Off-Site Venues
Bessie Smith Cultural Center
Founded in 1983, as the Chattanooga African American Museum, the Bessie Smith Cultural Center "The Bessie" celebrates the contributions of Africans and African-Americans to American culture and serves as a source for multicultural enrichment through music, dance, theater, visual art, film, education programs, literature and community outreach. The Bessie is a recognized educational institution utilized daily by a diverse coalition of school children, adults, scholars, and visitors from countries around the world. The Bessie hosts several annual and on-going programs including the Art Fun Factory, Bessie Smith Heritage Festival, Bend Unplugged, Emerging Visual Artists Series, Performing Artists Series and the Big Nine Walking Tour and Soul Food dinner.
The Bessie is also a nationally renowned rental facility that adds an unexpected twist to any event. Whether you are planning a company networking event or a formal dinner party or wedding reception, we guarantee a unique experience for you and your guests. The facility boasts several spaces to fit your event needs, including the Bessie Smith Performance Hall, the Vilma Fields Atrium, Big 9 Board Room and Museum Terrace. Contact us for your special event needs.
200 East Martin Luther King Blvd.
Chattanooga, TN 37403
423/266-8658
423/267-1076 fax
www.BESSIESMITHCC.org
