Christmas is here, hurray! Nashville is sparkling with holiday magic, and the city feels more cheerful than ever. Visitors and locals are gearing up for cozy markets, shimmering lights, festive shows, and all the iconic traditions that make December in Music City unforgettable. The Nashville Christmas Village, dazzling Christmas lights, and plenty of free events are ready to kick off the season in style.
Are you looking for the best Christmas events happening in Nashville this year? We’ve got you covered.
We have put together a list of the top 10 Nashville Christmas events you should not miss, perfect for families, couples, and anyone craving that warm Southern holiday charm.
Where Can I Find Christmas Events in Nashville?
Laparizone makes it easy. Visit the platform and you will discover events near you in real time. From nightlife to live music, happy hour, food and drink festivals, and much more. Laparizone helps you catch every festive moment the second it’s happening.
List of Hottest Nashville Christmas Events to Attend
1. Nashvillage Holiday Market (Downtown Nashville)
If you’re searching for Christmas markets in Nashville, this is the one you can’t skip. Set in Walk of Fame Park, this festive market features artisan gifts, hot cocoa, live music, seasonal treats, and a vibrant holiday atmosphere.
Why go: Free entry, great gift shopping, and tons of local holiday charm.
Perfect for families, couples, and holiday shoppers.
2. Zoolumination at Nashville Zoo
One of the largest lantern festivals in the country, Zoolumination transforms the zoo into a glowing wonderland of light sculptures, including a North Pole village and whimsical wildlife scenes.
Why go: Amazing walk-through light displays ideal for photos.
Perfect for kids, families, and date nights.
3. Holiday LIGHTS at Cheekwood
Cheekwood Estate & Gardens puts on one of Nashville’s most beautiful light experiences each year. Picture glowing tunnels, themed displays, Christmas trees, and hot chocolate stops along the walk.
Why go: Stunning gardens and romantic evening strolls.
Perfect for couples, families, and photography lovers.
4. The Dancing Lights of Christmas (Drive-Through Light Show)
Located in Lebanon, just outside Nashville, this drive-through experience features over 2 million lights synced to holiday music.
Why go: Stay warm in your car while enjoying an incredible light show.
Perfect for families with kids, groups, and anyone wanting a cozy night out.
5. Christmas at Gaylord Opryland Resort
Nashville’s iconic resort goes all out with indoor Christmas décor, twinkling lights, waterfalls, the famous ICE! exhibit, and an indoor winter village.
Why go: It’s basically a Christmas theme park under one roof.
Perfect for: Visitors, families, or rainy-day holiday plans.
6. Nashville Christmas Market
This festive seasonal market is filled with holiday vendors, handmade gifts, artisan foods, and seasonal treats.
Why go: Local goods + holiday atmosphere = perfect for gift shopping.
Perfect for: Holiday shoppers and weekend wanderers.
7. Amy Grant & Vince Gill Christmas at the Ryman
A Nashville holiday tradition. Enjoy classic Christmas music performed by Nashville’s beloved duo inside the historic Ryman Auditorium.
Why go: Beautiful music in one of America’s most iconic venues.
Perfect for music lovers and date nights.
8. Nashville Christmas Tree Lighting (Public Square Park)
One of the best free Nashville Christmas events. Kick off the season with the city’s official tree lighting ceremony, complete with community festivities.
Why go: Free, festive, and full of Nashville spirit.
Perfect for: Families, locals, and budget-friendly holiday fun.
9. Nashville Christmas Flea Market
Held at the Nashville Fairgrounds, this is a treasure hunter’s dream, from vintage finds to holiday décor and handmade gifts.
Why go: Affordable shopping with tons of variety.
Perfect for bargain hunters, decorators, and unique gift shoppers.
10. Christmas Lights Carriage Ride (Downtown Nashville)
Explore downtown Nashville’s Christmas lights by horse-drawn carriage, a nostalgic holiday experience you won’t forget.
Why go: Romantic & unique.
Perfect for: Couples, holiday photos, magical nights out.
Nashville Christmas Movie Vibes
Fans of holiday films will love how Nashville transforms into a festive backdrop worthy of its own Christmas in Nashville movie, with twinkling lights, historic streets, cozy shops, and country-music charm.
Final Tips for Enjoying Christmas in Nashville
- Book early: Popular attractions like Cheekwood and Gaylord sell out fast.
- Look for free events: Tree lighting ceremonies and holiday markets are great budget-friendly options.
- Bring a camera: Nashville’s Christmas lights are some of the most photogenic in the South.
- Bundle up: Tennessee weather can be chilly, especially for outdoor markets and light displays.
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