“It’s the most wonderful time of the year”….. Temperatures are dropping, and the holiday season is upon us. November to New Year’s is my favorite time of the year because there are so many family-friendly fun events going on. We have gathered a list of everything you need to fill up your calendar with seasonal fun!
2025 Nashville Family Christmas and Holiday Event Round-Up
Events and Festivities
A Country Christmas at Gaylord Opryland
November 7, 2025 – January 3, 2026
There is no better way to celebrate the holidays than gathering your family for A Country Christmas at Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville.
*ICE! Featuring “A Charlie Brown Christmas”
*Pomp, Snow & CIRCUEumstance
*Gingerbread Decorating Corner
*Merry Snoopy Christmas Scavenger Hunt
*Photos with Santa
*Ice Tubing
*Ice Skating (and lessons)
*Build-A-Bear Workshop
*Breakfast with Charlie Brown & Friends
*Bumper Cars
*Christmas Lights, Santa & More!
Holiday LIGHTS at Cheekwood
November 21, 2025 – January 04, 2026 | 4:30 – 10 PM
Nashville’s classic holiday tradition returns, featuring a one-mile twinkling trail featuring more than a million lights that set Cheekwood Estate & Gardens aglow. A 28-foot Pixel Pine Tree welcomes you on a journey through Cheekwood transformed into a winter wonderland. Warm up with hot cocoa and seasonal libations, roast s’mores by a fire, and explore the Holiday Marketplace. Tour the Historic Mansion, festively decorated by former Chief White House Florist Laura Dowling.
Whether you’re returning for Nashville’s classic holiday tradition or experiencing it for the first time, Holiday LIGHTS at Cheekwood welcomes you to the season with wonder, warmth, and timeless joy.
The Dancing Lights of Christmas
November 8, 2025- January 4, 2026
Experience Tennessee’s largest drive through lights and music show. Admission includes Santa’s Village, a visit with Santa and a petting zoo!
1033 Sparta Pike, Lebanon
Sunday–Thursday 5-10 pm
Friday–Saturday 5-11 pm
$35 per family vehicle*
Franktown Festival of Lights
November 21 – December 31, 2025 | 5-9PM
Williamson County Ag Expo Center, 4215 Long Lane, Franklin, TN
Celebrate the holidays with us at our nightly mile-and-a-half light spectacular, featuring more than 200 synchronized lights. Listen to holiday music on your car radio, take selfies by the stunning Christmas tree, make s’mores by the fire pits, and savor snacks from the food truck. New this year: Free photos with Santa!
In addition, invite your friends and family to join you for a delightful stroll along the illuminated path on Walkin’ Wednesdays. Capture moments by the Christmas Tree and enjoy s’mores by the cozy fire. This unique experience is open for walkers Nov 26, and Dec 3, 10, 17 from 5:00-6:30PM.
The ticket price remains the same so load up the car! Feel free to bring your furry friends, as dogs on leashes are welcome. The route opens to vehicles at 7:00PM on these special evenings.
Dickens of a Christmas
December 13-14, Saturday 10A-6P, Sunday 11A-5P
Dickens of a Christmas presented by Wilson Bank & Trust recreates the time of Charles Dickens using historic downtown Franklin’s charming architecture as the backdrop. A variety of musicians, dancers and Dickens characters will fill the streets. Expect to see and interact with the nefarious Fagin from Oliver Twist; Jacob Marley, Ebenezer Scrooge, Tiny Tim and the rest of the Cratchit family from A Christmas Carol; and of course, a Victorian Father and Mother Christmas with treats for children. The festival is produced by the Heritage Foundation of Williamson County.
Featuring:
- Arts & Crafts Vendors
- Food & Beverage Vendors
- Main Stage Entertainment presented by Nissan
- KidZone presented by The Friendship Factory
- Victorian Village with Holiday Dancers, Characters and Carolers
- Acoustic Stage
- StoryTimes presented by Atmos Energy & Hart and Home
- Whiskey Lounge by Leiper’s Fork Distillery
- Beer Garden by Bavarian Bierhaus
Nashville’s Nutcracker
November 29 – December 28, 2025
This holiday season, step into a world of wonder as Nashville Ballet presents the return of a beloved tradition, Nashville’s Nutcracker, choreographed by Artistic Director Emeritus Paul Vasterling. A dazzling blend of history, imagination, and timeless storytelling, this Emmy Award-winning production has become the crown jewel of Middle Tennessee’s holiday season and a cherished experience for audiences of all ages.
