Chattanooga Celebrates Art, Caves, and Holiday Cheer This Week

Chattanooga Happenings: Explore Local Art, Caves, and Festive Fun!

Hello, Chattanooga! Are you ready for an exciting week filled with cultural events, displays of creativity, and a sprinkle of holiday cheer? Let’s dive into all the great happenings around our lovely city and the surrounding area!

Discover Hidden Gems of the Tennessee Caves

For the curious explorers out there, there’s a unique opportunity coming up this Thursday, November 21, at noon CST. The Tennessee State Museum will present a Lunch & Learn called “3D Mapping in Tennessee’s Unnamed Caves.” Join archaeologist Jordan Schaefer as he unravels the secrets of the 12th Unnamed Cave, a site tucked away in the Cumberland Plateau that holds over 300 pieces of ancient cave art.

Schaefer will talk about using 3D digital mapping technology to chart the cave’s intricate interior, which helps us understand why the cave’s beautiful ancient artwork is located where it is. This artwork is thousands of years old, dating as far back as 6,000 years, making it a significant piece of Tennessee’s history! Whether you attend in person or online via TN Museum’s livestream, it promises to be a fascinating session.

Art Exhibitions to Inspire

Chattanooga’s artistic scene is thriving with several exhibitions currently taking place:

• Area 61 Gallery is showcasing “The Many Faces & Phases of Rick Sanders,” open until November 30.
• The Tennessee Watercolor Society is setting the stage at the ArtsBuild Gallery with its 2024 Biennial Traveling Exhibit until November 21.
• Don’t miss the Hunter Museum of American Art‘s special program “Vision + Verse” on November 21, where poetry and music collide in honor of its graffiti exhibit.

These exhibits are just a taste of the vibrant creative scene here in Chattanooga. Make some time to explore them before the holidays sweep us away!

Exciting Holiday Festivities

As the holidays approach, the city is all decked out for the season. Mark your calendars for Christmas on the Square on November 23 in Cleveland. From 4 to 8 p.m., enjoy festive activities that include decorating ornaments, story time with Santa, and delightful performances that will surely get you in the holiday spirit!

Looking for something magical? Head over to the Enchanted Garden of Lights at Rock City. Running nightly through January 4 (excluding Christmas Eve), this sparkling display promises a winter wonderland that’s perfect for family memories.

Local Markets and Shopping Events

Shop ’til you drop with applicable holiday markets! Join the Thanksgiving Market at the First Horizon Pavilion on November 24 for fresh products and local crafts. Plus, the popular visit to Santa’s Workshop at Bass Pro Shops is on! Grab your chance for a complimentary photo with Santa before Christmas.

The Chattanooga Market will round out the week’s festivities on November 24, giving you one last opportunity for an outdoor market experience before transitioning indoors for the holiday season.

Family Events and Fun

If you’re looking for fun activities with the kids, Spring Lake Park is hosting its annual Walker Wonderland on November 22, replete with crafts, cookie decorating, and tree lighting! Also, check out the Tennessee Aquarium – their special exhibition featuring National Geographic photos runs all month!

This week in Chattanooga is packed to the brim with activities for everyone! So grab your calendar, gather your loved ones, and venture out to explore everything our fantastic city has to offer. There’s truly something for everyone, from artistic endeavors to festive gatherings. Enjoy, and don’t forget to share the joy with others!