News Summary
Chattanooga is set to host a week filled with diverse events and festivals from May 18 to May 26, bringing together live music performances, art exhibitions, and culinary delights. Highlights include unique exhibits at local galleries, the Caverns Sessions concert series, comedy competitions, and outdoor movie screenings. Residents and visitors can experience food festivals like the Bacon Festival and the Chattanooga Beer Fest, alongside community engagement activities and Memorial Day celebrations, fostering a vibrant cultural atmosphere.
Chattanooga, TN – A week filled with engaging events and festivals is set to take place from May 18 to May 26, 2025, providing the local community and visitors with a wide array of cultural experiences ranging from live music to art exhibitions and food festivals.
Live Music and Special Performances
The 14th season of “The Caverns Sessions” is slated to feature live music tapings in Pelham, Tennessee, with upcoming shows including:
- The Oak Ridge Boys on May 21.
- The String Cheese Incident, Jesse Roper, and The Headhunters during CaveJam on May 25.
- The SteelDrivers and Bronwyn Keith-Hynes on June 1.
- Buckethead on July 25.
Tickets for these shows start at $119, with varied seating options available. Additionally, options for camping and cave tours will also be offered. The performances are expected to air on PBS in the fall, providing further reach and community engagement.
Arts and Exhibitions
The arts scene in Chattanooga is vibrant during this week, with several exhibits open for public viewing:
- The Athens Area Council for the Arts will host the “Exposure 2025” photography exhibit until May 30.
- AVA Gallery features the “AVA Member Printmaking Show” and a CityArts Program exhibit through June 6.
- The CHA Art Space will showcase the “Inspired” exhibit, honoring women’s contributions, running until June 27.
- A display of artifacts about local legend Mark Thrash can be viewed at the Chickamauga Battlefield Visitor Center.
- The Franklin County Arts Guild is holding a community show titled “Emergence” through June 1.
- Various local galleries will display artworks from diverse artists until late May and through June.
Comedy and Dance Events
The Comedy Catch is hosting the Lookout Comedy Competition from May 21-25, showcasing local talent and entertainment. Special guest Ron Taylor will perform on May 22.
For those interested in dance, the Chattanooga Traditional Dance Society will conduct social folk dances on May 24, allowing participants to engage in traditional dance styles.
Film Screenings and Music
Film enthusiasts can enjoy a free movie night featuring Iron Man at Chester Frost Park on May 23. The IMAX Theater will also be presenting T-Rex 3D and Call of the Dolphins 3D throughout the end of May.
Music lovers can attend Wednesday Night Jazz at Barking Legs Theater on May 21, along with various performances scheduled at venues like Barrelhouse Ballroom and Songbirds throughout the week.
Food and Local Festivals
Foodies will find plenty to enjoy with several festivals taking place:
- The Downtown Ringgold’s 1890s Days Jamboree will kick off with Family Night on May 23.
- The Bacon Festival is set for May 24 at the Tri-State Exhibition Center, highlighting local culinary delights.
- The Chattanooga Beer Fest will occur at First Horizon Pavilion from noon to 3 p.m. on May 24.
Sports and Theater
The Chattanooga Lookouts baseball team will host games from May 20-24 and 25, featuring promotional nights to engage fans and local sports enthusiasts.
Theater productions continue to thrive, with performances of “The Psychology of a Murderer” at Walker Theatre and various plays at other local theaters throughout the week.
Community Engagement and Memorial Day Activities
Chattanooga’s community engagement activities will include yard sales, farmers markets, and outdoor city events celebrating local culture and community spirit. Memorial Day activities will feature a ceremonial flag placement at Chattanooga National Cemetery on May 24. Moreover, community picnics and celebrations are planned to honor local history and veterans.
The diverse lineup of events ensures an enriching cultural experience for everyone in the Chattanooga area, cultivating community interaction and supporting the local arts, entertainment, and food scene.
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Additional Resources
- Times Free Press: Things to Do in Chattanooga Area This Week
- Local 3 News: Community Invited to Earth Week Events
- Nooga Today: Celebrate Earth Week in Chattanooga
- Local 3 News: Street Closures in Chattanooga for Special Events
- Times Free Press: Things to Do in the Chattanooga Area This Weekend
- Wikipedia: Chattanooga
- Google Search: Chattanooga Events
- Google Scholar: Chattanooga Culture
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Chattanooga
- Google News: Chattanooga
