Holiday scene

Nashville Christmas Guide 2024

Nashville's Best Christmas Events for 2024!

Last updated February 18, 2025.

Music City transforms into a winter wonderland with the Nashville Symphony performing Elf in Concert, while the Predators and Titans bring holiday cheer to downtown. From the Gulch Holiday Night Market to East Nash Holiday Bash, festive events light up every neighborhood.

Broadway's holiday spirit extends beyond the honky-tonks with Howdy Holidays at Fifth + Broadway, while Franklin's Dickens of a Christmas brings old-world charm. Local venues serve up unique experiences from Santa brunches to Porter Flea's artisan market.

Y'all ready for Music City's holiday happenings?

When is Christmas? Thursday, December 25th, 2025

Nashville Holiday Markets and Shopping

Gulch Holiday Night Market

The Gulch Holiday Night Market is a festive event featuring live music, food, drinks, and shopping from local vendors. It offers a unique blend of holiday activities and community engagement.

Details:

  • 📅 Dates: December 5, 2024
  • ⏰ Time: 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
  • 🏛️ Venue: Noble Park
  • 📍 Address: View on map

A Very Merry Holiday Market

A Very Merry Holiday Market is a one-stop shop for local holiday goods, featuring local vendors, an eggnog station, live DJ, and interactive holiday activities. The market includes puppies for adoption, making it a great event for families and those looking to support local businesses.

Details:

Winter Zone Activities

Nashville offers a variety of winter activities that cater to different interests. For those looking to explore festive celebrations, the city features holiday light displays at Cheekwood Estate & Gardens and the Nashville Zoo's Zoolumination, which showcases the country's largest Chinese lantern festival. Additionally, holiday markets like the Nashville Christmas Village and Porter Flea Holiday Market provide ample opportunities for shopping and finding unique gifts. The city also hosts various holiday shows and entertainment events, including live music performances at well-known venues like the Bluebird Cafe and the Ryman Auditorium. Furthermore, there are numerous other holiday activities such as guided bike tours through The Gulch neighborhood, visits to the Jack Daniel's distillery for a tasting of the world-famous Bourbon, and enjoying Tennessee BBQ to warm up during the cold winter months.

Details:

  • 📅 Dates: December 13-14
  • ⏰ Time: (See website for times)
  • 🏛️ Venue: Porter Flea Holiday Market
  • 📍 Address: Nashville Fairgrounds

Holiday Pop-Up Market presented by 12 South Farmers Market

The Holiday Pop-Up Market presented by 12 South Farmers Market is an annual event featuring live music, food, and local vendors. It offers a great opportunity to shop small and support the local community. Admission is free and all ages are welcome.

Details:

Made Market – Franklin Holiday Market

Made Market – Franklin Holiday Market is a finely curated handmade shopping experience showcasing local makers who offer unique, handmade items. Attendees can expect to find one-of-a-kind gifts for loved ones this holiday season. Food and beverage vendors will also be onsite, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Details:

  • 📅 Dates: December 14, 2024
  • ⏰ Time: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  • 🏛️ Venue: Liberty Hall at The Factory
  • 📍 Address: View on map

Porter Flea Holiday Market

Porter Flea Holiday Market is an annual event featuring over 230 local artisans selling unique, handmade goods. The market offers a wide variety of items perfect for holiday gift-giving, including decorative items and personalized presents. It is a great place to find one-of-a-kind gifts that support local businesses.

Details:

Jingle Bell Junction

Jingle Bell Junction at Amqui Station Farmers Market is a holiday market featuring Nashville's finest local artisans offering unique and handcrafted gifts. The event includes delicious food trucks, festive music, and holiday activities for all ages. Santa Claus makes a special appearance, and pet photos with Santa are also available.

Details:

  • 📅 Dates: December 1, 2024
  • ⏰ Time: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
  • 🏛️ Venue: Amqui Station & Visitors Center
  • 📍 Address: View on map

Shop Small Holiday Market

The Shop Small Holiday Market in Nashville offers a wide array of unique and handcrafted gifts, perfect for your loved ones. This market showcases the best of Nashville's creative community, featuring local artisans and small businesses. From home goods and jewelry to artisanal foods and beverages, you'll find a diverse selection of items to support local makers.

