Although it is still hot, the bees and mosquitoes are still buzzing and we’re more likely to throw on a swimsuit than a sweatshirt, let’s dream a little, shall we? Let’s dream of a fall where cardigans and campfires are the norm. A fall where the leaves change and every day shows new beauty from trees that seemed ordinary yesterday.
Chattanooga is a breathtaking city, no matter the season, but it seems to come alive in the fall. Maybe it’s the way the mountains surround the valley. Maybe it’s the cooler air (fingers crossed). Or maybe it’s because Chattanooga knows how to do fall right. As if we need another reason to love it, there is a wealth of activities in Chattanooga in the fall.
This list is subject to change, so be sure to check ahead to be certain the event is happening as scheduled.
Campfire Concert Series
Select Fridays starting September 22nd
Reflection Riding’s Campfire Concert series, sponsored by Hutton and Smith Brewery, OCI, and the Tennessee Arts Commission, provides a safe outdoor venue to enjoy some of the best artists the Chattanooga area has to offer. Ticket includes beer, s’mores, entertainment, and the option to camp on our property for the night. Kids 12 and under are free. Gates open at 5:30pm, music starts at 6:30pm.
Lantern Tours at Ruby Falls
Select Thursday and Sunday nights in September and October
Hear ghostly tales from Ruby Falls’ 94-year history and eerie Chattanooga legends as you journey through the cavern lit only by hand-held lanterns. This experience is not appropriate for children under the age of 12. Ghost Walk Lantern Tours are expected to sell out quickly, advance reservation required.
3 Sisters Bluegrass Festival
October 6 and 7
The 3 Sisters Festival (named after the three daughters of Fletcher Bright) honors the musical legacy of bluegrass fiddler Fletcher Bright, by offering a free two-day festival to the community that features some of the biggest names in traditional and not-so-traditional bluegrass. The 16th annual festival will take place on Ross’ Landing, right on the river.
Rocktoberfest @ Rock City
Saturdays and Sundays in October
This premiere Fall Event includes live German music, German food, specialty beer, Birds of Prey shows, costumed characters, and fun for the whole family! Join the fun at Rock City for the 16th annual Rocktoberfest as we celebrate our German heritage and honor our founder, Frieda Utermoehlen Carter!
Chattanooga Motorcar Festival
October 13-15
Whether you are attending because of your love of cars or because your loved one loves cars, the festival has something for everyone. From shopping and great restaurants to an antique boat show from The Antique and Classic Boat Society on the Tennessee River. The festival’s epicenter is the West Village, a dining and entertainment district anchored by the Westin Chattanooga.
Boo in the Zoo
Weekend Days October 13-28
The Chattanooga Zoo’s annual Boo in the Zoo is a family-friendly celebration filled with merry-not-scary decorations, trick-or-treat stations, scavenger hunt, costume show, and more! Hours for this weekend event are 4pm – 8pm, with timed entry tickets available online only!
Fire Up the Fields
October 14th 6-10pm
Fire Up The Fields is our sculpture burn that is held in Montague Park. The event is free and open to the public, and for all ages. VIP tickets and experience available for purchase. Hope to see you there!
Cleveland Apple Festival
October 21st from 1-6pm
The Cleveland Apple Festival™ is a family event that is held each fall in historic downtown Cleveland, Tennessee. This annual festival offers an art and craft show, live music, food booths, petting zoo, entertainment, children’s activities and much more!
All children’s activities in the Apple Valley Orchard Kid’s Zone are free, with paid admission, to children 12 and under including petting zoo!
Ketner’s Mill
October 21st and 22nd
Ketner’s Mill Country Arts & Crafts Fair is two days packed with unique arts & crafts, delicious southern-style foods, live music, and activities for the whole family.
Step back in time to see the old mill churn out freshly ground cornmeal, pet farm animals, and see blacksmiths, woodworkers, and other artisans demonstrate their craft.
Chattanooga Apple Festival
October 21st and 22nd
Join us for the 3rd annual Collegedale Apple Festival at Camp Jordan Amphitheater! We will have fresh apples provided by Merciers Apple Orchard, over 150 craft and food vendors, petting zoo, pony rides, entertainment, and fun for the whole family! FREE ADMISSION and FREE PARKING!
PumpkinFest – Main Street Dayton
October 27th-28th in Dayton, TN
Fall family fun! Two days of activities, shopping, food, and more! Come to the Historic Rhea County Courthouse for food and craft vendors on the lawn, music at Centennial Stage, games, costume contest, and trick-or-treating!
Head of the Hooch Regatta
November 4th-5th
Watch one of the largest regattas in the U.S., hosting more than 5,100 competitors ages 14-89 representing 29 states and countries from Chattanooga’s riverfront. The Head of the Hooch regatta is a 3.1-mile course down the Tennessee River, passing by Chattanooga’s Riverfront and Bluff View Districts.
Little Debbie Hamilton County Fair
November 10-12 at new location – McDonald’s Farm
The newly envisioned Little Debbie Hamilton County Fair will debut Veterans Day weekend Nov. 10-12, 2023, at the breathtaking, 2,100-acre McDonald Farm. Presented by title sponsor Little Debbie, the 3-day event will build on history, heritage and tradition and serve as the backdrop of family memories for generations to come. Multi-platinum-selling singer/songwriter Lauren Alaina headlines the fair on Saturday with local rising country music star Brandon Davis opening the show. The fair will feature a rodeo, lumberjack shows, amusement rides, agricultural exhibits, fairground food favorites and children’s programs. It also includes a special military focus, support for Wreaths Across Chattanooga, a flyover, fireworks and more. Large onsite parking. Single-day ticket prices range from free-$7, and 3-day passes range from $12-$14.
Asian Lantern Festival
Starting November 15th through mid-January from 5:30-9:30pm
The Chattanooga Zoo is excited to announce a new light experience this holiday season, the Asian Lantern Festival at the Chattanooga Zoo. A spectacular celebration of art, culture and the beauty of traditional Asian lantern festivals, this will be the most unique holiday light display in the Chattanooga area.
Chattanooga Market (in its various forms and locations)
Saturdays at Tennessee Aquarium Plaza from 10am – 5pm and Sundays through November from 11am-4pm at First Horizon Pavilion.
No matter where you visit, there are plenty of farmers’ market style booths to check out. They are still providing great themes for the fall like Apple Festival, Oktoberfest, and Big Band, to name a few! Check their website for locations and themes each week!
Tennessee Valley Railroad train rides
Check their calendars for dates, times, and types of trips!
Tennessee Valley Railroad hosts a variety of trips throughout the year, but the ones in the fall show some beautiful colors! They range in length from an hour to a full day. Find one that suits your time frame and interests!
Southern Belle River Cruise
Check their calendar for dates, times, and types of trips!
Enjoy a beautiful day on the water while checking out the breathtaking fall views! Choose a lunch cruise to include a meal with your scenery!
If you don’t see an event above that suits your needs, it’s also the perfect time to…
What are you looking forward to this fall?
