Best Christmas Attractions and Experiences Nashville 2026

Check out the best Christmas attractions and experiences in Nashville for 2026 including Santa visits, ice skating, and marathons!

Nashville is one of the top cities to celebrate Christmas, offering a packed calendar of holiday events, seasonal traditions, and memorable experiences for all ages. From Santa visits and ice skating to merry marathons and more, here's your guide to the best Christmas experiences and attractions in Nashville for 2026.

The Best Christmas Attractions and Experiences in Nashville This Season

From classic Christmas traditions to can’t miss seasonal events, Nashville’s holiday lineup offers something for every type of celebration.

1. Holly Jolly Festival of Lights — Eagleville

Located just a short drive outside of Nashville, this family friendly farm experience features a magical mile long walkable trail of outdoor holiday displays. All ages can explore the stunning festival pathways surrounded by millions of twinkling lights, dazzling seasonal scenes, and festive music. Beyond the light trail, the farm keeps the energy high with a mega slide, a tricycle track, cozy campfires, and tasty s'mores roasting stations. Visitors can even meet unique ambassador animal friends inside Habitat Hall or drop off a holiday wishlist at the custom Letters to Santa station. The Barnyard Grill and bakery bars also stay open late to serve up hot cocoa and scratch made winter treats.

Dates: November 27th through December 23rd, 2026
Admission: Ticketed
Street Address: Lucky Ladd Farms, 4306 Rocky Glade Rd, Eagleville, TN 37060
Kid Friendly: Yes
Pet Friendly: No (except for designated dog-friendly events or certified service dogs)
Parking: Free on-site parking available on the farm grounds
Website: https://luckyladdfarms.com/nashville-tn-holly-jolly-festival-of-lights.html

Insider Tip: Always buy your tickets online at least an hour before arriving to save up to $8 per person compared to gate prices. If you want to catch character meet and greets (like the Mean Green One or Rudy Reindeer), aim for a Friday or Saturday night between 5:30 PM and 8:00 PM.

2. TKF At Your Pace Kidney Race — Nashville

The TKF At Your Pace Kidney Race is a meaningful annual event presented by Fresenius Medical Care. Hosted at the Centennial Park Bandshell, this fully accessible race draws more than 400 community members each year. It directly benefits the Tennessee Kidney Foundation in its critical mission to fight kidney disease. All raised funds go straight toward vital client programs, including emergency food relief and transportation assistance for dialysis appointments.

Dates: Saturday, December 5th, 2026
Admission: Paid
Street Address: Centennial Park Bandshell, 2500 West End Ave, Nashville, TN 37203
Kid Friendly: Yes (Interactive kid centric activities on-site)
Pet Friendly: Yes (Leashed dogs welcome on park pathways)
Parking: Free public parking lots located throughout the Centennial Park grounds
Website: https://www.findtherun.com/race/92656/tkf-at-your-pace-kidney-race-presented-by-fresenius-medical-care

Insider Tip: The entire race course is held on a completely flat, paved pathway that is fully handicap and stroller accessible. This makes it an incredibly low stress and fun option for families with small kids or individuals with limited mobility who want to support a great cause.

3. Rudolph Dash 5K & Rudolph Jingle Sprint 1K — Nolensville

The Rudolph Dash 5K and Rudolph Jingle Sprint 1K bring exciting holiday racing to Nolensville United Methodist Church. Participants can test their stride on the 5K course or enjoy the inclusive, all ages 1K sprint. Alongside the races, the event features Rudolph's Red Nose Workshop located inside the church building. This festive workshop offers ten hands-on craft stations with dedicated volunteers ready to help you complete your creations.

Dates: Saturday, December 5th, 2026
Admission: Paid
Street Address: Nolensville UMC, 7316 Nolensville Rd, Nolensville, TN 37135
Kid Friendly: Yes (No age limit on the 1K Sprint or Workshop)
Pet Friendly: No (Due to indoor workshop activities)
Parking: On-site church parking lot and designated overflow street parking
Website: https://runsignup.com/Race/TN/Nolensville/Reindeer4Hope

Insider Tip: Make sure to register before October 15th to guarantee your custom finisher medal and event race shirt. Don't skip the workshop post race, since every attendee will get a great custom swag bag with a 3D printed disc launcher and an activity book.

4. 2026 Jingle Bell Run — Nashville

Lace up for a wonderful cause at the 2026 Jingle Bell Run, hosted along Shadow Lane in Nashville. This holiday themed event benefits the Arthritis Foundation to help raise funds and awareness for a cure. Celebrating four decades of global impact, the run welcomes runners, walkers, and strollers of all levels. Participants are highly encouraged to wear their favorite holiday gear to share a message of joy and unity.

