Chattanooga’s First World-Class Wakesurfing Competition at the River Games

Published on
11 August 2024

Chattawake & Chattanooga River Games 2025: What to Expect from This Action-Packed Weekend at Ross’s Landing

If you’ve ever thought Chattanooga was just scenic hikes and historic charm, think again. This summer, the city is cranking up the adrenaline with the first-ever international wakesurfing competition hosted right downtown as part of the Chattanooga River Games. Taking place August 15–17 at Ross’s Landing, this three-day event is bringing a whole lineup of extreme sports, global talent, and free family fun to the Tennessee Riverfront.

From world-class wakesurfers to Red Bull’s first-ever U.S. Creepers showdown, get ready for a weekend that’s shaping up to be one of Chattanooga’s most unforgettable outdoor events.

The Experience: Wakesurfing, Extreme Stunts, and Riverfront Energy

The Chattanooga River Games isn’t just one event- it’s a full-on festival packed with energy and talent. At the heart of it is Chattawake, the pro and amateur wakesurfing competition that’s drawing over 100 athletes from around the world. Expect to see riders from countries like Japan, Hong Kong, and across the U.S., all competing behind the legendary MasterCraft XStar for top honors. If you’ve never seen wakesurfing live, it’s a mix of balance, technique, and style—all set against the scenic flow of the Tennessee River.

But the action doesn’t stop on the water. Iconic extreme sports brand Red Bull is bringing its Creepers event to U.S. soil for the very first time. Known in Europe for its jaw-dropping displays of strength and coordination, Creepers features athletes climbing over-water obstacles that test both vertical grit and creative movement. It's going to be crazy!

Also on deck: the return of death diving (yes, that’s a real thing), professional slackliners attempting highlining feats above the Riverwalk, nightly live music sets, and rows of food trucks and vendors lining Ross’s Landing. Whether you’re all about high-flying athletes or just looking to relax by the river with great views and good eats, there’s something for every level of thrill-seeker.

What to Know Before You Go

Dates: Friday, August 15 – Sunday, August 17, 2024  


Time: Wakesurfing competition runs daily from 8 AM to 3 PM. Other activities, live music, and vendors go into the evening.  


Location: Ross’s Landing, 201 Riverfront Pkwy, Chattanooga, TN 37402  

Admission: Free! All events and competitions are open to the public  

Website/More Info: https://wakesurfchampionships.com/wsws_event/chattawake-2025/

Parking: Ross’s Landing can fill quickly, especially with this many attendees expected. Public garages are nearby on Chestnut St. and Aquarium Way, but you might want to consider biking or using a rideshare if you’re coming from downtown or the North Shore.

Extra Tips & Bonuses


- Come early for the best viewing spots along the water’s edge—especially if you want to catch the pro riders in action.
- Pack sunscreen and a refillable water bottle. August heat is no joke in Chattanooga.
- There are usually shaded areas and a few misting stations, but anything portable for comfort (like a travel chair or sunhat) will come in handy if you plan to stay a while.
- If you're coming in from out of town, the Edwin Hotel and The Westin are both within walking distance of Ross’s Landing—and give you great river views too.
- Pack a lunch or visit a food truck!


Families will find plenty to enjoy throughout the day, and the mix of sports and evening music makes this a great date night or group hang!

Final Thoughts

Chattawake and the broader Chattanooga River Games weekend is shaping up to be one of the biggest and boldest events in the city’s summer calendar. Whether you're already a fan of extreme sports or just want to try something totally different, this is a chance to see world-level talent, right in the heart of downtown—without spending a dime on admission.

Locals and visitors alike will find plenty to keep them entertained, inspired, and maybe even a little braver when trying something new themselves. Definitely one to check out, even if you’re just curious.

For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!

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Genesis House of Tea: The Perfect Girls’ Day Out in Chattanooga

Looking for a charming spot that combines tea, tasty treats, and a meaningful mission? The Genesis House of Tea, located in the historic Dent House off Bonny Oaks, is one of Chattanooga's most BEAUTIFUL places for a girls' day out, bridal shower, baby shower, or engagement party in chattanooga. This tea house offers a Bridgerton-inspired experience with a side of Kentucky Derby flair, complete with fancy hats you can borrow for your visit!
Dec 2, 2024
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Looking for a charming spot that combines tea, tasty treats, and a meaningful mission? The Genesis House of Tea, located in the historic Dent House off Bonny Oaks, is one of Chattanooga's most BEAUTIFUL places for a girls' day out, bridal shower, baby shower, or engagement party in chattanooga. This tea house offers a Bridgerton-inspired experience with a side of Kentucky Derby flair, complete with fancy hats you can borrow for your visit!

