Explore Chattanooga Spring 2026

A s spring evenings take on a softer glow, Chattanooga’s Southside becomes the setting for one of the most enchanting seasonal experiences in the region — the Sea Light Festival Chattanooga at Sculpture Fields at Montague Park . Running through April 20, 2026, this illuminated lantern festival brings art, culture, and community together in an unforgettable nighttime celebration. Starting at dusk, hundreds of handcrafted lan tern installations — shaped like flowers, animals, and whimsical figures — come alive across the park’s sweeping lawns and pathways through a vibrant display of light and color. These luminous creations blend traditional Chinese lantern-mak ing techniques with modern LED technology, resulting in intricate silk sculptures that glow brilliantly against the evening sky. Visitors can stroll the illumi nated trail at their own pace, discovering photo-wor thy scenes and engaging cultural symbolism woven throughout the displays. Enhancing the experience, the award-winning Zigong Acrobatic Troupe performs awe-inspir ing live acts that include juggling, balancing, and the mesmerizing traditional “face-changing” art. A curated selection of food vendors, artisan booths, and family-friendly activities rounds out the evening, making Sea Light more than a light show — it’s a full cultural celebration. For an even more memorable outing, guests can pair the festival with a special excursion from the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum . Departing from the historic Grand Junction Depot on select evenings, the Sea Light Festival train ride carries passengers along a scenic twilight route before delivering them near the festival grounds. After exploring the glowing displays, riders return aboard the same vintage train — combining classic rail travel with a magical evening under the lanterns. Located just minutes from downtown along the Tennessee

River , Sculpture Fields provides a stunning open-air backdrop for this immersive event. Whether you arrive by car or rail, Sea Light Festival offers a brilliant way to experience Chattanooga after dark — a perfect addition to any spring visit to the Scenic City. Sculp ture Fields are located at 1800 Polk St, Chattanooga, TN 37408.

For full festival details and to purchase tickets, please visit the Sea Light website. kaleidoentertainment.com/sealight-festival

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