Water Lantern Festival at Chester Frost Park: An Unforgettable Summer Evening in Chattanooga
If you’re looking for a unique, meaningful way to spend a summer evening in Chattanooga, circle July 12th on your calendar. The Water Lantern Festival is returning to Chester Frost Park for one night only, and it's a beautiful celebration of hope, connection, and community — all set to music, with glowing lanterns drifting peacefully across the water.
It’s one of those events that’s hard to describe until you’re there, watching thousands of hand-decorated lanterns light up the lake at sunset. Whether you go with family, friends, or your significant other, it’s the kind of night that sticks with you.
The Experience
When you arrive at Chester Frost Park for the Water Lantern Festival, you’re greeted with a relaxed, welcoming festival atmosphere. There’s live music playing, local food trucks serving dinner and treats, and booths where you can grab your materials and start decorating your lantern.
Each guest receives a lantern kit included with their ticket. The idea is simple but powerful: you write a message, a dream, a memory, or a dedication on your lantern — whatever’s on your heart — and then release it onto the water as the sun goes down. As the lake starts to fill with lanterns, the view becomes more magical by the minute.
The event particularly shines around sunset. The gentle glow of thousands of lanterns floating silently across the water, accompanied by soft music and the hum of conversations, creates a reflective and emotional ambiance that’s hard to replicate at any other event in the city.
The festival is also a Zero Waste event, designed with care for the environment. All lanterns are made from eco-friendly materials, and a dedicated cleanup crew ensures everything is removed from the water afterward.
What to Know Before You Go
Date & Time:
Saturday, July 12, 2024
Gates typically open in the late afternoon, with lantern launch at sunset.
Location:
Chester Frost Park
2318 N. Gold Point Circle, Hixson, TN 37343
This scenic park is about 25 minutes from downtown Chattanooga and offers plenty of green space and lakeside views.
Parking:
Plenty of parking is available on-site.
Tickets:
Tickets must be purchased online in advance. Every ticket includes:
- Entry to the festival
- One floating lantern kit with a commemorative drawstring bag
- Marker for decorating your lantern
- LED candle
- Access to live music and food trucks
Food & Drink:
There are several food vendors and food trucks on site, so come hungry or plan on grabbing dinner while you’re there. Vegetarian and kid-friendly options are often available.
Extra Tips or Bonuses
- Great Photo Ops: Bring your phone or camera — the lantern launch at twilight is a photogenic moment you’ll want to remember.
- BYO Blanket or Chairs: There’s plenty of space to spread out, so bring a blanket or lawn chairs for comfort.
- Sunset Timing: Be sure to be there well before sunset to decorate your lantern and find a good spot by the water.
- Make a Day of It: If you arrive early, Chester Frost Park has swimming areas, picnic spots, and walking trails — worth making a full day date or family outing.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for a unique date night, a creative way to reflect on meaningful moments, or just a serene evening outdoors, the Water Lantern Festival offers something for everyone. It’s one of those rare events that feels both festive and personal — creating space for celebration, remembrance, and community. And when the lanterns begin to float out across the water together… there’s something really special about that shared experience.
Highly recommended for families, couples, friend groups, and anyone who loves slowing down and connecting with others in a beautiful place.
For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!
Chattanooga’s Water Lantern Festival at Chester Frost Park July 2025
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Statemint Chattanooga Returns: Ultimate Local Thrifting
StateMint Sale in Chattanooga: Your Guide to Affordable, Stylish & Sustainable Shopping
If you love thrifting and the thrill of scoring designer deals, you’ll want to make room in your calendar for the StateMint Sale in Chattanooga. Held a few times a year and back this August in an even bigger space, this multi-day shopping event is one of the best spots in town to pick up gently-loved (and sometimes brand-new!) clothing, shoes, and accessories—all at a fraction of retail prices.
Why visit? In short: brands you love, prices you’ll like even more, and a setup that makes secondhand shopping feel easy and even enjoyable. Plus, it’s a great way to support a more circular (and budget-friendly) fashion cycle in our community.
