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❤️ MLK Day of Service
Details for Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service, a new vision for the old Hamilton County Jail, and a new partnership aims to bring more businesses downtown!
Andrew Smith
January 15, 2026
Happy Thursday!
January is in full swing and the cold weather is too! Make sure you stay bundled up this week!
Before we get into it, we are looking for someone to help us grow our partnerships with local businesses. This is a part time role and the ideal candidate is proactive, organized, and comfortable starting conversations.
If you or someone you know would be a good fit, you can apply here.
Let’s get to it!
TOGETHER WITH SWEET AND SAVORY CLASSROM
❤️ Plan the Perfect Valentine’s
Looking for a fun and memorable Valentine’s Day idea? The Valentine’s cooking classes at The Sweet & Savory Classroom are a perfect way to celebrate together!
This year marks their 10 year anniversary, and they are bringing back some favorite Valentine’s menus for a hands-on, side-by-side cooking experience. You’ll cook, laugh, learn new skills, and enjoy a delicious meal you create together in a warm, welcoming kitchen.
Class options include Charleston Southern (Feb 10), Savannah in Style (Feb. 11), Tuscan Nights (Feb. 12), Rustic Italian (Feb. 13), and French Connection (Feb. 14).
Book ahead before classes sell out and use code Explorer for $20 off.
P.S. Want to partner with us in 2026 and reach thousands of Chattanoogans every week? Fill out this form and I will be in touch!
Local Snapshots
❤️ MLK Day of Service
Chattanooga is gearing up for its annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service on Monday, January 19, bringing neighbors together to honor Dr. King’s legacy through action.
Hundreds of volunteers will spread out across the city to support cleanup, beautification, organizing projects, and tree planting efforts that strengthen local neighborhoods. The City of Chattanooga is currently seeking both volunteers and project sites, with a focus on indoor projects when possible.
Service projects will take place from 9 AM to noon, followed by the MLK Day Parade at 1 PM at Miller Park.
🏗️ New Life for the Former County Jail
Plans are moving forward to transform the former Hamilton County Jail on Walnut Street into a film, music, and tech production hub that developers say could generate a billion-dollar economic impact over time.
The eight-story building has been vacant since 2021 and is now slated for private redevelopment by Urban Story Ventures. The project would include production space, music writing studios, data and tech infrastructure, residential suites for artists, and a 100-seat Bijou Auditorium.
The project would be privately funded, with construction potentially beginning within 18 months pending county approval.
🚀 New Partnership Aims to Bring More Businesses Downtown
River City Company has announced a new partnership with Retail Strategies aimed at attracting more retail and restaurant businesses to Downtown Chattanooga.
The collaboration brings national expertise in market analysis, real estate evaluation, and strategic recruitment to support River City Company’s goal of creating a vibrant, world-class downtown.
Retail Strategies will help identify market gaps, evaluate key commercial properties, and actively recruit businesses that fit downtown’s unique character. Leaders say the partnership will strengthen the economic, social, and cultural heart of the city by building a more diverse and thriving mix of shops and dining options for residents and visitors alike.
Closets By Design: Start the New Year with a clean slate and a home that finally feels organized. Book a free consultation today.
The Sweet and Savory Classroom: Make Valentine’s Day extra special with a fun, memorable night together as you laugh and cook a meal together. Use code Explorer for $20 off!
P.S. Want more info on becoming one of our partners? Fill out this form and I will be in touch!
Weekend Game Plan
Friday, January 16
Lookout Wild Film Festival 2026 at the UTC Fine Arts Center: Immerse in stunning outdoor adventure films showcasing nature, exploration, and conservation!
Enchanted Garden of Lights: Afterglow at Rock City: Stay late for an enchanting after-hours stroll through the glowing lights and holiday displays!
PJ Party at The Dragon: Grab your PJs for an evening of gaming, popcorn, and classic movies!
Kinky Boots at Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Auditorium: Step into the uplifting story of Kinky Boots, a Tony-winning musical about friendship, acceptance, and fabulous footwear!
Cast Iron Storytelling: Toasty! at Common House: Enjoy heartfelt, humorous stories from people from all walks!
Chris D’Elia: Go For It at The Signal: Laugh out loud with Chris D’Elia’s bold, high-energy stand-up comedy on his Go For It tour!
Candlelight Tribute to Fleetwood Mac at First Cumberland Presbyterian Church: Experience Fleetwood Mac’s timeless hits performed by string quartet in a mesmerizing candlelit atmosphere!
Brotherhood: A Doobie Brothers Tribute Band at Songbirds: Rock out to the Doobie Brothers’ classic hits with Brotherhood’s authentic tribute performance!
The Imposters Tour: Drop the Leash and Dead Bloated at The Barrelhouse Ballroom: Rock out to Pearl Jam and Soundgarden tribute performances!
Saturday, January 17
Poutine Party at Bleu Fox Cheese Shop: An artisan twist on this beloved comfort food - crispy fries, rich gravy, and melty cheese curds!
Aurora Afterglow at 807 Market Street: Aurora Afterglow transforms the night into a glowing dreamscape, where color dances, visuals shimmer, and the afterglow lingers!
Paint and Sip at Painting With a Twist: Create something that truly pops under the glow of blacklights!
Silent Book Club at Red Owl Coffee: Grab your caffeine of choice and settle in with a good book!
Daft Disko: French House & Disco Party at Barrelhouse Ballroom: Dance the night away to French house and disco beats!
An Evening with Crystal Bowersox at The Woodshop: Enjoy an intimate performance by singer-songwriter Crystal Bowersox!
Sunday, January 18
Chilly Willy 5K/10K/Half Marathon at the Tennessee Riverwalk: All participants will receive their very own Chilly Willy long sleeve race shirt!
So Long, Bobby at Wanderlinger Brewing Company: Celebrate the life and music of Bob Weir with The Other Brothers!
Blake Worthington String Band with Redd & The Paper Flowers at Songbirds: Groove to the Americana and folk sounds of Blake Worthington String Band joined by Redd & The Paper Flowers!
Looking Ahead
❤️ Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service
Monday, January 19 | 9 AM -12 PM | Project Locations Vary | More Info
Celebrate the legacy of Dr. King by giving back to the community! After head to Miller Park for the annual parade!
☕️ Tuesday Tea
Tuesday, January 20 | 2-4 PM | Heirloom Chattanooga | Free | More Info
Grab the girls and enjoy complimentary tea while you chat, catch up, and shop!
💥 Fill-a-Box Comics Super Sale
January 21-23 | 8 AM | Infinity Flux | More Info
Stock up on comic books at the fill-a-box sale! There are over 40 unsorted boxes of mostly Marvel, DC, and known indie titles looking for a new home!
🌟 Glow-in-the-Dark Dodge Ball
Friday, January 23 | 5:30-8:30 PM | Ramsey Community Center | Free | More Info
Cold weather have the kids feeling cooped-up? Bring them out for glow-in-the-dark dodge ball! Don't worry about registration, just show up and join a team!
🎉 Rubiks Groove
Friday, January 23 | 8 PM | Barrelhouse Ballroom | $25 | More Info
Get ready to party like its the 80’s, 90’s and 00’s! Doors open at 7 and the show starts at 8!
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