Swamp Monster Festival

Come join us at Chester Frost Park for what is certain to be one of the most epic events in the Chattanooga area! Come join us at Chester Frost Park for what is certain to be one of the most epic events in the Chattanooga area: the **Inaugural Swamp Monster Festival!** Saturday, May 22nd, 2027 | 1 PM – 9 PM ET Chester Frost Park 7989 Causeway Road Hixson, TN 37343 **Something is stirring beneath the waters of the Tennessee River...** For generations, fishermen have whispered about it. Families have passed down stories of a mysterious creature lurking in the river’s deepest waters and hidden back channels. Now, those legends come to life during a one-of-a-kind celebration of river folklore, local legends, and all things strange and mysterious. Whether you believe the Swamp Monster is real or simply enjoy a great mystery, this family-friendly festival will be packed with unforgettable entertainment and experiences, including: • Swamp Monster-themed activities • Live music and entertainment • Unique artists and specialty vendors • Food trucks and festival favorites • Swamp Monster photo opportunities • Storytelling and Tennessee River folklore • Contests, games, and family activities • A fog-filled ghostly riverbank inspired by legends of those who were supposedly pulled beneath the water by enormous river creatures We are also recruiting food trucks, food tents, and chefs to prepare freshwater fish dishes inspired by species found in the Tennessee River. Featured fish may include Large-Mouth Bass, Small-Mouth Bass, Spotted Bass, Black and White Crappie, Bluegill, Redear Sunfish, Rock Bass, Warmouth, White Bass, Striped Bass, Hybrid Striped Bass, Yellow Bass, Channel Catfish, Blue Catfish, Flathead Catfish, Sauger, Walleye, and Freshwater Drum. All fish must come from approved commercial sources and meet applicable health-department requirements. **Tennessee River Swamp Monster Catfish Challenge** The festival will also feature a catch-photo-release catfish tournament held along the Tennessee River. Eligible species will include: Blue, Channel, and Flathead Catfish. • $50 entry fee per team • Two to four anglers per team • Limited to 50 teams for the inaugural competition • Bank-fishing division only • Fishing permitted from shorelines, piers, and approved docks • First-, second-, and third-place awards and trophies Trotlines, jugs, limb lines, noodling, snagging, boats, and fish caught before the official starting time will not be permitted. All catches must be photographed, verified, and safely released according to official tournament procedures. Complete tournament rules, catch-verification requirements, event schedule, permits, and insurance requirements will be provided to registered teams. Interested in competing or participating as a food or handmade craft vendor? Email: [email protected]. There will be so much more to experience at this incredible festival. This is definitely one for the books, and we cannot wait to welcome everyone to Chester Frost Park for the Inaugural Swamp Monster Festival!