News Summary
Chattanooga is gearing up for the return of the Wine Over Water Festival on October 25, 2025, celebrating its 30th anniversary. This festival features curated wine tastings and culinary offerings from local chefs, all while raising funds for Preserve Chattanooga. Enhancements, including magical lighting at Renaissance Park, will create an enchanting atmosphere. The festival aims to promote the preservation of the city’s architectural heritage, engaging the community in meaningful conversations. Event-goers are encouraged to purchase tickets early due to high demand.
Chattanooga is preparing to welcome back its beloved Wine Over Water Festival on Saturday, October 25, 2025, from 6 to 9 p.m. This year marks the festival’s 30th anniversary, providing an opportunity to celebrate its enduring tradition of fundraising for Preserve Chattanooga. The festival promises curated wine tastings and culinary delights from some of the area’s top chefs, all set against the picturesque backdrop of the Tennessee River.
This year’s festival will feature enhancements, including atmospheric lighting that will transform Renaissance Park into a magical wonderland, allowing attendees to enjoy stunning views of the historic Walnut and Market Street Bridges. Alongside the main event, the Best Cellars event will take place the night before, on Friday, October 24, 2025, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Hunter Museum of American Art. Both events share a common goal: to support Preserve Chattanooga in its mission to protect the architectural heritage of the city.
Preserve Chattanooga, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, was originally founded in 1975 as Landmarks Chattanooga. It later adopted the name Cornerstones before settling on its current identity as a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the city’s historic structures and fostering community engagement. The organization has significantly contributed to enhancing the city’s architectural landscape as it grows.
The festival not only serves as a celebration of wine and food but also emphasizes the importance of protecting Chattanooga’s cultural and historical significance amidst modern development. The planning committee, helmed by Delton Chen and supported by 18 dedicated volunteers from various organizations, has worked diligently to ensure a memorable experience for attendees.
Guests will have the unique opportunity to savor food pairings created by Chef Kevin Ramquist, designed to perfectly complement the wines being showcased. Early bird tickets for Wine Over Water and its sister event, Best Cellars, are available for purchase on the Preserve Chattanooga website. Due to high demand, it is advisable for potential attendees to secure their tickets promptly to avoid missing out on the events.
In addition to the enticing wine and culinary offerings, the festival will feature a range of entertainment, adding to the celebratory atmosphere. As part of its commitment to the community and the preservation of its heritage, Preserve Chattanooga aims to engage residents and visitors in meaningful conversations about the future of the city’s architectural landscape while enjoying the festivities.
The official hotel for both events is the historic Read House, which is offering special rates for attendees seeking accommodations. This arrangement provides a convenient option for festivalgoers traveling from outside Chattanooga or for those who wish to enjoy the full experience of the weekend without the hassle of commuting.
With a rich history in its three-decade run, the Wine Over Water Festival continues to be a highlight of the Chattanooga social calendar. The event not only celebrates wine and culinary excellence but also serves as a reminder of the critical role that architectural preservation plays in maintaining the character of the city. As growth and development continue to shape the area, the mission of organizations like Preserve Chattanooga remains more important than ever.
As anticipation builds for the upcoming festivals, locals and visitors alike are encouraged to come together in support of a cause that benefits the entire community. Whether savoring exquisite wines, enjoying delightful cuisine, or simply taking in the beautiful surroundings, attendees can look forward to a festive occasion that honors Chattanooga’s past and its future.
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Additional Resources
- Chattanooga Pulse: Wine Over Water Tickets
- NewsChannel 9: SipTN Wine Festival
- Chattanoogan: Wine Over Water Returns
- Style Blueprint: Food and Wine Festivals in the South
- Times Free Press: Things to Do in Chattanooga
- Wikipedia: Wine Festival