Details:

  • 📅 Dates: November 15 - November 17, 2024
  • ⏰ Time: Friday: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM, Saturday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Sunday: 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM
  • 🏛️ Venue: The Fairgrounds Nashville
  • 📍 Address: 625 Smith Ave, Nashville, TN 37203

Nashville Holiday Shows and Entertainment

Nashville’s Nutcracker

Nashville's Nutcracker is a cherished holiday tradition that brings together history, magic, and dance. Set against the vibrant city backdrop, this performance invites audiences of all ages to revel in the splendor of the Sugar Plum Fairy's kingdom, the fierceness of the Mouse King, and the timeless adventure of Clara and her Nutcracker Prince. The show features live music by The Nashville Symphony and includes a youth cast of local dancers, making it a unique and memorable experience.

Details:

Elf in Concert with the Nashville Symphony

Elf in Concert with the Nashville Symphony is a unique event where the music of a live symphony orchestra transforms the popular Christmas film Elf. The event features John Debney's wonderful score performed live while Santa Claus soars across the big screen in high definition.

Details:

Terri Clark Christmas Concerts

Terri Clark's Christmas concerts in Nashville feature the Canadian country music singer blending her major hits with timeless Christmas classics. The shows are part of Gaylord Opryland's 41st annual 'A Country Christmas Dinner Show' series, offering two distinct performances: The Frontmen's 'Holidays & Hits' show and Clark's 'It's Christmas…Cheers!' show. Guests enjoy a holiday meal prepared by Gaylord Opryland's culinary team followed by the performances.

Details:

  • 📅 Dates: November 23 - December 22
  • ⏰ Time: See website for times
  • 🏛️ Venue: Gaylord Opryland
  • 📍 Address: View on map

A Country Christmas Dinner Show

A Country Christmas Dinner Show at Gaylord Opryland features classic and original holiday music, paired with a festive meal crafted by award-winning chefs. The event includes performances by Terri Clark and The Frontmen, blending holiday classics with country hits.

Details:

Live Bluegrass Music

Live bluegrass music in Nashville is a vibrant and rich cultural experience. The city is renowned for its bluegrass heritage, with numerous venues offering high-quality performances. The Station Inn, located in the Gulch neighborhood, is a legendary music venue that has been a cornerstone of the bluegrass scene since 1974. It hosts a variety of acts, including up-and-coming artists and established legends. Every Sunday, The Station Inn features a free bluegrass jam session open to the public. Other notable venues include Layla's Bluegrass Inn, which hosts both established and emerging artists without a cover fee, and Bobby's Idle Hour, a favorite among locals for its eclectic mix of music and friendly atmosphere. Additionally, Warner Parks hosts a monthly 'Pickin' Party' during the warmer months, featuring bluegrass artists performing in the park grounds.

Details:

It’s A Wonderful Life

It's A Wonderful Life is a classic holiday film about George Bailey, who feels his life has no meaning until he is visited by an angel who shows him what the world would be like if he had never existed. The movie explores themes of community, kindness, and the impact of one person's actions on others.

Details:

  • 📅 Dates: (See website for dates)
  • ⏰ Time: (See website for times)
  • 🏛️ Venue: Franklin Theatre
  • 📍 Address: View on map

Nashville Other Holiday Activities

Titans Home Games

The Tennessee Titans home games in Nashville offer an exciting experience for football fans. The games take place at Nissan Stadium, a state-of-the-art facility with stunning views of the Nashville skyline and Cumberland River. The stadium features 175 luxury suites, 12,000 club seats, and video scoreboards. Fans can enjoy the electric atmosphere of the 'Mosh Pit,' a fan section reserved for diehard Titans supporters. The games are part of the NFL schedule, with the Titans competing against various opponents throughout the season.

Details:

Predators Home Games

The Nashville Predators home games in Nashville, United States, offer an exhilarating experience for hockey fans. The team, known for its high-ranking position in the NHL, plays at Bridgestone Arena, a multi-purpose venue in downtown Nashville. The games feature the Predators competing against various teams from the league, providing an exciting atmosphere for both new and longtime supporters.

Details:

ICE featuring Frosty the Snowman

ICE featuring Frosty the Snowman is an immersive holiday attraction at Gaylord Opryland in Nashville, United States. The event features over two million pounds of intricately hand-carved ice sculptures and displays, including eleven walk-through scenes from the beloved holiday film. Visitors can enjoy larger-than-life ice sculptures, six thrilling two-story ice slides, live carving demonstrations, and photo-worthy moments. The indoor experience lasts approximately 20-40 minutes, and guests are encouraged to wear warm clothing due to the 9°F temperature inside. Additional activities include gingerbread decorating, outdoor ice skating, and bumper cars.

