Chattanooga Market opens season with MoonPie party

Chattanooga Market opens its 17th season this weekend with an additional day of fun on Saturday, April 29, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., as well as traditional market hours of 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, April 30.

Chattanooga Market brings people together in First Tennessee Pavilion by offering the freshest foods along with original art and live entertainment, making it a Sunday tradition for locals and tourists alike. The market features produce, meats, cheeses, breads and specialty foods from local farms that is always varied and fresh. Additionally, visitors can shop booths of area artists and crafters offering pottery, jewelry, photography, apparel, home and beauty products.

Adding to opening weekend festivities will be a 100th birthday party for MoonPie, the nationally known treat made by Chattanooga Bakery.

There will be a vendor contest for best MoonPie- i nspired food and crafts. A ceremonial cutting and serving of the World’s Largest MoonPie. Samples of MoonPies, MoonPie Coffee, MoonPie Bites, even MoonPie Moonshine.

Shoppers can buy a commemorative T-shirt in the mini MoonPie General Store; kids can play MoonPie games and get temporary face tattoos.

Live entertainment lined up for this weekend’s market begins with Sweet Georgia Sound on Saturday at 12:30 p.m.

The Von Womps will play Sunday at 12:30 p.m. followed by Brian Ashley Jones at 2 p.m.

New this year on the Market schedule is the Spring Mountain Farms Signature Chefs competition on May 21. This event will showcase the best versions of fried chicken. Regional chefs will put their twists on the most unique ways to prepare fried chicken. Each will have a tasting station for chicken-lovers to sample small dishes.

For all Sunday market themes, check the website at chattanoogamarket. com.

STAFF PHOTO BY TIM BARBER In addition to shopping locally produced foods and crafts, visitors to Chattanooga Markets can enjoy live entertainment, like this past performance from Rick Rushing.