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Chattanooga gay pride

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While Chattanooga’s North Shore district is sometimes referred to as the town’s “gay-friendly neighborhood,” you are likely to find a diverse mix of folks wherever you go.

Members of the LGBTQ+ community report feeling welcome at the majority of the restaurants, bars and shops throughout the town. Her laughter alone could heal hearts and lift spirits, and her joy was contagious.

Chattanooga Pride hosts an exceptional annual event and welcomes all queer-owned and affirming businesses, organizations and individuals.

In addition to its performing arts initiatives, Seed Theatre works to support marginalized communities, particularly the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC population in Chattanooga. Start your day with a cup of joe and a pastry from Sleepyhead Coffee, a beloved favorite.

If we could bottle the essence of Pride and hand it to someone as a token of love and appreciation, it would have Fannie’s name written all over it. She was that gift—and she will forever be remembered as such.

From starters like the Blue Crab Claw Cocktail to entrees that include Stuffed Shrimp and Lobster Mac and Cheese, each dish is perfectly crafted to provide an elevated dining experience ideal for date night or a family gathering.

Ample LGBTQ+-Friendly Entertainment & Nightlife

It can be challenging to find the perfect place to let loose after work or on the weekends when you are new to town, but Chattanooga has a handful of well-established LGBTQ+ entertainment venues. Alan Gold’s Discotheque is a multilevel nightclub that hosts dancing and shows throughout the week.

If you’re looking to take in a show or find a welcoming community, plan a visit to Seed Theatre.

On their website, they provide religious resources for the queer community.

Similarly, those seeking a church are welcome at New Covenant Church of Chattanooga, St. Elmo United Methodist, St. Mark’s Church and many others.

Plenty of Resources

There is no shortage of groups and organizations available to help LGBTQ+ individuals who are new to town.

These areas become the place to live, eat and play for members of the LGBTQ+ community. Founded in 1994 by Missouri high school teacher Rodney Wilson, the month was strategically chosen to coincide with National Coming Out Day on October 11 and the anniversaries of historic marches on Washington for LGBTQ+ rights in 1979 and 1987.

The observance is distinct from Pride Month, celebrated in June to commemorate the 1969 Stonewall Riots–the catalyst for the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement.

Camm Ashford

Camm Ashford is a graduate of the University of Tennessee-Knoxville, and a freelance writer based in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Chattanooga boasts an array of excellent LGBTQ+-owned businesses, making it easy to support their owners and operators. Or, grab a vegan-friendly lunch from cashew.

Belly up to the bar for one of The Big Chill & Grill’s renowned frozen drinks. Fannie Mae lived by the true principles of Pride: authenticity, courage, compassion, and community.

 

To think of Fannie Mae Charles was to think of Pride itself.

Every sip takes you back to those sweet childhood days of summer – but with a kick! The menu doesn’t disappoint either, with options like Country-fried Steak and Golden Onion Pork Chops. And if you are ready for a new tattoo, Main Line Ink has a reputation for having amazing artists who provide the best service around town. 

Accepting & Affirming Church Communities

If finding a place of worship is high on your list of to-dos after moving, you’ll be pleased with Chattanooga’s large number of affirming churches. Grace Episcopal Church celebrates diversity and strives to create an inclusive and affirming environment by announcing that it embraces all people, including those of every gender identity and sexual orientation.

The day began with the Pride Parade at 1 p.m., starting from the Unum Parking Lot at Ross’s Landing.

“Fantastic turnout at this year’s Chattanooga Pride Parade,” said Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly. “We love our neighbors in Chattanooga, and you could really feel the love today.”

This year’s celebration held special significance as attendees from Knoxville joined the festivities after Knox Pride Fest 2025 was abruptly cancelled just days before it was scheduled to take place on October 3-4.

John Camp, Knox Pride’s president, announced the cancellation in a Facebook video on October 1, explaining that organizers were unable to secure liability insurance at the last minute.

“I know this is disheartening, disappointing and upsetting for a lot of folks,” Camp said, expressing hope that the Knoxville community would travel to support Chattanooga’s celebration.

The Knox Pride cancellation announcement sparked intense online debate, with a Facebook post from local news reporter Kyle Grainger drawing nearly 4,000 comments ranging from supportive messages to expressions of hate and judgment directed at the LGBTQ+ community.

Mayor Kelly emphasized Chattanooga’s welcoming spirit ahead of the festival: “Chattanooga is a kind, welcoming city where we want all our neighbors to know that they belong and are loved.”

The week-long series of events leading up to Sunday’s festival included drag shows, wrestling, drag bingo, outdoor games, and yoga, catering to diverse age groups and interests.

October serves as LGBTQ+ History Month in the United States, Canada, and Australia.

chattanooga gay pride

They come in a variety of flavors and are served slushy-style. You may even catch an opportunity to sing karaoke if you show up on the right night, and every Monday, customers enjoy a game of drag bingo.

The Big Chill’s owners also opened a second restaurant called Scottie’s on the River, where customers can enjoy incredible riverfront views and next-level cuisine.

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