Southside’s MAINx24 celebration in 2021

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Performers at a previous MAINx24 parade | Photo by Noogaside

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It’s the most wonderful time of the yearMAINx24. With over 100 events taking place this year, we’re breaking down the need-to-know info to prepare you for the best 24 hours in Chattanooga.

What, when + why

MAINx24 is an annual, 24-hour celebration in Chattanooga’s Southside that started in 2007. The event will kick off this Saturday with the MAINx24 parade at 10:30 a.m.

The original purpose of MAINx24 was to encourage people to return to the Southside as it started to change + grow. Now, the celebration is the biggest revenue day of the year for Southside businesses. It also benefits local nonprofits + has been deemed “the best day ever” by locals.

Pro Tips

  • This year, MAINx24 won’t start with the usual fire hall pancake breakfast — instead, the event will kick off with the Official MAINx24 parade sponsored by EPB.
  • The most concentrated area for events will be at Broad + Central Avenue, but there will still be a myriad of events happening throughout the Southside.
  • Several Southside organizations are partnering with a bus shuttle to bring people to the East Main part of town, too — the shuttle will run a loop from 1:45-5:15 p.m. from Southside Pizza to East Main.
  • MAINx24 volunteer Monica Kinsey recommends showing up early to pick up donuts from Niedlov’s or biscuits at Main Street Meats (both will sell out quickly), before claiming a spot to watch the parade.
  • This year, there will be a new space with lots of activity on Station Street.
  • Volkswagen is sponsoring crossing guards + volunteers to help keep Main Street safe.

Events to look out for

You can check out all of the MAINx24 events here.