With the onset of the holiday season and the transformation of Downtown Nashville into a Christmas/winter wonderland, it is the perfect time to immerse yourself in the festive charm and celebratory culture of Music City.
A combination of dazzling light displays, family-friendly performances, hands-on activities, and delicious seasonal dining ensures visitors in Nashville get unforgettable experiences.
And there’s no better place to stay during your holiday adventure than Motif on Music Row. Our all-suite hotel provides the perfect home base for exploring the city’s holiday treasures with comfort and style.
Holiday Light Displays for All Ages
Nashville’s light displays are a must-see during the holiday season. Not only do they bring the city to life with twinkling brilliance, but they also showcase creative lighting that might inspire your own Christmas lighting when you go back home. Here are three highlights that promise to captivate the entire family:
Gaylord Opryland’s A Country Christmas
Step into a magical world at Gaylord Opryland’s A Country Christmas, where millions of twinkling lights illuminate the resort. With over 9 acres of extravagant décor and over 3 million twinkling lights, this annual tradition features legendary and is a must-visit for all Nashville residents and visitors.
Additionally, you can join in a nightly fun on the Magnolia Lawn to watch the spectacular tree lighting and sing Christmas carols.
However, the fun does not end with the breathtaking displays; indulge in ice skating, tubing, soundwave water experience, gingerbread decorating, and themed attractions. Kids will love meeting holiday characters, while parents can enjoy the intricate decor and festive atmosphere.
Cheekwood Holiday LIGHTS
For an enchanting outdoor experience, visit Cheekwood Estate & Gardens during its Holiday LIGHTS event (from November 22, 2014 to January 5, 2025). Take a one-mile stroll with your family through themed displays, including a stunning tunnel of lights, while sipping hot cocoa and enjoying seasonal music.
The 10th annual holiday light show at the historic mansion features a botanical garden transformed with over a million lights, creating a dazzling winter wonderland, holiday marketplace, seasonal libations, and s’mores.
Zoolumination at Nashville Zoo
Get ready for a unique twist on traditional light shows at Zoolumination, hosted by the Nashville Zoo. The lantern festival features more than 1,000 custom-made animal-shaped silk lanterns (some 100 feet long and 50 feet high) that light up the night, showcasing creatures from across the globe.
Aside from spectacular lighting, the event features live entertainment, Meet Santa, foods and beverages, the Smashville Ice Rink, and more. It’s an unforgettable experience for kids and adults alike, combining the wonder of nature with holiday magic.
Family-Friendly Performances and Events
Nashville’s vibrant arts and entertainment scene comes alive during the holidays with family-friendly performances and events. Here are a few events you can add to your itinerary:
The Nutcracker by the Nashville Ballet
Introduce your family to the timeless magic of The Nutcracker performed by the Nashville Ballet. This enchanting production combines magic, history, and dance and features dazzling costumes, stunning choreography, and the iconic Tchaikovsky score, all set in a festive theater ambiance.
The cherished holiday tradition is a 2020 Emmy Award-winning film winner and named the 2022 Best Dance Production by Broadway World Nashville. You can rest assured it will leave a lasting impression on children and adults alike.
Holiday Concerts at the Ryman Auditorium
No visit to Nashville is complete without experiencing live music; this holiday period is no exception. The historic Ryman Auditorium hosts a series of family-friendly holiday concerts that blend seasonal cheer with the city’s iconic musical heritage. From country classics to gospel harmonies, there’s something to delight every member of the family.
Some of the acts scheduled to perform include Robert Earl Keen, Amy Grant & Vince Gill, Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder, Old Crow Medicine, Wyatt Flores Suki Waterhouse and much more.
Franklin’s Dickens of a Christmas
Take a short drive to every charming downtown Franklin for the 39th annual Dickens of a Christmas festival, a celebration that brings Victorian holiday traditions to life. Stroll through the streets adorned with festive decorations while enjoying performances by carolers, street actors, and musicians as they recreate the works and times of Charles Dickens.
With horse-drawn carriages, arts and crafts vendors, and delicious treats, this event offers a nostalgic holiday experience for all ages.
