Nashville Fall Fun Festivities and Events

Fall time in Middle Tennessee means several things to me: changing leaves, cooler temps, football, pumpkin spice flavored everything and apple cider. It is a great time to get outdoors and enjoy the natural beauty of nature, and participate in the many events and festivals that surround Nashville. Happy fall y’all!

Nashville Fall Fun Festivities and Events

The Nashville Fair

September 5-14, 20225

Parking Address:
320 Wedgewood Ave
Nashville, TN 37203

Rideshare & Accessibility Address:
174 Rains Ave
Nashville, TN 37203

Rooted in history and tradition, The Nashville Fair brings a nostalgic fair experience with a modern spin to Nashville’s urban core. Enjoy culturally diverse events, agriculture, arts, and entertainment at The Fairgrounds Nashville—home to Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway & GEODIS Park. Take part in our 10-day fair featuring everything from thrilling midway rides to wrestling, axe throwing, balloon sculpting, nightly live music, and more. We “Got a Good Thing Growing” at The Nashville Fair

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Wine on the River Nashville

Riverfront Park
100 1st Ave N
Nashville, TN 37201
September 13th, 3pm-7pm

Travel the world without leaving Nashville! Join us as we taste from different regions spanning the globe. All beverage samples of wine, beer, and spirits are included in admission. Food is available for purchase. Take a break from your travels and enjoy the soothing sounds of live music while taking in the beautiful views of the skyline, river and bridges from Riverfront Park. Wine On the River is a rain or shine event and no refunds will be given.

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Goodlettsville Arts, Antiques and Music Festival

105 S. Main Street
Goodlettsville, TN 37072
September 13, 10A-4P

The Goodlettsville Arts, Antiques and Music Festival in Goodlettsville is a family fun event featuring original art, fabulous antiques, live music, food trucks, a handmade artisan market, antique appraisals, quilt show and contest, magician, kid zone and more. All proceeds from this event help support the Goodlettsville Help Center and other local charities. 

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Cheekwood Harvest

1200 Forrest Park Drive
Nashville, TN 37205
September 13- October 30
Tuesday-Sunday 9AM-5PM
Thursday Night Out 5-9PM
*Cheekwood opens early for members at 8AM on Wednesdays

Get ready for autumn’s most enchanting celebration! Cheekwood Harvest is back with all the fall magic you love, plus an exciting new addition that extends the fun into the evening hours.

As Nashville’s leaves begin their stunning transformation, Cheekwood Estate & Gardens becomes a fall wonderland featuring:
-Pumpkin Village with three charming pumpkin houses
– Over 75,000 pumpkins scattered throughout the gardens
– Thousands of vibrant chrysanthemum in full bloom
– A spectacular Jack-o’-Lantern Topiary made from 150+ carved pumpkins in the Color Garden

NEW for 2025: Harvest NIGHTS:

The biggest addition this year is Harvest NIGHTS – special Thursday evening events running September 18 through October 30 (5-9 PM). These family-friendly nights feature:
– Live musical performances and food trucks
– Seasonal beverages in the beer garden
– Special themed events each week

Don’t Miss These Special Harvest NIGHTS Events:
– Sept 18: Pumkinpalooza with pumpkin carving contests
– Sept 25: Salsa Night celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month
– Oct 9: Oktoberfest with beer, brats, and Bavarian music
– Oct 30: Bootanical Bash costume contest and dance party

Family Fun: “A Hint of Haunts” Scarecrow Trail: Take a stroll through the Turner Seasons Garden to discover this year’s scarecrow theme featuring friendly ghosts, cartoon villains, and whimsical characters that are thrilling but not too scary for little ones.

Whether you visit during the day to enjoy the autumn gardens or join the evening festivities at Harvest NIGHTS, Cheekwood Harvest offers the perfect blend of seasonal beauty and family fun that makes for unforgettable fall memories.

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Music in the Vines

Arrington Vineyards
6211 Patton Rd.
Arrington, TN 37014
Weekends, 3-7P, now through the fall

Visit the beautiful Arrington Vineyards for Music in the Vines, on weekends, running now through December.  This is a family friendly event, with live jazz and bluegrass music. Also, on Friday nights, they have good trucks and live music. You can check the calendar on their website for specific info. You can bring your own food, but only AV wines are permitted on the property.

