Nashville, Tennessee, is known for its rich music scene, delicious Southern cuisine, and warm hospitality. During the holiday season, the city transforms into a winter wonderland, offering a unique blend of country charm and festive cheer. If you're looking for a Nashville country Christmas experience, here are 10 ways to get into the holiday spirit.
A Country Christmas at the Ryman Auditorium
The Ryman Auditorium, known as the "Mother Church of Country Music," is a iconic venue that hosts a variety of holiday performances during the season. The Ryman's Country Christmas series features some of country music's biggest stars, including Amy Grant, Vince Gill, and Kacey Musgraves. With its intimate setting and rich history, the Ryman is the perfect place to experience a Nashville country Christmas.
Holiday Concerts and Shows
In addition to the Ryman's Country Christmas series, Nashville offers a range of holiday concerts and shows throughout the season. The Grand Ole Opry, another iconic country music venue, hosts a special holiday show featuring Opry members and special guests. The Nashville Symphony also performs a range of holiday concerts, including a special country-themed show featuring guest artists.
Ice Skating at the Bridgestone Winter Park
Ice skating is a classic holiday activity, and Nashville's Bridgestone Winter Park offers a fun and festive ice skating experience. Located in the heart of downtown Nashville, the park features a large outdoor ice rink, as well as a range of holiday activities and events, including visits with Santa and holiday market shopping.
Holiday Lights and Displays
Nashville is known for its festive holiday lights and displays, and there are several must-see attractions throughout the city. The Cheekwood Estate and Gardens features a beautiful holiday lights display, with over one million lights illuminating the estate's gardens and grounds. The Nashville Zoo also offers a holiday lights display, with a range of animal-themed lights and displays.
A Holiday Tour of the Historic RCA Studio B
RCA Studio B is a legendary recording studio that has hosted some of country music's biggest stars, including Elvis Presley and Dolly Parton. During the holiday season, the studio offers special holiday tours, featuring decorations, music, and stories about the studio's rich history.
A Country Christmas Market
The Nashville Farmers' Market hosts a special holiday market featuring local vendors, artisans, and farmers selling a range of holiday goods, including handmade crafts, baked goods, and local honey. The market also features live music and holiday activities, making it a fun and festive destination for holiday shopping.
Holiday Events at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is a must-visit destination for country music fans, and during the holiday season, the museum hosts a range of special events and activities. These include holiday concerts, decorations, and a special exhibit featuring country music's biggest stars and their holiday traditions.
A Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride through Downtown Nashville
A horse-drawn carriage ride is a classic holiday activity, and downtown Nashville offers a range of carriage ride options. Take a romantic ride through the city's festive streets, enjoying the holiday lights and decorations along the way.
A Holiday Visit to the Gaylord Opryland Resort
The Gaylord Opryland Resort is a festive holiday destination, featuring a range of decorations, lights, and activities. The resort's holiday festivities include a ice skating rink, a holiday market, and a special holiday show featuring music, dance, and storytelling.
A Nashville Country Christmas Feast
Nashville is known for its delicious Southern cuisine, and during the holiday season, the city's restaurants offer a range of special holiday menus and feasts. Try a traditional Southern holiday meal, featuring dishes such as fried turkey, mashed potatoes, and sweet potato casserole.
We hope you've enjoyed this guide to experiencing a Nashville country Christmas. From holiday concerts and shows to festive lights and decorations, there's something for everyone in Music City during the holiday season.
What are the best holiday events in Nashville?
+Nashville offers a range of holiday events, including the Ryman Auditorium's Country Christmas series, the Grand Ole Opry's holiday show, and the Nashville Symphony's holiday concerts.
Where can I see holiday lights and displays in Nashville?
+Nashville offers several holiday lights and displays, including the Cheekwood Estate and Gardens' holiday lights display and the Nashville Zoo's holiday lights display.
What are the best holiday restaurants in Nashville?
+Nashville offers a range of delicious holiday restaurants, including the Loveless Cafe, the Catbird Seat, and the Hermitage Hotel's Capitol Grille.