After five years in Chattanooga, Tennessee, the Moon River Festival is hitting the pause button for 2024. Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly joins hosts Barry, Lord Taco, and Bryan Stone on The What Podcast to discuss possible reasons why.

Despite three sell-out years in Chattanooga, Moon River won’t be returning for what Mayor Kelly admits are complicated reasons. He points to the general impact of inflation, as well as the economics of a festival in 2024.

But while he hopes Moon River will return at some point in the future, he’s not waiting around for the stars to align. “I can tell you behind the scenes, we’re talking to some folks about trying to stand up something local,” Mayor Kelly says, noting the event would focus on “local and smaller artists.” “Because the consolidation of the festival business isn’t helpful to any of this either, because there aren’t enough entrants and competitors.”

Listen to the full chat or watch it via YouTube. While you’re at it, go ahead and like, review, and subscribe to The What Podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

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CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) Intro

(00:17:35) Interview with Mayor Tim Kelly

(01:03:23) Outro

Enter our Bonnaroo 2026 ticket giveaway at thewhat.co/win! We've got two tickets to give away with a camping pass!

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The What Podcast theme: "Aquarius" by *repeat repeat, used with permission.

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