Get your fuzzy socks and hot cocoa ready, Nashville. From light displays to holiday performances and festive parties, winter is coziest spent in Music City.
Gather with family and friends and celebrate what makes the holiday season special with this guide featuring 60+ seasonal events happening between mid-November and February.
Holiday happenings and light displays
Christmas at Gaylord Opryland | Friday, Nov. 8-Saturday, Jan. 4 | Gaylord Opryland
This year’s ICE! installation highlights nine scenes from “Frosty the Snowman” and is made from more than two million pounds of ice. Other activities include ice skating and tubing, a dinner show, and a gingerbread decorating corner.
Santa’s Flight Academy | Friday, Nov. 8–Tuesday, Dec. 24 | The Mall at Green Hills
After you snap a photo with the boss of the North Pole, start your interactive adventure at Santa’s Flight Academy, complete with a 22-ft-tall sleigh and a magical snow room. Pro tip: Sensory Santa makes a stop on Sunday, Dec. 8 for a calmer and quieter experience.
Dancing Lights of Christmas | Friday, Nov. 8-Saturday, Jan. 4 | Wilson County Fairgrounds, Lebanon
Grab your holiday crew and enjoy millions of lights synchronized to music, plus, visit Santa’s Village before Christmas Eve for a meet-and-greet and to see animals in the petting zoo.
Zoolumination | Thursday, Nov. 14-Sunday, Jan. 5 (nightly) and Thursday, Jan. 9-Sunday, Feb. 9 (Thursday-Sunday) | Nashville Zoo
The annual festival showcasing scenes created with over 1,000 custom-made silk lanterns returns featuring a brand-new ice skating rink.
Santa Paws | Sunday, Nov. 17 and Sunday, Dec. 1 | The Mall at Green Hills
Get Fido all dressed up to have their photo taken with Santa.
The Rink Above Broadway | Wednesday, Nov. 20 | Grand Hyatt Nashville
Head to the hotel’s fifth floor for Glice skating surrounded by a winter village. Skates and complimentary two-hour valet is included and reservations are encouraged.
FrankTown Festival of Lights | Friday, Nov. 22-Tuesday, Dec. 31 | Williamson County Ag Center, Franklin
Load up the car and drive through the mile-and-a-half display of 200+ dazzling lights synchronized to music before making s’mores by the fire pits. On select Wednesdays, walkers can stroll the illuminated path.
Holiday LIGHTS | Friday, Nov. 22-Sunday, Jan. 5 | Cheekwood
The tradition enters its 10th year bringing over one million lights throughout the gardens, s’mores stations, and a holiday marketplace.
Breakfast with Santa | Sunday, Dec. 1, 8, 15, and 22 | Grand Hyatt Nashville
The breakfast buffet offers fluffy pancakes, scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and sweet holiday treats — plus, Santa hosts a storytime.
Christmas at the Tennessee Residence | Friday, Dec. 6-Sunday, Dec. 8 and Friday, Dec. 13-Sunday, Dec. 15 | Tennessee Governor’s Mansion
The Tennessee Residence will be decorated for the holidays under the theme “Tender Tennessee Christmas” and open for self-guided public tours.
Way Late Play Date: Hogwarts Holiday Break | Friday, Dec. 6 | Adventure Science Center
Don your best Yule Ball dress and get ahead of your wizard studies at this 21+ event featuring a planetarium night sky viewing and live science show.
“Nashville’s Nutcracker” | Friday, Dec. 6-Thursday, Dec. 26 | TPAC’s Andrew Jackson Hall
Set against the backdrop of Music City, this annual tradition features live music and accompaniments from the Nashville Symphony.
Carols, Cookies, and Crafts | Saturday, Dec. 7 | Tennessee State Museum
Local choirs will perform seasonal favorites. Plus, wear your festive sweaters and create holiday cards at the free gathering.
Santa at the Ryman | Saturday, Dec. 7 | Ryman Auditorium
Photos with Santa are included in the daytime tour, and kids ages 12 and under can get in for free with the purchase of an adult ticket.
TransPerfect Music City Bowl | Monday, Dec. 30 | Nissan Stadium
This year’s showdown, played between SEC and Big Ten teams, will kick off at 1:30 p.m. and air on ESPN.
