9/5/26 – MIDDLE TN’S LARGEST PICKLE FESTIVAL, MURFREESBORO   

Image: Facebook

It has to be said: this is a really big dill. This event promises everything pickle, from fan fave fried pickles to a lot of things you never ever considered trying in pickle flavored. There’s also a pickle eating contest, a pickle drinking contest, a petting zoo, food trucks (who presumably also sell some non-pickle-flavored items), and more. It’s pet-friendly and fun for the whole family. Come hungry!

Saturday, 9/5/26, 10 AM – 4 PM. 6790 John Bragg Hwy, Murfreesboro, TN. $5 Admission per person (CASH ONLY). Plan your day.

9/12-13/26 – MIDDLE TENNESSEE HIGHLAND GAMES & CELTIC FESTIVAL, HENDERSONVILLE

Image: Middle Tennessee Highland Games & Celtic Festival

Take a quick trip to bonny Scotland, Tennessee edition. The festival offers entertainment for all ages, including live music from Celtic bands, traditional crafts, dancing, bagpipe competitions and more. Don’t miss the traditional Heavy Scottish Athletic events competitions for both men and women, which seem to mostly involve throwing large heavy things like a caber (think telephone pole) or a rock. Adults 21+ can enjoy a Scotch tasting and kids have activities of their own. What’s not to love?

Saturday, 9/12/26, 9 AM – 5 PM. Sunday, 9/13/26, 9 AM – 4 PM. Sanders Ferry Park, Hendersonville, TN. See what happens when.

9/18-20/26 – AFRICAN STREET FESTIVAL, NASHVILLE

Image: Facebook

Not just a festival, this is “an immersive 3-day cultural experience.” Come and enjoy a journey through African culture. Taste authentic cuisine, check out the fashion, and enjoy live music performances that run the gamut from reggae to hip hop to soul to country to gospel and more.

Friday, 9/18/26, 5 PM – 9 PM; Saturday-Sunday, 9/19-20/26, 11 AM – 9 PM. 1037 Hadley Lillard Park, Nashville, TN. View the schedule.

9/25-26/26 MIDDLE TENNESSEE HATCH GREEN CHILE ROAST, LEBANON

Image: Facebook

Picture this: Delicious chiles being roasted right before your eyes—just days after being picked in Hatch, New Mexico. Imagine how good that will smell and how happy your taste buds will be when you visit one of the on-site food crafters for delicious dishes starring freshly roasted Hatch Green Chile. But there’s more to this event than chilies; you’ll also enjoy live music, local vendors and artisans.

Friday, 9/25/26 5 PM – 9 PM; Saturday, 9/26/26 10 AM – 5 PM. Wilson County/TN State Fairgrounds, 945 East Baddour Parkway Lebanon, TN. Pre-order chiles to take home.

9/25-26/26 – NASHVILLE GREEK FESTIVAL, NASHVILLE  

Image: Facebook

Remember My Big Fat Greek Wedding? Remember how yummy all that Greek food looked? That wasn’t just Hollywood special effects. Greek food really is delicious, and you can try it yourself at the Nashville Greek Festival. They offer a “a rich, authentic and varied menu prepared by passionate volunteers who want to share their heritage.” In other words, this is the real deal. So are the live Greek music, traditional dance performances and Greek goodies in the shops. Opa!

Friday, 9/25/26, 4 PM – 9 PM; Saturday, 9/26/26 11AM – 9 PM; Sunday 9/27/26, Noon – 4 PM. Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 4905 Franklin Pike, Nashville, TN. Learn more.

9/26/26 – TENNESSEE HIPPIE FESTIVAL, MURFREESBORO

Image: Facebook

Peace. Love. Good vibes. Can you dig it? Then pull out your tie-dye tee and head on over to Murfreesboro for the Tennessee Hippie Festival. They promise hundreds of hippies, live music, “unique” vendors and “hippie everything.” It’ll be groovy!

Saturday, 9/26/26, 10 AM – 7PM. 6790 John Bragg Hwy, Murfreesboro TN. Check it out, man.

Whether you go to one, all or none of these celebrations, all of us here at ProTek hope you have a wonderful September.

