There’s nothing like the thrill of a Nashville Predators game: the lights, the chants, the roar of Smashville. If you’re wondering whether it’s the right outing for your family, the answer is absolutely yes. With the right prep, a Preds game isn’t just hockey, it’s a full-on memory maker.
Here’s your ultimate mom’s guide to enjoying game day (and extending the fun long after the final buzzer).
Plan Ahead: Parking & Arrival
Bridgestone Arena is in the heart of downtown Nashville, which means parking can be tricky. There are plenty of nearby garages, or you can take the stress-free route and use rideshare. If you’re driving, plan ahead by checking official parking options so you know where to go before the crowds hit.
See parking options here: Preds Parking & Directions.
Arrive early to enjoy the Gold Walk and Plaza Party, grab giveaways, or snap that perfect family photo before puck drop.
Snacks & Sips
This season, food inside Bridgestone Arena has leveled up big time. No matter your seat or taste buds, there’s something new to try. We love the traditional kid friendly foods like chicken fingers and soft pretzels, but here are some fun favorites:
- Sweet Treats First –(Section 101) Gelato in a Preds goalie mask, gelato floats in color-changing cups, and giant sundaes.
- Gnash Grilled Cheese & Grinders (Sec. 122) – Try the FUGGETABOUTIT Grinder, loaded with Italian meats, cheese, and veggies.
- Top Dog (Secs. 104) – A game isn’t a game without a good ole hot dog, but these are anything but a normal dog. They will run themed hot dogs depending on the team we are playing. The Chicago Dog when we played the Blackhawks was my favorite.
- Burger Stand (Sec. 102) – The Broadway Glazed Honey Stack piles a burger between a honey bun and donut. Yes, really.
Get to Know the Team
The game is more fun when you know who’s on the ice. Help your kids pick a favorite player (like Filip Forsberg or Roman Josi) and cheer extra loud when they make a play. It gives kids someone to follow and makes the game feel personal.
Meet the team here: Preds Roster.
Look Out for Theme Nights
Theme nights are one of the best ways to make your game day extra special. From Star Wars to bobblehead giveaways, there’s something for everyone. One time we went during a cancer awareness night and they gave out free shirts to every guest:
- Star Wars Night – Oct. 21
- Forsberg Bobblehead Night – Nov. 8
- Hockey Holidays – Dec. 20 & 21
- Luke Bryan Bobblehead Night – Feb. 4
- Carrie Underwood & Mike Fisher Dual Bobblehead Night – March 28
- Kids Day – April 11
View all Theme nights and what’s included in each night here: Preds Theme Nights.
Meet GNASH
Preds games wouldn’t be the same without GNASH, Smashville’s saber-tooth tiger mascot. According to legend, he was discovered frozen under Bridgestone Arena in 1994, then thawed just in time for Opening Night in 1998.
Now fully grown, GNASH entertains with stunts, skits, ATV rides, zip-lines, and lots of hugs. For kids, spotting him is often the highlight of the night.
See his list of appearances here: GNASH.
Join in the Chants
Preds fans take their chants seriously — and they’re half the fun of being there. From goal celebrations to crowd-wide taunts, the chants make the whole arena feel like family. Kids love shouting along (and you can steer them toward the kid-friendly ones).
Learn them here: Section 303 Chants.
Gear Up in Gold
Part of the excitement is looking the part. Jerseys, hats, GNASH plushies, or even matching family tees make the experience even more fun (and perfect for photos).
Shop here: Preds Gear.
Pro Mom Tip
Don’t stress if your family doesn’t make it through all three periods. The first two are jam-packed with excitement, and leaving a little early can help you beat traffic and bedtime.
I’d suggest not sitting by the opposing player’s penalty box. There can be heckling and could be inappropriate for the young ones.
If you can get away with not bringing a bag to the game, the line will be MUCH faster for you.
After the game when everyone is on level 10, walk across the pedestrian bridge. It’s a great way to run off the energy and see the city lit up at nights.
Final Whistle
From chanting with the crowd and grabbing a Broadway Glazed Honey Stack burger, to skating at Ford Ice Center, meeting GNASH, or signing up for the Kids Club, a Preds game is more than hockey — it’s a lifestyle in Smashville.
So gear up, pick a theme night, and get ready to yell with your kids:
“Let’s go Preds!”