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Musician’s Corner and Fall Market

Centennial Park
2500 West End Ave
Nashville, TN 37203
*corner of 27th Ave N & West End
August 29-31 and Fridays in September, 5-9PM

A free outdoor concert series in Centennial Park featuring 35 performances across 7 dates, beginning with FREE FEST (August 29-31) followed by every Friday in September through September 26, 2025.

FREE FEST represents a partnership between Musicians Corner and Lightning 100 (Nashville’s Independent Radio Station and Triple A “Station of the Year”), combining Lightning 100’s indie artist connections with Musicians Corner’s established outdoor concert experience.

The series showcases diverse talent from Nashville and beyond in a family-friendly, blanket-friendly atmosphere. All events remain completely free to the community, continuing Nashville’s tradition of accessible live music experiences.

The full lineup will be announced through their newsletter and social media channels. This collaboration strengthens Nashville’s live music scene by providing no-cost entertainment that celebrates both local and visiting musicians in the heart of Music City.

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Full Moon Pickin’ Parties

Percy Warner Park
50 Vaughn Road
Nashville, TN 37221
September 5th, 6-10P

A beloved Nashville bluegrass tradition for nearly 30 years, taking place under the stars at Percy Warner Park from May through September. This community music series benefits Friends of Warner Parks, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving Percy and Edwin Warner Parks.

Live bluegrass music, local food trucks, and included beverages (water, soft drinks, and up to 3 beers for adults 21+). Attendees can bring their own food, blankets, lawn chairs, and non-alcoholic drinks.

Ticket Information: Available at Will Call with QR code and ID, or purchasable at the gate (cash/credit accepted). Musicians with approved bluegrass instruments can purchase $10 Picker tickets at the gate only.

Leashed dogs welcome (6-foot leash maximum). Outside alcohol, glass containers, and large coolers (over 16 quarts) prohibited. Bag and instrument case searches conducted at entry.

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La Vergne Fall Festival

Veterans Memorial Park
115 Floyd Memorial Drive
La Vergne, TN 37086
September 16th, 10A-3:30P

The La Vergne Fall Festival for 2025 is scheduled for Saturday, September 20. We will have the traditional parade on Saturday morning followed by a day of fun and entertainment.

• When: Saturday, September 20, 10:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
• Where: Veterans Memorial Park, 115 Floyd Mayfield Drive

The La Vergne Fall Festival is an opportunity for people to gather together to celebrate the changing of the seasons, while also taking part in games and enjoying good food. There are also new crafts for sale from local and regional vendors.

The parade starts at 10:00 a.m. It begins at Bicentennial Park at City Hall and ends at Veterans Memorial Park, at which time opening remarks will be given from our Board of Mayor and Aldermen and Parks and Recreation staff.

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Jazz on the Cumberland

Nashville Cumberland Park (located by the Titans Stadium)
592 S. 1st Street
Nashville, TN 37213
September And October, 5:30-8p (check the site for specific dates)

This free, family-friendly jazz concert series runs monthly on select Sundays from May-October, 5:30-8:00pm at Nashville’s Wasioto Park (beside Nissan Stadium). Now in its 14th year, the series features local, regional, and national jazz artists performing against Nashville’s downtown skyline backdrop.

Key Details:

• FREE admission
• First 250 cars park free, then $10 (handicap accessible)
• Food trucks, vendors, and Kids’ Fun Play Zone available
• Bring blankets or lawn chairs
• Features S.T.E.A.M. youth mentorship program pairing students with music industry veterans
• Produced by Victor Chatman Productions with Nashville Metro Parks

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Nashville Film Festival

Hilton Nashville Green Hills
3801 Cleghorn Ave
Nashville, TN 37215
September 18-24, 2025

Nashville’s premier film celebration returns September 18-24, 2025, for seven days of independent cinema, music, and culture at iconic local venues.

Festival Highlights:
– Nearly 150 films from around the globe
– Screenings at Regal Green Hills and Belcourt Theatre (additional venues TBA)
– Filmmaker Q&A sessions and industry panels
– Networking parties and creative community connections

Creators Conference:
– September 19-21, 2025 at Hilton Nashville Green Hills
– Three-day educational conference featuring film and music industry professionals
– Panel discussions and networking events for creatives

Theme: “Discover the Future of Film” – showcasing the best new independent cinema for both local film enthusiasts and visiting cinephiles.

