Looking for a gorgeous, artsy city with a spirit of inclusiveness? Chattanooga is a gem waiting to be discovered.

Southern Pride is our monthly column exploring and celebrating lgbtq+Q culture in Southern cities. This month we’re heading to the Volunteer State to check out the scene in Chattanooga.
People are flocking to Chattanooga, TN, for its incredible outdoor recreation as well as its thriving art and startup scenes. But what many may not realize is that this cool city is also a Southern oasis for members of the lgbtq+Q community.

 

Stay updated with gay events in Chattanooga, TN |

 

Popular Gay Events in Chattanooga, TN:

1. Chattanooga Pride Festival: This is the city's largest annual lgbtq+Q+ event, typically held in October. The festival usually includes a parade, live music, performances, food vendors, and community booths. It's a family-friendly event that celebrates diversity and inclusivity in the Chattanooga community.
2. PFLAG Meetings: Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) is a nationwide organization with a chapter in Chattanooga. They typically hold regular meetings to provide support, education, and advocacy.
3. Chattanooga Queer Community Forum: This is a regularly scheduled event that provides a platform for members of the lgbtq+Q+ community and allies to discuss issues, share stories, and strategize for change.
4. lgbtq+Q+ Film Screenings: The Chattanooga Film Festival has been known to include lgbtq+Q+ films in its line-up. Similarly, local theaters and university campuses often hold film screenings that feature or focus on lgbtq+Q+ themes. 

Gay Bars and Hotspots in Chattanooga, TN:

1. Alan Gold's Discotheque: This is a long-standing gay nightclub in Chattanooga, known for its energetic dance floor, drag shows, and themed nights. The club is located at 1100 McCallie Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37404.
2. The Big Chill & Grill: While not explicitly a gay bar, The Big Chill & Grill is known for its inclusive and welcoming environment. They offer a wide variety of drinks and a menu featuring international cuisine. The bar is located at 103 Cherokee Blvd, Chattanooga, TN 37405.
3. Coyote Jacks Saloon: This is a lively bar with a large dance floor and outdoor patio. They host a variety of events, including live music and themed parties. The bar is located at 1401 Cowart St, Chattanooga, TN 37408.
4. The Comedy Catch: This is a popular comedy club that hosts a variety of performers, including lgbtq+Q+ comedians. The club is located at 1400 Market St, Chattanooga, TN 37402.
5. The Social: The Social is a bar and restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere. They host a variety of events, including trivia nights and live music. The bar is located at 1110 Market St, Chattanooga, TN 37402.
6. The Flying Squirrel: This is a modern bar and restaurant known for its innovative cocktails and gourmet small plates. The bar is located at 55 Johnson St, Chattanooga, TN 37408.
7. The Honest Pint: This is a traditional Irish pub with a welcoming atmosphere. They offer a wide variety of beers and host live music events. The pub is located at 35 Patten Pkwy, Chattanooga, TN 37402.
8. The Bitter Alibi: This is a popular bar and brunch spot with a relaxed atmosphere. They offer a wide variety of drinks and a menu featuring international cuisine. The bar is located at 825 Houston St, Chattanooga, TN 37403.

Entertainment & Nightlife in Chattanooga

It can be difficult to find the perfect place to let loose after work or on the weekends when you are new to town, but Chattanooga has plenty of well-established lgbtq+Q entertainment venues. Images Night Club has themed evenings where customers enjoy karaoke, talent contests and dance music that lasts all night. Alan Gold’s Discotheque is a multilevel nightclub that hosts dancing and shows throughout the week. And The Palace Theater features films, comedy shows, live music and game nights along with other events. They also have an art gallery that features female artists only.

Chattanooga has a fun and laid-back gay nightlife scene. The Northshore neighborhood and downtown areas are where you'll see the liveliest crowds. If you want to dance the night away, the downtown area has a lot of bars and clubs where you can strut your best dancefloor moves. If you are looking for something a bit more laid back, the Northshore, which is right over the bridge, has many wonderful restaurants, eateries, and bars. The scene is still fun and vibrant but more relaxed overall. Both these areas have gay venues as well as lgbtq+Q-owned restaurants, so keep an eye out for the pride flags waving.  Or, just ask the locals - they'd be glad to steer you in a fabulous direction!