Details:

Dickens of a Christmas

Dickens of a Christmas is Middle Tennessee's largest outdoor Christmas festival, recreating the time of Charles Dickens using historic downtown Franklin's charming architecture as the backdrop. The event features a variety of musicians, dancers, and Dickens characters filling the streets. Expect to see and interact with characters like Fagin from Oliver Twist, Jacob Marley, Ebenezer Scrooge, Tiny Tim, and the rest of the Cratchit family from A Christmas Carol. The festival also includes a Victorian Father and Mother Christmas with treats for children. Visitors can shop arts & crafts vendors, watch live entertainment on the Main Street Festival Main Stage and Acoustic Stage, and explore the historic district.

Details:

  • 📅 Dates: December 14 - December 15, 2024
  • ⏰ Time: 10 AM - 6 PM; 11 AM - 5 PM
  • 🏛️ Venue: Downtown Franklin
  • 📍 Address: View on map

Nashville Christmas Festival

The Nashville Christmas Festival is a festive celebration nestled in West Nashville's scenic charm along the South Harpeth River. This event offers Christmas trees for purchase, a winter zone with activities like fire pits, play areas, lighting displays, and live bluegrass. The Light Show Hayride takes guests on a 25-minute hayride through various light scenes. Enjoy hot cocoa, coffee, cider, chili, soups, breads, and cookies.

Details:

  • 📅 Dates: Every Thursday through Sunday in December
  • ⏰ Time: 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM daily
  • 🏛️ Venue: Clear Water Retreats
  • 📍 Address: View on map

Brunch with Santa at Stompin’ Grounds

Brunch with Santa at Stompin' Grounds offers a Southern-inspired Christmas brunch in the JW Marriott's Lobby-level restaurant. The event features a flavorful menu served buffet style, including seasonal classics and heartwarming dishes crafted to capture the spirit of Southern hospitality. Families can create lasting memories with family photos, holiday cheer, and cherished moments with Santa.

Details:

Breakfast with Santa at Rocketown

Breakfast with Santa at Rocketown is a festive event where families can enjoy a holiday breakfast while meeting Santa Claus. The event features a fun and interactive atmosphere with activities designed for children. It is a great opportunity for families to create lasting memories during the holiday season.

Details:

  • 📅 Dates: December 7, 2024
  • ⏰ Time: (See website for times)
  • 🏛️ Venue: Rocketown
  • 📍 Address: View on map

Santa Brunch at The Reserve at Fat Bottom

Santa Brunch at The Reserve at Fat Bottom in Nashville offers a festive atmosphere with delicious food and holiday cheer. The event features a beautifully decorated space with a covered and heated patio, providing stunning views of the landscaped beer garden. The menu includes a variety of dishes, from box lunches to plated meals, catering to different tastes and preferences. The event is designed to create a memorable experience for families and friends, making it an ideal holiday activity.

Details:

  • 📅 Dates: (See website for dates)
  • ⏰ Time: (See website for times)
  • 🏛️ Venue: The Reserve at Fat Bottom
  • 📍 Address: View on map

Brunch with Santa at The Conrad

Brunch with Santa at The Conrad offers a delightful holiday experience with a tasty brunch buffet and festive atmosphere. Guests can enjoy the company of Santa Claus while savoring delicious food and drinks. The event provides a wonderful opportunity for families to create cherished memories during the holiday season.

Details:

Grinch Brunch at The Reserve at Fat Bottom

Grinch Brunch at The Reserve at Fat Bottom offers a festive holiday experience with a brunch buffet featuring seasonal favorites, a meet-and-greet with the Grinch, holiday crafts for kids, and specialty cocktails for adults. This event is designed to be a fun and memorable occasion for families.

Details:

  • 📅 Dates: December 15, 2024
  • ⏰ Time: 9:00 AM - 1:45 PM
  • 🏛️ Venue: The Reserve at Fat Bottom
  • 📍 Address: View on map

Cookies and Cocoa with Santa

Cookies and Cocoa with Santa is a festive holiday event at Lucky Ladd Farms, featuring a holiday atmosphere with music and fun photo opportunities. Guests can enjoy cookie decorating, sipping hot cocoa or iced-cold milk, crafting letters to Santa, making reindeer food, and receiving a keepsake ornament. The event includes a visit with Santa and a commemorative digital photo. This event is perfect for families to celebrate the Christmas season together.

