New Year's Eve in Chattanooga 2025-2026

Chattanooga shines as a premier holiday destination, with its enchanting Holiday Trail of Lights transforming the city into a festive wonderland. This is more than just one event—it's a city-wide celebration stretching from November through January. The trail links a series of must-see attractions, each brimming with its unique holiday charm. Chattanooga's beautiful natural scenery and mild winter weather create the perfect setting for leisurely outdoor experiences. New Year's celebrations are no exception, with special events, lights, and festivities adding to the season's vibrant atmosphere.

NYE Parties Across the City

On New Year's Eve, Chattanooga hosts a range of lively parties and events. Guests can celebrate in 1920s style at The Read House's Roaring 20s Party, which includes an overnight stay, entry for two, live entertainment, a midnight champagne toast, and more. Another highlight is the celebration at The Edwin Hotel, known for its stylish and vibrant atmosphere. Barrelhouse Ballroom offers a unique "Gold Dusted New Year's Eve" event inspired by Fleetwood Mac's "Gold Dust Woman," featuring classic rock tunes, a gold-themed dress code, champagne toasts, and a countdown on a giant LED screen. Tickets for this glitzy celebration start at $30, promising an unforgettable evening in Chattanooga.

New Year's Eve on the River

Celebrate the arrival of the New Year with elegance aboard the Southern Belle Riverboat from Chattanooga Riverboat Co. The "New Year's Eve on the River" event begins with boarding at 8:30 p.m. and a 9 pm departure, offering a scenic three-hour cruise along the Tennessee River until 12:30 am. Enjoy music from a DJ on the first deck, a solo artist on the second deck for a more relaxed vibe, party favors, and a keepsake wine glass. Each guest also receives a bottle of champagne to toast at midnight while enjoying fireworks over the river. This event is exclusively for guests 21 and over, with tickets priced at $159.99.

New Year's Dinner Train

The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum offers a truly stylish experience with its Dinner Train, where history and elegance come together. Located in Chattanooga and Delano, this museum was founded in 1961 to preserve and showcase historic railway equipment, offering educational and enjoyable experiences for generations to come. Visitors can explore a collection of vintage trains and railcars, including steam and diesel locomotives, passenger coaches, and freight cars.

For a special New Year's celebration, guests can indulge in a four-course dinner aboard a beautifully restored 1924 dining car. Departing from Grand Junction Station at 5 pm and 8 pm, the train takes a scenic route through East Chattanooga's urban landscape, allowing plenty of time for a leisurely meal before returning to the station. During the holiday season, other festive options are available, like the Christmas Dinner Train, which operates from November. Tickets tend to sell out quickly due to the popularity of these events.

For even more holiday events and Christmas Lights across Tennessee click here.