The holiday season in Nashville adds a special kind of charm to family outings, with twinkling displays, festive attractions, and experiences that feel thoughtfully designed for all ages. Whether you’re filling a weekend itinerary or simply looking for ways to embrace the seasonal spirit with little ones, these kid-friendly activities offer a seamless way to step into the magic and make the most of your time in Music City.
Christmas at Gaylord
Dates: Now – Jan. 4, 2026
Location: 2800 Opryland Dr, Nashville, TN
Gaylord Opryland transforms into a holiday showcase, with millions of lights, indoor snow areas, and enormous ice sculptures. Families can explore the ICE! exhibit, take part in scavenger hunts, or ride ice bumper cars while holiday music plays overhead. There are plenty of photo opportunities with Snoopy and other festive characters, keeping kids entertained. It’s a full day of holiday sights and activities that works for both little ones and older kids.
Holiday Lights at Cheekwood
Dates: Now – Jan. 4, 2026
Location: 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville, TN
Cheekwood hosts their annual holiday lights display, turning the grounds into a sparkling wonderland each year with more than a million twinkling lights along winding paths. Kids can dart between glowing displays, pause at fire pits for a warm hand or marshmallow, and explore the historic mansion, festively decorated with whimsical holiday scenes. The towering Pixel Pine Tree lights up the night, making it a perfect spot for family photos. This yearly tradition mixes outdoor magic with a touch of elegance, giving families a chance to soak in the season at their own pace.
Dancing Lights of Christmas
Dates: Now – Jan. 4, 2026
Location: 1033 Sparta Pike, Lebanon, TN
This drive-thru light show pairs synchronized displays with holiday music for a simple, festive experience. Santa’s Village offers rides, a petting zoo, and snack stops along the way. For families with younger kids, it’s a low-stress way to see the lights while staying cozy in the car. The combination of music, lights, and extras like treats makes it easy to turn a short visit into a full evening outing.
Zoolumination
Dates: Now – Jan. 4, 2026
Location: 3777 Nolensville Pike, Nashville, TN
The Nashville Zoo comes alive at night with silk lanterns in the shapes of animals and fantastical creatures. Kids can explore glowing pathways, catch live performances, and meet Santa on select nights. Add-ons like the ice rink and 4D holiday movies keep the evening dynamic and engaging. It’s a creative twist on a nighttime zoo visit that mixes familiar animal sightings with a touch of holiday magic.
Holly Jolly Festival of Lights at Lucky Ladd Farms
Dates: Nov. 28, 2025 – Dec. 21, 2025
Location: 4306 Rocky Glade Rd., Eagleville, TN
Step into a mile-long trail of Christmas lights that winds through barns, fields, and festive displays. Kids can meet ponies, feed barnyard animals, and drop their letters at Santa’s station. There’s even a chance to roast s’mores by the fire and snap photos at whimsical setups along the way. With activities for all ages, it’s an easy way to spend an evening soaking in the season together.
Nashvillage Holiday Market
Dates: Dec. 4 – 7, 2025
Location: 121 4th Ave S, Nashville, TN
Downtown Nashville hosts a festive weekend with tree lightings, live music, and holiday crafts. Kids can make ornaments, get their faces painted, or join story time sessions while adults browse local vendors. The casual setup keeps the crowd manageable and the mood cheerful. Free admission makes it easy to drop in and enjoy as much or as little as you like.
Elf in Concert
Dates: Dec. 10 – 11, 2025
Location: 1 Symphony Pl, Nashville, TN
Watch Elf on the big screen while a live orchestra plays the score, blending cinematic fun with live performance. Kids will get caught up in Buddy’s antics, and the music adds energy to every scene. It’s a festive outing that feels special. Families leave with laughter, a few favorite tunes stuck in their heads, and plenty to talk about on the ride home.
Opry Country Christmas
Dates: Now – Dec. 23, 2025
Location: 600 Opry Mills Drive, Nashville, TN
Celebrate the season with live country music performances at the Grand Ole Opry. Families can sing along to holiday classics while soaking in the lights and festive décor. The show balances excitement with accessibility, making it suitable for kids and adults alike. It’s a Nashville holiday tradition that blends music, energy, and seasonal charm in one evening.
