NASHtoday Events

Nashville’s ultimate festival for kids returns to Centennial Park

Here’s what to expect at this year’s Kidsville Family Festival, an annual tradition that features five hours of free outdoor entertainment.

Someone dressed up as the character Elsa on a stage with children in the audience

You never know who you’ll see at the Kidsville Family Festival. | Photo via Centennial Park Conservancy

Mark your calendars, kids. Centennial Park will transform into the ultimate playground when Kidsville Family Festival takes over on Sunday, Oct. 27 (rescheduled from Sept. 28 due to weather).

Plan ahead for a fun-filled day of activities, including live music, character meet and greets, inflatable games, face painting, and more. A few other highlights of the free festival include:

  • Storytimes with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, Fairytales Bookstore, Ardnek 3D, and Reading With Netta
  • Nashville Public Library Puppet Truck performances of “Ali Baba”
  • Performances and demonstrations by Construct Breakdance, DancEast Collective Youth (DCY), Madison Step Team, Metro Dance, and Nashville Ballet — plus, Dancing People Nashville brings its family dance party
  • Family-friendly yoga class with Small World Yoga
  • Bach To Rock instrument petting zoo
  • Food trucks serving up sno cones, burgers, Thai, and more
Multiple inflatable basketball goals are set up and kids surround them.

If you’re ready to have a ball, keep reading for a couple pro tips to make the most of the festival. | Photo via Centennial Park Conservancy

Bonus: The first 100 children under 12 years of age will receive a 16" bear from Teddy Bear Mobile Nashville. The freebie is handed out on a first come, first served basis + you can start lining up as soon as 9:45 a.m. Check in at Gate 1 to snag your ticket, then redeem your bear at the organization’s tent. Pssst. No worries if you don’t make it on time, you can still pay to stuff your own bear later.

The festival takes place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Centennial Park’s Musicians Corner Amphitheater, located on the corner of West End and 27th Avenue North. This year, you can also find parking at two HCA Healthcare office lots.

Can’t wait to spend quality time with your kiddo? Start the fun early with these 45 kid-friendly must dos around Nashville.