Published February 8, 2021
Hamilton County, TN – The organizers of two of the Chattanooga area’s most popular farmers and artists markets have set the 2021 dates for reopening to the public.
After closing their markets due to the pandemic in Fall of last year, the organizations state that they feel confident, and also responsible, for maintaining the connection between farmers / artisans and the Hamilton County / Chattanooga community.
Chattanooga River Market has been closed since late October but will be opening back up for the 2021 season on the Tennessee Aquarium Plaza for two days a week this Spring.
Beginning March 12th, the Market will be open from 10am – 5pm, Fridays and Saturdays.
In its tenth season, every Saturday opens with a free yoga class at 10am taught by Chattanooga Community Yoga.
Dozens of local artisans are scheduled to be in attendance displaying their arts and crafts and local musicians are on the docket to perform live music.
Local food trucks will also be on site serving throughout the days.
Chattanooga River Market representatives encourage attendees to also visit the Tennessee Aquarium and the IMAX theater, both of which are open for visiting.
Due to COVID-19 lockdowns and restrictions last year, the Aquarium suffered significant financial losses and by October was forced to lay-off 112 part-time employees and 22 full-time employees.
Collegedale Market will reopen Sunday, March 14th and their current schedule shows them being open Sundays from 10am – 2pm through the end of July.
Located in East Hamilton County, Collegedale Market is located at The Commons.
In its 7th season, the market has become a well-attended destination for the Ooltewah, East Brainerd, Collegedale and Bradley County communities.
Representatives of Collegedale Market state that under COVID-19 guidelines, the market will be operating under reduced merchant capacity to allow for increased social distancing and the majority of the vendors will be placed outdoors.
They request attendees wear face masks while attending and to enjoy their selection of fresh local produce, local art and live music.
Collegedale Market states they are committed to local farms and that the market is a “terrific venue for locals to get farm fresh produce, meats, cheeses and breads.”
Several regional artists are slated to attend as well.
Both Markets note that they will operating under social distancing guidelines by limiting/spacing vendors and that masks will be required.
Coming up on Saturday, February 13th is the pre-season Vendor Conference, held annually for current vendors and for those interested in becoming a vendor.
You can register for the Vendor Conference here or go to chattanoogamarket.com to learn more.
