Things to do in the Chattanooga area this week include art, Grateful Dead and margarita festivals

Get ready, Chattanooga, because this week is packed with exciting events that will tickle your artistic fancy, satisfy your taste buds, and get you grooving to some legendary tunes!

**Art on Display**

For those who appreciate _art_ and _culture_, the Chattanooga area has you covered. Head over to the **Area 61 Gallery** at 721 Broad St., where Erica Moreland’s exhibit “**Soaring**” will be on display until Sept. 30. Don’t miss the artist reception on Sept. 6 from 6-8 p.m. Over at the **AVA Gallery** on Frazier Ave., a juried member show will be running from Aug. 9 to Sept. 20, with an awards reception kicking things off on Aug. 9 from 6-9 p.m.

History and Heritage

Immerse yourself in local history at the **Chickamauga Battlefield Visitor Center** with the “**Mark Thrash — Local Legend, Civil Rights After the Civil War**” exhibit, showcasing fascinating artifacts.

**Music and Festivals**

Groove to the Tunes

If music is more your scene, head to the **Barrelhouse Ballroom** for the second annual Jerry Fest on Aug. 10, celebrating the legendary Jerry Garcia and the _Grateful Dead_ with seven bands performing on two stages from 2 p.m. till midnight. Over at **Ross’s Landing**, enjoy the _free_ **Riverfront Nights** concert series with **Back 2 Mac: A Tribute to Fleetwood Mac** on Aug. 10, starting at 6 p.m.

Chattanooga Margarita Festival

Spice up your Friday evening at the **Chattanooga Margarita Festival** on Aug. 10 at First Horizon Pavilion. Sample margaritas from various Chattanooga restaurants as they compete for the Best Margarita title. Enjoy DJ music, photo booths, and food vendors from 6-9 p.m. If you’re looking for something more exclusive, consider the $95 VIP option.

Theater and Performances

Catch timeless favorites like “Mary Poppins” by the Artistic Civic Theatre in Dalton, or experience “Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Musical” at the Athens Community Theatre. If you’re near the Cumberland County Playhouse, “Grease” and “Anastasia: The Musical” are must-see performances!

**Out and About**

Family-Friendly Fun

**Chattanooga Market** continues its _vibrant_ schedule with National Farmers Market Week on Aug. 4 and the Buskers Festival on Aug. 11. Don’t forget to visit the **Chattanooga Zoo** for Reptile Awareness Day on Aug. 10, featuring special keeper chats, enrichment activities, and arts and crafts for the kids.

**Sports and Recreation**

For the sports enthusiasts, catch the action at **Chester Frost Park** with the Southern Series watercross championship or support the local **Chattanooga Lookouts** at AT&T Field on Aug. 4. Or, enjoy some soccer with the **Chattanooga Red Wolves** facing off against Spokane Velocity on Aug. 7.

**Miscellaneous Events**

Interactive and Educational

Don’t miss out on interactive events like the **Dinner Detective Show** or educational sessions at the **Chattanooga Dance Theatre**. Down for something a bit different? Check out speed dating for the 30-55 age group at The Chattery on Aug. 10.

**Conclusion**

No matter what your interests are, _Chattanooga_ has a vibrant calendar packed with events to enjoy. Whether you’re an art lover, music fan, foodie, or sports enthusiast, there’s something to put a smile on your face. Enjoy!