Are you looking for holiday events in Nashville? Here’s my 2025 guide, as a Nashville local!
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✨ Experience the Magic of Christmas in Music City
Maybe I’m biased since I was born and raised in Nashville – but I swear there is something extra special about Nashville during the holidays!
Between all the amazing Christmas lights, great Christmas country shows, and fun pop-up bars, there are tons of great things to do in Nashville during the holidays!
Whether you’re just in town for the holidays or a local looking for something fun to do for a date night, with family, or friends, here are all my favorite holiday activities in Nashville!
This post is all about the most magical holiday events in Nashville!
Most Magical Holiday Events in Nashville
1. A Country Christmas at Gaylord Opryland Resort
No place does Christmas better than the Gaylord Opryland Resort.
I was born and raised in Nashville, and growing up, EVERYONE would go at least once every single year to the Gaylord Opryland Hotel during the holidays.
They go all out when it comes to Christmas decorations – Christmas trees, a larger-than-life nativity set, and over 5 million Christmas lights (they literally start wrapping every branch of every tree in June).
As if the hotel itself wasn’t enough, you can walk straight over to ICE!. It’s an indoor area where you’ll see tons of ice sculptures (and there’s always an ice-made slide!). Literally, it’s 2 million pounds of ice. It’s incredible what they are able to make just out of carving ice.
They also have an outdoor area complete with hot chocolate, s’mores, games, and rides.
THEN, you can even get some Christmas shopping done at Opry Mills Mall. It’s a great outlet mall. (pro tip: check out Smith Creek – they do FREE moonshine tastings!).
The mall also has a movie theatre.
Oh, and on top of that, the Grand Ole Opry is right there as well. They always have several different Christmas shows all throughout the winter – check their schedule and see if you’re able to catch one!
Basically, you could spend all day (or a couple of days!) just right around the resort. Perfect for families, friends, and date night adventures!
Don’t miss:
- General Jackson Showboat Cruise (Click here to book!)
- ICE! featuring colorful ice sculptures
- See a Show at The Grand Ole Opry (Click here to book!)
Stay nearby: Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center or Inn at Opryland.
2. Cheekwood Holiday Lights
Cheekwood is always a fun time, but it is absolutely stunning during Christmas!
From November through the beginning of January, they have such a lovely display—in fact, last year, I went to see my friend get engaged!
It’s such a beautiful place to take photos. Great for families or a good date night! Oh, and you can visit Santa in the historic mansion. It’s absolutely stunning.
Tickets: Purchase in advance on Cheekwood’s website.
Here are some great hand warmers if you plan on going on a colder day:
3. Nashville Christmas Parade
Checking out a Nashville Christmas parade is such a great way to kick off the Christmas season!
You’ll see marching bands, amazing floats, and even celebrities all marching through different areas of Nashville.
Great idea if you’re looking for family-friendly events!
When: Early December
Where: Donelson, Bellvue, and more
4. Zoolumination at Nashville Zoo
The Nashville Zoo does a BEAUTIFUL light display every year for Christmas all through Grassmere.
You’ll see glowing tunnels, animal lanterns, and so much more.
Between the amazing wildlife and holiday fun, it’s seriously stunning!
Oh an
Don’t miss:
- Luminous animal lanterns
- Outdoor Skating Rink
- 4D Theatre
- Zipline
Tickets: Available through the Nashville Zoo’s website
5. Dickens of a Christmas – Franklin, TN
Franklin is just a short little drive outside of Nashville, TN.
If you have a car, it is well worth the visit. Every year, they do the “Franklin’s Dickens of a Christmas Festival.”
You’ll feel just like you are in A Christmas Carol in the 19th Century.
There are carolers, live performances, and even horse-drawn carriages. Plus, you can explore all the fun little local shops they have and all of their beautiful Christmas lights!
Where: Historic Downtown Franklin
6. Glow Nashville
At first, in Horizon Park, you can see a huge, gorgeous Christmas display.
They’ve got sculptures, ice-skating, beautiful lighting displays, and even a Santa’s workshop!
🎁 Bonus: Cozy Nashville Stay Ideas
Want to turn your holiday weekend into a mini getaway? Here are a few cozy places to stay near the festivities:
- The Hermitage Hotel – Historic luxury hotel near downtown lights
- Noelle Nashville – Chic boutique hotel with holiday decor
- The Graduate Nashville – Playful, fun, and Instagram-worthy
🎅 Wrap-Up:
From fun, festive light displays to timeless traditions, Nashville knows how to celebrate Christmas. Whether you’re ice skating, exploring Opryland, or walking under glowing trees at Cheekwood, there’s something magical waiting for everyone.
This post was all about holiday events in Nashville!
Other posts you might like:
Christmas in Nashville: Nashville Christmas Events
21 of the Best Christmas Travel Quotes
Hidden Gems in Nashville: Places I Take My Friends When They Visit Nashville
The Ultimate 3-Day Nashville Itinerary for First-Timers