Set against the rich backdrop of Music City’s past, this uniquely Nashville retelling of the classic tale invites you to journey with Clara and her Nutcracker Prince through a magical world of twinkling snowflakes, the breathtaking Kingdom of the Sweets, and a daring battle with the Mouse King all brought to life by live music from The Nashville Symphony.
Whether it’s a treasured annual tradition or your very first time, Nashville’s Nutcracker is the perfect holiday gift to share with friends and family. Join us as we light up the stage and the season with this unforgettable holiday classic – a sparkling celebration of joy, music, and dance that only Nashville Ballet can deliver.
Zoolumination at the Nashville Zoo
Nightly, November 13-January 4 | 5-9PM
Thursday-Sunday, January 8-February 8 | 5-9PM
See the zoo in a whole new light! Visit the country’s largest Chinese lantern festival featuring magical scenes of more than 1000 custom made silk lanterns!
Live Entertainment – Special Zoolumination entertainers perform nightly at 6:00, 7:00 and 8:00pm at the Ajax Turner Amphitheater.
Animal Friends – Most of our animals go to bed before dark. However, Sumatran tiger, Andean bear and flamingos can stay up until 8:30 pm. Unseen New World will be open all night except on select weekend nights for Night Owls.
Beverages – Hot cocoa (spiked available), beer, margaritas, specialty cocktails, coffee and soda will be available for purchase until around 8:00 pm nightly.
Food – Quills Café & Grill will be open, featuring a delicious Chinese takeout–themed menu, along with Screaming Gibbon Pizza Kitchen serving fresh, made-to-order pizza. Festive sweet treats and classic Zoo snacks will be available at concession stands until around 8:00 pm nightly.
Meet Santa – From Nov. 28 to Dec. 24, meet Santa at the barn behind the Historic Home starting at 5:00 pm.
The Smashville Ice Rink, presented by the Nashville Predators – Tickets for ice skating must be purchased in addition to Single-Night Admission or Platinum Pass tickets and include a 45-minute session and skate rentals. Tickets can be purchased online, at Entry Village, or at the ice rink.
Know Before You Go – Advance tickets are suggested! Parking is $10. Members and Platinum Pass park free. This is a rain, snow or shine event. No refunds or rainchecks.
Holly Jolly Festival of Lights at Lucky Ladd Farms
November 28 – December 21
Wednesday through Sunday | 5-9PM
BONUS DAYS: December 22 & 23
Monday & Tuesday | 5-9PM
Looking for a Christmas light show near Nashville? Lucky Ladd Farms is excited to offer family-friendly holiday activities with our very own Christmas events. Stroll our nearly mile-long trail of outdoor Christmas lights in Middle Tennessee! All ages will enjoy this magical Christmas festival featuring thousands of twinkling lights, a live nativity scene with some of your favorite farm animals, and some of the best holiday light displays with fun photo ops in all of Tennessee. So if your wondering where to see Christmas lights in town, then you’ll find us conveniently located near Franklin, Murfreesboro, and Nashville!
Featuring:
- Walkable trail of lights with charming Christmas displays
- Nativity Scene
- Meet New Animal Friends
- Barnyard Pony Rides
- Christmas Shopping
- Cozy Campfires
- S’Mores Roasting
- Letters to Santa Station
- Character Meet ‘N Greets
- Snow Globe Experience
- Face painting
- Fresh baked cookies and hot cocoa bar
Ticket Options:
- General Admission (Ages 2+) – $16
- Children Under 2 – FREE
- Parking – FREE
2025 Season Pass Members save $4 off each standard general admission ticket Thursday through Sunday nights, and $2 off Wednesday nights!
Tickets are priced per person.
Nashvillage Holiday Bash
December 4 – 5 | 4-10p
December 6 | 11a-10p
December 7 | 11a-7p
Location: Walk of Fame Park, Downtown Nashville
‘Tis the season to get festive! Enjoy a holiday cocktail while you shop for thoughtful gifts from the curated selection of local artisans, participate in a community tree lighting, capture the perfect group photo, warm up around a campfire while listening to live music, and so much more. This event is FREE and will include seasonal activities for all ages.
Kick off the festive weekend at the Tree Lighting on Thursday, December 4th at 7:00pm. Everyone is invited to join in this free community tree lighting while enjoying holiday cocktails, local vendors, live holiday music, food trucks and much more.
Additional activities include:
- Photos with Santa – Saturday, December 6th, 1pm-4pm
- Holiday Cocktail Bash – Enjoy an upgraded experience on Friday, December 5th with holiday themed cocktails, festive treats, a special guest DJ, and much more. *This is a ticketed event.
