If you’re spending the holidays in Middle Tennessee, you’re in one of the best places in the country to celebrate the season. From classic Christmas traditions in Franklin to over-the-top holiday pop-up bars and New Year’s Eve celebrations in Nashville, there’s something festive for everyone.

As local experts who live and work in this community, we’ve rounded up the must-know holiday happenings across Williamson County and Nashville so you can plan your season with ease.

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🎄 Holiday Events in Williamson County

Franklin Tree Lighting

When: Early December
Where: Downtown Franklin
A hallmark of the season, the Franklin Tree Lighting brings the community together with music, holiday cheer, and a magical moment when downtown officially sparkles for Christmas.

Franklin Christmas Parade

When: Early December
Where: Downtown Franklin
This family favorite features festive floats, marching bands, and plenty of small-town charm that makes Franklin such a special place to call home.

Dickens of a Christmas

When: Mid-December
Where: Downtown Franklin
Now in its 40th year, Dickens of a Christmas transforms historic Franklin into a Victorian-era holiday village with period costumes, music, vendors, and performances.

Holiday LIGHTS at Cheekwood

When: Late November through early January
Where: Cheekwood Estate & Gardens
One of the most popular holiday attractions near Nashville, Cheekwood’s light displays, seasonal décor, and botanical gardens make this a must-see each year.

Franktown Festival of Lights

When: Late November through December
Where: Williamson County AG Expo Center
A drive-through light experience perfect for families, featuring synchronized displays and festive scenes.

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🎅 Holiday Events in Nashville

SantaCon Nashville

When: Mid-December
Where: 2nd Ave & Midtown
A lively bar crawl where participants dress as Santa and spread holiday cheer throughout the city.

ICE! at Gaylord Opryland

When: Late November through early January
Where: Gaylord Opryland Hotel
A Nashville holiday staple featuring massive ice sculptures, themed displays, and indoor winter fun.

Zoolumination

When: November through February
Where: Nashville Zoo
A family-friendly nighttime experience with illuminated animal lanterns and festive displays.

Nashville Ballet’s The Nutcracker

When: Late November through December
Where: TPAC
A timeless holiday tradition performed by the Nashville Ballet, perfect for all ages.

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🍸 Christmas Pop-Up Bars in Nashville & Franklin

Holiday pop-up bars have become a seasonal highlight, and Nashville delivers in a big way.

Top Christmas Pop-Up Bars to Visit:

• Polar Pub at Pancake Pantry
• Camp Bobby at Bobby Hotel
• Naughty or Nice at Union Station
• Saint Nicky’s at Nicky’s Coal Fired
• The Merry Moose at Virgin Hotel
• World’s Best Cup of Coffee at Harpeth Hotel (Franklin’s only holiday pop-up bar)
• Very Vinyl Christmas at Fairlane Hotel
• Sugar & Vice at Hidden Bar
• Merry Elfing Christmas at Hideaway & Cantina
• The Ribbon Room at Hilton Green Hills

These spots are perfect for date nights, girls’ nights, or entertaining visiting friends and family.

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🎶 Music City Magic: Holiday Shows & Concerts

Williamson County Performances

• Irving Berlin’s White Christmas – Franklin Factory
• Christmas with the King (Elvis Tribute) – Franklin Theatre
• Winter Wonderettes – Pull-Tight Players’ Theatre
• A Christmas Carol – FSSD Performing Arts Center
• The Music of Charlie Brown – Franklin Theatre

Nashville Performances

• ELF in Concert – Nashville Symphony
• for KING + COUNTRY – The Ryman
• LeAnn Rimes Christmas – Opry House
• Opry Country Christmas – Opry House

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🎄 What’s Open on Christmas Day?

If you’re dining out on Christmas, reservations are highly recommended.

Williamson County

• Mere Bulles (fixed menu)
• Del Frisco’s Grille
• Bucca di Beppo
• Perry’s Steakhouse
• Culinary Dropout

Nashville

• The Hermitage Hotel (grand buffet)
• The Palm Nashville
• Trattoria Il Mulino
• STK Nashville
• Four Seasons Hotel

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🎆 New Year’s Eve in Nashville: What to Know

Free Event

Jack Daniel’s New Year’s Eve Nashville Bash
Live performances, fireworks, and one of the largest free NYE events in the country.

Ticketed NYE Events

• NYE at the W Nashville
• Virgin Hotel Gatsby Gala
• Twelve Thirty Club NYE Party
• Acme’s Dive Bar Disco Party
• Chiefs on Broadway NYE
• NYE at Nashville Live!
• Skydeck Sparkle City Disco

Whether you’re looking for rooftop views, open bars, or live music, Nashville has a New Year’s Eve experience for every style.

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Why Locals Love the Holidays Here

One of the reasons people choose to buy homes in Franklin, Brentwood, and Nashville is the lifestyle — and the holidays showcase that better than any other season. Walkable downtowns, community traditions, world-class entertainment, and incredible dining all contribute to why Middle Tennessee continues to be such a desirable place to live.

If you’re thinking about making a move in the new year, or just want insider insight on neighborhoods that shine during the holidays, working with a local real estate expert makes all the difference.

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Thinking of Buying or Selling in 2025?

The holidays are a great time to start planning. Reach out anytime for local market insights, neighborhood recommendations, or a personalized home value as you head into the new year.

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