The Chattanooga Market will open the 2008 Season this Sunday, April 27, from Noon until 5 p.m. Offering fresh local produce, handcrafted arts, musical talent and lunch in the Market Café, it’s a family outing not to be missed!

This year, the theme is “Local is Better.” It’s never been a more perfect time to come back to the Market. About 100 vendors (some new, some returning) will turn out on opening day and are jazzed up about the new season. Some of the treasures you may find include handcrafted jewelry; locally designed and handmade clothing; fresh strawberries, peaches and other delicious local produce; original paintings; local carpentry and plenty more. Market goers can savor the tastes of fresh baked breads, handmade pizza, fresh made-to-order tacos and hometown barbeque. The EBP soundstage will be featuring talent from all over the world every Sunday with everything from Americana music, Big Band, Rock-n-Roll to dance troops.

To kick off the season, two-time Grammy winner Gary Nicholson will be jamming on-stage opening day. Also performing on the April 27 will be Australian Anne McCue and Texas singer/songwriter Amy Cook.

Of course, the Market wouldn’t be possible without the local sponsors: First Tennessee Bank, Electric Power Board (EPB), Chattanooga Coca-Cola Bottling, Memorial Hospital, FiveStar Professional Ranges, and Chattahippie Music Festival.

The Chattanooga Market will be open every Sunday from April 27 through December 7, 2008 from Noon to 5 p.m. It is held at the First Tennessee Pavilion (next to Finley Stadium) in downtown Chattanooga. Visit www.chattanoogamarket.com for a map and the complete schedule of events. While on our web page, be sure to sign up to receive the Market newsletters and become a Market fan on Facebook.

HERE IS A PREVIEW OF THE FIRST FEW EVENTS:

April 27 Opening Day – Featuring two-time Grammy winner Gary Nicholson, Anne McCue and Amy Cook. Benefiting the Make A Wish Foundation.

May 4 Latin Fair – Salsa dancing anyone? Piñatas, Latin food & festivities. Benefiting LaPaz.

May 11 Mother’s Day Toast – Antiques, dancing and wine tasting. Featuring musical talent Sweet Georgia Brown. Benefiting Pennies For Vicki

May 18 Chattanooga Public Works – Recycling, new innovations and cool demos.

May 25 Big Band Music – Back by popular demand!

###