“There isn’t a seafood dish we don’t carry,” quipped Robin Roberts, founder and CEO of the Chattanooga Seafood Bash on the River. The festival kicks off on Friday, April 25, and runs through Sunday, April 27. Entry is free, though some activities and VIP experiences require a fee.
Previously held in Coolidge Park, the event has moved to Ross’s Landing and the Chattanooga Green to accommodate growing crowds. “It will be much more convenient for parking downtown and walking to the festival,” Roberts explained. “We’re also coordinating with CARTA for transport services to and from the event.”
Roberts encourages everyone to come out for the unbeatable combination of great food and live music. “The spring weather will be fantastic, admission is free, it’s family-friendly, and there are activities for all ages,” she added.
Families can enjoy a dedicated kids' zone (entry fee required) featuring face painting, six bouncy houses, a petting zoo, and a variety of cool drinks and sweet treats. For adults, several beer and wine gardens will be available, along with friendly competitions like bingo and cornhole.
Music is a festival highlight, with ten bands spanning various genres performing throughout the weekend. From Motown classics to an Aerosmith tribute band, there’s something for everyone.
Not a seafood fan? No problem! Plenty of “land lover” options—like hamburgers and funnel cakes—will be available.
Roberts laughed as she recalled seeing familiar faces returning daily to try new seafood dishes. “I see how happy everyone is, and I know we’re doing something right.”
For more festival details, visit: chattanooga-seafood-bash-on-the-river.com.
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Seafood Bash on the River is proud to partner with the national nonprofit Folds of Honor as this year’s official charity.
Since 2007, Folds of Honor has provided educational scholarships to the families of fallen and disabled service members and first responders. To date, the organization has awarded over 62,000 scholarships, equating to approximately $290 million in educational impact.
Jenner Kreifels, Director of Impact at Folds of Honor Tennessee, sees the festival as a great opportunity to connect with the Chattanooga community. “We've provided nearly 3,000 scholarships to students in Tennessee,” she shared. “Just in the 2024–2025 academic year, we awarded 437 scholarships, totaling about $2.1 million.”
Beyond fundraising, the Seafood Bash is dedicated to honoring veterans throughout the festival. The opening ceremony will feature a special veterans’ march starting at 5PM, proceeding down Chestnut Street, up Riverfront, and concluding at the Seafood Bash stage. The event will include a color guard presentation, the national anthem, and a Quilt of Valor ceremony recognizing five local veterans impacted by war.
The festival aims to raise at least $30,000 for Folds of Honor through various competitions, including the Jigsaw Puzzle Contest, Competitive Cornhole, and Casino, along with VIP seating options throughout the weekend. Many of the games planned will donate 100% of proceeds directly to the nonprofit.
Festival founder Robin Roberts felt a deep connection to Folds of Honor’s mission, as both her husband and two sons are veterans. “We have a special affinity for the military and wanted to support them in any way we can,” she said.
To get involved or directly support Tennessee’s Folds of Honor, visit: foh.org/tn.