CHATTANOOGA, Tennf — Summertime in the Tennessee Valley signals the return of many annual staples bringing the scenic city together. In this month’s TVFCU community spotlight, I explore how the Riverfront Nights festival is changing things up in 2025.
“I would classify this year’s lineup as really – a classic tribute,’ said Mickey McCamish of Friends of the Festival.
Chattanooga has long worked to establish itself as a premier city for live music. With the recently announced hiatuses of the iconic Riverbend and Moon River festivals, locals are presented with an opportunity to focus their attention on another annual music event. The Riverfront Nights festival continues to bring summertime entertainment to downtown Chattanooga – stretching across 3 months. It all kicks off May 31st and runs through Labor Day weekend.
“Each year we refresh our product, even though it’s a free event. We try to make it, so it brings more people out and offers more diversity to our community.”
Non-profit, ‘Friends of the Festival’ says each week will feature a different theme – bringing in new, family-friendly crowds that will no doubt enjoy the artists at Ross’ Landing.
“But we’ll also have a Moon Pie night, and that will be on August 8th, with a full moon to it. And then we’ll have ‘white glove night’ for the Michael Jackson tribute, and friendship bracelets for the Taylor Swift night.”
The festival organizers are also proud to highlight local, small businesses. Vendors – including food trucks – will be onsite to make sure people’s appetites are satisfied, as their ears are treated to captivating performances. During the weekend of August 16th, an extreme sports event – the Chattanooga River Games — will coincide with the free music series.
“This year — we’ve had the diving competition for the past 3 years. The divers started at 30 feet two years ago, 60 feet last year, and this year they’re going to 90 feet — off the pier here.”
Live music and activities – with the natural beauty of Tennessee as the backdrop.