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FIRST FRIDAY ART CRAWL (FRANKLIN, TN)

Image: FranklinIs.com

Mark your calendar: The monthly art crawl in Historic Downtown Franklin, TN, takes place 6-9 pm on the first Friday of every month. Download the app (which includes the Art Crawl Map) or start at any location and take the free trolley from place to place. You’ll see a variety of art pieces from local artists —paintings, blown glass, turned wood and more—all while enjoying complimentary refreshments and live music. See a piece you like? Take it home! All the art is available for sale.

For more information, visit Arts Council of Williamson County TN.

SECOND SATURDAY ART CRAWL (DOWNTOWN NASHVILLE, TN)

Image: Facebook

From 6-9 pm on the second Saturday of each month, downtown Nashville galleries open their doors for special receptions and exhibition openings. Admission is free and you can enjoy free wine and snacks while strolling through the spaces. Each location presents diverse collections ranging from Nashville-area talent to internationally recognized artists. See which galleries and artists are on the schedule each month at DADA Nashville.

THIRD SATURDAY 100 TAYLOR ARTS MARKET (GERMANTOWN/NASHVILLE)

Image: 100 Taylor

The perfect outing for a wintery weekend, 100 Taylor Arts Market brings together more 60+ local artists and makers each month in a historic converted mill in the historic Germantown neighborhood of Nashville. Shop local while enjoying live music, food trucks and local craft drinks. The third Saturday of every month from 4-9 pm at 100 Taylor Arts Market.

TUESDAYS-SATURDAYS: LEQUIRE GALLERY (WEST NASHVILLE)

Image: VisitMusicCity.com

Browse over 5,000 sq. feet of floor space with 500+ works of art and exhibits at the LeQuire Gallery & Studio. Owner Alan LeQuire is best known as creator of the iconic sculpture, Athena Parthenos, located in Nashville’s Parthenon. Both a gallery and a studio, they promise “an insight for the public into the daily life of a sculptor.” Learn more.

ANY DAY BUT TUESDAY: FRIST ART MUSEUM (DOWNTOWN NASHVILLE)

Image: Facebook

This family-friendly museum doesn’t have a permanent collection, which means there’s always something new to see. Their rotating exhibitions range from classical art to contemporary works. Plus, they offer family programs, talks, and community events. Don’t miss their Martin ArtQuest Gallery, where visitors of all ages can make their own art. The Frist is located in downtown Nashville, in an Art Deco post office building that’s a work of art in its own right. Plan your visit.

Go on one or all of these outings and you might turn into an art aficionado, if you’re not one already. If nothing else, it’ll be something fun and different to do on a chilly winter weekend. Enjoy!

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FOR THE DAD WHO LOVES CLASSIC CARS

Image: Cheekwood

Drive on over to Cheekwood and wander through 100+ classic cars and vintage motorcycles (from the early to mid-20th century) at Exposition of Elegance: Classic Cars at Cheekwood. While there, dad—and anyone else who tags along—can enjoy music, drinks tasty bites, and more. Kids can do hands-on activities for kids and explore Enchanted Castles, too. June 14-15, 2025 at Cheekwood in Nashville, TN.

Get the details.

FOR THE FOODIE DAD

Send him to the Bacon Lover’s Man Crate Picnic. Think of it as a picnic “Carnivore style.” Think of it as a chance to enjoy tasty treats in the great outdoors surrounded by apple and peach trees. Heck, just think of it as bacon! Dad’s “Man Crate” includes Bacon Cheddar Deviled Eggs, Brown Sugar Bacon Rose skewers, Bourbon Bacon Jam over Brie and so much more! Crates are available for 2-6 people (or one very hungry dad). Saturday, 6/14/2025 at 6 PM at Morning Glory Orchard in Nolensville, TN.

Book the Bacon.

FOR THE DAD WHO WANTS TO PLAY DETECTIVE

Image: Tumis on Pixabay

Rockabilly Clue Murder Mystery Dinner at Gratidude Ranch in Franklin, TN. It’s going to be a rockin’ and a rollin’ good time in the good ole hills of Tennessee! As events unfold during a three-course meal, participants meet, interrogate, and possibly help(!) suspects. Will dad solve the mystery? Only one way to find out! This event is for ages 18+ due to ‘adult content’ so the Ranch says to “leave those ankle biters at home!“ Saturday, 06/14/2025, at Gratidude Ranch in Leiper’s Fork, TN.

Start the investigation.