Seasonal pop-ups
The Mistletoe Club | Friday, Nov. 1-Friday, Feb. 28 | Eddie Ate Dynamite at Hotel Fraye
The bar’s first-ever holiday pop-up is centered around a 12-ft tree, features a wrapped present-themed photo wall, and offers a menu of sandwiches and 17 curated cocktails.
Camp Bobby | Saturday, Nov. 2-Sunday, Feb. 16 | Rooftop at Bobby Hotel
The ‘70s-inspired rooftop campsite features igloos, a vintage holiday lounge, mess hall with a DJ, and fire pits.
Hidden-ville | Thursday, Nov. 7-Wednesday, Jan. 1 | Hidden Bar at Noelle
You’re booked! Movie buffs can experience as many as 10 themed drinks at this “How the Grinch Stole Christmas"-inspired bar.
Arctic Aurora | Sunday, Nov. 10-Tuesday, Jan. 28 | Park Cafe
Gather five of your friends and rent a heated igloo as you sip on cocktails inspired by the colors of the Northern Lights and browse the special fondue menu.
A Very Merry Bar Car | Friday, Nov. 15-Wednesday, Jan. 1 | The Union Station Nashville Yards
All aboard — you’ll travel on the North Pole Express to a space with a train mural photo op, luggage racks, a mailbox for “letters to Santa,” and golden tickets hanging from the ceiling.
Disco Chalet | Friday, Nov. 15-Friday, Feb. 7 | Thistle & Rye at Conrad Nashville
Retro glamour meets cozy alpine charm when the pop-up returns with complimentary hot chocolate, curling on the outdoor rink, and igloo rentals.
Lodge 27 | Saturday, Nov. 16-Wednesday, Jan. 8 |
L27 Rooftop Lounge at The Westin Nashville
Retreat 27 stories above Music City and wrap yourself in a cozy blanket for an enchanting evening filled with festive cocktails and a holiday menu.
Misfit Bar | Sunday, Nov. 17-TBD | Fairlane Hotel
Walk into whimsically nostalgic decor when the pop-up returns to the hotel — here’s a look at what things looked like in 2022.
Miracle Pop-Up | Wednesday, Nov. 20-Sunday, Dec. 29 | Tiger Bar
Come for the festive mugs filled with specialty cocktails and stay for the 1930s-inspired space.
Saint Nicky’s | Saturday, Nov. 30-Sunday, Dec. 15 | Nicky’s Coal Fired
The Italian restaurant will transform into a North Pole-themed wonderland with an area to write and mail letters to Santa, plus a new photobooth this year.
Swipe through the vendor lineup for Porter Flea. | Photo by @pariswoodhull
Holiday markets
Christmas Village | Friday, Nov. 15-Sunday, Nov. 17 | The Fairgrounds Nashville
Get a head start on holiday shopping at this market boasting toys, clothing, jewelry, and collectibles from ~250 merchants.
Holiday Open House | Saturday, Nov. 16 | GasLamp Antiques and GasLamp Too
The shopping party will feature seasonal sales, hourly gift card drawings, and lots of holiday cheer.
MADE SOUTH Holiday Market | Friday, Nov. 22-Saturday, Nov. 23 | The Factory at Franklin
A portion of proceeds from this year’s market featuring 60+ makers benefits One Generation Away, a Franklin nonprofit that distributes healthy food to area families.
Christmas Market | Friday, Nov. 29-Monday, Dec. 23 | Skydeck
The first-ever event hosts local vendors, holiday activities, and festive entertainment every Thursday through Sunday with a special visit from Santa on Saturdays from 3 to 5 p.m.
Shop Small Holiday Market | Saturday, Nov. 30 | The Golden Slipper
The 9th annual shopping extravaganza takes over Madison Street with 50 vendors, a photo opp with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, a holiday wreath station, and hot chocolate/coffee bar.
Handmade Nashville Holiday Market | Saturday, Nov. 30 | Red Caboose Park
As the name suggests, all vendors at the 9th annual event will be small businesses offering handmade goods.
Shop Local Holiday Market | Saturday, Dec. 7 | Nashville Farmers Market
In addition to vendor specials, food trucks, and tunes by DJ Dan, get free photos taken with Santa.
Porter Flea Holiday Market | Friday, Dec. 13-Saturday, Dec. 14 | The Fairgrounds Nashville
Shop hundreds of local vendors at the two-day indoor marketplace — Friday’s preview market is $28.
