The Bessie Smith Cultural Center will present a full month of events this June celebrating African American history, culture and music.
"From honoring Negro League baseball legends to uplifting community voices through Juneteenth and live music performances, June 2025 promises a vibrant celebration of history, music, and community right in the heart of Chattanooga," organizers said.
In partnership with the Chattanooga Lookouts and presented by Food City, Negro League Appreciation Weekend kicks off June 13 & 14 at AT&T Field as the Choo Choos (Lookouts) face the Biloxi Dodgers (Shuckers).
Both teams will wear replica Negro League uniforms, and fans can enjoy a fireworks show following the June 13 game and a souvenir giveaway on Saturday, June 14.
Highlights of the weekend include:
• Negro League Players Meet & Greet at Food City (375 Broad St) on Friday, June 13 from noon-2 p.m.;
• Games on June 13 & 14 at AT&T Field featuring replica Negro League uniforms;
• Negro League Player autograph signings at the main gate of AT&T Field on June 13 & 14 before each game; and
• VIP Brunch with Negro League players on Saturday, June 14 at 10:30 a.m. at the Bessie Smith Cultural Center. Cost is $10.
"This powerful weekend offers multiple opportunities to honor the legacy and impact of Negro League athletes," organizers said.
Presented by the First Horizon Foundation, the Juneteenth Freedom Celebration will take place Thursday, June 19 from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. at the Bessie Smith Cultural Center. This free, family-friendly event will include:
• Free museum admission;
• Interactive kids’ activities;
• A Juneteenth documentary screening;
• Food trucks;
• Live music by DJ Ant; and
• A vibrant market on the lawn presented by Chattanooga Business Elite.
Cap off the month with Bessie Smith’s Big 9 Music Fest, in celebration of Black Music Month, presented by TVFCU. Held on historic Martin Luther King Blvd, this two-day free festival blends music, culture, food and community. Activities include:
• Saturday, June 21 (3-11 p.m.)
Experience the best in Southern Soul and Blues with performances by top southern soul artists, headlined by Da Kang of Trailride Blues – Jeter Jones
• Sunday, June 22 (1:30-6:30 p.m.) – Gospel on the Lawn
Be uplifted by performances from:
o Greater Tucker Baptist Church Mass Choir;
o Karen Collins and Elder Carolyn Hammonds;
o Hawkinsville Baptist Church Choir;
o The Chattanooga Spiritual Highlights; and
o Headliner: Evangelist Lemmie Battles, Chicago’s own gospel powerhouse.
This celebration brings together generations to honor heritage, amplify culture, and uplift spirits. Bessie Smith’s Big 9 Music Fest is sponsored by Lyndhurst Foundation, Volkswagen, Coca Cola, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Foundation, EPB, UTC, G93 and Power 94.
For more information, or vendor and sponsorship opportunities, contact the Bessie Smith Cultural Center at 423-266-8658 or visit www.bessiesmithcc.org/upcoming-events.