Hands-On Holiday Activities
Aside from enjoying light shows and live entertainment, you might want to enjoy Nashville’s hands-on activities as a family to create cherished memories together. Here are a few interactive holiday experiences to enjoy:
Gingerbread Decorating at Gaylord Opryland
Unleash your inner pastry artist with Gingerbread Decorating at Gaylord Opryland. Families can work together to design edible masterpieces while surrounded by festive cheer. It’s a fun and tasty activity that kids will love—and parents might find equally delightful.
Ice Skating at Several Locations in Middle Tennessee
Lace up your skates and skate into the holiday spirit at any one of the ice rinks in Downtown Nashville or Middle Tennessee. This indoor and outdoor activity is perfect for families enjoying active fun amidst Nashville’s festive backdrop. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or trying it for the first time, this experience is sure to help you break some sweat and bring laughter and joy.
Craft Workshops at Local Markets
Explore Nashville’s holiday markets, where families can participate in craft workshops to create personalized ornaments or holiday cards. These hands-on activities foster creativity and provide unique keepsakes to commemorate your holiday getaway.
Some markets offering family-friendly craft workshops include The Chattanooga Holiday Market, Knoxville’s Christkindlmarkt, Nashville Christmas Village, Memphis Holiday Market, and Gatlinburg Winter Magic Festival.
Seasonal Dining Experiences for Families
Explore Nashville’s seasonal culinary delights with seasonal dining experiences that cater to the whole family. Here are a few options to consider:
Breakfast with Santa
Treat your little ones to an unforgettable Breakfast with Santa at local restaurants or holiday events. Enjoy a delicious meal while meeting the man in red, creating memories your children will cherish for years.
On December 14, many restaurants will have breakfast with Santa events, including Father Ryan, Lucky Ladd Farms, C C Banquet & Event Space, and the Aquarium Restaurant at Opry Mills.
Hot Cocoa Stops
Warm up with a visit to family-friendly cafés and bakeries offering decadent hot cocoa and holiday-themed treats. From classic marshmallow-topped cups to gourmet creations, these stops are perfect for recharge during your festive explorations.
The Rainforest Cafe in Opry Mills, the Aquarium Restaurant in Opry Mills, Five Daughters, D’Andrews Bakery & Café, Parlor Doughnuts, and Maggiano’s Little Italy are excellent cafes.
Holiday-Themed Restaurants
Celebrate the season with a meal at one of Nashville’s holiday-themed restaurants. The Scoreboard, BoomBozz East, Margaritaville, Nectar, and Ole Red are a few restaurants you should consider. These establishments offer kid-friendly menus and festive decor, ensuring a dining experience that’s both fun and satisfying for the entire family.
Holiday Fun at Motif on Music Row
When it comes to creating a magical holiday experience, Motif on Music Row has you covered. Our all-suite accommodations and prime location make it easy to enjoy Nashville’s festive offerings while relaxing in style. Here’s how we can enhance your holiday stay:
In-Room Celebrations
Bring the holiday spirit into your suite with in-room celebrations. Families can enjoy activities like decorating cookies, playing games that infuse a Christmas theme, watching Christmas movies, or even hosting a mini gift exchange. Our spacious accommodations provide the perfect setting for creating cozy holiday memories.
Proximity to Attractions
Located in the heart of Downtown Nashville, Motif on Music Row offers unparalleled proximity to the city’s top holiday attractions. Whether you’re heading to Gaylord Opryland, Cheekwood, or the Ryman Auditorium, you’ll love the convenience of staying just minutes away from the action.
Special Holiday Packages
Take advantage of our family-focused holiday packages designed to make your stay even more memorable. Book Direct on our website and Save 25% off stays of 3 nights or more. No promo code is needed! Valid for stays December 1 – February 28. Contact us on [phone] for more insight into our family-centric packages designed to make your family getaway as pocket-friendly as possible.
Plan Your Festive Family Getaway Today
With dazzling lights, heartwarming performances, hands-on activities, and delicious dining options, Nashville is the ultimate destination for family-friendly holiday fun. And with Motif on Music Row as your home away from home, you can enjoy the perfect balance of comfort, convenience, and holiday cheer.
Don’t wait to plan your holiday adventure. Book your stay at Motif on Music Row today and create memories that will last a lifetime. Call us at [phone] or reserve your suite online and start your festive journey in Music City!