Merrily Made Holiday Market | Saturday, Dec. 14 | Schell Brothers, Hendersonville
Explore handcrafted gifts by local artisans, from winter accessories to gourmet goods, and enjoy free pictures with Santa, a gift wrapping station, and family activities.
Workshops and classes
Quilled Holiday Cards | Saturday, Nov. 23 | Cheekwood
Learn how to roll, shape, and arrange paper strips into designs for your holiday cards.
Happy Holidays Class | Saturday, Nov. 30-Tuesday, Dec. 24 | Goat Yoga Nashville
On select dates in November and December, the goats are dressed for the holiday season — from holiday sweaters and Santa suits to elf costumes and more.
Holiday Cocktails | Select dates in November and December | Liquor Lab Nashville
Mixologists are your guide as you create signature drinks and learn the insider techniques behind each one. Plus, munch on small bites from local partners during the class.
Paint and Sip | Wednesday, Dec. 4 | Painting with a Twist
Bring your own beverage and receive guided instruction as you paint a pickup truck carrying a tree — pro tip: Ticket upgrades include a DIY scented candle or linen spray.
Cookie Decorating | Saturday, Dec. 7, Dec. 14, and Dec. 21 | Grand Hyatt Nashville
Cookie decorating kits include icing, sprinkles, and festive toppings — plus, there will also be a meet-and-greet with Santa.
Christmas Wreath Workshop | Saturday, Dec. 7 | Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage
Join the gardens team to create a wreath using a grapevine form with berries and foliage from the grounds.
DIY Nutcracker and Nutcracker Afternoon Tea | Saturday, Dec. 7 | The Golden Slipper
The 2nd annual event allows you to decorate your own wooden nutcracker using paints, faux furs, paper, and more — plus, sip and munch on afternoon tea nutcracker-style courtesy of Pretty Lovely Teas.
Hoamsy: Gingerbread Candle Workshop | Sunday, Dec. 8 | Diskin Cider
You will receive a pre-made house-shaped candle as your canvas, which you can decorate with a variety of wax toppings.
Stained Glass | Saturday, Dec. 21 | Cheekwood
Gain expertise in cutting, assembling, and soldering glass to create a holiday-inspired design.
Tree lightings
Annual Holiday Tree Lighting | Friday, Nov. 8 | Tanger Outlets Nashville
The tree was lit for the first time already, but can enjoy the lights and sounds of the 48-ft-tall LED tree all season long at the mall.
Nightly Lightig Ceremony | Friday, Nov. 8-Saturday, Jan. 4 | Gaylord Opryland
Head to the Magnolia Lawn to sing Christmas carols and watch the lights turn on.
TSU Tree Lighting Ceremony | Wednesday, Nov. 20 | Tennessee State University’s McWherter Circle
Don’t miss the s’mores and refreshments when the university lights its tree for the first time this season.
Christmas at the Capitol | Monday, Dec. 2 | Governor Lee will illuminate the tree adorned with donated ornaments representing Tennessee and its local communities.
Merry and Bright | Monday, Dec. 2 | John P. Holt Brentwood Library
Expect festive fables, hot chocolate, and the illumination of the new library tree — complete with carols, of course.
Lighting of the Green | Tuesday, Dec. 3 | Lipscomb University’s Allen Arena Mall
Amy Grant and special surprise musical guests kick off the 20th anniversary event, which is first-come, first-served. Pro tip: If you can’t make it, watch the livestream.
Hermitage Christmas Tree Lighting | Thursday, Dec. 5 | Nashville Public Library’s Hermitage Branch
Get to the 4th annual event early because events before the tree lighting ceremony begin at 4 p.m.
Metro Nashville Christmas Tree Lighting | Friday, Dec. 6 | Public Square Park
Bring new, unwrapped toys in the $10-$25 range for Last Minute Toy Store’s Toy Drive. Plus, expect performances by three local choirs, as well as appearances by Santa, Gnash, Tempo, Booster, and T-Rac.
Christmas Tree Lighting on the Square | Friday, Dec. 6 | Downtown Franklin
Matthew West headlines the event, which also includes free photos with Santa courtesy of Mars Petcare (6 p.m.) and a pet-friendly hour from 5 to 6 p.m.
Christmas Tree Lighting and Parade | Sunday, Dec. 8 | Main Street, Hendersonville
This year’s theme is “Candy Canes & Christmas Carols” and the parade has over 90 entries.
