Chattanooga’s Tennessee Aquarium will spotlight Madagascar’s extraordinary wildlife during a special conservation event on Tuesday, April 7.

 

Guests will experience up-close encounters with Malagasy animals, including a chance to meet a resident species, enjoy refreshments, and connect with dedicated animal care experts.

 

Maggie Sipe and Samantha Grote will share behind-the-scenes stories about caring for Radiated Tortoises and lively lemurs.

 

Conservation efforts take center stage as Stephen Nelson explains rescue missions for Madagascar’s critically endangered tortoises.

 

Primatologist Dr. Timothy Eppley, known for his work with the Malagasy community, will discuss research challenges and the urgent need to protect the island’s endemic species.

 

Attendees can bid on Malagasy items and unique lemur art during a silent auction, with proceeds benefiting Wildlife Madagascar.

 

Tickets include special gallery access and an opportunity to purchase and have signed the new edition of “Lemurs of Madagascar.”

Chattanooga’s summer scene is heating up as the TVFCU Riverfront Nights concert series makes its return to Ross’s Landing, kicking off May 23, 2026.

 

Every Saturday evening through August 29, locals can soak up live music, savor dishes from food trucks, and enjoy family-friendly activities along the picturesque riverfront.

 

The series spotlights a vibrant mix of performances, featuring regional talents and nationally recognized bands.

 

Festivities start at 4:00 p.m., with music beginning at 7:00 p.m., leaving plenty of time to mingle and relax.

 

Games like cornhole and giant Jenga keep both kids and adults entertained, while dog-friendly amenities such as pools and water bowls make the event welcoming for pets.

 

Riverfront Parkway will close on select dates, expanding space for visitors to revel in the Chattanooga Green.

 

The event is rain or shine, ensuring an unforgettable summer for all.

Emma, an Army veteran and devoted mother of three, is working closely with Habitat for Humanity of Greater Chattanooga to achieve her dream of homeownership.

 

She’s putting in hours of sweat equity and completing vital classes, reflecting admirable dedication and resilience.

 

To champion Emma and others on similar journeys, Habitat Chattanooga is hosting its annual Women Build brunch fundraiser on May 1 at 11:00 a.m. at The Chattanoogan Hotel.

 

This event supports the construction of future Women Build homes, driven by women-led volunteers and local sponsors.

 

With 30 homes already completed, the initiative proves the lasting impact of empowering women in building affordable housing.

 

Daisy Maurya-Ballard chairs the event, joined by emcee Nicole Brown and keynote speaker Natosha Reid Rice, highlighting the community’s shared commitment.

 

Tickets offer a chance to help transform lives and strengthen Chattanooga’s neighborhoods.

The Clarence T. Jones Observatory in Chattanooga has been a cornerstone of local astronomical education since 1938.

 

Led for decades by Dr. Karel Hujer, the observatory fostered a passion for stargazing and science, shaping the careers of figures like Dr. Harold “Hal” McAlister, who began his distinguished journey here.

 

Today, the observatory keeps its mission alive through popular Star Parties and engaging events held with the Barnard Astronomical Society.

 

Visitors can enjoy planetarium shows, expert talks, and telescope viewings, making astronomy accessible to everyone.

 

Located at 10 N. Tuxedo Avenue, with convenient parking at Brainerd United Methodist Church, the observatory continues to invite the community to discover the universe.

 

As it nears its 90th year, the observatory’s legacy endures, inspiring new generations to connect with the cosmos and each other.

Chattanooga’s upcoming week is packed with vibrant festivals, live music, and outdoor adventures.

 

Lanterns will light up the Sculpture Fields at Montague Park for the SeaLight Festival on March 26-27, featuring dazzling displays and acrobatics.

 

The citywide Nooga Spring Cocktail Week kicks off March 23, while Trans Day of Visibility celebrates with live music, drag, and burlesque at Stove Works on March 28.

 

Car lovers won’t want to miss the free Ooltewah Cruise In at Cambridge Square March 23.