When you arrive, you'll be greeted by a selection of hats to channel your inner duchess while enjoying the house’s cozy atmosphere. Start your tea experience with my favorite- their “Royal Wedding” tea- or one of their seasonal flavors (like Spiced Peach Apricot with popping boba, Pumpkin Chai, or Caramel Apple Crumble in the fall)! The tea menu is thoughtfully curated, with free refills so you can sip as much as you like!

The food is just as cute as the tea. Indulge in a tiered platter featuring sweet and savory items like buttery scones, delicate sandwiches, and flavorful quiches. These dishes are perfect for sharing and add an elegant touch to your outing. I LOVE THE SCONES! And I never thought I would be a scones girl… but these are GOOD!

Also worth noting, the Genesis House of Tea is more than just a beautiful brunch spot—it’s a place with purpose. Every purchase supports their mission to restore beauty, dignity, and identity to women in crisis through nonprofit partnerships. Upstairs, you’ll find a boutique where proceeds further these initiatives, making your visit not just a treat but an opportunity to give back.

📍 Location: 6178 Adamson Cir., Chattanooga, TN 37416
🕐 Hours: Open 11 AM - 4 PM, closed Wednesday and Sunday

Whether you’re sipping tea with your best friends or celebrating a special occasion, the Genesis House of Tea guarantees a memorable and meaningful experience. 

For more Chattanooga recommendations, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!

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Westbound Honky Tonk- Party with Southern FlairWestbound Honky Tonk- Party with Southern Flair
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If you're planning a party with personality, Westbound Honky Tonk is worth bookmarking. We recently celebrated my sister's bachelorette party there, and it was such a fun and easy spot to host a private event. For $500 on a weekend night (weeknight rates vary), you get the whole place to yourself — including a private DJ, bartender, and plenty of space to dance or hang out. You can also opt for extras like a photo booth or themed decor to customize the vibe. Whether it's a birthday, girls' night, or something bigger, Westbound offers a unique mix of nightclub energy and Southern charm that makes it a standout venue in Chattanooga.
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If you’re looking for a lively, genuinely fun venue for your next celebration, Westbound Honky Tonk on Station Street might just hit the mark. This isn’t your typical country bar — it’s a high-energy blend of Southern charm and nightclub excitement, perfect for private parties like bachelorettes, birthdays, or just a big night out with friends. Whether you're dancing the night away during their regular hours or renting the entire space for a private event, Westbound knows how to throw a party.

The Experience

From the outside, Westbound fits right in with its neighbors on the always-buzzing Station Street in downtown Chattanooga's Southside. Inside, the venue is upbeat, comfortable, and surprisingly versatile. Neon signs, rustic touches, and a large dance floor give it that honky-tonk feel, but don’t let the name fool you — the music leans much broader than just country.

If you come during regular hours (usually Thursday through Saturday), expect a packed schedule of themed nights, DJs playing crowd favorites, and a genuinely fun-loving vibe. Thursdays are all about line dancing — complete with instructors to help you learn the steps — while weekends often feature a DJ spinning everything from throwback hits to pop, country, and hip-hop.

Private event rentals, though, are where Westbound really shines. You get the place entirely to yourself — the dance floor, DJ, bartenders, and more are all yours. Whether it’s a bachelorette party or a company celebration, the ability to customize the music, décor, and vibe gives your event a personalized, memorable twist.

What to Know Before You Go

Address:
24 Station St #106, Chattanooga, TN 37408

Hours:
Typically open Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights, although exact times vary. Thursdays usually feature line dancing.

Event Rental Details:
- Private rentals start at $500 for a Friday or Saturday night.
- Includes exclusive venue access, your own DJ, and bartending staff.
- Weeknight pricing is often lower — but check with the venue directly for the latest rates.
- Add-ons available include a photo booth with props, table décor, and more.

For the latest event schedules and operating hours, follow @westboundhonkytonk on Instagram.

Extra Tips or Bonuses

- Westbound is in the heart of the Southside — an easy walk to other fun spots like STIR, Terminal Brewhouse, and American Draft if you're planning a night of bar-hopping.
- There's a popular photo op near the Station Street railroad tracks — great for snapping some fun group photos before or after your event.
- Line dancing nights on Thursdays are a great low-key way to check out the space before booking a private event.
- Parking in the area can be tight on weekends. Look for nearby paid lots or use a rideshare if you're traveling with a group.
Final Thoughts

Westbound Honky Tonk offers something a little different for Chattanooga party-goers — a mix of spirited nightlife with just the right amount of Southern warmth. It’s a great pick for locals planning a celebration, weekend groups visiting town, or anyone who wants to dance without worrying about pretension or overcrowding. If your ideal event involves your favorite songs, festive cocktails, and a private dance floor, Westbound delivers.

