Chattanooga Celebrates Annual Stampede Festival

The city's iconic downtown event returns with live music, food trucks, and family-friendly activities.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 3:25am

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Chattanooga's annual Stampede Festival is back this weekend, bringing the city's vibrant downtown to life with live music, local food vendors, carnival rides, and a variety of family-friendly activities. The popular event, which has been a cherished tradition in the community for over 20 years, is expected to draw large crowds to the city's scenic riverfront area.

Why it matters

The Stampede Festival is a beloved annual celebration that showcases Chattanooga's thriving arts, music, and food scene. As the city continues to grow and evolve, the festival serves as an important gathering place for residents and visitors alike, fostering a sense of community pride and highlighting the unique culture and character of Chattanooga.

The details

This year's Stampede Festival will feature multiple stages with live music performances from local and regional acts, ranging from country and rock to blues and Americana. In addition to the music, the event will host a diverse array of food trucks offering a wide selection of cuisines, from classic Southern barbecue to international fare. Families can also enjoy carnival rides, interactive exhibits, and a variety of games and activities for all ages.

  • The Stampede Festival takes place annually in early April.
  • This year's event is scheduled for April 4-6, 2026.

The players

Chattanooga Visitors Bureau

The official tourism organization that promotes the city of Chattanooga and organizes the annual Stampede Festival.

Chattanooga Mayor Andy Berke

The current mayor of Chattanooga, who has been a strong supporter of the Stampede Festival and other community events.

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What they’re saying

“The Stampede Festival is a true celebration of everything that makes Chattanooga such a vibrant and welcoming city. We're excited to welcome both locals and visitors to experience the best of our music, food, and community spirit.”

— Samantha Hicks, Director of the Chattanooga Visitors Bureau

“The Stampede Festival is a cherished tradition that brings our community together in such a fun and meaningful way. I encourage everyone to come out and enjoy all that this event has to offer.”

— Andy Berke, Mayor of Chattanooga

What’s next

The Chattanooga Visitors Bureau is already planning for next year's Stampede Festival, which is expected to take place in early April 2027.

The takeaway

The Stampede Festival is a testament to Chattanooga's vibrant culture and community spirit, offering a weekend of music, food, and family-friendly fun that celebrates the city's unique identity and draws visitors from near and far.