- Letters to Santa
- Ornament crafts
- Holiday cocktails – The bars onsite will offer festive cocktails along with traditional beverages.
Christmas Parades
Franklin Kiwanis Christmas Parade
Saturday, December 6, 1p
Winding through the heart of Historic Downtown Franklin, the Franklin Christmas Parade is a beloved community celebration of Christmas traditions and the magic of Main Street. For over 30 years, this cherished event has filled the streets of Franklin with holiday cheer, bringing joy to participants and spectators alike as we gather to celebrate the season and welcome Santa Claus to town.
This year, our theme is “I’ll Be Home For Christmas.” The parade will highlight the historic beauty of our downtown while celebrating the warmth, spirit, and togetherness that define our community.
As of 2023, the Downtown Franklin Rotary has been entrusted with this legacy event. We are honored to take on this responsibility and are committed to continuing this cherished tradition as a joyful expression of gratitude to the community we serve and the vibrant city of Franklin.
The Franklin Christmas Parade is always held on the first Saturday in December, following the City’s Christmas Tree lighting.
Join us on Saturday, December 6, at 1:00 PM for a magical holiday experience on Franklin’s Main Street!
Holidays in the Vue Parade (Bellevue)
Saturday, December 6, 10a
We can’t wait to bring you the second annual Holidays in the Vue parade, presented by Allegiance Pressure Washing. This parade is a family-oriented event for the Bellevue community and designed to celebrate December holidays and observances, including Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa.
The parade route steps off at Bellevue Middle School and ends at One Bellevue Place (approx. 1.2 miles).
City of Goodlettsville Christmas Parade
Saturday, December 6, 4PM
The Annual Goodlettsville Christmas Parade will take place on Saturday, December 6, 2025 at 4:00pm. The parade begins at the Delmas Long Community Center (200 Memorial Drive) and continues up Memorial Drive, taking a right onto Main Street and ending at the Goodlettsville Plaza (Rivergate Parkway).
City of Clarksville & Montgomery County Lighted Christmas Parade
Saturday, December 6, 5p
The City of Clarksville and Montgomery County jointly present the annual Lighted Christmas Parade on the first Saturday of December at 5:00 pm.
Gather with the community for one of Clarksville’s most cherished holiday traditions—the Lighted Christmas Parade. This annual evening event brings Downtown Clarksville to life with glowing floats, music, and joyful spirit. Local businesses, organizations, and groups are invited to participate and help light up the night. Spectators can line the route for free as the parade rolls out from Austin Peay through Historic Downtown.
This year’s theme is Christmas Through the Decades.
Hendersonville Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting Ceremony
Sunday, December 7, 2p
The 2025 Parade Theme is “Holly Jolly Christmas.”
It’s the most wonderful time of the year…and the most popular and exciting event of the holiday season! Don’t miss the 2025 Hendersonville, TN Christmas Parade + Tree Lighting Ceremony on Sunday, December 7th, 2025 at 2:00 pm.
The parade makes it’s way down main street and boasts over 50 floats, trailers, dancers, entertainers, and of course, SANTA himself at the end of the parade!
The Tree Lighting Ceremony is directly after the parade at Memorial Park!
Columbia Main Street Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting
Tree Lighting Ceremony: Friday, November 7, 5p
The holiday season will kick off with the magical Tree Lighting Ceremony during November’s First Fridays on Friday, November 7th from 5-8 PM with Santa and Mrs. Claus lighting the tree at 6:30 pm. Enjoy a vibrant holiday atmosphere with local craft vendors, food trucks, and other holiday-inspired, family-friendly activities throughout the evening.
Christmas Parade: Saturday, December 6, 6p
Columbia Main Street Corporation, in partnership with the City of Columbia, invites you to attend the 39th annual Columbia Main Street Parade on Saturday, December 6th starting at 6 pm.
Parade of Lights, La Vergne
Saturday, December 6, 5p
The 15th annual Parade of Lights will be held Saturday, December 6, 2025 at 5 p.m. The parade begins at City Hall and ends at Veterans Memorial Park, where the tree lighting ceremony and fireworks show will take place.
This year’s theme is “T’was the Night Before Christmas.”
All parade participants are being asked to decorate their cars, floats, or signs with lights for the event which will take place after dark. In addition, no candy or other handouts will be distributed along the parade route for safety reasons.
Following the parade, there will be Christmas carols, cookies, fireworks, and pictures with Santa!