The Experience
StateMint isn’t your typical consignment store—it’s a pop-up consignment event that turns a large venue into a highly organized shopper’s dream. When you walk into Restoration Southside (a venue often used for weddings and events), you’ll find neatly categorized racks of women’s and men’s clothing, shoes, accessories, and even athletic wear. Expect styles from modern staples like Lululemon, Madewell, Free People, Nike, Anthropologie, and boutique brands, as well as some well-kept designer finds sprinkled in. Sizes for women typically range from XS up to 4XL, with a solid variety for men as well.
Volunteers and staff keep things running smoothly, with dressing rooms, helpful signage, and plenty of space to browse without that cramped, chaotic feeling. You can easily spend an hour (or three) looking through the organized racks of clothing and accessories. If you're shopping early in the day, the coffee truck parked outside makes it an extra pleasant experience—grab a latte before diving in.
What to Know Before You Go
Dates: August 5–9, 2024
Location: Restoration Southside, 3146 Broad St, Chattanooga, TN 37408
Hours:
- Monday through Friday: 9 AM – 7 PM
- Saturday: 9 AM – 4 PM (Half-Off Day — many items marked down!)
Admission: FREE
Note: A ticketed charity pre-sale typically happens the evening before the public sale starts. Keep an eye on @statemintchattanooga on Instagram for updates on how to get early access next time.
Parking: Free parking is available at the venue, but it can fill up quickly on busy days. Carpooling or arriving early can help avoid a long walk.
Payments: Most shoppers pay via credit/debit, and while some consignors accept Venmo, not all do—so it’s best to bring a credit card.
Extra Tips or Bonuses
- Bring a shopping bag or tote to carry your haul—StateMint doesn’t provide bags.
- Half-Off Day (Saturday) is a great chance to scoop up your favorites at an additional discount if they’re still around.
- Follow @statemintchattanooga on Instagram for sneak peeks of standout pieces, seller spotlights, and reminders during sale week.
If you’re coming from out of town or making a day of it, consider grabbing lunch nearby at a Southside favorite like Bluegrass Grill, Taqueria Jalisco, or Heaven & Ale for a post-shopping bite and a local beer.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re updating your wardrobe ahead of the new season, hunting for budget-friendly workout wear, or just love the hunt of a good deal, the StateMint Sale is definitely worth a visit. It’s well-run, community-focused, and way more fun than scrolling sale sections online. Locals and visitors alike will enjoy the curated selection and clean setup—and knowing they’re keeping stylish pieces in use a little longer.
For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!
Discover the Ultimate Relaxation Experience at Chattanooga Headspa
There's something truly AMAZING about finding a local gem that takes your mind far from the hustle and bustle of daily life, especially after a stressful week. Last weekend, I discovered exactly that at Chattanooga Head Spa—a sanctuary for serenity nestled at 1309 Panorama Dr. #115, Chattanooga, TN 37421. Whether you’re looking to spoil the special person in your life or simply indulge in a little self-pampering, this is the ultimate spot for relaxation. Trust me, spending a blissful afternoon here is like a mini-vacation!
The atmosphere exudes tranquility, with its soft lighting, calming music, and that oh-so-soothing scent that instantly melts away your stress. Their kind staff certainly know how to make you feel right at home. This video showcases my fourth visit, and at every visit I've had so far, I have met a different, AMAZING esthetician!
So, what can you expect during your visit? When you walk in, you're greeted with a short form and an array of complimentary snacks and drinks- because who doesn’t love a little treat while being pampered? The spa offers a variety of packages and specials to cater to your unique needs, and it’s worth keeping an eye on their Instagram for the latest and greatest offers. They are a sister spa with Last Loft and Brow bar where you can book facials, eyelash lifts, brow shaping, tinting and more! But my favorite is the head spa!
One of the standout features at Chattanooga Head Spa is their innovative scalp camera that you do before and after your head spa treatment, which shows you instant results from the service! Witnessing the transformation right before your eyes is just the cherry on top of an already stellar experience. Their massages, shampooing, and treatments are not only incredibly relaxing but also fantastic for your scalp health.
