Every weekend, we filter out the paid stuff and surface only the free events worth your time. Here's what's $0 this week and what costs nothing year-round.
Lower-key alternative if you want something family-oriented with cars, food trucks, and live music. Acura of Chattanooga puts this on annually at their dealership lot. It's free and stroller-friendly, which matters more than you'd think.
Light weekend for confirmed free events — most May 8–10 programming is ticketed. Check back Thursday for next week's free picks.
Free live music downtown every Friday evening. Bring a blanket, grab street food from nearby vendors, and settle in. nightfallchattanooga.com
Free entry to browse 50+ local vendors, live music, and food trucks. You'll probably spend money on produce and tacos, but walking through costs nothing. chattanoogamarket.com
Free splash pad for kids, open daily when weather permits. Good for burning off energy before or after the North Shore shops.
16+ miles of paved riverfront trail. Start at Ross's Landing and walk toward the dam, or pick it up at any of the neighborhood access points.
Get the full weekend list — free and paid — delivered every Thursday morning.
Updated: May 1, 2026. Free means no admission fee; some events may have optional purchases inside. Always confirm before heading out.