This milestone 56th edition combines Nashville’s music heritage with cutting-edge independent filmmaking, offering a week-long immersive experience for industry professionals and film lovers alike. Full programming and additional venue details will be announced throughout the summer.

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Fall Festival at Lucky Ladd Farms

Lucky Ladd Farms
4306 Rocky Glade Rd
Eagleville, TN 37060
September 20-October 31

Middle Tennessee’s award-winning destination for fall family fun, serving Nashville, Franklin, Murfreesboro and surrounding areas.

What to Expect:
– Thousands of pumpkins in various shapes, sizes, and colors
– Acres of family entertainment activities
– Corn maze adventure
– Delicious treats: caramel apples, homemade kettle corn, pumpkin spice lattes, and apple cider donuts.

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Artville

Downtown Nashville, Walk of Fame Park
September 26-28th

Nashville’s free annual visual arts festival celebrating the city’s creative culture through public art installations, contemporary art displays, and immersive experiences. The festival spans multiple venues including Walk of Fame Park (downtown), Wedgewood Houston, The Arcade/5th Avenue of the Arts, and the Neuhoff District in Germantown.

Artville transforms the city through large installations, murals, artisan displays, gallery shows, and after-dark events. The festival provides up to $150,000 in cash awards to local and national artists for creating temporary site-specific works, fostering both community engagement and artistic innovation.

The main event takes place Saturday, September 27th (11am-4pm) at Walk of Fame Park, featuring family-friendly crafts, activities, and public art experiences designed for all ages. This collective community experience brings together diverse artistic expressions throughout Nashville’s cultural districts.

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Nashville Brew Fest

First Horizon Park
19 Jr Gilliam Wy
Nashville, TN 37219
September 27th, 8P-11P (VIP at 7P)

*This is a 21 and up event.

The Nashville Brew Fest will take place at First Horizon Park on September 27th, 7pm-11pm, featuring over 50 breweries and 150 beers alongside food trucks, music, and lawn games.

Two ticket options include unlimited beer sampling:

• General Admission ($55): 8pm-11pm access to unlimited brewery samples from the outfield area
• Early Admission ($70): 7pm-11pm access with an extra hour of exclusive specialty beer pours during the first hour, plus all general admission benefits

Food is available for separate purchase from food trucks. The event takes place on the field and throughout the concourse, offering a comprehensive brewery experience with entertainment and activities beyond beer sampling.

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Depot Days in Smyrna

98 Front Street
Smyrna, TN 37167
September 27th, 10-4

Smyrna’s annual Depot Days festival is seeking vendors for their community fundraiser on Saturday, September 27th, 10 AM-4 PM on Front Street in Smyrna, TN.

Event Highlights:

• Major annual fundraiser promoting local businesses
• Attracts thousands of visitors
• Features live music, food, and family activities
• Welcomes all vendor types: crafts, boutique items, food, and services

This established community tradition offers vendors an opportunity to showcase their businesses, connect with customers, and support local community development while participating in one of Smyrna’s biggest annual events.

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Kidsville Family Festival

Centennial Park
2500 West End Ave
Nashville, TN 37203
September 27th, 10A-3P

Kidsville Family Festival returns to Centennial Park on September 27th, 2025 from 10 AM to 3 PM for a fun day filled with performances, crafts, games, face painting, food trucks, character meet and greets, and more.  The event is free and welcoming to children of all ages.

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Nashville Greek Festival

Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church
4905 Franklin Pike
Nashville, TN 37220
September 26-28th

The Nashville Greek Festival is back September 26–28, 2025 at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church on Franklin Pike—and it’s one of the city’s most beloved cultural events. For just $5, you’ll get a weekend pass to enjoy all the food, fun, and festivities. Kids 12 and under and first responders get in free.

This family-friendly festival is packed with authentic Greek food—think gyros, spanakopita, baklava, loukoumades, and more. You’ll also experience live music, traditional dancing, church tours, and a bustling Greek marketplace with imported goods and handmade treasures. It’s the perfect way to savor the sights, sounds, and flavors of Greece right here in Nashville.

