Chattanooga, TN (WDEF)- Get ready, Chattanooga—the banjos and fiddles are about to take over downtown.
At Finley Stadium Thursday morning, the City Center Council welcomed organizers of the IBMA World of Bluegrass® festival, spotlighting a week of music that’s set to put the Scenic City center stage.
The five-day event kicks off September 16th, bringing world-class performers, industry leaders, and thousands of fans to the heart of Chattanooga.
Festival Director Jill Schinder says the city’s strong ties to acoustic and traditional music made it the perfect fit.
“We’re glad to be back in Tennessee. We’re glad to be back in a community that really embraces bluegrass and has some tradition there—so we’re excited to call this our new home,” Schinder said.
Organizers say Chattanooga has long been on their radar as the festival looked to expand beyond Raleigh. With its vibrant music scene and deep Tennessee roots, the city checked every box.
Beyond the music, the event is expected to be a major boost for downtown businesses—from restaurants and hotels to local shops.
Charlie Ingram, with the City Center Council, says the visibility will help Chattanooga stand out nationally.
“It’s visibility. I mean, we love being known for the things that we’re known for, but this gives us just another arrow in our quiver when it comes to looking out on the horizon and figuring out ways we can be on the vanguard. Bluegrass is kind of exploding all over the place now, and so being able to host the IBMA is just a huge win,” Ingram said.