FOR THE DAD WHO APPRECIATES BOURBON  

Image: Stable Reserve Distillery

What could be better than his very own signature blend? What about an “exclusive and immersive” tasting experience that ends with a bottle created specifically to appeal to his individual palate? If that sounds like something the dad in your life would enjoy, send them to Stable Reserve Spirits in Historic Downtown Franklin for one of their “blend your own bottle” experiences.

Reserve an experience.

FOR THE ADVENTUROUS DAD

Image: Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary

Family Geocaching Day at Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary in Brentwood, TN, is a treasure hunt the whole family can enjoy! There are both a kid-friendly course and more challenging caches for intrepid explorers. Geocaches are hidden in containers that can be found using a GPS or smartphone. Whether dad leads the family on a team expedition or you split up to enjoy a little competition, it’s a fun adventure. Saturday, 06/14/2025. Check in between 9:30 AM and 12:30 PM. Trails are open for geocaching until 3 pm.

Plan the adventure.

All of us at ProTek would like to wish all fathers (and those who serve in that role, regardless of official ‘fatherhood’ status) the happiest of Father’s Days this year. We appreciate you!

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MEMORIAL DAY SERVICE AT STONES RIVER NATIONAL CEMETERY

Image: National Park Service

On Sunday of Memorial Day weekend, visitors are invited to come together and remember the sacrifices of soldiers, past and present. The event will include patriotic music, a wreath laying ceremony and a three-volley salute presented by the Ninth Kentucky Infantry, US. More than 6,100 Union soldiers are buried at Stones River—including 2,562 unknown. Be sure to allow time to stop at the visitor center. Directions and information.

MEMORIAL DAY DASH 5K

Image: Facebook

It’s a Nashville tradition “where the past meets the pavement.”  The 25th Annual Memorial Day Dash benefits the preservation and beautification of historic Nashville City Cemetery. We’re told the course takes dashers past some of the most scenic views in the city. You can run or walk—and be sure to wear a patriotic-themed costume. You might win a prize at the end! Monday, May 26, 2025 at 7:30 AM. Learn more and register.

TENNESSEE RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL

Hear ye, hear ye! Calling all Wolf Hall fans, wannabe knights and ladies, and anyone who enjoys a fun day out. May 24-26 is your last chance to visit the 2025 Tennessee Renaissance Festival in Arrington, TN. Travel back to 16^th century England and immerse yourself in song, laughter, and amazement as jesters, minstrels, jugglers, and magicians demonstrate their unique skills. Listen to the tall tales of pirates and prepare to watch the royal joust. Feast on delicious foods, shop the wares of talented artisans, and have a royally good time. Get details.

MUSIC IN THE VINES

Image: Arrington Vineyards

Picture yourself enjoying a relaxing Memorial Day afternoon listening to live jazz from the 9 Volt Romeo Bandon the Hillside Stage and/or live bluegrass at the Barn from Downriver Collective? You don’t even have to pack a lunch; food trucks (Dough Box, Nash Kebab, Simply Living Life and The Derby Desserts & Coffee) will be standing by to tickle your tastebuds. It all happens noon – 5 pm at beautiful Arrington Vineyards. Details and directions.

Happy Memorial Day!

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YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

Image: Tim Dusenberry, Pexels

How many spring flowers do you see from your front door? Or on your way to pick up groceries? Or on the school run? Or…anywhere you find yourself this month. If you need help, check out this Guide to identifying spring flowers in middle Tennessee from Fox17. You can even turn flower-spotting into a game the whole family can play and see who wins Spring Flower Bingo.

TENNESSEE TULIP FESTIVAL

Image: Jill Wellington, Pixabay

Experience the beauty of 1 MILLION tulips, showcasing over 100 different varieties. Lucky Ladd Farms is the largest pick-your-own tulip farm in Tennessee and even the entire Southeastern United States. Tiptoe (or stroll) through the tulips then hand-pick and assemble your very own personalized bouquet of tulips to take home. Each guest aged two and older will need to purchase an admission ticket. This ticket grants access to tulip fields plus Lucky Ladd Farms Fun Park and Zoo. April 5-6 at Lucky Ladd Farms.

Can’t make it this weekend? Tulip picking will still be available through April 13 and Tulip Bulb Dig Days are April 17-19 (picking and digging dates are estimates and depend on the weather). Learn more.