 

Music fans can catch Yasmin Williams and Rachel McIntyre Smith at Songbirds, plus Avery Anna, Ashley Anne, jazz with Prakash Wright, and more.

 

Sports enthusiasts have the Chattanooga Marathon, Flipper Bend races, and a run club meet at Coolidge Park.

 

Families can join an Easter Egg Hunt in local parks, enjoy family cinema, or stargaze at UTC Observatory.

 

Early voting for Chattanooga's municipal election runs all week at Chris L. Ramsey Sr. Community Center.

Two teenagers were arrested after gunfire erupted at Chattanooga’s Coolidge Park on Saturday night. Police responded to 150 River Street around 9:20 p.m., where crowds were seen fleeing as shots continued to ring out.

 

Witnesses traced the shots to the area near the carousel and Blue Rhino. Officers quickly identified 18-year-old Demarion Langston, clad in a blue hoodie and carrying an AK-47, along with two companions in black. Langston tried to escape through nearby woods but was captured, and his weapon was recovered close by.

 

The second suspect, 18-year-old Londen Porter, was found near a Frazier Avenue parking garage. Investigators found two 9mm handguns—one of which was stolen from a firearm shipment—in a vehicle linked to the teens.

 

Both face charges from possession of a stolen firearm to threats of mass violence, intensifying community worries over teen gun violence in Chattanooga.

The upcoming closure of Food City in St. Elmo has stirred concern among locals about access to groceries, job loss, and the changing neighborhood landscape.

 

Shutting down on April 6, the beloved store leaves many—especially those without cars—facing travel challenges, as the nearest grocery is now two miles away.

 

Longtime shoppers like Cheyenne Foster mourn the loss, citing its importance as both a convenient market and local employer.

 

Food City has promised its employees new jobs nearby, but residents worry about vulnerable neighbors, including seniors and those dependent on public transit.

 

The closure comes as St. Elmo sees other changes, including the end of the flagship 1885 Grill due to financial struggles, though owners plan a new spot in Chickamauga.

 

Amid the uncertainty, excitement grows for the first St. Elmo Porchfest on May 3, bringing music, food, and renewed community spirit to the area.

The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) is launching its popular summer basketball camps for 2026, giving K-12 students a chance to sharpen their skills and fuel their passion for the sport.

 

Men’s Basketball Camps welcome boys ages 7 to 17 to McKenzie Arena from June 22-25 and July 20-23.

 

Attendees will benefit from expert coaching, building fundamentals as well as advanced techniques.

 

Each camp session is priced at $310.

 

Women’s Basketball Camps run July 17-20 for girls ages 7 to 14, also at McKenzie Arena.

 

Instruction comes from the 2023 Southern Conference champions and focuses on skills, teamwork, and sportsmanship.

 

UTC is also offering additional camps, including the Chattanooga Volleyball Camps.

 

Early registration is encouraged as spots are limited, and more information is available on the UTC athletics website or by contacting 423-425-2344.

 

These programs highlight UTC’s dedication to youth sports and community engagement in Chattanooga.

The Tennessee State Tigers softball team battled the Chattanooga Mocs on Wednesday night at Tiger Field, ultimately falling 9-3 despite a strong fifth-inning rally.

 

Freshman Chelsi Ervin made her season debut in the circle, with Tianna Salcido and Miriam Gordon providing key relief appearances.

 

Chattanooga seized an early lead, scoring four runs in the first two innings and expanding their advantage to 5-0 by the fifth.

 

Tennessee State answered in the bottom of the fifth as Courtney Richardson, Noelani Wilkerson, and Jasmine Blackburn sparked a rally that trimmed the deficit to just two runs.

 

However, a sixth-inning grand slam by Chattanooga proved insurmountable.

 

The Tigers managed three hits and showed hustle with three stolen bases.

 

They return to Tiger Field this weekend to face UT Martin in a pivotal OVC series under sunny skies.