It’s no secret that Nashville has become one of the hottest domestic tourist destinations in recent years. With its ever-expanding food scene, the plethora of live music, exciting sporting events, and more, there’s always something to do in Nashville. This rings true all year long, but even more so during Christmastime.
If Music City is on your list of places to visit during the 2022 holiday season, look no further than this list when planning your itinerary. From stunning light displays to holiday shows at iconic venues, here are the best things to do in Nashville at Christmas.
Holiday LIGHTS at Cheekwood
Nov. 19, 2022 – Jan. 8, 2023 5-10 pm
Cheekwood’s Holiday LIGHTS is a Music City holiday staple. The display features stunning light displays throughout the grounds of Cheekwood Estate & Gardens. In addition to a one-mile walking path through the gardens, guests can enjoy warm drinks, adult beverages, s’mores, and more. This activity is perfect for families, couples, friends, and more.
Tip: If you have children, check out the train display. It’s so much fun!
More info HERE.
Enchant Nashville
Nov. 25, 2022 – Dec. 30, 2022 Hours vary, see calender
Nashville’s First Horizon Park has been transformed into a winter wonderland with Enchant, the world’s largest holiday-themed light event. Attendees will step into a massive display of lights that includes a whopping 4 million lights with larger-than-life elements such as giant reindeer and a 100-foot tall Christmas tree. The event includes a Christmas light maze, ice skating, The Village (filled with shops from artisan vendors, crafts, and boutiques), and more.
Tip: On select Wednesdays throughout the season, guests can receive a free child’s ticket with the purchase of any adult, senior, or military admission ticket.
More info HERE.
Zoolumination: Chinese Festival of Lights
Nov. 18, 2022 – Jan. 8, 2023 5-9pm
The largest Chinese lantern festival in the United States is right here in Nashville! Zoolumination: Chinese Festival of Lights at the Nashville Zoo at Grassmere features 1,000 custom-made silk lanterns. The walkthrough experience includes whimsical scenes throughout the zoo as well as a North Pole Village where Santa will visit Nov. 25 to Dec. 24.
Tip: While most of the zoo animals will be sleeping at night, arrive before 8:30 pm to see the Andean Bear, Sumatran tiger, and flamingos.
More info HERE.
Dancing Lights of Christmas
Nov. 11, 2022 – Jan. 1, 2023
This drive-thru light show is a must-see! The Dancing Lights of Christmas at the Wilson County Fairgrounds offers Tennessee’s largest drive-through light and music show. It’s open rain or shine and admission includes access to Santa’s village, a visit with Santa, and a petting zoo.
Tip: To avoid long waits, visit on a weeknight as weekends can be VERY busy.
More info HERE.
Jingle Beat
Nov. 25, 2022 – Dec. 31, 2022
Jingle Beat Nashville is Music City’s first holiday multiverse experience. This interactive experience is located at the Nashville Fairgrounds and allows guests to join Santa on an indoor and outdoor adventure through three universes. Covering 100,000 sq. feet, Jingle Beat includes a 40-foot tree of light that vibes to the music of a deejay, ice skating, and more.
More info HERE.
Christmas At Gaylord Opryland
Nov. 11, 2022 – Jan. 1, 2023
If you are looking for a Christmas experience like no other, look no further than Christmas at Gaylord Opryland. There are endless activities to experience at Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center, including ICE!, breakfast with Rudolph, photos with Santa, ice skating, and more.
More info HERE.
Amy Grant & Vince Gill at The Ryman
Select Dates In December
For years, Amy Grant and Vince Gill have dazzled fans with their Christmas at the Ryman show and 2022 will be no different. The beloved couple will take the stage at Nashville’s famed Ryman Auditorium on select nights throughout the month of December.
More info HERE.
Opry Country Christmas
Select Dates From Nov. 27, 2022 – Dec. 22, 2022
The Grand Ole Opry is ringing in the holiday season with a number of Opry Country Christmas shows. On select nights, artists such as Lauren Alaina, Scotty McCreery, Chris Janson, Josh Turner, Chris Young and more will take to the iconic Opry circle to perform Christmas classics.
More info HERE.
