“Welcome back,” we all say in unison as the Chattanooga Market gears up for its opening weekend on Saturday, April 26 + Sunday, April 27 under the First Horizon Pavilion.
For its 25th season, you can expect your favorite produce + artisanal vendors to return, live music, food trucks, and more — there’s just nothing like picking up fresh flowers and spending the day shopping in the shade.
Now that we’ve got you excited for this market’s return, here are 10 Sundays you don’t want to miss throughout the season.
Strawberry Festival, May 4
From strawberry salsas and chocolate-covered bites to strawberry-scented candles, you can enjoy the fresh taste of hand-picked berries from our regional farms.
On stage | The Essentials
Top Tomato Festival, June 8
Those 21+ can purchase a $15 ticket to sample five different Bloody Marys to determine who has the best flavor — non-alcoholic versions can be requested.
On stage | Scott Clay + James Hatem
Midsummer Solstice, June 22
Spend the longest day of the year shopping from your favorite vendors + making the first memories of summer.
On stage | Scenic City Sound
FiveStar Food Fight, June 29
From 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., you’ll get to see a live cooking competition between some of the city’s best chefs, including a secret ingredient from the market they’ll have to work with. Bonus: Check out last year’s competition.
Peach Festival, July 13
Get to the pit of the market for this annual celebration of all things peaches (my personal favorite season to experience each year).
On stage | Justin Moyar + Mikki Zip
Fall Food Truck Rally, Aug. 31
Spend Labor Day weekend at this Reggie White Street Party, walking around and getting food from some of the fan-favorite food trucks around town.
On stage | Katie Cosentino + Adam Lopez
Apple Festival, Oct. 5
Don’t miss the last fruit-inspired market of the year where you can buy themed products + get your fresh-picked apples in time for your favorite fall desserts and ciders.
Chattanooga Oktoberfest, Oct. 11 + 12
You can find German traditions under the pavilion during this weekend, from chicken dances and brats to a biergarten featuring craft brews to fill your steins.
On stage | An Oompah band
Big Band Day, Nov. 9
Step back in time to hear the sounds of classic and modern big bands, swing, Latin, and the waltz. Bonus: In honor of Veterans Day, the annual Quilts of Valor presentation will be at 1:30 p.m.
On stage | Sweet Georgia Sound
Chattanooga Holiday Market, Nov. 22 + 23
To close out the outdoor market season, you can shop produce for your Thanksgiving meals + start thinking about your holiday gifts and planning. Bonus: Ice on the Landing will be back and ready for you to skate.
Bonus: Plan for the rest of the weekend by checking out the full calendar.