For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!

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Looking for a fun night out in Chattanooga, TN? Check out Westbound Honkytonk! In this vlog, I share my Friday night experience at the lively venue located at 24 Station St. With great cocktails, including the tempting Malibu Bay Breeze, and energetic line dancing, the night was full of excitement. The music isn't just country, as I initially thought; it features a mix of pop, hip-hop, and throwbacks. Perfect for bachelorette parties, birthdays, or a girls' night out, the place buzzes with a vibrant crowd predominantly in their 20s and 30s. Rent the VIP section for exclusive perks like free entry for your group, a private area, complimentary champagne, and more. Remember to check out their social media for updates on weekend events and DJs, and don’t forget to pay for parking on Station Street!
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Your guide to Chattanooga bars: Westbound Honky Tonk


If you’re looking for a high-energy night out in Chattanooga- with a little line dancing, a lot of music, and a place to celebrate- Westbound Honky Tonk on Station Street is where the party’s at. Whether you're planning a bachelorette bash, a milestone birthday, or just a night out with friends, Westbound delivers a unique mix of nightclub vibe and Southern flair. It’s lively, it’s fun, and it’s far more than just country music.

The Experience

From the outside, Westbound blends in with the other venues on bustling Station Street (see more on Station Street below!) But step inside on a weekend night and you’ll find a fun party atmosphere. The space is open and energetic, with alarge dance floor, pulsing lights, and DJs who bring a fresh vibe each night. Depending on who’s spinning, you might catch everything from country classics and hip-hop throwbacks to pop hits and EDM favorites.

The decor currently features many great country artists painted or hung up in portraits on the walls, giving nods to its honky tonk name while still feeling like an upscale nightlife venue. There are line dancing nights, live performers, and guest DJs that rotate regularly—so no two visits feel exactly the same.

One of the standout features? Westbound’s VIP section. If you're with a group, especially for a special occasion, booking this space is well worth it. You’ll get your own personal servers, complimentary bottle service, exclusive DJ access for song requests, and a private, decorated area to hang in—plus the ability to dip in and out of the crowd as you please.

What to Know Before You Go

Location: 24 Station St #106, Chattanooga, TN 37408  
Hours: Typically open Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights (Thursdays are line dancing days!). Times vary, so always check their Instagram @westboundhonkytonk for current hours and DJ/event schedules.

Age Restrictions: Public events are strictly 21+. However, the space is available for private rentals, and any age group can attend those events.

Cover Charge: Pricing varies by night and DJ. Some nights have free entry before a certain time; others may have a small cover at the door. Get there early to avoid a wait!

Parking: Trust ME—don’t forget to pay for parking on Station Street. Enforcement is strict, and tickets are no joke. You can also park a few blocks over on Main Street and walk.

Music: Not just country! While the name might suggest cowboy boots and twangy tunes, the actual music range is diverse. DJs bring their own styles, playing everything from EDM to 2000s hip-hop, pop anthems, and yes, the occasional country hit.

Extra Tips or Bonuses

Planning a party? Westbound is especially popular for bachelorette weekends, birthdays, and group outings. Reach out to them in advance via Instagram or their website to inquire about reserving the VIP section or even renting the venue outright for a private event.

Station Street: Looking for food beforehand? Station Street is packed with nearby restaurants. Stir is an easy pregame option for cocktails and small bites, or walk over to Main Street for some of my favorite tacos- Bollywood Tacos! (PS- Station Street in general is a great spot for "bar hopping" in Chatt- there's a good number around the area (Reagan's, Boneyard, 50/50 Wine Bar, Elsie's Daughter, etc., and you can hop on a free "Ride-Go-Cart" or uber/walk to other nearby bars like Shady's Corner, Hi-Fi Clydes and more!)

Photo ops include the signs inside the bar, themed party decorations in VIP, and Station Street's string lights backdrop outside the venue.

Final Thoughts

Westbound Honky Tonk has carved out a niche in Chattanooga’s nightlife scene by offering something a little different—accessible and welcoming for newcomers, but thoughtful enough for locals who are looking for a reliable go-to for weekend fun. If you’re between 21 and 40 and like to dance, celebrate, or simply enjoy a night out with friends, this spot delivers. And if you’ve been writing it off as “just a country bar,” it might be time to give it a second look.

For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!

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