Christmas Tree Lighting and Parade | Friday, Dec. 13-Saturday, Dec. 14 | Mt. Juliet
Watch the tree lighting on Friday before attending the parade on Saturday — this year’s theme is “A Musical Christmas.”
And they’re off. | Photo via Boulevard Bolt
Thanksgiving Day races
Music City Turkey Trot | Thursday, Nov. 28 | Nissan Stadium
Start your holiday with a 5K run/walk or a 1-mile trot, and bring your dog for the new Doggie Dash add-on.
Nashville Turkey Trot | Thursday, Nov. 28 | Wave Country
This family-friendly event features a kid’s dash, fun run, 5K, and 10-mile races.
Boulevard Bolt | Thursday, Nov. 28 | Belle Meade Boulevard
Celebrating 30 years this season, the 5-mile Boulevard Bolt has grown from 2,500 participants to over 7,500 runners.
Turkey Trot | Thursday, Nov. 28 | 3000 Meridian Blvd., Franklin
Now in its 25th year, over 3,000 participants run or walk the 5K, 10K, and Kid’s Turkey Chase through the heart of Cool Springs — event proceeds benefit GraceWorks Ministries.
Tommy Crockett Memorial Rescue Run | Thursday, Nov. 28 | Two Rivers Ford, Mt. Juliet
This 5K and 1-Mile Family Fun Run awards 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place medals in each age group with proceeds benefiting Animal Rescue Corps.
Indian Lake Loop | Thursday, Nov. 28 | The Streets of Indian Lake, Hendersonville
Join hundreds of runners and walkers of all ages for a 5-mile competitive race and a 5K non-competitive run/walk.
Rock out with the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. | Photo by TDelCoro via Wikimedia Commons
Festive concerts
Mariah Carey | Monday, Nov. 25 | Bridgestone Arena
Hear Carey perform the record-breaking single “All I Want for Christmas Is You” alongside other classics.
Opry Country Christmas | Select days in December | Grand Ole Opry
Join the Opry for 10 festive nights of holiday tunes with special guests like Chris Janson, Jon Pardi, and Scotty McCreery.
Pentatonix | Thursday, Dec. 5 | Bridgestone Arena
Catch the a cappella pop group’s biggest holiday tour yet.
Trans-Siberian Orchestra | Wednesday, Dec. 11 | Bridgestone Arena
This progressive rock group makes its way back to Music City for another electric holiday performance.
Christmas with The Tenors | Wednesday, Dec. 11 | CMA Theater
The award-winning group will harmonize the night away with classic tunes and original songs.
Brett Eldredge | Friday, Dec. 20 | Bridgestone Arena
The country crooner’s annual “Glow” holiday tour will culminate in Music City with special guest Stacey Ryan.
Bonus: We’re sharing 10+ more holiday concerts and plays in Nashville.
New Year’s Eve happenings
Old Crow Medicine Show | Monday, Dec. 30-Tuesday, Dec. 31 | Ryman Auditorium
The Americana string band will be joined by The Kentucky Headhunters and Steve Poltz (Dec. 30), as well as Maggie Rose and Big Richard (Dec. 31).
To The Future | Monday, Dec. 30-Tuesday, Dec. 31 | The Fairgrounds Nashville
The lineup of electronic artists performing includes Ganja White Night, Wooli, and Apashe.
Jack Daniel’s New Year’s Eve Live: Nashville’s Big Bash | Tuesday, Dec. 31 |Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park
Spend New Year’s Eve downtown with performances by Keith Urban, Kane Brown, and Jelly Roll, followed by fireworks and the signature midnight Music Note Drop.
New Year’s Eve Bash | Tuesday, Dec. 31 | The Twelve Thirty Club
The “unapologetically, dapper-as-hell soirée” features unlimited food and cocktails with live entertainment throughout The Supper Club and The Rooftop Bar.
Brandi Cyrus | Tuesday, Dec. 31 | 1 Hotel Nashville
The DJ will be spinning a live set with complimentary guest list RSVP on a first-come, first-served basis or the option to opt into the premium open bar package or VIP table experience.
NYE Live! | Tuesday, Dec. 31 | Nashville Live!
You have the option to purchase a drink package at this free-to-enter celebration, which also includes live entertainment, dancing, and bubbly.
