A Chattanooga Landmark Returns

One of Chattanooga's most recognizable performance venues is preparing to welcome audiences again.

The historic Tivoli Theatre reopens with sold-out Billy Strings performances on Tuesday, October 20, and Wednesday, October 21, 2026.

The concerts mark an important milestone following an extensive restoration connected to the Tivoli Theatre Foundation's larger $75 million Tivoli Performing Arts Center project.

A Free Celebration Outside

The reopening is not limited to people holding concert tickets.

The Tivoli Theatre Foundation has announced a free Grand Reopening Block Party on Broad Street that will share the celebration with the community.

Early Billy Strings merchandise shopping is scheduled for 4:30 p.m., with the block party starting at 5 p.m.

An outdoor livestream of the performance is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on large screens.

The foundation says the outdoor celebration is free and open to the public.

Visitors should consult current organizer announcements for any updates to street access, crowd management, or timing.

From the Jewel of the South to a New Chapter

The Tivoli first opened in 1921 as an ornate downtown movie palace and soon became known as Chattanooga's "Jewel of the South." Over the decades, it welcomed silent films, touring performers, Broadway productions, concerts and Chattanooga Symphony & Opera performances.

For audiences of its early years, even the building's technology was remarkable: the Tivoli was among the first public buildings in the South to offer air conditioning. Its elaborate marble, plasterwork and architectural details helped make a night at the theatre an occasion in itself.

The historic landmark was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973. Its preservation is therefore about more than reviving a performance venue; it protects a place that has been part of Chattanooga's shared life for over a century.

What Has Changed Inside the Theatre

The restoration includes work on the Tivoli's historic architectural details and decorative finishes, as well as improvements to systems visitors may not notice immediately.

The foundation highlights updated fire protection, building systems, and accessibility alongside restored ornamental features.

The objective is to preserve the experience of an iconic theatre while improving its ability to serve future audiences.

A Community Moment

Foundation CEO Nick Wilkinson described the reopening as a celebration of years of work and the community's connection to the building.

The organization also offered a special local ticket presale, and reports that most ticket purchasers live within 50 miles of Chattanooga.

The outdoor concert stream expands the number of people who can participate in the occasion.

What Comes Next

Work on the larger performing arts center project will continue even as the historic theatre resumes performances.

For downtown Chattanooga, the reopening returns an important venue to the city's cultural life.

For local residents, this week's free outdoor event is a chance to share in that milestone, whether or not they have a ticket to the show.