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Hispanic Heritage Festival at Nashville Zoo

Nashville Zoo at Grassmere
3777 Nolensville Pike
Nashville, TN 37211
September 27th

Nashville Zoo partners with Conexion Americas for a Hispanic Heritage Festival (presented by Twice Daily) celebrating culture and community. The event features main stage entertainment, cultural performances, community partners, and interactive booths throughout the zoo.

Key Details:
– Included with general admission or membership
– Rain or shine event (some activities weather-dependent)

Highlights Include:
– Special Animal Encounters:Andean Bear, Guinea Pig, and Southern Pudu keeper chats; bilingual Flamingo Parade and animal encounters
– Wild Works Shows:English (1 PM) and Spanish (2 PM) performances
– Cultural Activities:Pan Dulce samples, craft stations, roaming Catrinas, Danza Azteca, and Mariachi Band performances
– Additional:Animal shows, Historic Home tours, and interpretation stations at relevant exhibits

Full schedule details will be published closer to the event date.

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Main Street Festival

Historic Downtown Gallatin Square
Gallatin, TN 37066
October 4th, 10A-5P

Main Street Festival is an annual event in downtown Gallatin.  Though it is the older of our two events, it has grown in size to over 200 vendors and in excess of 30,000 visitors! The Main Street Festival is a rain or shine event. We are the host for over 200 arts, crafts, non-profit and a few commercial vendors, have local entertainment performing throughout the day on our two stages, have a large children’s area and a food and eating area for the community to purchase something to eat and sit and enjoy the event.

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Nashville Oktoberfest

600 James Robertson Pkwy,
Nashville, TN 37243
October 2-5
Thursday 5:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Friday and Saturday 11:00 am – 11:00 pm
Sunday 11:00 am – 6:00 pm

General Admission: $10
Kids 3 and under: FREE

The region’s longest-running Oktoberfest celebration (consecutive since 1980) returns for a 4-day German heritage festival with tickets now available.

Festival Highlights:

• Authentic German Experience: Imported draft beer from Germany at multiple stations, traditional German food from dozens of vendors
• Live Entertainment: Multiple stages with electrifying performances and live music
• Family & Pet Fun: Pup Parade with costume contest, Dachshund Derby
• Special Events: Tennessee’s 2nd largest 5K Race & Run
• Additional Activities: Party tent with beer/bratwurst, arts & crafts vendors, and various events for all ages

The festival offers an immersive German cultural experience with something for everyone in the family.

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Celebrate Nashville Cultural Festival

Centennial Park
2500 West End Ave
Nashville, TN 37203
October 4th, 10A-6P

In a city where one in six residents is foreign–born, the Celebrate Nashville Cultural Festival is not only one of Nashville’s favorite and most vibrant festivals, but also a celebration and reminder of what makes Nashville a great place to live. This FREE Festival provides an opportunity for intercultural dialogue through a Nashville festival experience and features a variety of dance and musical performances on different stages, food vendors offering authentic and exotic tastes from around the world, hands-on children’s activities, an area just for teens, a marketplace, and so much more!

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Goats Music and More Fest 

Rock Creek Park
Lewisburg, TN
October 10-11

Goat shows that celebrate the fainting goat, prevalent in Marshall County, take place at the Goats, Music & More Festival. A grand champion is announced each year. This agricultural-focused event includes family-friendly activities like kids’ games and rides, goat yoga, arts, crafts and a variety of fair food. Free concerts are performed nightly by big-name acts like Deana Carter at Rock Creek Park.

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Tennessee Craft Fall Fair

Centennial Park
2500 West End Ave
Nashville, TN 37203
October 10-12, 10A-6P

Artists from across the nation will exhibit their handmade craft on the Great Lawn adjacent to the Parthenon, showcasing fine craft from clay, jewelry and leather to wood, glass, painting and more. The Kids’ Tent offers the experience for families to craft together or enjoy take-and-make activities.

This free event is accessible to the public – with free parking and free shuttle service on Saturday and Sunday. Shuttles will run in 15-minute loops from the HCA Parking Lots located on Park Plaza to the entrance of the Tennessee Craft Fair.

