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Things to do in Nashville in December are magical, combining the city’s storied music heritage with Southern hospitality and holiday cheer. Nashville, the lively capital city of Tennessee, is located on the Cumberland River and is aptly well-known as “Music City.” Nashville is a winter wonderland of sparkling lights, holiday cheer, and that inimitable music-city charm in December. Outdoor enthusiasts can stroll through rolling parks, while the multi-cultural and hospitable people of the city welcome everyone as family. December’s chill, refreshing air makes every moment one to remember, from outdoor fun to warm indoor concerts.
Top 10 Things To Do In Nashville In December
View the top things to do in Nashville in December for a holiday getaway that is fun, music-related, and one to remember.
1. Walk Through Holiday Lights At Cheekwood
Photo: Dianne / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Cheekwood Estate & Gardens is an excellent winter wonderland during December, with more than a million lights scattered throughout its gardens and historic mansion. Walkers can wander through magical light tunnels, see creative exhibitions, and experience holiday musical performances. It becomes even better when warming up with hot cocoa by the fire pits or roasting marshmallows with loved ones. Cheekwood’s enchanted setting makes it the most romantic thing to do in Nashville during December.
Location: 1200 Forrest Park Dr, Nashville, TN
How To Get There: 25-minute drive from downtown
Nearest Airport: Nashville International Airport (BNA), 14 miles
2. Savour A Country Christmas At Opryland
Photo: Antony-22 / Wikimedia Commons
The Gaylord Opryland Resort’s “A Country Christmas” is a December holiday celebration of holiday spectacle with millions of lights, themed ice sculptures, indoor snow tubing, and gingerbread decorating. Visitors can wander through majestic atriums featuring stunning holiday exhibits and enjoy live holiday shows. The surround-sound atmosphere of the resort and the sheer number of activities offered make it one of the top things to do in Nashville in December.
Location: 2800 Opryland Dr, Nashville, TN – 15 minutes from downtown
Nearest Airport: Nashville International Airport (BNA), 8 miles
3. Sing Along To A Holiday Show At The Ryman
Photo: Daniel Schwen / Wikimedia Commons
The Ryman Auditorium, the “Mother Church of Country Music,” commemorates special holiday concerts throughout December. Visitors can listen to country legends, local choirs, and holiday sing-alongs within a legendary atmosphere. The venue’s historic ambience and top-notch acoustics generate an intimate, unforgettable experience, placing it on the list of most unforgettable things to do in Nashville during December for music aficionados and holiday fans alike.
Location: 116 5th Ave N, Nashville, TN
How To Get There: Central to downtown
Nearest Airport: Nashville International Airport (BNA), 9 miles
4. Start The Night With Hot Chicken At A Local Spot
Photo: tresiahoban3 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
It is a must to try the city’s renowned hot chicken, particularly during the frigid air of December. Classic eateries such as Hattie B’s and Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack serve hot, spicy chicken to warm you inside out. The ambience, hot spices, and friendly locals make it one of the yummiest things to do in Nashville during December, serving a true flavour of Music City’s food heritage.
Location: Hattie B’s, Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack and many more
Nearest Airport: 10 miles
5. Enjoy Winter Cocktails On A Rooftop Or In An Igloo
Photo: Kgbo / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Nashville’s pop-up igloo lounges and rooftop bars offer a sophisticated experience from which to view the city’s skyline and holiday spirit. Get cosy in a toasty igloo or by a rooftop fire pit, sipping seasonal cocktails and enjoying panoramic views. This trendy experience is one of the most fashionable things to do in Nashville in December, perfect for a romantic evening or night out with friends amid Music City.
Location: Downtown rooftops such as L.A. Jackson, Bobby Hotel, and others
Nearest Airport: Nashville International Airport (BNA), 8 miles
6. Buy Handmade Presents At Holiday Markets
Photo: Helena Jankovičová Kováčová / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Speciality gifts, handmade crafts, and holiday goodies fill Nashville’s Christmas markets, including the Christmas Village and local craft festivals. They can browse booth to booth for specialty decor, jewellery, and gourmet treats, accompanied by live music and holiday refreshments. Shopping at local neighbourhood craftspeople and hunting for individual, unique treasures is undoubtedly one of the sweetest things to do in Nashville during December.
Location: Sites such as The Fairgrounds Nashville and Centennial Park
Nearest Airport: Nashville International Airport (BNA), 7 – 10 miles
7. Skate Under The Stars Downtown
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Outdoor ice skating facilities such as Public Square Park and Enchant at First Horizon Park provide a whimsical ice skating experience under Nashville’s cityscape. Skate on the ice with twinkling lights above and holiday tunes everywhere, making a winter wonderland amidst the city. Ice skating is one of the most festive events in Nashville during December, and it is ideal for families, couples, and friends seeking holiday entertainment.
Location: Public Square Park, First Horizon Park, and temporary rinks
Nearest Airport: Nashville International Airport (BNA), 8 – 10 miles
8. Learn About Music History Indoors At The Hall Of Fame
Photo: Antony-22 / Wikimedia Commons
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is a repository of Nashville’s musical heritage, featuring interactive displays, legendary items, and exclusive December events. Visitors can get immersed in the history of the best country music legends and indulge in viewing exhibits. Learning about music history indoors is one of the most participatory activities in Nashville in December, particularly for those who would love staying indoors while being exposed to the city’s rich history.
Location: 222 Rep. John Lewis Way S, Nashville, TN
Nearest Airport: Nashville International Airport (BNA), 8 miles
9. Take Holiday Photos In Adorned Murals
Photo: StockSnap / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
In December, winter hues adorn Nashville’s street art murals and installations, adding a festive touch. Walking through areas such as The Gulch and 12 South, tourists can find excellent spots to take photos. Photographing these vibrant moments is one of the unique things to do in Nashville during December, and it brings some hometown art and holiday cheer to your holiday.
Location: The Gulch, 12 South, East Nashville
Nearest Airport: Nashville International Airport (BNA), 7 – 9 miles
10. Ring In The New Year At Music City Midnight
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Music City Midnight at the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park is Nashville’s largest New Year’s Eve celebration, with live music, fireworks, and a lively atmosphere. The outdoor countdown with headliners and a concert is just what’s needed to usher in the new year. Being part of this city celebration is one of the most fun things to do in December in Nashville, creating memories that will last a year.
Location: Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park, Nashville, TN
Nearest Airport: Nashville International Airport (BNA), 10 miles
Things to do in Nashville in December create a unique holiday atmosphere that fits perfectly in a holiday film. Picture cobblestone sidewalks lit by lanterns, fiddle tunes dancing on the crisp evening air, and an air of anticipation as Music City greets the countdown to the New Year. Marches of December in Nashville are akin to the most fantastic holiday movie ever made, only better, and significantly more enjoyable. Book your trip with TripXL today to enjoy the best December ever in Nashville!
Cover Photo: Daniel Schwen / Wikimedia Commons