Bell Buckle Pet Parade
Saturday, December 6, 12p
The first Saturday in December means the ever-popular Christmas Pet Parade going right down Main Street! It’s a sight to see all those happy pets and their owners strutting on Main Street in their festive holiday attire!
City of Lebanon Christmas Parade
Sunday, December 7, 2p
It’s that magical time of year again when Lebanon transforms into a Winter Wonderland! Mark your calendars for Sunday, December 7, and get ready to celebrate the holiday season at Lebanon’s 2025 Christmas Parade!
Smyrna Christmas Parade
Sunday, December 7, 2p
Leiper’s Fork Christmas Parade
Saturday, December 13, 2p
Enjoy a good ole fashioned country Christmas parade in the heart of Leiper’s Fork. Hailed as “almost famous”, see cows, goats, pigs, antique tractors, floats and more in this wacky but wonderful event! Please arrive early as there is only ONE road thru the village and it will be closed at 1:50pm.
Spring Hill Christmas Parade
Saturday, December 13, 5p
Come join us for the annual Spring Hill Christmas Parade, a festive event that brings the community together to celebrate the holiday season! Taking place on Saturday, December 13, 2025 at 5:00 PM, this in-person parade promises to be a delightful experience for people of all ages Rain or Shine!
Don’t forget to dress warmly and bring your holiday spirit!
Gallatin Christmas Parade presented by The Primrose School of Gallatin
Saturday, December 13, 12p
Christmas Is…
City of Mt. Juliet Christmas Parade
Saturday, December 13, 11a
Rainout date: Sunday, December 14, 1p
Parade Route: West Wilson Middle School to East Division (Approximately 1.4 miles)
Grand Marshal: Retired Astronaut Barry Wilmore
City of Eagleville Christmas Parade
Saturday, December 13, 5p
Check our website for important updates and information!
Murfreesboro Christmas Parade
Sunday, December 14, 2p
Sights and sounds of the holiday season coming soon at the annual Murfreesboro Christmas Parade! This year’s theme is “A Sweet Christmas.” Floats, musical acts, and, of course, Santa and his sleigh will travel down Main Street beginning at MTSU and ending at the Historic Downtown Square.
Springfield Christmas Parade
Saturday, December 6, 5:30pm
Celebrate the holiday season in Downtown Springfield at the annual night-time Christmas parade on December 6, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. Parade floats will be adorned with bright, twinkling lights and decorations that showcase community spirit and holiday cheer.
If you’re looking for a fun and festive way to get into the holiday spirit, this parade is not to be missed. Bring your family and friends along for a night of wonder as you watch the brightly lit floats pass by with the sounds of jingle bells ringing through the streets. You might even catch a glimpse of Santa himself! Participants will travel up to 1.5 miles. The parade will begin at the intersection of 10th Avenue and South Main Street. The parade will continue north and turn left onto 5th Avenue. Participants will turn right onto Connell Street, where the parade will end.
Santa Sightings
Santa at Opry Mills
November 7 – December 24
The ultimate holiday tradition awaits and Santa is making a list and checking it twice – so reserve your photos with Santa today!
Santa arrives on Friday, November 7th and will be here through December 24th. Book early to ensure your spot to see Santa.
Park and enter at Entry 2.
*Pet Photos is November 23rd | 7-8p
*Caring Santa (sensory friendly event) is December 7th | 9:30-10:30a
Santa’s Wonderland at Bass Pro Shop, Opry Mills
November 1st | 5p
Experience the magic of Christmas at Santa’s Wonderland. Reservations recommended.
Free activities:
- Experience Santa’s magical arrival
- Tree lighting
- Seasonal treats
Free kids’ giveaway (while supplies last).
Santa at Gaylord Opryland
November 7-December 24
Friday – Sunday 10am-2pm & 3pm-8pm
Monday – Thursday 12pm-4pm & 4:30-8pm*
**November 27th, December 13-24th, hours are 10am-2pm & 3pm-8pm
Duration: Reservations are sold in 15-minute increments between hours of operation.
Know Before You Go:
- Tickets must be purchased in advance, online. No on-site box office.
- Tickets are non-refundable. Optional ticket insurance is available for purchase.
- Event location is Delta Atrium.
- Additional fees for parking are non included in admission and charges will apply.
- Personal Photography is not permitted.
- Please arrive 5 minutes prior to scheduled time.
- Other restrictions may apply
Santa at Cool Springs Galleria
November 8 – December 24
Visit Santa in the Center Court, lower level
Step into the festive world of Santa Claus this season when you visit Santa at Santa’s Workshop. Fill out your Dear Santa Letter, take your annual photo with the man in red himself, then don’t forget to drop off your letter in Santa’s mailbox. Reservations for Santa are encouraged, however, not required. For full hours, tap the “Reserve Now” button below.
