A map of Riverbend may not be a necessity at the 2009 Festival prepares for its 29th opening night tomorrow evening, but officials have relocated two of the more popular stages for the nine day event.
The Bud Light stage has been moved to underneath the Olgiati Bridge and features a new state of the art sound system for the venue that is the second most prominent behind the headlining Coca-Cola Stage.
Meanwhile, the TVA Showcase Stage, which primarily features area artists, is now located across the Coca-Cola Stage. The TVA venue had previously been stationed near the Market Street Bridge.
The Unum Stage will remain adjacent to the Hunter Museum and the Tennessee Valley Credit Union Stage will be based underneath the Market Street Bridge.
However, one topic that Riverbend officials are keeping a closely guarded secret for the moment is the identity (ies) of a special guest(s) will be performing next Thursday night on the TVA stage at approximately 11 p.m. immediately following the conclusion of the B-52s appearance on the Coca-Cola Stage.
Officials were clearly excited about the mystery artist(s) saying that it would be unlike anything that has ever been seen in Chattanooga. Early speculation is that the performer(s) would be appearing at next weekend’s Bonnaroo festival in nearby Manchester, but officials weren’t giving any hints.
The Children’s Village has also undergone a few changes. The Kid’s Talent Search was cancelled this year, but more rides have been added to give the area a carnival like atmosphere.
A new Riverbend destination this year will be Riverbend Beach, which is sponsored by the Tennessee Valley Federal Credit Union and WDEF. Festival goers can see the construction of a 150 ton sand sculpture while children of all ages will also have an opportunity to create their own sand masterpieces.
Today was the final day to purchase pins at area MAPCO Marts for $28 each. The price will increase to $37 each at the gate once the Festival gets underway tomorrow beginning at 4:30 pm with the 2010 Tournament of Roses parade bound Soddy-Daisy High School marching band opening the gates.
One-day wristbands will be available for $23 each at the gate. Seniors 60 and older can purchased the one day wristbands for $11.50 each.
Children 10 and under are admitted for free.
Country legend Willie Nelson will be the headliner tomorrow night on the Coca-Cola Stage followed by Train on Saturday with Three Dog Night and the Chattanooga Symphony closing the opening weekend on Sunday.