The Best Winter Events in Nashville

Nashville draws a specific kind of traveler. Tourists interested in the roots of country music and its most celebrated stars revel in the Grand Old Opry and Ryman auditorium. Animal lovers are always glad they made the trip to the Nashville Zoo at Grassmere and the outdoor enthusiasts marvel at the gorgeous landscapes at the state parks near-by. Winter time in Nashville, however, holds a special place in every visitors heart.

Each winter the famed Radio City Rockettes perform at the Grand Old Opry House. Winter has officially begun when these high stepping ladies trot into town. The three hour long show entertains crowds with the world famous precision dance routines complete with mile high kicks and season theme. Holiday and Christmas themes dominate the program with time tested favorite songs like Have Yourself a merry Little Christmas, Santa Claus is Coming to Town and Little Drummer Boy.

Pigeon Forge has a winterfest each year that lasts from November to January. The entire Smoky Mountains town is full of activities and events to celebrate the season. The Trolley of Lights takes visitors through the town on a trolley to view the colorful show of Christmas lights on display. The tour leaves from Trolley Station patriot Park and it takes almost two hours to view the 4 million lights.

The Gaylord Opryland ICE experience keeps visitors coming back year after year. This exhibit starts with live country Christmas music played by snowmen and keeps getting better. Guests are able to travel through a magical wreath to time of Christmas years ago. Carved out of ice, the entire scene is rich in detail from the family dog sleeping by the fire to the horse drawn ice carriage where guests can sit beside the frozen horseman and snap holiday pictures. The Christmas Castle and Santa's Toyland is next where you can ride huge ice slides. Travel through the lighted tunnel to reach Santa's Toyland carved from colorful ice. Don't forget the beautiful ice forest, the quaint country church at Christmas and the nativity scene al carved from sparkling, colorful ice.

The Sommet Center in Nashville always hosts some very memorable events each winter. This is the place to catch the Nashville Philharmonic Orchestra, the Vienna Boys Choir and many other musical performances. Enjoy the sounds of Christmas and the winter season in this gorgeously decorated amphitheater.

Nashville is chock full of fun all year round but winter time brings special treats for visitors. Its a wonderful trip for couples, families and singles with something to draw in everyone's interest.

References
My own experience