A Local Favorite: What to Expect at the Chattanooga Market

The Chattanooga Market is seasonal. Check open dates here: https://www.chattanoogamarket.com/market/chattanooga

Chattanooga Market isn’t your average farmers market—it’s a vibrant, ever-changing hub of local culture, community, and creativity. Held every Sunday at First Horizon Pavilion, this open-air market draws in locals and visitors alike with its unique mix of seasonal produce, handmade goods, live music, and incredible food. Whether you’re searching for fresh fruits and veggies, one-of-a-kind artisan products, or just a fun way to spend your Sunday afternoon, the Chattanooga Market offers an experience that captures the heart and soul of the Scenic City.

More Than a Farmers Market

While fresh, local produce is a big part of what makes the Chattanooga Market special, it’s far from the only draw. Each Sunday, the market transforms into a lively gathering place filled with local artisans, makers, musicians, and food vendors, offering a little something for everyone.

You’ll find booths featuring everything from hand-poured candles and custom woodwork to homemade jams, handcrafted jewelry, soaps, and baked goods. Talented creators line the aisles, offering a direct connection to the people behind the products.

Adding to the atmosphere, there's always something happening on stage—live music performances from local bands and artists set the tone for a relaxing, energetic day. The market also hosts themed weekends like Oktoberfest, Strawberry Festival, or Holiday Market, which bring even more unique vendors and festive vibes to the space.

It’s not just a place to shop—it’s a place to connect, discover, and support the creative heartbeat of Chattanooga.

The Heart of the Market: Seasonal Produce

At its core, the Chattanooga Market stays true to its roots as a farmers market—connecting the community with the freshest seasonal produce straight from local farms. Every Sunday, visitors can find tables overflowing with vibrant fruits and vegetables grown right here in the region.

Depending on the time of year, you’ll find everything from early spring strawberries and crisp greens to summer tomatoes, sweet corn, and juicy peaches, followed by pumpkins, apples, and winter squash in the fall. The market becomes a reflection of the changing seasons, and many locals plan their weekly meals around what they discover here.

What makes it even better? You’re not just buying produce—you’re meeting the farmers who grew it. You can ask questions, get cooking tips, and feel confident knowing you’re supporting small, family-run operations that care deeply about the food they bring to the table.

Seasonal produce isn’t just an attraction at the Chattanooga Market—it’s the beating heart of it all, nourishing both the community and the local economy.

Food and Drink on the Go

Come hungry—because one of the best parts of visiting the Chattanooga Market is the incredible variety of ready-to-eat food and drink options. Scattered among the vendor booths, you’ll find a rotating lineup of local food trucks and pop-up kitchens serving everything from gourmet grilled cheese and BBQ to international flavors like empanadas, tacos, or Thai noodles.

Whether you're in the mood for a full meal or just a snack while you browse, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Many visitors treat it like a casual brunch or lunch stop, grabbing a plate and enjoying it at one of the communal tables or while strolling through the market.

Pair your bites with locally roasted coffee, fresh lemonade, or a craft soda, and don’t forget to treat yourself to something sweet—like fresh-baked pastries, ice cream, or kettle corn made on-site. The mix of flavors, smells, and friendly vendors makes food at the market more than just a convenience—it’s part of the experience.

Entertainment and Community Events

The Chattanooga Market is more than just a place to shop—it’s a place to gather, celebrate, and connect. Every week, the market offers a rotating lineup of live entertainment that adds energy and personality to the open-air experience. Local bands, solo artists, and even school or community groups take the stage, creating a soundtrack that makes your Sunday stroll even more enjoyable.

Beyond the music, the market frequently hosts special themed events that reflect the season or spotlight local culture. From the crowd-favorite Strawberry Festival in spring to the festive Holiday Market in winter, and everything from Oktoberfest weekends to artisan showcases in between, there’s always something new to experience.

These community-driven events help shine a spotlight on local talent, small businesses, and regional traditions—bringing people together in a space that feels more like a celebration than just a shopping trip. Whether you're watching a cooking demo, participating in a local art activity, or just tapping your foot to the music, you’ll find yourself immersed in Chattanooga’s creative spirit.

Why Locals Love It

For many Chattanooga residents, the market isn’t just a weekend activity—it’s a tradition. It’s where people come to support small businesses, reconnect with friends, and enjoy the best of what the city has to offer, all in one place.

Locals love the Chattanooga Market because it feels like home. It’s relaxed, welcoming, and full of personality. Whether you're stocking up on fresh produce for the week, grabbing lunch with family, discovering a new local artist, or just soaking in the atmosphere, the market makes it easy to slow down and enjoy the moment.

It’s also a place where locals feel good about where their money is going—directly into the hands of farmers, makers, and creatives who live and work right here in the community. Add in the free parking, pet-friendly vibe, and live entertainment, and it’s no wonder the market is a Sunday staple for so many.

Planning Your Visit

Visiting the Chattanooga Market is easy—and it’s well worth making part of your weekend routine. The market is held every Sunday from 11 AM to 4 PM, typically running from April through November, and is located at the First Horizon Pavilion, just across the river from downtown.

There’s plenty of free parking nearby, and the spacious, open-air pavilion means you’ll stay comfortable rain or shine. The market is also pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your leashed dog along to enjoy the day (your furry friend might even find a treat or two!).

There are no admission fees, and you don’t need a plan—just show up, explore, and let your senses guide you. If it’s your first visit, consider bringing a tote bag or two for all the fresh produce and unique finds you’ll want to take home.

With local music, great food, fresh goods, and friendly faces, a trip to the Chattanooga Market is more than shopping—it’s an experience.

Experience It for Yourself & Support Local

There’s something special about the Chattanooga Market that you just can’t capture in words—it’s the smell of kettle corn in the air, the sound of a local band playing as kids dance nearby, the smile from a farmer who picked your produce that morning. It’s a feeling of community, of connection, and of pride in where you live.

When you shop at the Chattanooga Market, you’re not just enjoying a great Sunday—you’re investing in local families, artists, farmers, and entrepreneurs. Every dollar spent helps support someone’s dream and keeps Chattanooga’s small business community strong and thriving.

So whether you’re a longtime resident or just visiting for the weekend, come experience it for yourself. Wander the aisles, taste something new, meet the makers—and be a part of what makes Chattanooga truly local.