TENNESSEE STATE PARKS

Image: Unsplash

Go on a Spring Wildflower Scavenger Hunt! Tennessee State Parks put together a list of 14 wildflowers and flowering shrubs that you can find in the parks this time of year. They also listed which parks these flowers have been spotted in before to help guide your search.

Download the free iNaturalist app before you go, then take a picture of your finds and it will tell you the name, image, and description of the species it thinks you’ve found. Record the park location and share to help the naturalists at Tennessee State Parks keep track of the living things in the parks. You might even have your recording deemed research-grade!

CHEEKWOOD

Image: Cheekwood

Enjoy a stunning view of blooming tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths as 250,000 blooms come to life during Cheekwood in Bloom: Love is in the Air. Whiley you’re there, take a photo with artist Robert Indiana’s iconic LOVE sculpture. It’s the second work of Cheekwood’s Masterpiece Art Series, continuing a long-standing tradition of bringing high-quality, world-renowned masterworks to Nashville.

Go on a weekend to enjoy music in the Beer Garden or go anytime to marvel in the beauty all around us. March 8, 2025 – April 13, 2025 (though the beautiful gardens at Cheekwood are worth a visit anytime). Plan your visit.

WCMGA SPRING GARDEN FESTIVAL & PLANT SALE

Image: WCMGA

If you’re inspired to plant a garden of your own, check out the Williamson County Master Gardeners Association (WCMGA) Spring Garden Festival and Plant Sale. Saturday, April 5, 2025, from 9:00 am – 3:30 pm on the grounds of Williamson County Ag Expo Park at West Side 4215 Long Lane, Franklin, TN 37064 (rain or shine).

You’ll find beautiful perennials, annuals, vegetables, herbs, and more. Even if you’re not a gardener, come to enjoy the crafts, food trucks, and “Garden Shed” area featuring new and gently used items for your home and garden. It’s a fun day out that raises money for a worthy cause. Learn more.

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WRITE

Image: Pixabay

Is this the year to finally write that novel or nurture your poetic side? Check out Sacred and Sassy: Poetry & Prose Online from Art and Soul Nashville, a nonprofit arts studio dedicated to supporting individual creativity, personal growth, and artistic development. You’re invited to join their circle to tickle your muse’s fancy, connect on a deep level, and explore your inner creative every Monday while safe and cozy from home. Make sure you have a pen and journal or notebook available.

Sacred and Sassy: Poetry & Prose Online Mondays at 7 PM, online. Ages 17 and up. Sign up.

COOK

Image: Black Diamond Culinary

Calling all foodies and foodie wannabes! Learn to cook with confidence in small group setting at Black Diamond Culinary. Try your hand at making Italian pasta, French cuisine, seafood and more or take a more hands-off approach and watch a mouth-watering meal being prepared before your eyes. (Then eat it. Yum.)

Black Diamond Culinary is at 6050 Maysbrook Lane Franklin, TN, 37064. Book a class.

IMPROVISE

Image: Pexels

Laugh while you learn at improv classes and build confidence at the same time. Love music? Third Coast Comedy’s Musical Improv track teaches students of all musical backgrounds everything they need to know to improvise full musicals! Maybe you’ve always secretly wanted to be a stand-up comedian…there’s a class for that, too. Make ‘em laugh!

Third Coast Comedy is at 1310 Clinton St, Ste 121, Nashville, TN 37203. Start your journey.

GARDEN

Image: WCMGA

Take your love of plants to the next level and become a Master Gardener. Master Gardeners develop and manage community programs related to horticulture, landscape improvements, therapeutic horticulture projects demonstration and more. The course is organized around weekly lectures, with some workshops, field trips and projects and takes place over 15 weeks beginning in January of each year.

If that sounds like a bit too much of a commitment, check out horticultural events, resources, recipes and more from the Williamson County Master Gardener Association.

CREATE

Image: Hawaii Fluid Art

Let your inner artist out to play with a fluid art class at Hawaii Fluid Art. No artistic experience necessary! You can also opt to make a resin tumbler, paint on glass, or design a one-of-a-kind hat at their Patch Party Hat Bar. There’s something for everyone, so the whole family can join in the fun. All their products are non-toxic, water-based and easy to use.

Hawaii Fluid Art is at 3252 Aspen Grove Dr #10, Franklin, TN 37067.  Pick your project.

