In a sea of tasseled caps, there are two types of people, the ones who are celebrating + the ones who are just trying to run errands. Here are the need-to-knows and some tips on where to celebrate or how to avoid the crowds.

Graduation services

UTC | Friday, May 2-Saturday, May 4 | McKenzie Arena | Friday, 2.30 p.m. (Graduate) + Saturday, 9 a.m., 1 p.m. (Undergraduate)

Chattanooga State Community College | Friday, May 3 | Main campus gymnasium | Collegiate High ceremony at 10 a.m. + Spring 2024 ceremony at 2 p.m., 4 p.m., 6 p.m.

Covenant College | Saturday, May 4 | Convention Center | 3 p.m.

*Bonus:* Here's a picture from when Editor Haley graduated from UTC in 2020. | Photo by @mariellejaimedia

Want to know how to avoid the crowds? Look no further.

Places to wine + dine

Folks can expect crowds at local spots like Tony's Pasta Shop & Trattoria, Champy's, Two Ten Jack, etc. — check out these instead.

1885 Grill | 3914 St. Elmo Ave. | Tucked away in St. Elmo, this southern coastal grill could be a great escape from downtown.

Lakeshore Grille | 5600 Lake Resort Ter. | Take a scenic drive around Chickamauga Lake to this casual French-inspired restaurant.

Taco Mamacita | 2031 Hamilton Pl Blvd. | Luckily, this local joint's new location is now open over in the Hamilton Place area, so you can still get your taco + margarita fix without going downtown.

Note: Large wait times are to be expected everywhere around downtown — be prepared and call ahead. You can also check reservations for some spots here.

Fun events

If you're not celebrating a grad this weekend, but still want to go out around town, there are plenty of options.

Note: The Chattanooga Market is hosting its Strawberry Festival on Sunday, May 5 — expect larger crowds due to relatives staying in town.