Changes to Riverbend 2014

CHATTANOOGA, TN (WDEF) – When you think about Riverbend, some things are a given like the deep-fried funnel cakes, rows of porta-potties, a stampede of people, and our 200 ton sand sculpture.

Tammy Zunbrun, with the Tennessee Valley Federal Credit Union, says, "The theme this year is follow the yellow brick road.. To live the life you love with the Tennessee Valley Federal Credit Union."

Now, there are a few things that have changed.

Pins are out and wristbands are in.

Chip Baker with Friends of the Festival, says, "When you come in you’ll get scanned, when you go out you’ll get scanned until 10 pm."

Sally Robinson, also with Friends of the Festival, adds, "I think the bracelet idea is sort of the cutting edge. It’s the new way to do things. It gives you a better crowd count."

This year you can also get closer to your favorite music artist.

For an additional fee you can sit on bleachers here on the coke stage.

Baker says, "We created new side stage seating.  They’re pretty cool because they sit up like that."

And don’t expect outrageous performances like last year from CeeLo Green.

No, organizers don’t feel like their new group of singers will be dropping their pants.

The line-up includes artists like Justin Moore and Widespread Panic.

Robinson adds, "The reason its such a success is that we never stop trying to do it better year after year after year."

Some other things to note … we will be taking your picture again this year free of charge at our Riverbend Beach.

We’ll also sign you up to win a free beach vacation.

Chattanooga Police also want to remind you of a few road closures.

Starting Friday, the Manufacturers Road and 4th Street exists off of Highway 27 will be closed from 10 pm until 12 am.