ROCK OUT

Image: School of Rock Franklin

It’s never too late to indulge your rock ‘n roll dreams. Anyone from age 6 on up can learn to be a rock star at School of Rock Franklin. Adult students attend a weekly private lesson and a weekly group rehearsal (you’ll be placed in a band and assigned songs). The payoff? Your band will take the stage at a live show at a real rock venue in Franklin! All skill levels welcome.

School of Rock Franklin is at 615 Bakers Bridge Avenue Suite 100, Franklin, TN 37067.  Rock on!

BUILD

Image: Woodcraft of Nashville

Admit it, you’ve watched those celebrity carpenters on renovation shows and thought, “Wonder if I could do that.” Well, with some training from the experts at Woodcraft of Nashville, you probably can. They offer classes for all levels of woodworking expertise, so even if the only jigsaw you’re familiar with is a puzzle (hint: it’s also an actual saw), they can help you start throwing sawdust around with the best of them. They also offer free monthly demos and Date Night projects.

Woodcraft of Nashville is at 209 South Royal Oaks Blvd STE #164, Franklin, TN 37064. Choose a project.

No matter what you’re interested in, there’s probably a workshop, website or course nearby. You don’t have to become an expert or change your career (although you can if you want to). Sometimes it’s just good to give your brain a break from the everyday and try something new.

Happy learning!

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1. WATCH A PARADE

Image: Pixabay

Santa and his helpers will be parading all over Middle Tennessee this month, alongside marching bands, floats and more fun than you can wave at in a single day. Check out this handy list from Nashville Parent to find a parade near you.

2. SEE THE LIGHTS

Image: Nashville Parent

There’s something about colorful holiday lights that brings out the child in all of us. Give your inner child (and maybe an actual child or two, as well) a treat with a visit to one or more of the many spectacular light shows in the area. Options include FrankTown Festival of Lights in Franklin (pictured above), Christmas on the Cumberland and Clarksville Speedway’s Drive-Thru Christmas Lights in Clarksville, Dancing Lights of Christmas in Lebanon and Holiday LIGHTS at Cheekwood Estate and Gardens. 

3. MEET SCROOGE & TINY TIM

Image: The Heritage Foundation of Williamson County

Bring the whole family to meet the Cratchit family and friends at the 39th Annual Dickens of a Christmas in historic Downtown Franklin. Stroll through the Victorian Village with holiday dancers, characters and carolers, shop arts & crafts vendors, watch live entertainment on the Main Street Festival Main Stage and Acoustic Stage, shop throughout the historic district, visit the whiskey lounge, beer garden, and more! December 14-15, 2024 in Franklin. Learn more.

4. SNAP HOLIDAY PHOTOS

Image: TNVacations.com

Middle Tennessee is always photogenic, but at Christmas it looks even more magical than usual. There are photo ops almost everywhere you look, but if you need ideas, TNVacations.com compiled a list of the Picturesque Holiday Card Photoshoot Locations in TN. Smile!

5. SHOP AT A MARKET

Image: Sam Headland on Unsplash

Does every Hallmark Christmas movie include a scene at a charming holiday market? It sure seems like it. Whether you’re on the hunt for presents or just there to soak up the atmosphere along with your hot cocoa, it’s a festive and fun outing. Fortunately, there are plenty of area markets to choose from. See Christmas Market Guides for a list of Tennessee Holiday, Winter & Christmas Markets.

6. FIND A TREE

Image: Tennessee Christmas Tree Growers

Sure, pre-lit artificial trees are beautiful and convenient, but there’s nothing quite like a fresh, farm-grown tree—and they don’t get fresher than the one you choose and cut yourself (or have cut for you). Besides, how often do you have the opportunity to stroll through a forest of Christmas trees? The Tennessee Christmas Tree Growers will help you find a tree farm near you.

7. SIP THE SPIRITS OF THE SEASON

Image: Tennessee Whiskey Trail

Leave the kids at home (but not Home Alone, because we all know how that turned out) and head out to Carols & Barrels, a seasonal trail of holiday pop-ups with unique stops across Middle Tennessee filled with cheer, delicious drinks, and holiday magic! Collect digital stamps by “checking in” at each unique stop to complete your passport and get a prize. Participants must be 21 or older to join in the TN Whiskey Trail Passport festivities. Nov 11, 2024-Jan 5, 2025. Learn more.

However you choose to celebrate this season, we wish you the happiest of holidays!

