World of Bluegrass

Chattanooga Selected as New Home for IBMA’s World of Bluegrass! 

We are thrilled to announce that Chattanooga will host the International Bluegrass Music Association's (IBMA) World of Bluegrass (WOB) from 2025 to 2027. The inaugural event will take place on September 16-20, 2025, bringing a unique blend of bluegrass music and culture to our vibrant city. 

About the Event 

The 5-day World of Bluegrass event will feature: 

• Convention: Engage with industry professionals through informative sessions and networking opportunities. 

• Tradeshow: Discover the latest products and innovations in bluegrass music. 

• Awards Show: Celebrate the best in bluegrass music with performances and recognitions. 

• Artist Showcases: Enjoy live performances from top bluegrass artists across downtown Chattanooga. 

• Live Music Festival: A two-day festival with performances from leading bluegrass musicians. 

Want to learn more? For Sponsorships, email callie@chattanoogatourism.com, and for more information about the IBMA World of Bluegrass, email info@ibma.org.

Economic Impact 

The Chattanooga Tourism Co. estimates: 

• Over 18,000 overnight visitors / More than 45,000 total visitors, including day visitors 

• $30.1 million in economic impact 

• $1.1 million in state tax revenue 

Visitor spending will support local jobs and generate additional tax revenues, benefiting multiple industries beyond tourism. 

Want to Get Involved? 

Volunteers are the heart of IBMA and play a huge role in making the event a success!

Sign up for at least three 4-hour shifts throughout the week and you'll receive complimentary credentials for every day you're scheduled, meaning you can catch all the fun outside of your shift (pretty cool, right?). Plus, you'll score some awesome perks like a free volunteer t-shirt, free or discounted admission to live shows, and access to the volunteer room. Ready to join the team? Check out IBMA's Volunteer Page to learn more!