Once a year, Nashvillians slip on blue parkas and step into a nine-degree winter wonderland made out of two million pounds of ice.
We’re talking about ICE! of course, which begins Friday, Nov. 8 and runs through Saturday, Jan. 4 as part of “Christmas at Gaylord Opryland.”
The making of ICE!
This year’s ICE! theme features scenes from “Frosty the Snowman.” Fun fact: A chemist mixes a special food coloring to maintain the color of the handmade sculptures before 40 artisans from Harbin, China, arrive in Music City to chip away at the 300-pound ice blocks for ~six weeks.
Need to knows
- Knee-length parkas are provided, but it’s recommended guests wear hats and gloves as well. Long pants and closed-toe shoes are required.
- Tickets must be purchased in advance online. It’s recommended to arrive 10 minutes before the reservation.
Pro tip: The majority of the ICE! exhibit is wheelchair and stroller accessible, though some areas — like the slides — are not.
More themed fun
There’s a lot to offer at “Christmas at Gaylord Opryland.” This year’s “A Country Christmas Dinner Show” begins Nov. 23 and runs through Dec. 25 with two different shows: Terri Clark’s “It’s Christmas…Cheers!” and The Frontmen’s “Holidays & Hits.” Other activities by ticketed reservation include:
- Ice tubing
- Bumper cars
- Ice skating
- Photos with Santa
- Carriage rides
Looking for free family fun? Check out these complimentary attractions:
- Light and Fountain Shows | Synchronized light, water, and holiday music in the Delta atrium
- Nightly Tree Lighting + Caroling | Carolers begin performing on the Magnolia Lawn at 5:15 p.m. and the tree is lit at 5:20 p.m.