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COLUMBIA

Image: VisitColumbiaTN.com

Come see what makes Columbia a nationally accredited Main Street community, a ‘Top 10 Best Small Town’ by Southern Living AND a ‘Country’s Best Small Town, Top 10’ by Country Living Magazine. Start by getting to know the 11^th President of the United States at the President James K. Polk Home & Museum, where you’re invited to “bring your questions and your curiosity.” One of the most significant Presidential collections in the United States, the museum is located in the heart of downtown Columbia, just a block from the historic Maury County courthouse square. If history, one-of-a-kind shops, quirky murals and restaurants don’t do it for you, check out these Must-Do Outdoor Excursions and other suggested summer activities.  

ETHERIDGE

Image:  AmishofEtheridge.com

Did you know? The largest Amish community in the Southern United States is just over an hour south of Nashville. The Amish Welcome Center offers free Amish maps, Amish goods and souvenirs, vintage glassware, antiques, t-shirts, and the only public restrooms in the area. (Always a good thing to know!) As you drive around, you’ll likely see handmade signs at the end of driveways letting you know what that home has to offer for sale. Before you go, be sure to read this Amish advice page for important information (like bring cash in small bills, don’t take photos, and more). While you’re in the area, you can also step back in time to 1940 at Ike’s Amish Depot and General Store, the greyhound bus depot the Amish use to travel long distances. Come on Saturdays for old school burgers, hot dogs and milkshakes. For something a little different, check out the Plowboy Produce Auction, where farmers—90% of them Old Order Amish—bring wagon loads of their best hand-picked-that-morning products to sell. Auctions start at 1 PM Mon-Wed-Fri, April through October.

FRANKLIN

Image: VisitFranklin.com

If you can make the trip on Tuesday through Friday, take the Franklin Hop Trolley Tour, a vintage trolley ride through history. If Saturday is your only option, treat yourself to a stroll through the Franklin Farmers Market at  The Factory at Franklin. This former stove works turned bedding manufacturing plant is now filled with shops, restaurants and more. Franklin’s Main Street, designated a Great American Main Street and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is just steps away. Whatever day you visit, there will be plenty to see. History buffs will want to visit three homes that tell the story of the Battle of Franklin, dubbed “the last great battle of the American Civil War.” End your day with tickets to whatever’s playing at the beautifully restored Franklin Theatre, which offers movies, live theatre, music, comedy and more.

GRANVILLE

Image: Granville, TN

In the spirit of the Volunteer State, Granville—”Tennessee’s Mayberry Town“—is operated by about 200 volunteers, which means they’re only open Wednesday-Friday 10 AM-3 PM and Saturday 10 AM-5 PM. That’s right, the whole town has visiting hours, and there’s so much to see, you’ll want to make the most of every one of them. Your town tour ticket (just $7 for adults) gives you access to a guided tour of the Sutton Homestead and Pioneer Village and a self-guided tour of other buildings and museums, including the Mayberry – I Love Lucy Museum, Daniel Barber Shop and Post Office Museum, Clemons Car Museum, Granville Whiskey Decanter Museum, Whistle Stop Saloon and Ice Cream Museum and Tennessee Quilt & Textile Museum. See why you need to start early?

HOHENWALD

Image:  The Elephant Sanctuary

Begin your adventure at the 1896 train depot (now a welcome center) to pick up info and do a little shopping before heading out to The Elephant Sanctuary.  The sanctuary itself (where the elephants actually live) is closed to visitors, but you can enjoy hands-on exhibits at the Discovery Center and watch live footage from their “EleCam” solar-powered cameras used to locate and monitor the elephants. Don’t miss the Lewis County Museum of Natural History and Hohenwald Discovery Center—a big name for a place with a lot to offer, including the world-class Maddox Wildlife Collection, an outdoor ‘discovery trail’ and more. Before you head home, pay your respects at the grave of famed explorer Meriwether Lewis, and raise a glass at one (or more) stops on the Natchez Trace Wine Trail.

There are many more delightful places to visit in our part of Tennessee, but this list will give you a place to start. Have fun out there!

