Soak Up the Last Days of Summer in Tennessee

Photos and B-ROLL for media use

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Aug. 6, 2025) – As the final weeks of summer 2025 approach, Tennessee offers unforgettable ways to soak in every last drop of sunshine and celebration. From fun festivals to on-the-water getaways and awe-inspiring natural wonders, the state has no shortage of events and experiences that promise to end your summer on a high note.

FESTIVALS & EVENTS: CELEBRATE THE SEASON IN STYLE

There’s something for everyone at Tennessee’s late-summer festivals.

Wilson County Fair–Tennessee State Fair

Aug. 14-23 | Lebanon
Head to the James E. Ward Agricultural Center for 10 days of rides, fair food, farm animals and family fun. Explore five entertainment stages, a robotics challenge, antique cars, and much more at this beloved summer tradition, spotlighting all 95 Tennessee counties. Learn more.

Great Smoky Mountains Hot Air Balloon Festival

Aug. 16 | Townsend
Soar into a magical evening of glowing balloons, golden-hued tethered rides, food trucks, crafts, live music and breathtaking mountain views at the Townsend Visitor Center. VIP lift-off packages offer balloon rides, exclusive seating, and refreshments. Learn more.

Memphis Chicken & Beer Festival

Aug. 16 | Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium
Savor crispy chicken and unlimited beer samples, along with live music and games at this mouthwatering Memphis event. A souvenir glass is included with every ticket. Learn more.

Black Arts Bash

Aug. 16 | Cheekwood Estate & Gardens
In Nashville, celebrate the creative brilliance of Black artists across an array of genres. Enjoy Black Opry performances, cultural activities, food trucks and a lounge showcasing Black-owned spirits. Learn more.

Great Smoky Mountain Jeep Invasion

Aug. 21–23 | Pigeon Forge
Off-road enthusiasts from across the country gather at the LeConte Center for one of the largest Jeep expos in the nation. From lifted Wranglers to classic Cherokees, see thousands of customized Jeeps, accessories and gear. Learn more.

Knox Asian Festival

Aug. 23–24 | Knoxville
At Knoxville’s World Fair Park, experience a vibrant showcase of Asian cultures through music, dance, food, crafts and the dynamic Asian Cultural Parade. Interactive booths represent 13 countries from across the continent. Learn more.

Delta Fair & Music Festival

Aug. 29 - Sept. 7 | Memphis
During this weeklong blowout at the Agricenter, enjoy more than 150 live acts, a circus, pig races, lawn mower derby, and meet-and-greets with favorite characters. This massive fair is packed with activities for all ages. Learn more.

Big Kahuna Wing Festival

Aug. 31 | Knoxville
If you love wings (and who doesn’t?) — this one’s for you. Kick off a flavorful Labor Day Weekend with 100+ wing varieties from around the world, live entertainment and crowd-pleasing contests at World’s Fair Park. Learn more.

Skyhoundz World Canine Disc Championship

Sept. 20-21 | Chattanooga
Close out the “dog days” of summer … with some dogs! During the largest event of its kind in the world, marvel at the agility and precision of top disc dogs from around the world as they compete at scenic Coolidge Park. Learn more.

COOL OFF WITH ADVENTURES ON THE WATER

Beat the heat by enjoying Tennessee’s rivers, lakes, waterfalls and waterparks.

Whitewater Thrills throughout Tennessee: Adrenaline seekers can book rafting trips on the Ocoee River, where Class III and IV rapids offer one of the best whitewater experiences in the Southeast. The Pigeon River in the Great Smoky Mountains offers a scenic yet thrilling ride featuring both upper and lower sections with Class I to IV rapids—making it a great choice for both first-time rafters and seasoned paddlers.
Kayak to Burgess Falls: Join a guided trip with Cumberland Kayak or Kayaking Adventures of Tennessee and paddle Center Hill Lake to the stunning base of Burgess Falls. Included in Cookeville’s Waterfalls for All program, Burgess Falls is ideal for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike.
Chill Out at Ruby Falls: Located deep inside Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga, Ruby Falls is a breathtaking underground waterfall — a guided tour here is a great multi-generational experience. Bonus: the caverns stay a cool 60 degrees year-round, making it the perfect escape from the summertime heat.
Discover Fall Creek Falls State Park: Explore Tennessee’s largest and most visited state park, home to Fall Creek Falls — one of the highest waterfalls in the eastern U.S. at 256 feet. With over 60 waterfalls within a 40-mile radius, it’s a must-see destination.
Explore the Lost Sea: Journey 300 feet underground to America’s largest underground lake in Sweetwater. Ride in a glass-bottom boat through a surreal cave system, including a colossal prehistoric Jaguar from over 20,000 years ago.
Paddle the Mighty Mississippi: Set off with Mississippi River Expeditions for a guided canoe trip in Memphis. Choose from sunset cruises, full-day trips or multi-day adventures, including sailing canoe options on big water.
Splash into Dollywood: Close out summer in the Smokies at Splash Country, Dollywood’s 35-acre waterpark in Pigeon Forge. During a day at Splash Country, you can catch waves in Mountain Waves, take on Raging River Rapids or relax at Little Creek Falls before the season ends Labor Day Weekend.
Get Soaked in Sevierville: The 50-acre Soaky Mountain Waterpark features the new Rafter’s Rage, a record-breaking raft ride with thrilling zero-G drops. Continue the excitement on The Edge, Avalaunch and other innovative aquatic attractions open through September weekends.

Discover more late-summer adventures in Tennessee at tnvacation.com.

ABOUT TENNESSEE DEPARTMENT OF TOURIST DEVELOPMENT

The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development (TDTD) is dedicated to driving economic growth and tourism in all 95 counties. TDTD’s global marketing efforts increase visitation to Tennessee, which boosts tax revenue, creates jobs and attracts new investment across the state. Tennessee is a global destination of choice offering visitors world-class music, live entertainment, family-friendly experiences, charming communities, innovative and classic culinary creations, renowned scenic beauty and outdoor adventure—all centered at the crossroads of rich history and unrivaled hospitality. Vacations “sound perfect” in Tennessee. Visit TNvacation.com and follow @TNvacation on social media for travel inspiration.

Media Contacts:

Amanda Murphy

amanda.murphy@TN.gov

Jill Kilgore

jill.kilgore@TN.gov

Chelsea Trott

chelsea.trott@TN.go