Happy Thursday!
The Lookouts opened their new stadium to a sold-out crowd this week, and Chattanooga is carrying that energy straight into the weekend. With events happening across the city, it’s a good reminder of how much is going on (and how fast things are growing).
Let’s get to it!
Local Snapshots
Franklin-Roberts Future Ready Center Rendering
🏫 A New Future Ready Center Coming Downtown
Hamilton County officials unveiled new renderings for the Franklin-Roberts Future Ready Center, a major upcoming project aimed at expanding career and technical education in Chattanooga’s urban core. The facility will be located off Sixth Street on the former Golden Gateway site and will serve students from 11 schools across the county.
The center is designed to combine hands-on student learning with real-world business experience, housing both educational programs and a small business incubator under one roof. The first two floors will be dedicated to student programming, while the upper floors will support entrepreneurs and startups.
Leaders say the goal is to ensure every student has access to meaningful career pathways, whether that leads to college, trade work, or launching a business. A new Entrepreneurship Pathway will give students direct exposure to innovation and business development.
📈 Chattanooga’s Growth Isn’t Slowing Down
Chattanooga’s population growth is outpacing much of the country. A new report shows the metro area has grown more than twice the national rate between 2020 and 2025, driven largely by people moving here from other parts of the U.S.
The region is expected to surpass 600,000 residents by late summer 2026, continuing a trend that’s reshaping housing, infrastructure, and the local economy.
🌊 Funding Available for Stream Cleanups
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) is offering grants of up to $1,000 to support stream cleanup efforts. Schools, nonprofits, and community groups are eligible, with funding covering supplies, disposal costs, and volunteer support. Applications are open through June 30.
TOGETHER WITH SWEET AND SAVORY CLASSROOM
🍝 A Better Kind Of Date Night (No Reservation Needed)
Looking for a date night that actually feels like a date?
The Sweet & Savory Classroom offers hands on cooking classes where you and your partner work side by side through a full menu, guided step by step by a chef. You’ll prep, cook, and plate each dish together, picking up new skills along the way before sitting down to enjoy the meal you created.
It’s interactive, a little romantic, and way more memorable than another dinner reservation. You’re not just going out to eat, you’re actually doing something together.
With rotating menus like Tuscan Nights, French inspired dishes, and Southern classics, each class brings a new flavor and a different kind of night out.
Spots tend to fill quickly, so book ahead and use code Explorer for $20 off.
Weekend Game Plan
Friday, April 17
Shuler King Comedy Show: A viral comedy standout known for sharp storytelling and Southern humor, bringing a high-energy set full of real-life laughs.
Spring Flea: A massive community yard sale with more than 35 vendors, filled with deals, vintage finds, and hidden gems.
Friday Night Game Night: A welcoming, alcohol-free space with board games, mocktails, and a relaxed environment to connect.
Spring Carnival at Northgate Mall: Rides, games, and classic carnival food create a fun, family-friendly outing.
Saturday, April 18
Record Store Day at Yellow Racket: The biggest day of the year for vinyl lovers, featuring exclusive releases and a strong local crowd.
4 Bridges Arts Festival: A nationally recognized art show featuring 140 artists, along with live music and food trucks.
Be My Neighbor Day: A family-friendly event inspired by Mr. Rogers with character meet and greets and interactive activities.
East Ridge Community Health Fair: Free screenings, resources, and family activities led by local students and community organizations.
Glass Street Block Party: A neighborhood celebration with more than 50 vendors, live music, food trucks, and activities for all ages.
Anime Afternoons for Adults: A casual monthly meetup for anime fans to watch, explore, and connect with others.
Live Music at Barlery: The Robin Baker Blues Band brings traditional blues and original music in a laid-back setting.
Sunday, April 19
Local Author Series Zenith Man: Hear from the author behind a compelling true crime story centered on a real courtroom case.
Makers in Bloom Market: A spring vendor market featuring local makers, a community clothing swap, and food and drink options.
Board Game Club: A relaxed and social gathering where participants can bring games, meet others, and enjoy a casual evening.
🚀 TOGETHER WITH OUR RIVER CITY EXPLORER PARTNERS
Closets By Design: Tired of clutter and disorganized spaces? Closets by Design of Chattanooga creates custom closets, pantries, garages, wall beds, entertainment centers, and more. Get a hassle-estimate.
C&C Nursery and Landscape: The warm weather is here and planting season is just around the corner. No project is too big or small. Get a free quote.
Restoration 1 of Chattanooga: Mold can sneak up on your fast and often hides behind walls, under flooring, or in crawl spaces. Don’t ignore the warning signs, call us today for an inspection!
Playful Evolving Monsters: Want to bring the fun to life at your next event? Our giant puppets and custom creations are guaranteed to make people smile. Click here to learn more.
The Sweet and Savory Classroom: Looking for a fun night out with your spouse? Our Ramen Date Night class will teach your how to make real ramen! Use code ‘Explorer’ for $20 off!
Where to Eat
Keystone Breakfast & Lunch: From their chicken cutlet sandwiches to Mediterranean platters, Keystone Breakfast and Lunch is putting out some of the best sandwiches in the city, no question. 📍 440 Frazier Ave B, Chattanooga, TN 37405
Dimple Delight’s: Dimples Delights is all about from scratch, and people are taking notice. From lemon blueberry and classic biscuits to smoked sausage filled favorites, everything is homemade and it shows. She has been blowing up on social media for a reason, these are the kind of biscuits you do not forget. 📱 423-635-0038
Looking Ahead
🍸 Nooga Spring Cocktail Week
Monday, April 20–26 | Chattanooga | $8 Specials | More Info
A week-long celebration of Chattanooga’s food and drink scene with $8 spring cocktails and salads across participating spots. Easy way to try something new around town.
🥾 Exploring Stringer’s Ridge at Moccasin Bend
Tuesday, April 21 | Moccasin Bend | Free | More Info
A guided hike through Civil War fortifications with historian Jim Ogden. Moderate hike with great views and local history along the way.
🫂 Community Connections
Wednesday, April 22 | Common House | Free (First Drink Included) | More Info
A laid-back social event with no pressure — just good conversations, new connections, and an easy midweek hang.
💨 Cigar Guild
Thursday, April 23 | Cigars International East Ridge | Free | More Info
Monthly meetup with cigar and drink specials in a relaxed setting. Good option if you’re looking for a low-key night with a social crowd.
Get out, try something new, and we’ll catch you next week.
P.S. Ready to get your business in front of thousands of Chattanoogans and grow your business? Fill out this form (30 seconds) and I will be in touch!
