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June 21

Make Music Chattanooga will return for its 4th year with a focus on encouraging community music making by local musicians and self-described “non-musicians” alike. Over 10 events will welcome Chattanoogans to pick up an instrument, lift their voices and dance in celebration of Make Music Day in addition to over 40 concerts. A growing schedule of events can be viewed at ConcertHopper.com/MakeMusicCHA.

June 22

Kayak Day, part of the Walker Rocks Outdoor Series. At Lee and Gordon’s Mills from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.  Battlefield Outdoors will provide demonstration kayaks to give beginners a taste of what it’s like to go paddling on the creek.

June 28

Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park and Outdoor Chattanooga will conduct two free programs. At 8:30 a.m., staff will lead a 1 hour and 45 minute historical kayak tour around Maclellan Island. Then, at 10:30 a.m., a ranger will lead a 90 minute walking tour across Walnut Street Bridge, discussing the importance of Ross’s Landing. Both programs begin at Outdoor Chattanooga, 200 River St. The walking tour does not require reservations, but the following reservation and paddler requirements must be met prior to participating in the kayak tour.  To make a reservation, please visit Outdoor Chattanooga’s online catalog at http://bit.ly/outdoorchattor call 643-6888.

July 4

The Jewish Federation of Greater Chattanooga invites the Chattanooga community to celebrate Independence Day with an indoor, air-conditioned picnic event at 11:30 a.m. at the Jewish Cultural Center, 5461 North Terrace Road. Barefoot Nellie, local bluegrass band, headline this year’s event. The cost to attend if paid before July 1 is $10 for adults; $5 for kids aged 8-16 and $25 for a family of four. Children seven and younger are free. The cost will increase by $4 per person at the door. Purchase tickets at www.jewishchattanooga.com, by calling 493-0270 ext. 10 or by emailing rsvp@jewishchattanooga.com.

July 20

The Chattanooga Zoo Q ‘n Brew. Featuring barbecue plates for purchase, beer and soda, live bluegrass music, animal encounters, games, and family fun. Adult tickets start at $16 for Chattanooga Zoo members and $20 for nonmembers. Children’s tickets start at $8 for Zoo members and $10 for nonmembers. Day of ticket sales are $25 for adults and $15 for children. All children two and under are free. 6-9 p.m. at the Chattanooga Zoo. Tickets are now available online and will be sold the day of the event until sold out. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit http://www.chattzoo.org/zooevents/q-n-brew.

Aug. 10

Lula Lake Land Trust will celebrate 25 years of work and preservation with the Timber Roots Music Festival at the LLLT Core Preserve. Music by Aaron Lee Tasjan, The Kernal, Caleb and the Gents, The Afternooners and Spinster.  3-11 p.m. Food trucks and restaurant vendors will be available with an outdoor bar, hiking, raffle prizes, and more. Pull up a piece of grass, toss down a blanket, and enjoy Lula Lake with friends and family. Tickets range from general admission to VIP and Camping Groups. More information and ticket purchasing is available online at bit.ly/timberroots.

Sept. 21

Second annual VICtory 5K/10K/Mile Fun Run at Enterprise South Nature Park. All proceeds will benefit health care for financially challenged patients with critical limb disease in Hamilton, Bradley, and North Georgia counties. Races will begin at 8 a.m. Registration is now open at victory10k5k.itsyourrace.com. There will be special opportunities for runners to bring their dogs, in addition, to a special race for kids.