Chattanooga’s Moon River Music Festival Canceled Again

News Summary

Chattanooga will experience another year without the Moon River Music Festival, as cofounder Drew Holcomb announced its cancellation for 2025. This marks the second consecutive year without the beloved event, which previously featured artists like Hozier and Jason Isbell. While local fans can look forward to Holcomb’s performance in February 2025, the absence of major music festivals raises concerns about the city’s music scene. Although the World of Bluegrass Festival is set for September 2025, many are left longing for the vibrant atmosphere that Moon River once brought to the city.

Chattanooga Faces Another Year Without Moon River Music Festival

In a surprising turn of events, Chattanooga has learned that the beloved Moon River Music Festival will not return in 2025 as many had hoped. This marks a second consecutive year without the music extravaganza that usually lights up Coolidge Park and showcases a fantastic lineup of talent.

News of the cancellation was shared by cofounder Drew Holcomb on social media, much to the disappointment of music lovers in the area. The last festival took place in September 2023, featuring prominent artists like Hozier, Jason Isbell, The War and Treaty, and Brandi Carlisle. Fans were left hoping for a return in 2024 after the festival was called off that year with promises of a “bigger and better” experience planned for 2025. And yet, those dreams have been dashed.

What’s Next for Chattanooga’s Music Scene?

While the Moon River Music Festival won’t be happening, fans of Drew Holcomb do have one opportunity to catch him live in Chattanooga this year. He is set to perform on February 8, 2025, at the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Auditorium. So, mark your calendars! This may very well be the only chance for local fans to enjoy his music in their hometown this year.

Interestingly, the official Moon River Music Festival Facebook page hasn’t shown any updates since the announcement of last year’s cancellation, and the festival’s website still showcases the lineup from 2023, which leaves many scratching their heads about what went wrong in the planning. Local representatives from Chattanooga Parks and Outdoors have not responded to inquiries about the festival’s future, contributing to the uncertainty swirling around Chattanooga’s music scene.

A Wider Look at Music Festivals in Chattanooga

The lack of the Moon River Music Festival adds to a growing list of concerns among fans, especially considering that the historic Riverbend Festival, which has been a staple in Chattanooga for over 40 years, is also on hiatus for 2024. With two major music festivals on pause, the city is left searching for musical events to fill the void.

However, there is some good news on the horizon! The International Bluegrass Music Association has announced plans to host the World of Bluegrass Festival in Chattanooga from September 16 to 20, 2025. This festival aims to not only bring in a whole new crowd but also promises a continued presence in the city for subsequent years. It may not replace the Moon River Music Festival, but at least it offers some hope for music enthusiasts in the area.

The Community’s Reaction

Locals have taken to social media to express their disappointment over the festival’s cancellation, sharing memories of past performances and lamenting the lack of musical events in the city. Many had been looking forward to a revival, hoping for that hometown feeling filled with the energy of live music and the joy of gathering with fellow fans.

For now, Chattanooga music fans are left to reflect on the vibrant past of these festivals and to plan for upcoming opportunities. With some optimism, many are still holding out hope for new and exciting musical events that can capture the spirit of what the Moon River Music Festival once offered.

As we move forward, it’s essential for the community to rally together and support whatever festival may come next. Until then, keep your fingers crossed for some fresh tunes filling the air of Chattanooga soon!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Chattanooga Aims to Become North America’s First National Park City
Chattanooga Gears Up for February Live Music Lineup
Moon River Festival in Chattanooga on Hiatus Again

Additional Resources

• News Channel 9
• Wikipedia: Moon River Festival
• Times Free Press
• Google Search: Chattanooga Moon River Festival
• Local 3 News
• Google Scholar: Moon River Festival
• WDEF News
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Chattanooga
• Nooga Today
• Google News: Moon River Festival Chattanooga