- Monday – Thursday: 11am – 7pm, Friday – Saturday: 10am – 8pm, Sunday: 12pm – 6pm
*Please note: Santa takes a break to feed the reindeer from 3pm to 4pm on Monday thru Thursday, 1pm to 2pm and 5pm to 5:45pm on Friday & Saturday, and 2:30pm to 3pm on Sunday. - Pet photos with Santa: Mondays through December 15th
- Black Santa Days: November 20th – 24th, December 4th – 8th
Santa’s Flight Academy at The Mall at Green Hills
November 7th – December 24th
Upper level near Macy’s
On November 15th, Welcome Santa to Nashville with The Mall at Green Hills and the Nashville Predators! There will be games, crafts*, snacks*, music and jolly good fun for the whole family, including a special appearance by Santa! Plus, Gaylord Opryland Resort will be giving away two tickets to ICE! featuring A Charlie Brown Christmas to the first 50 households who check-in at the event.
This event is FREE, but you must reserve your ticket. See website for information and tickets.
*Black Santa November 18th – 19th, December 6th – 7th
*Santa Paws November 16th, December 23rd
*Sensory Santa December 7th.
Milk & Cookie Pictures with Santa at Kid’s Corner
November 9th, 12 – 2p
2705 Old Fort Pkwy Suite K, Murfreesboro
Make magical moments with Santa at Kids Corner! Each household will need only one ticket, and you will receive 3-5 fully edited, high resolution digital images. This year we are excited to use Shanda Spitzer Photography for our photos.
The Big Event Pictures with Santa 2025
November 15th-December 23rd
2226 N Mt Juliet Rd, Mt Juliet
Join us for a Christmas tradition full of joy, laughter, and unforgettable memories—10 years in the making! Capture the joy and wonder of the season as your little ones share their wish lists and smiles with Santa. Expect laughter, excitement, and unforgettable memories. Book your session now and make this holiday season truly special. Walk-ins are welcome anytime, and appointments can be made!
Cookies & Cocoa with Santa at Lucky Ladd Farms
December 6, 13, 14, 20, 21
Saturday seating times: 10:30 am, 12:00 pm, 1:30 pm, 3:00 pm, & 4:30 pm
Sunday seating times: 1:30 pm, 3:00 pm, & 4:30 pm
Looking for Christmas events for families near Nashville? Make Lucky Ladd Farms a part of your Christmastime traditions. We welcome you to join us for fun family-friendly Christmas activities as you enjoy hot cocoa, cookies, and discover the best place to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus in Middle Tennessee! Find us conveniently located near Franklin, Murfreesboro, and Nashville!
Christmas Event Activities Include:
- A festive holiday atmosphere including music, merriment, and fun photo ops to capture the spirit of the season
- Cookie decorating
- A cup of hot cocoa or iced-cold milk
- Make a bag of reindeer food to have ready for Christmas eve
- Meet Santa and Mrs. Clause
- Take a picture with Santa (bring your camera or phone to snap the photo)
- Enjoy story time with Mrs. Claus
- Receive a commemorative Christmas ornament
Ticket Options:
- Cookies & Cocoa with Santa (Ages 2+) – $20
- Cookies & Cocoa with Santa (Infant/Toddler – Under Age 2) – $12
- Cookies & Cocoa with Santa” -AND- Holly Jolly Festival of Lights Combo (Ages 2+) – $36
2025 Season Pass Members save $4 off each “Cookies & Cocoa with Santa” ticket and $8 off a combo ticket!
Tickets are priced per person.
Santa at the Nashville Farmers Market
December 6th, 10a – 2p
Join us for a FREE day of holiday fun, including free pictures with SANTA! On Saturday, December 6 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., you’ll find free pictures with Santa, crafts, cookies and caroling at the TN State Museum, live music, handcrafted gifts from local vendors, seasonal specials, winter produce, baked goods and more! The event is free, and parking is also free.
Photos with Santa at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
December 20th, 10a – 12p
The Museum Store, 222 Rep John Lewis Way S., Nashville
Saturday, December 20, from 10:00 AM to noon, bring the whole family to The Museum Store, where they can take free photos with Santa Claus on the Gretsch stage. Plus, check those final names off your list—browse records, apparel, books, and instruments at The Museum Store or shop handmade holiday décor and stationary from Hatch Show Print.
