Christmas in Nashville, Tennessee is an unforgettable experience that combines music, charm, and holiday cheer.
Get ready to be dazzled by twinkling lights, festive decorations, and a lineup of yuletide activities for the whole family.
In this blog post, we'll explore the must-do things in Nashville for Christmas.
Christmas Lights
Nothing gets you into the festive spirit quite like an impressive light display. Luckily for Nashvillians and tourists alike, there are plenty of places around town to see some seriously stunning Christmas lights.
Visit the twinkling, colorfully-lit Gaylord Opryland Resort for a truly magical experience.
Or, head over to the Cheekwood Estate & Gardens for their festive Cheekwood Holiday Lights display, complete with live reindeer and even more stunning lights.
Winter Walking Tours
Nashville in December won't be seeing a white Christmas, so its the perfect time to take a walking tour.
We run some of our pay-what-you-wish walking tours in December.
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Christmas Markets
Nashville boasts lovely Christmas markets, with a wide variety of vendors selling everything from handmade ornaments and unique gifts to warm drinks and festive foods.
One popular market is the Christmas Village, which offers over 250 vendors selling everything from local gourmet foods to handmade crafts, all in one convenient location.
The Franklin Farmers' Market also holds a special holiday market, featuring local artisans and live music. And for those who love vintage finds and unique antiques, the Porter Flea Holiday Market is a must-visit.
With so many options, Nashville's Christmas markets are sure to get you in the holiday spirit.
1. Christmas at Gaylord Opryland
Get into the holiday spirit at the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center.
This Nashville holiday tradition transforms into a winter wonderland with over 3 million holiday lights, ice skating, Santa's workshop, and even carriage rides.
Like most Gaylord locations, the Nashville Opryland resort features ICE! a walk through event of dozens of ice sculptures. This year the theme is Polar Express!
Christmas at the Gaylord runs Nov 10, 2023 - January 01, 2023
Take in the Country Christmas Show at the Opry
Jump into the festive spirit with Opry Country Christmas at the Grand Ole Opry House with your favorite stars singing your favorite holiday songs. Artists like Lauren Alaina, Scotty McCreery, Lady A, Chris Janson, & more will sing along with you.
The show runs on select days in November and December 2023.
2. Holiday Lights at Cheekwood
Prepare to be amazed at Cheekwood Estate & Gardens with their "Holiday Lights" event.
With over a million twinkling lights, exquisite Christmas trees, and joyful music, it's a magical experience that delights visitors of all ages.
You can take the Holiday Lights Trolley around the grounds and then walk through the festive gardens and into the house to learn about Christmas in the 1930s.
Get your Holly Trolley Tickets.
3. Zoolumination at Nashville Zoo
Step into a world of enchantment at the Nashville Zoo's Zoolumination lantern festival.
Marvel at the intricate animal-shaped lanterns that bring the zoo to life and immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere.
4. Camp Bobby Pop-Up
Experience the coziness of a traditional Christmas camp at Camp Bobby Pop-Up.
Gather around the campfire, indulge in s'mores, and enjoy the holiday spirit with your loved ones in the heart of Nashville.
Find out more about Camp Bobby
5. Nashville Symphony 'Home Alone' Christmas
Let the Nashville Symphony fill your heart with holiday joy.
Their 'Home Alone' Christmas concert is a delightful way to experience the magic of live music in a festive setting, accompanied by the beloved soundtrack of the classic film.
6. Dancing Lights of Christmas
Take a drive through a winter wonderland at the Dancing Lights of Christmas.
With over a million synchronized lights set to your favorite holiday tunes, this dazzling display at Wilson County Fairgrounds is a must-see.
- November 10 - December 31, 2023
- $30 per family vehicle
7. Belle Meade Christmas
Step back in time at Belle Meade Plantation and celebrate Christmas in Victorian style.
Admire beautifully decorated rooms, listen to carolers, and take a horse-drawn carriage ride to experience the charm of a bygone era.
Belle Meade offers a dozen different type of tour offerings from grounds access to guided hours tours to food and wine pairings.
The standard mansion tour is included in some of the Nashville City Discount Passes
8. Belmont Mansion Christmas
Discover the elegance of a 19th-century Christmas at the Belmont Mansion.
Take a tour of this stunning mansion showcasing its grandeur and historic beauty, adorned with festive decorations and guided by knowledgeable hosts.
For the full list of Christmas events at Belmont Mansion...
- Adult Ticket - $24
- Children and Youth (6-18) -$12
9. General Jackson Music Tours
Embark on a Christmas-themed cruise aboard the General Jackson Showboat.
Enjoy a scrumptious meal, live entertainment, and breathtaking views of the Cumberland River. It's a unique experience that combines riverboat charm with holiday delights.
- Get Tickets to the 4 hour cruise along the river.
- Mon, Wed, Thurs, Sat at 530pm
- The tour does not run Christmas week!
Nashville knows how to celebrate Christmas, and this Music City offers an array of activities and events to make your holiday season truly special.
Whether you're captivated by the twinkling lights, mesmerized by orchestral melodies, or enjoying the festive charm of a riverboat cruise, Nashville has everything you need to create cherished holiday memories with your loved ones.
Get ready to make this Christmas in Nashville unforgettable with these enchanting activities.