Details:

  • 📅 Dates: December 7 - December 22
  • ⏰ Time: 9:00 AM, 10:30 AM, 12:00 PM, 1:30 PM, and 3:00 PM
  • 🏛️ Venue: Lucky Ladd Farms
  • 📍 Address: View on map

Howdy Holidays at Fifth + Broadway

Howdy Holidays at Fifth + Broadway is a family-friendly event featuring face painting, live dancing, hot chocolate, and more. It is a festive celebration that brings the community together with various activities and attractions.

Details:

Saint Nicky’s Cookie Decorating Party

Saint Nicky’s Cookie Decorating Party is a festive event where guests can participate in a family-friendly cookie decorating activity. The event features a variety of themed cookies and decorations, including special appearances from Santa. It is held at Nicky’s Coal Fired, a family-owned restaurant known for its seasonal Italian dishes and coal-fired pizzas.

Details:

  • 📅 Dates: December 15, 2024
  • ⏰ Time: (See website for times)
  • 🏛️ Venue: Nicky’s Coal Fired
  • 📍 Address: View on map

Fire Pits and Play Areas

Fire Pits and Play Areas in Nashville offer a variety of heated outdoor spaces with fire pits and play areas designed for children. These locations provide a cozy atmosphere for families to gather and enjoy activities like roller skating, bumper cars, and trampoline parks. The play areas are equipped with safety features and offer a range of play options suitable for infants to older children. Some locations also include additional amenities like bowling, lazer tag, and sensory-safe environments for kids of all abilities.

Details:

East Nash Holiday Bash

The East Nash Holiday Bash is a festive event in East Nashville's Five Points neighborhood featuring a community tree lighting, live entertainment, a holiday marketplace, holiday-themed treats, photos with Santa, local food, festive cocktails, s'mores at the firepits, holiday crafts, and more. The event is free and all ages are welcome. For those who want to elevate their experience, a ticketed Holiday Cocktail Bash offers handcrafted holiday-themed cocktails, festive treats, and a special guest DJ.

Details:

  • 📅 Dates: December 5-7, 2024
  • ⏰ Time: 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM daily
  • 🏛️ Venue: Five Points neighborhood
  • 📍 Address: View on map

Cookies and Cocoa with a Cop

Cookies and Cocoa with Santa at Lucky Ladd Farms is a festive holiday event featuring hot cocoa, cookies, and family-friendly activities. Enjoy photo ops, storytime with Mrs. Claus, cookie decorating, and more. Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus for a memorable holiday experience.

Details:

  • 📅 Dates: December 6, 13, 14, 20, 21
  • ⏰ Time: (See website for times)
  • 🏛️ Venue: Lucky Ladd Farms
  • 📍 Address: View on map

Hot Cocoa and Coffee

Hot cocoa in Nashville offers a rich and creamy beverage experience. Elegy Coffee provides a hot chocolate option with steamed milk, available at multiple locations including East Nashville, Germantown, and Downtown. For a more luxurious experience, the Hot Chocolate Affair at Loews Hotels offers curated pastries and gourmet toppings like marshmallows and chocolate shavings. Additionally, Zingerman's Mail Order offers handmade coffee cakes infused with semi-sweet chocolate chunks and unsweetened cacao powder.

Details:

Ginger-Snapped

Ginger-Snapped is a holiday event featuring a VIP Santa experience where attendees can snap photos with Santa and participate in an annual gingerbread house making contest. The event includes light breakfast bites, coffee, and cocoa, along with plenty of gingerbread house decorations. A panel of judges selects the best gingerbread house, and the winner receives a gift basket filled with gift cards and merchandise from CoolSprings Galleria retailers and restaurants.

Details:

Christmas Trees for Purchase

Christmas trees for purchase in Nashville offer a variety of options, including live trees from local farms and lots. Wonder Gift & Garden at The Land in Kingston Springs provides a charming experience with hot chocolate and treats. Kiwanis Park in West Nashville offers trees with roots for replanting. S. E. Daugherty & Sons Farm in Bellevue has multiple tree sizes available. JVI Secret Gardens in Donelson offers free hot chocolate and s'mores with photo opportunities. Santa's Trees has eight locations around Nashville, providing fresh-cut trees and delivery options. Erin's Farm in Cunningham offers pre-cut and cut-your-own trees with additional holiday activities. Fast's Greenery on Nolensville Road has a great selection of trees and decorations.

Details:

  • 📅 Dates: (See website for dates)
  • ⏰ Time: (See website for times)