Best Neighborhoods to See Christmas Lights
When night falls in Music City, these neighborhoods come alive with twinkling displays and festive cheer. Perfect for a leisurely drive or a family stroll, they showcase the most charming and creative ways locals light up the holidays.
Brentwood Neighborhoods
Location: Princeton Hills, Fountainhead, McGavock Farms, Annandale
When: Now through the end of the holiday season
Brentwood neighborhoods light up in ways that make it easy to just hop in the car and take it all in. Annandale, along with Princeton Hills, Fountainhead, and McGavock Farms, feels like a mini winter wonderland, with homes decked out in lights, inflatables, and all the holiday extras. A casual drive can easily stretch into a full evening, especially if the kids start scoring houses on who did the best display. Pack a thermos of hot chocolate and cue a holiday playlist for a simple, festive adventure the whole family can enjoy.
Belle Meade Neighborhood
Location: Lynnwood Blvd & Belle Meade Blvd
When: Now through the end of the holiday season
Belle Meade dazzles with elegant, sparkling displays that make every house feel like a holiday showstopper. The wide streets invite a slow, relaxed drive where you can soak in every detail without rushing. Each turn offers little surprises—a glowing wreath here, twinkling lights there—that keep the whole family guessing what’s around the next corner. It’s the kind of drive that leaves everyone smiling long after the headlights are off.
Bellevue Neighborhood
Location: Old Harding Pike & surrounding streets
When: Now through the end of the holiday season
Bellevue shines with a mix of large-scale displays and community events that make it a must-visit for families. The highlight is Lute’s Lights, an elaborate display created by a local teacher that raises money for students in need—drawing crowds for its scale and heartwarming mission. Other notable displays include the Riverwalk Neighborhood, where professional holiday lighting adorns the entrance, clubhouse, and pool area, and Bellevue Central Park, which hosts a festive tree lighting ceremony and seasonal activities. Whether driving through the neighborhood or enjoying a stroll, Bellevue offers a cozy, joyful holiday experience for everyone.
Where to Stay
Make the most of your holiday visit by staying close to the action. These GoodNight Stay homes keep you near sparkling lights, seasonal events, and festive attractions, all while providing roomy, comfortable spaces to relax after a day of exploring Music City.
Ensemble
16 Beds | 12 Baths | 32 Guests
Step into Ensemble, four townhomes ideal for family or group getaways. Each home features spacious bedrooms, fully equipped kitchens, and private rooftop decks with skyline views, perfect for relaxing or gathering with friends. Just minutes from Broadway and local hotspots, you can enjoy Nashville’s festive events while having a comfortable retreat to return to. With plenty of room for everyone, Ensemble sets the stage for a memorable holiday escape.
Urban Spur
3 Beds | 3 Baths | 10 Guests
Urban Spur offers a blend of contemporary design and laid-back comfort, giving families space to unwind after a day of holiday adventures. The living areas are perfect for movie nights, quick snacks, or simply relaxing together. Situated in East Nashville, it keeps lights, shows, and downtown attractions within easy reach without feeling crowded. It’s an inviting home base to share stories, enjoy downtime, and soak in the festive spirit.
The Acklen
2 Beds | 2 Baths | 8 Guests
Perfectly suited for families, this home combines comfort with easy access to Nashville’s parks, dining, and holiday attractions. Bright living spaces and private bedrooms allow kids to rest while adults recharge for the next adventure. Its central location keeps seasonal events within easy reach. The home blends festive fun with cozy, quality time for the whole family
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After nights filled with glowing lights, festive shows, and kid-approved adventures, it’s nice to come back to a space that feels like your own. Book a GoodNight Stay for a winter getaway that gives families room to gather, swap stories, and kick back after busy days out. Enjoy 15% OFF your stay when you book between December 18, 2025 – January 3, 2026 using code HAPPYHOLIDAYS15. For even more ways to save, check out our Specials Page!