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Boo at the Zoo

Nashville Zoo at Grassmere
3777 Nolensville Pike
Nashville, TN 37211
October 17-November 1

Enjoy fall themed scenes and activities, trick or treating for the kids, special animal shows, and more at Nashville’s favorite Halloween event!

Festive Features

• Plenty of magical lit scenes and Instagram-worthy photo ops
• Enchanting giant hay creatures
• Spooktacular tunes on the Monster Mash Dance Floor
• Free rides on the Scary-Go-Round Carousel
• Special animal shows nightly at 5:45, 6:45 & 7:45 pm
• 10 trick-or-treat stations + a souvenir bag for kids ages 2-12
• Visit with costumed characters in Unseen New World Plaza
• Purchase & paint a pumpkin at our pumpkin patch
• Take a “Dying Superstitions and Traditions” tour at the Grassmere Historic Home

Tickets go on sale August 13th around 10 am.

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Light the Nations

51st Avenue N.
Nashville, TN 37209
October 18th, 2-10P

Light the Nations, is an event in West Nashville that highlights the area by featuring local food, music, businesses and art. A percentage of the festival funds will go to support Thistle Farms. There will be plenty of kids activities available, including face painting. For more information, and a schedule of events, be sure and check out their website.

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Dog Day Festival

Centennial Park
2500 West End Ave
Nashville, TN 37203
October 18th, 10A-4P

Nashville Humane’s annual Dog Day celebration returns for its 30+ year tradition as the city’s premier dog-focused festival, bigger than ever before. All proceeds benefit shelter pets at Nashville Humane Association, making this both a fun community celebration and charitable fundraiser supporting local animal welfare. The event welcomes dogs, kids, and families for a full day of entertainment while supporting a great cause.

Family & Pet Fun:

• Tito’s Doggie Fun Zone for pups
• Kids Zone with carnival games and inflatables
• Dog costume contests
• Live music and food trucks
• Vendor village with pet and people products

Adult Amenities:

• Beverage Garden featuring beer and Tito’s cocktails

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Webb School Arts & Craft Show

Downtown Bell Buckle- Maple Street
October 18th, 9A-5P
October 19th, 9A-4P

The Webb Art & Craft Show, held on the historic Sawney Webb lot on Maple Street, is the weekend’s premier event featuring over 100 booths of high-quality handmade arts and crafts.

Described as the “crown jewel” of the weekend, this show attracts quality artisans and offers something for even the most discerning shoppers, combining exceptional handcrafted goods with diverse culinary options.

In addition to the popular exhibitors located at the site of the original Webb Art & Craft show, there is an all-world food truck offering. And we do mean all-world, as in food choices showcasing a variety of cuisine from all over the world.

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Rutherford Parent’s Fall Kids Fest

The Avenue Murfreesboro
2615 Medical Center Pkwy
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
(Behind Belk)
October 18th, 10A-2P

This community event offers a full day of autumn-themed fun designed specifically for families with children.

Activities Include:

• Pumpkin decorating
• Inflatable bounce houses
• Climbing wall
• Various other children’s activities
• Local vendor booths
• Free giveaways
• Live entertainment (dance performances, science shows, live music)

Weather Policy: Event will be rescheduled to Sunday, October 19th (11 AM – 3 PM) in case of rain.

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Southern Festival of Books

Downtown Nashville at the Bicentennial Mall, Tennessee State Museum, and Tennessee State Library.
October 18th- 9A-6P
October 19th- 10A-5PM

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The Heritage Foundation of Williamson County’s 37th Annual PumpkinFest 

Main Street, Downtown Franklin, TN
October 25th, 10A-6P

The Heritage Foundation of Williamson County presents Middle Tennessee’s largest family fall festival – the 40th Annual PumpkinFest – returning Saturday, October 25, 2025, in downtown Franklin along Main Street.

Festival Highlights:

• 140+ Arts & Crafts Vendors featuring seasonal and specialty gifts
• 30+ Food & Beverage Vendors with autumn-inspired options
• Live Entertainment: Acoustic Stage and Main Stage (presented by Nissan)
• Family Fun: KidZone (Hope UC Nashville), Pet & People Costume Contests (Jackson®)
• Special Experiences: Pumpkin Experience (Allied Global Marketing), Autumn Alley
• Adult Beverages: Whiskey Lounge (Leipers Fork Distillery) and Beer Garden (Bavarian Bierhaus)

This milestone 40th anniversary celebration offers a full day of fall festivities for all ages, combining local crafts, diverse food options, live music, and family-friendly activities in the heart of historic downtown Franklin.

