Chattanooga, September 17, 2025
News Summary
Chattanooga is hosting the International Bluegrass Music Association World of Bluegrass for the first time, featuring a business conference, music awards, and a two-day festival. The event runs from September 16-20, bringing together bluegrass enthusiasts and notable musicians like Billy Strings. The city’s role as a bluegrass hub is expected to enhance community engagement and boost the local economy, leading to Chattanooga hosting future IBMA events from 2025-2027.
Chattanooga Hosts the 36th Annual International Bluegrass Music Association World of Bluegrass Events This Week
Chattanooga is hosting the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) World of Bluegrass event for the first time from September 16-20. This prestigious event will feature a comprehensive agenda that includes a business conference, music showcases, an awards ceremony, and a two-day music festival aimed at bringing together bluegrass enthusiasts from around the world.
The IBMA Business Conference runs from September 16-18 at the Chattanooga Convention Center. It will host various sessions and events focusing on different aspects of the bluegrass industry, providing attendees with valuable insights and networking opportunities. Notably, renowned musician Billy Strings will deliver the keynote address, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity in bluegrass music alongside his personal experiences within the genre.
The 36th annual IBMA Music Awards will take place on September 18 at 7:30 p.m. This ceremony will be co-hosted by comedian Steve Martin and Grammy winner Alison Brown. Categories include Entertainer of the Year, Song of the Year, Album of the Year, among others, with nominees such as Alison Krauss & Union Station, Billy Strings, and Sierra Hull.
In addition to the awards, a two-day Bluegrass Live music festival is scheduled to follow on September 19-20. This festival will feature performances from well-known artists such as Gillian Welch, Alison Brown, and The Wood Brothers. The event will take place across several downtown venues including Miller Park, Miller Plaza, and Patten Square, alongside an exhibit hall at the convention center. Admission for the festival is priced between $35-$45 for a single day, with options for multi-day passes available for purchase.
Local bluegrass legend Trevor Shaw has highlighted the significance of hosting the IBMA event in Chattanooga, stressing its potential to boost the local economy and enhance community engagement with bluegrass music. In a promising development for the city, Chattanooga has been selected to host the IBMA World of Bluegrass for the next three years, from 2025 to 2027.
This event aims not only to strengthen Chattanooga’s stature as a global hub for bluegrass music but also to draw in a diverse demographic, from traditional bluegrass fans to newer generations. The World of Bluegrass event will also include workshops and exhibitions aimed at showcasing emerging talent through the Bluegrass Ramble, scheduled for September 16-18. Local community members are encouraged to participate in sessions focused on improving the viability for future bluegrass shows and tours.
The excitement for bluegrass music in Chattanooga continues, with the upcoming 18th annual 3 Sisters Festival of Bluegrass, taking place on October 3-4. This event maintains its status as a free celebration of the genre.
Key Features of the World of Bluegrass Event
| Feature | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| IBMA Business Conference | September 16-18 | Sessions focusing on the bluegrass industry and keynote address by Billy Strings |
| IBMA Music Awards | September 18 at 7:30 p.m. | Hosted by Steve Martin and Alison Brown, featuring notable nominees |
| Bluegrass Live Festival | September 19-20 | Performances from headliners like Gillian Welch, Alison Brown, and The Wood Brothers |
| Location | N/A | Downtown Chattanooga venues: Miller Park, Miller Plaza, and Patten Square |
| Admission | N/A | $35-$45 for single day; multi-day passes available |
| Future Events | October 3-4 | 18th annual 3 Sisters Festival of Bluegrass, a free event |
FAQs
What is the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) World of Bluegrass event?
The IBMA World of Bluegrass event includes a business conference, music showcases, an awards ceremony, and a two-day music festival dedicated to bluegrass music.
When is the IBMA World of Bluegrass being held in Chattanooga?
The event is taking place from September 16-20, 2023.
Who is delivering the keynote address at the IBMA Business Conference?
Billy Strings will be delivering the keynote address discussing his experiences and the importance of inclusivity in bluegrass music.
What is the date and time for the IBMA Music Awards?
The 36th annual IBMA Music Awards will be held on September 18 at 7:30 p.m.
How much is the admission to the Bluegrass Live festival?
Admission for the festival is priced at $35-$45 for a single day, with multi-day passes available.
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Additional Resources
- Times Free Press: Things to Do in Chattanooga This Week
- Wikipedia: Chattanooga
- Chattanooga Pulse: Chattanooga Hosts the Annual IBMA Music Awards
- Google Search: International Bluegrass Music Association
- Nooga Today: IBMA Bluegrass Live in Chattanooga
- Google Scholar: Bluegrass Music
- Times Free Press: Parts of Georgia Ave, ML King Blvd. and Market St.
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Bluegrass Music
- Times Free Press: How to Enjoy Chattanooga’s Bluegrass Festivals
- Google News: Chattanooga Events
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
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