Your guide to the 2023 Moon River Music Festival

You have your Moon River festival tickets — now, read up and prepare for two days of music, food, and fun.

NOOGAtoday | Moon River 2023

Here’s what you need to know to prepare for the 2023 Moon River Music Festival.

Photo by Grant Hodgeon via Moon River Music Festival

Table of Contents

Moon River is almost here. If you’re heading to Coolidge Park (150 River St.) Saturday, Sept. 9 + Sunday, Sept. 10, good news — we’ll be there with you.

Follow along on Instagram for live coverage of the festival. In the meantime, here are a few things to keep in mind if you’re going + where to avoid if you aren’t.

Bonus: Limited tickets are still available for the two-day festival.

Closures + parking

  • All of Coolidge Park + the Chattanooga Theatre parking lot (next to the Philip Grymes Outdoor Chattanooga Center) will be closed until Monday, Sept. 11.
  • Tremont Street (between River Street + the waterfront) will be closed now through Sunday. Detours will be posted.
  • There is no parking on the north side of the park, but you can find paid lots on the south side of the river with easy access via the Walnut Street Pedestrian Bridge.
  • For bikers — the festival has a complimentary bike valet (located off River Street by the Walnut Street Bridge + Outdoor Chattanooga).
NOOGAtoday | Moon River 2023 Festival Goer Experience

Use these helpful tips to keep the party going all weekend long.

Photo by Jenn Devereaux via Moon River Music Festival

Festival goers

  • Gates for both days open at 12 p.m. + the first performer takes the Poplar Stage at 12:30 p.m. — note: due to health issues, Caamp has dropped out as Saturday’s headliner and will be replaced by NEEDTOBREATHE.
  • Plan your time at the festival + get accustomed to the layout by exploring the festival map.
  • Pack up your approved small purses, fanny packs, or clear bags. Lockers can be reserved.
  • Drink plenty of water. Bring an empty container or hydration backpack to use at the free water refill stations (there are four for general access + one in the VIP lounge).
  • For the ones with kiddos — check out The Treehouse (where the carousel and splash pad is) for different activities for the little ones.
  • Pace yourself in between sets by seeing what’s beyond the music.

Pro tip: For easy entry and cashless payments, activate your wristband + don’t forget — you can’t bring chairs, wagons, drones, or hammocks into the venue (see the full list of prohibited items).

More from NOOGAtoday