Have a Holly, Jolly, Nashville Christmas

There is nothing like Christmas Time in Nashville. If you’re here during the most wonderful time of the year, consider checking out one (or more) of these:

Nutcracker at TPAC

Don’t let this season pass you by without watching the Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy, the Waltz of the Snowflakes, and all the other magic of the Nashville Nutcracker. With on stage performances by the Nashville Ballet and live music from the Nashville Symphony, this incredible show is perfect for all ages. The show runs through December 24th, but don’t wait too long to grab a seat.

Christmas at the Ryman 

Nashville sweethearts Amy Grant and Vince Gill have been sharing “Christmas at the Ryman” for years. It isn’t just a show, it’s a Music City tradition. The duo performs classic holiday hits and a few they made popular themselves. With 12 performances through December, you’ve got plenty of chances to join in the tradition.

Holiday LIGHTS

There’s nothing like Cheekwood’s Holiday LIGHTS, with enchanting light displays along the gardens’ one-mile walking path. You’ll enjoy sparkling interactive features, the fun of s’mores stations, and various bars. And don’t forget the famous 20-foot-tall poinsettia tree inside the historic mansion. This is a great event for any age.

ICE! at Gaylord Opryland

Every year at the Gaylord Opryland, artists turn two millions pounds of colorful ice into a literal winter wonderland. And this year’s theme? The 1964 classic claymation film Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. I’ll let you know, it’s cold in there (of course—you can’t have the art melting), but tickets include a toasty blue parka to keep you warm. And the frozen fun is honestly worth it.

General Jackson Showboat Holiday Evening Cruise

You can catch the holiday production called Music City Christmas, complete with singing, dancing, and a live eight-piece show band—plus get an incredible meal on a riverboat cruise down the Cumberland. It’s part of the General Jackson Showboat Holiday Evening Cruise event running from now until December 29th.

Santa’s Pub

Here’s a secret: Santa’s Pub is open all year long. (Okay, that isn’t a secret if you know Nashville.) But going around the holidays? Even more fun! Grab a cold beer and take the stage for karaoke. Make sure you know this isn’t a fancy bar—it’s a definitely a dive . . . but I wouldn’t have it any other way.

As you can see, there are plenty of ways to rock around the Christmas tree when you’re in Music City.

Hey, if you’ve enjoyed one of these in the past, what did you think? And what are you planning to do this year? Send me your thoughts! I’d love to hear.