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GOODfest in the Park

Moss-Wright Park
745 Caldwell Drive
Goodlettsville, TN 37072
October 25th, 11A-3P

Goodlettsville’s premier annual fall festival returns Saturday, October 25, 2025, 11 AM-3 PM at Moss-Wright Park (745 Caldwell Drive). Previously known as GOODFest & Fall Market + Halloween in the Park, this free family event drew over 9,000 attendees in 2024.

Event Features:

• Shopping & Dining: Vendor marketplace and food court
• Entertainment: DJ with line dancing and live entertainment
• Family Activities: Free children’s areas with inflatables
• Halloween Fun: Candy trail for trick-or-treating
• Local Shopping: Goodlettsville Visitor’s Center & Gift Shop open during event

2025 Improvements: New enhanced layout designed for better guest navigation, improved traffic flow, and increased vendor/sponsor visibility.

This established community celebration combines shopping, dining, entertainment, and seasonal festivities, offering significant exposure opportunities for businesses while providing thousands of families with free autumn fun in Goodlettsville.

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El Día de los Muertos

Cheekwood
1200 Forrest Park Drive
Nashville, TN 37205
November 1-2
9:00 am – 5:00 pm

Cheekwood presents Nashville’s largest Day of the Dead celebration with their 26th annual El Día de los Muertos festival, bringing authentic Mexican and Latin American traditions to the region.

El Día de los Muertos is one of Mexico and Latin America’s most important celebrations, featuring colorful decorations, energetic music, and elaborate displays that honor ancestors while celebrating the continuance of life.

• Art & Memorials: Day of the Dead murals by local middle/high school students, beautiful ofrendas (memorial altars)
• Performances: Latin and Aztec dance performances, traditional musical entertainment
• Authentic Experience: Traditional cuisine and handmade goods
• Family Activities: Hands-on activities for children of all ages

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Fall Festival at Gilda’s Club Middle Tennessee

Gilda’s Club Middle Tennessee
1707 Division St, Nashville, TN 37203
November 15, 11A-3P

A free, open house-style community celebration in its second year, showcasing the supportive spirit of Gilda’s Club Middle Tennessee.

Event Purpose:
– Celebrate community, togetherness, and mutual support
– Introduce the public to Gilda’s Club’s mission and cancer support resources
– Demonstrate the organization’s programs for those affected by cancer, including families and friends

What to Expect:
– Fun activities for all ages
– Live entertainment
– Food and refreshments
– Opportunities to connect with community members
– Learn about valuable support programs and resources

Open to All:
The festival welcomes both current members and newcomers curious about Gilda’s Club, providing an accessible way to experience the organization’s caring community spirit and understand how they support those impacted by cancer.

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Zoolumination

Nashville Zoo at Grassmere
3777 Nolensville Pike
Nashville, TN 37211
November 13th-January 4

A spectacular winter light festival featuring over 1,000 illuminated lanterns (some reaching 100 feet long and 50 feet high) with new designs for 2025.

Main Attractions:
– Radiant wildlife displays combining animals and lights
– North Pole Village with holiday decorations
– Santa visits (Nov. 28-Dec. 24, starting 5 PM)
– Smashville Ice Rink (outdoor skating under lantern-lit skies)

Ticket Options:
– **Platinum Pass:** Unlimited visits – Adults/Teens $39, Kids 2-12 $29
– **Single-Night:** One visit – Adults/Teens $25, Kids 2-12 $21 (Members save $5)
– Children under 2 free but require tickets

Event Features:
– Live entertainment nightly (6, 7, 8 PM at Ajax Turner Amphitheater)
– Select animals viewable until 8:30 PM (tigers, bears, flamingos)
– Food/beverages available until 8 PM (Chinese takeout menu, pizza, hot cocoa, cocktails)
– Ice skating requires separate ticket purchase (45-minute sessions with rental skates)

Important Details:
– Advanced tickets recommended
– $10 parking (free for members)
– Rain or shine event, no refunds

What is your favorite fall festival to attend?