Whether you’re coming solo, bringing along your mom, or planning a day with friends, Chattanooga Head Spa will renew your spirits and leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
So, what are you waiting for? Book yourself a slice of bliss, and be sure to follow @webbchatts on Instagram for more must-do experiences in Chattanooga!
Nacho Libre Taqueria: Tacos, Masks, and Margs
Nacho Libre in Ooltewah: Playful Vibes, Authentic Flavors, and Top-Notch Tacos Just Outside Chattanooga
If you’re the kind of diner who loves a little personality with your meal, Nacho Libre in Ooltewah should be at the top of your list. Just a short 15-minute drive from Chattanooga, this locally-owned Mexican spot brings the energy of lucha libre wrestling into a fun setting filled with vibrant murals, fresh flavors, and a menu that surprises in the best way. Whether you're a taco regular, margarita enthusiast, or just curious to try something new, Nacho Libre strikes a balance between bold theming and genuinely good food.
The Experience
From the moment you pull up to Nacho Libre on Apison Pike, you can tell this place isn’t trying to blend in. Inside, the walls pop with character thanks to original artwork-including a colorful vinyl mural created by an Ecuadorian artist—and a display of replica lucha libre wrestling masks that immediately sets the tone. It’s playful, but not gimmicky, making it a hit for date night, group dinners, or even a casual solo outing.
Though newly opened in September 2024, the restaurant already feels welcoming and lived-in, thanks to the warmth of its owners and staff. It's owned by a local couple who wanted to create an experience that feels more like Mexico and less like a run-of-the-mill Tex-Mex chain.
Now, onto the food. The tacos are a standout-they come out fresh, vibrant, and full of texture. The shrimp tacos in particular hit that perfect balance of grilled flavor and freshness, but their mix-and-match menu means you can sample several different fillings without overcommitting. Salsas are made fresh daily, and that care in prep shows in every bite.
On the drinks side, expect house-squeezed lime juice, made-daily guava syrup, and fun cocktails named after famous wrestlers. We tried the Ric Flair and El Santo—both flavorful, balanced, and perfect for pairing with the salty, spicy goodness of taco night.
What to Know Before You Go
Location:Nacho Libre
8206 Apison Pike
Ooltewah, TN 37363
Hours:
11am- 8pm tuesday-Friday
12pm- 8pm weekends
CLOSE Monday
Parking:
Free lot parking is available in front of the restaurant, usually easy to find a spot without much trouble.
Pricing:
Tacos are affordably priced, especially during specials. Most entrées and drinks seem to hover in the casual dinner range—perfect for a night out without breaking the bank.
No reservation is typically needed, and right now it's flying under the radar so waits are minimal.
Deals to Keep in Mind
Nacho Libre keeps the weekly promotions rolling with themed food and drink specials:
- Taco Tuesday: Mix & match tacos for $3.50 each
- Margarita Wednesday: $7 margaritas
- Daily Happy Hour: $7 margaritas + $3 beers
- Thursday Special: Tortas + fountain drink for $10.99
These offers make it especially worth visiting mid-week, and they rotate in some seasonal or holiday specials as well throughout the year.
Extra Tips and Bonuses
If you're someone who likes a meal with a photo-friendly vibe, this place checks the boxes. The mural art, colorful plating, and wrestler-themed décor make it a great spot to snap a few pics.
Visiting for a birthday or group dinner? Let the staff know—they're great about adding a little flair to the experience.
Make it a night out by pairing your meal with a nearby stop—try Wired Coffee Bar or 1885 Grill in nearby Cambridge Square for a stroll or post-dinner espresso.
Final Thoughts
Nacho Libre in Ooltewah is the kind of place you tell your friends about the next day—not because it’s flashy, but because it’s fun, refreshingly different, and delivering food that stands on its own. Whether you’re local to Chattanooga or just exploring restaurants around the area, it’s a great pick for all kinds of diners: families, date nights, or anyone out to enjoy tacos and a drink in a laid-back, memorable setting.
For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!