
- “Rooted Rhythms” focusing on African American contributions
- “Roots and Roles” panel discussion
Pricing Information
The passes for the conference are priced as follows:
- $20 for a single-day exhibit hall pass
- $165-$185 for a single-day pass
- $305-$355 for a two-day pass
- $395-$495 for a three-day pass
Bluegrass Ramble and Music Awards
Concurrent with the conference is the IBMA Bluegrass Ramble, showcasing emerging talents at various local venues from September 16 to 18. Notable performers include:
- September 16: Foggy Mountain Spaceship, Randy Steele and High Cold Wind
- September 17: Burnett Sisters Band, Hilary Klug
- September 18: Owen Saunders and Family, Landon Fitzpatrick Band
Pricing for the Bluegrass Ramble ranges from $25-$30 for a single-day pass and $55-$65 for a full-week pass.
The 36th annual Bluegrass Music Awards will occur on September 18 at Memorial Auditorium, co-hosted by comedian Steve Martin and musician Alison Brown. Awards will recognize achievements such as Entertainer of the Year, with notable nominees like Alison Krauss & Union Station and Billy Strings.
Bluegrass Live Festival
The festival segment runs from September 19 to 20 at locations including Miller Park, Miller Plaza, and Patten Square. Featured artists encompass Alison Brown, Jim Lauderdale, and The Infamous Stringdusters. General admission prices for the festival start from $35-$45 for a single day, and $60-$75 for both days, with premium seating available at $140-$160. The convention center’s exhibit hall will be free to enter.
3 Sisters Festival
Following the IBMA event, the annual 3 Sisters Festival will occur on October 3-4 at Ross’s Landing. This free festival, now in its 18th year, will host performances by bands such as Fireside Collective and The Travelin’ McCourys.
FAQ Section
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the IBMA World of Bluegrass event?
The IBMA World of Bluegrass is a five-day celebration of bluegrass music featuring a business conference, showcases, awards, and a music festival.
When will the IBMA event take place?
The event will take place from September 16 to September 20, 2025.
Where is the event located?
The IBMA World of Bluegrass will be held at various venues in Chattanooga, including the Chattanooga Convention Center and outdoor locations like Miller Park.
How much do passes for the event cost?
Conference passes range from $20 to $495 depending on the type and duration, while festival passes range from $35 to $160.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Date | Location | Pricing |
|---|---|---|---|
| IBMA Business Conference | Sept 16-18 | Chattanooga Convention Center | $20-$495 |
| Bluegrass Ramble | Sept 16-18 | Various local venues | $25-$65 |
| Bluegrass Music Awards | Sept 18 | Memorial Auditorium | Varied |
| Bluegrass Live Festival | Sept 19-20 | Miller Park, Miller Plaza | $35-$160 |
| 3 Sisters Festival | Oct 3-4 | Ross’s Landing | Free |
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Additional Resources
- Times Free Press: How to Enjoy Chattanooga’s Bluegrass Festivals
- Wikipedia: Bluegrass music
- Local 3 News: IBMA Bluegrass Ramble Announces Performers
- Google Search: IBMA World of Bluegrass
- News Channel 9: Steve Martin to Co-Host 2025 IBMA Bluegrass Music Awards
- Google Scholar: Bluegrass music festivals
- Chattanooga Pulse: IBMA Bluegrass Ramble Showcase Performers Schedule Unveiled
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Folk music
- Nooga Today: IBMA Bluegrass Live in Chattanooga
- Google News: Chattanooga Bluegrass Festivals
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
