Chattanooga, Tennessee, August 10, 2025
News Summary
Chattanooga, Tennessee, is set to honor the centenary of the Scopes Trial alongside a vibrant lineup of arts events and community festivals. The Tennessee State Museum highlights the trial’s historical significance, featuring the musical contributions of Vernon Dalhart. A diverse schedule includes art exhibits, musical performances, and community-focused activities, making it a rich experience for both residents and visitors. The centenary events in Dayton promise engaging discussions and reflections on this pivotal moment in American history.
Chattanooga Area Events and Highlights: Scopes Trial Centenary, Art Shows, and Community Festivals
Chattanooga, Tennessee, is gearing up for an exciting array of events, highlighting not only the region’s rich cultural heritage but also celebrating the centenary of the historic Scopes Trial. The Tennessee State Museum is marking the trial’s 100th anniversary with a blog feature that delves into its musical history, spotlighting artist Vernon Dalhart, who released popular songs about the trial in 1925. His tracks, including The John T. Scopes Trial and Bryan’s Last Fight, appealed to conservative audiences, framing the trial’s prosecution as a noble cause.
The Scopes Trial took place in July 1925 in Dayton, Tennessee, and it was notable for being the first trial to be broadcast live on radio. This groundbreaking event not only marked a significant moment in legal history but also ignited a national debate over the teaching of evolution in schools.
Upcoming Arts Events
A variety of arts events are scheduled across Chattanooga in the coming weeks:
- The “Trouble! At Coal Creek” exhibit will be on display at The Arts Center in Athens from August 18 to September 26, with an opening reception on September 12.
- The Juried Member Show at AVA Gallery will run through September 5.
- The “Flora & Fauna” exhibit is at CHA Art Space until October 2.
- The “Fun on the Spectrum” show featuring local artists will be at the Chattanooga Public Library until August 30.
- The “Mark Thrash – Local Legend” exhibit at Chickamauga Battlefield Visitor Center will highlight civil rights artifacts.
Musical Performances
Chattanooga will also host numerous music events:
- Barking Legs Theater will showcase Ryan Hamilton on August 15-16.
- The Afternooners will perform live at Barrelhouse Ballroom on August 15.
- A free music series, “Riverfront Nights”, featuring Dizgo, will take place on August 16 at Ross’s Landing.
Film Festivals and Comedy Shows
The Lookout Wild Film Festival is scheduled for August 16, with screenings of films focused on young athletes in Afghanistan and a local documentary about climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. Additionally, comedy shows can be found at The Comedy Catch and Improv Chattanooga on various dates.
Outdoor and Community Activities
A range of outdoor and community-focused events are also scheduled:
- Reptile Awareness Day at the Chattanooga Zoo on August 16.
- The Splash Summer Arts Festival at Miller Park on August 16 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- A summer farmers market and karaoke at Chattanooga Market on August 17.
- Mental health awareness events at the Chattanooga Public Library on August 16.
Scopes Trial Centennial Celebration
The centenary of the Scopes Trial will be commemorated with a symposium in Dayton, Tennessee, exploring its historical and social contexts. As part of the celebration, the great-grandsons of trial participant William Jennings Bryan, Al and William Jennings Bryan Forsyth, will discuss their family’s connection to this pivotal case. Recent renovations at the Rhea County Courthouse were made to prepare for the centenary festivities, now equipped with modern amenities.
This diverse array of events in Chattanooga promises to engage the community and attract visitors, commemorating an essential part of American history while showcasing local talent across the arts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Scopes Trial?
The Scopes Trial, held in July 1925 in Dayton, Tennessee, was a legal case that debated the teaching of evolution in schools, marking a significant moment in American educational history.
What events are happening to celebrate the Scopes Trial Centennial?
The Scopes Trial Centennial Celebration includes a symposium addressing historical and social contexts and features discussions with actors related to the trial.
What art exhibitions are currently available in Chattanooga?
Current exhibitions include “Trouble! At Coal Creek,” “Flora & Fauna,” and the “Juried Member Show,” among others throughout the Chattanooga area.
Are there any music events coming up?
Yes, music events include performances by Ryan Hamilton at Barking Legs Theater and a free concert featuring Dizgo at Ross’s Landing as part of Riverfront Nights.
Chart: Key Features of Upcoming Events
| Event | Date | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Scopes Trial Centennial Symposium | Various Dates | Dayton, Tennessee |
| Trouble! At Coal Creek Exhibit | August 18 – September 26 | Arts Center, Athens |
| Ryan Hamilton Concert | August 15-16 | Barking Legs Theater |
| Reptile Awareness Day | August 16 | Chattanooga Zoo |
| Riverfront Nights with Dizgo | August 16 | Ross’s Landing |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Times Free Press: Things to Do in the Chattanooga Area This Week
- Wikipedia: Scopes Trial
- Knox News: Book about Nellie Kenyon
- Google Search: Scopes Trial
- Times Free Press: Scopes Symposium
- Google Scholar: Scopes Trial
- Times Free Press: Dayton Prepares for Centennial
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Scopes Trial
- Times Free Press: Opinion on Scopes Trial
- Google News: Scopes Trial
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.
