CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (July 29, 2024) – The Chattanooga Tourism Co., in collaboration with the General Assembly, the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development (TDTD), and the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA), has announced that Chattanooga will serve as the new venue for IBMA’s World of Bluegrass (WOB) event in 2025, 2026, and 2027, with the first event scheduled for September 16-20, 2025.
House and Senate Finance Chairs Rep. Patsy Hazlewood (R-Signal Mountain) and Sen. Bo Watson (R-Hixson) also revealed that Chattanooga is the inaugural recipient of the Tennessee Special Event Fund. This fund was created in 2022 when Tennessee Governor Bill Lee partnered with the General Assembly to allocate $25 million for attracting large-scale events that are expected to generate significant visitor spending and tax revenue. The Chattanooga Tourism Co. plans to use this award to support and grow the WOB event.
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“Tennessee is proud to welcome IBMA’s World of Bluegrass to Chattanooga. This event is not only a testament to our state’s vibrant cultural heritage but also a significant economic driver for our communities,” said Chairwoman Patsy Hazlewood. “We are excited to support this event that will bring Bluegrass enthusiasts together in our city and give us an opportunity to showcase Tennessee and Chattanooga to an audience coming from literally around the world.”
Barry White, president and CEO of the Chattanooga Tourism Co., expressed his enthusiasm by stating, “The Tourism Co. is honored to be the first recipient of Tennessee’s new Special Event Fund and to welcome the WOB to Chattanooga. We are extremely excited to bring this event to Chattanooga and highlight our city’s flourishing cultural scene, while also generating economic returns to our community.”
The five-day WOB event, set for September 16-20, 2025, will include a convention, trade show, awards show, artist showcases across downtown, and a two-day live music festival featuring top bluegrass artists from around the world.
The Tourism Co. estimates that the 2025 WOB event will attract over 18,000 overnight visitors and more than 45,000 including day visitors, generating $30.1 million in economic impact and $1.1 million in state tax revenue. Visitor spending is expected to support local jobs and additional tax revenues, benefiting multiple industries beyond tourism.
“In our mission to spread the music, IBMA considered over 30 destinations for a new home. While other cities could offer the necessary commitment, the passion and enthusiasm of the people of Chattanooga truly stood out. We are incredibly grateful for the support from the state of Tennessee and the welcoming spirit of Chattanooga. This city’s unique charm and hospitality make it a perfect home for WOB artists and guests,” said Ken White, executive director of IBMA.
Commissioner Mark Ezell of the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development added, “We are ready to welcome the world’s largest events to Tennessee stages. IBMA’s World of Bluegrass is a great way to showcase our rich musical heritage, and the very goal of the Special Event Fund is to support local partners as they pursue and secure high-value events like this that represent tremendous economic benefit for Tennessee businesses.”
Thanks to the financial investment and support of the WOB sponsors, Chattanooga successfully secured this prestigious event. Special thanks go to Governor Bill Lee, House and Senate Finance Chairs Rep. Patsy Hazlewood (R-Signal Mountain) and Sen. Bo Watson (R-Hixson), Commissioner Mark Ezell and his team at the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, Riverview Foundation, Benwood Foundation, Fletcher Bright Realty, River City Co., Hamilton County Mayor Weston Wamp and his team, City of Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly and his team, and numerous local partners, including hotels, restaurants, and cultural organizations.
For more information on IBMA’s World of Bluegrass and how to participate, visit VisitChattanooga.com/WOB.
About the Chattanooga Tourism Co.
The Chattanooga Tourism Co. is the official destination marketing organization for Hamilton County, dedicated to sustainably increasing visitation and connecting guests with authentic Chattanooga experiences. The organization aims to strengthen the local economy and enrich the community by establishing Chattanooga as a premier destination for meetings, conventions, sporting events, and leisure travel. Annually, Hamilton County welcomes over 15 million visitors who contribute $65 million in local taxes, saving each resident household $1,138 in taxes and supporting more than 30,000 jobs. VisitChattanooga.com
About the International Bluegrass Music Association
IBMA – the International Bluegrass Music Association – is the non-profit music association that connects, educates, and empowers bluegrass professionals and enthusiasts, honoring tradition and encouraging innovation in the bluegrass community worldwide. IBMA World of Bluegrass® facilitates the growth and development of the bluegrass music community, from professional to fan. This goal is accomplished through four main components: business conference, showcases, awards show, and music festival. The festival features the best of the best in bluegrass today, helps benefit the IBMA Trust Fund—a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that assists bluegrass professionals during financial emergencies—and introduces the music to thousands of new fans every year.
About the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development
The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development (TDTD) is dedicated to driving economic growth and tourism in all 95 counties. TDTD’s global marketing efforts increase visitation to Tennessee, which boosts tax revenue, creates jobs, and attracts new investment across the state. Tennessee is a global destination of choice offering visitors world-class music, live entertainment, family-friendly experiences, charming communities, innovative and classic culinary creations, renowned scenic beauty, and outdoor adventure—all centered at the crossroads of rich history and unrivaled hospitality. Vacations “sound perfect” in Tennessee. Visit TNvacation.com and follow @TNvacation on social media for travel inspiration.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Hannah Hammon
Public Relations Manager
Cell: 256-996-5788
hannah@chattanoogatourism.com
Source: Read Original Release
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