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Thursday, November 12, 2026Nov 12

River’s gonna rock: Street musicians to highlight River Rocks finale

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photo Many swimmers turned out to participate in the River Rocks Snail Darter One Mile Open Water Sprint.
photo A balloon lights its burner during the balloon glow at Coolidge Park.

On Oct. 12, expect carnival-like conditions in The Block section of Broad Street, between Third Street and Aquarium Way.

Don’t be alarmed if two hot-air balloons are glowing and hovering close to the street. Magicians and Hula Hoopers are possible, with a high percentage of street musicians predicted.

Welcome to the River Rocks closing ceremony — an extravaganza to cap 12 days of extreme outdoor sports around Chattanooga. For comparison, consider a smaller Olympic ceremony, Carla Pritchard, owner of Chattanooga Presents, said Tuesday.

“Really, we want it to be entertaining,” she said.

Pritchard said the River Rocks Games, a 12-day October event, will feature competitive adventure sports like rock climbing, long-distance swimming, trail running and stand-up paddleboard racing.