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LORETTA LYNN’S RANCH 

Image:  TripAdvisor

See an exact replica of Loretta’s Butcher Holler homeplace to get a feel for how she grew up, then tour her historic home to see how far she went. You can also take a guided tour of the grounds and visit the Doll and Fan Museum and/or the Native American Artifact Museum. (Tours and museum access Wed-Sun only.) Want to stay a while? Cabins, RV and tent camping available. Upcoming events include Motorcycles & Music, described as “a kick-ass, 4-day party on Loretta Lynn’s Ranch that will change the way you think about motorcycles, music, and people.” Plan your visit here: Loretta Lynn Ranch.

JOHNNY CASH’S FARM

Image: Storytellers Hideaway Farm

Visit the farm that Johnny Cash called “the center of my universe” and learn about the man behind the legend of the Man in Black at Storytellers Hideaway Farm & Museum. Tours start at the Museum, where you can learn about the history of the property, gawk at the one-of-a-kind “one piece at a time” Cadillac inspired by Johnny’s iconic song, and see how many country stars you can name in behind-the-scenes photos from the 50s to the 90s. Private tours available! Learn more at StorytellersHideawayFarm.com.

LOTS OF STARS’ HOMES

Image:  Viator

You want to see Taylor Swift’s place, right? (Who doesn’t?) You can do that and scope out homes (past and present) of folks like Dolly Parton, Garth Brooks, Martina McBride, Trisha Yearwood, and plenty of others. Take a DIY tour with a map from Celebrity Homes in Nashville, or climb aboard a comfy bus and let someone else drive so you can stay glued to the window with your phone at the ready just in case someone famous steps outside.

THE ULTIMATE COUNTRY MUSIC VENUE

Image:  Grand Ole Opry

Of course, we’re talking about the one, the only Grand Ole Opry. Sure, it’s packed with tourists, but have you actually been to a show? There’s a reason it’s called “Country Music’s Biggest Stage” and it has nothing to do with square footage. Check out their new star-studded tour exhibit and take a tour. There are several to choose from, including Women of Country (with mimosas!), Country Duo and a Postshow Backstage Tour to enjoy after you’ve taken in a performance (show ticket required). Choose your tour.

HONKY TONK HIGHWAY

Image:  VisitMusicCity.com

Honky tonk is defined as “a cheap, noisy, and garish nightclub or dance hall.” Sounds like a party! Especially when there’s a whole row of them pumping out live music from 10 AM to 3 AM. Located on Lower Broadway in Nashville, these venues don’t require a cover charge, making it a budget-friendly way to enjoy live music. Where better to spot a future country music sensation and (who knows?) maybe a current star, as well. Get the scoop.

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ROMANTIC GETAWAYS

Image:  Butterfly Hollow

Why celebrate Valentine’s Day on just one day when you can use it as an excuse for a weekend getaway. Whether you’re looking for an outdoor adventure, great food, mind-blowing music venues, or destinations that have a little bit of everything, your first stop should be TNVacation.com. It’s the perfect place to discover the authentic experiences and places that can only be found in Tennessee. And…if you really want to up the romance, they also offer a list of popular Tennessee places to elope.

GENERAL JACKSON SHOWBOAT

Image:  General Jackson

Is a riverboat cruise a bit old school and maybe a little cheesy? Who cares when you’re having this much fun?! For Valentine’s Day they’re offering a special package that includes a delicious three-course dinner, a three-hour cruise, a wide variety of music from Sinatra to Soul, Pop, Rock, Jazz and Big Band, and panoramic views of Nashville’s breathtaking skyline. What’s not to love about that? Learn more here.

ARRINGTON VINEYARDS

Image:  Photo by Tiago Alves Araújo

Raise a glass to your sweetheart at Arrington Vineyards and enjoy the beautiful views, including 16 acres of vineyards, five tasting rooms and shaded picnic areas. Relax in the Pavilion Tent and pair your wine with live jazz or sign up for a Wine & Chocolate Pairing in the Lodge Tasting Bar. It’s a guided tasting of award-winning wines paired with a selection of gourmet truffles by Music City Chocolates, ending with a decadent dessert. Sweet! Reserve your Wine & Chocolate experience here.

AND SO MUCH MORE…

Image:  Gerd Altmann from Pixabay 

You’ll find info on everything from Valentine’s Day Drag Bingo(!) to concerts of all kinds (Anita Baker, Romance at the Symphony and Candlelight at the Parthenon, to name just a few) to Valentine’s hotel and restaurant specials at VisitMusicCity.com.

However you choose to celebrate this year, we hope your day is a sweet one!

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