Dates: Saturday, December 5th, 2026
Admission: Registration fee required
Street Address: 1199 Shadow Lane, Nashville, TN 37216
Kid Friendly: Yes (Strollers welcome on the course)
Pet Friendly: Yes (Leashed dogs permitted on the outdoor paths)
Parking: Designated event parking lots surrounding the Shadow Lane venue area
Website: https://www.findtherun.com/race/130733/2026-jingle-bell-run-nashville-tn

Insider Tip: Bring plenty of safety pins and a small pack of jingle bells to pass around to your group! The sound of hundreds of runners moving down the road with bells jingling on their shoes creates an incredibly uplifting, unforgettable atmosphere.

5. Reindeer Run 5k — Carthage

The second annual Reindeer Run 5k offers a themed fun run held at the scenic Crump Paris Park. Participants are highly encouraged to show up in their favorite holiday gear or best ugly sweaters to kick off the winter season with the community. This untimed event features a rolling clock at the finish line so runners can check their personal pace as they cross. Most importantly, all proceeds from the event directly benefit the Smith County High School Cheerleading Team.

Dates: Saturday, December 5th, 2026
Admission: Paid (Registration fee required)
Street Address: Crump Paris Park, 132 Gordonsville Hwy, Carthage, TN 37030
Kid Friendly: Yes
Pet Friendly: Yes (Outdoor park setting)
Parking: Ample free parking available on-site within the main Crump Paris Park lot
Website: https://www.findtherun.com/race/95561/reindeer-run-5k

Insider Tip: Make sure to arrive early for morning check-in, as bib pick-up runs strictly from 8:00 AM to 8:50 AM on race day. Since it’s a fun run without individual tracking chips, position yourself close to the front of the starting line if you want an unobstructed view of the rolling finish line clock.

6. Lewisburg Ugly Sweater 5K — Lewisburg

The Lewisburg Ugly Sweater 5K invites runners and walkers of all ages to showcase their favorite holiday apparel on a beautiful local course. This fully timed event takes participants through the gorgeous scenery of the Lewisburg Golf Course, offering distinct age divisions ranging from youth to distinguished seniors. All participants will be rewarded for their efforts with an official finishing medal and a commemorative event t-shirt.

Dates: Saturday, December 5th, 2026
Admission: Paid
Street Address: Lewisburg Rec Center, 1551 Mooresville Hwy, Lewisburg, TN 37091
Kid Friendly: Yes (Open to all ages with dedicated youth divisions)
Pet Friendly: No (Strictly prohibited to protect the delicate golf course greens)
Parking: Free parking available at the Lewisburg Rec Center main lot
Website: https://www.findtherun.com/race/42054/lewisburg-ugly-sweater-5k

Insider Tip: Trophies are awarded to the top overall male and female runners, while placement medals go to the top three finishers in seven different age brackets.

7. A Charlie Brown Christmas 5K/10K — Nashville

Celebrate five amazing years of timeless holiday cheer, iconic characters, and heartwarming tradition at the annual A Charlie Brown Christmas 5K/10K. Hosted at the scenic Shelby Park, this beloved family event invites you to showcase your finest festive attire while racing along the course. Runners can look forward to a special appearance by Santa Claus alongside delicious post race refreshments to celebrate their finish. Because this popular nationwide Peanuts® Event Series consistently sells out, registration is strictly limited to the first 1,300 participants.

Dates: Saturday, December 12th, 2026
Admission: Ticketed
Street Address: Shelby Park, 1600 Davidson St, Nashville, TN 37206
Kid Friendly: Yes
Pet Friendly: Yes (Outdoor park setting)
Parking: Free public parking lots available throughout the Shelby Park grounds
Website: https://www.findtherun.com/race/83774/a-charlie-brown-christmas-5k-10k-nashville-tn

Insider Tip: Coordinate your outfit with your family or running group! Since this is an officially licensed Peanuts® event, matching characters like Charlie Brown, Snoopy, or Lucy is highly popular, and you'll want your festive gear looking sharp for your post race photo with Santa Claus.

8. A Worthy Clause 5K & Mile Fun Run — Columbia

Lace up your running shoes and sport your favorite Christmas attire for A Worthy Clause 5K & Mile Fun Run at Riverside Park. This meaningful, holiday themed community event features a fully timed 5K alongside an untimed Mile fun run and walk. This seasonal morning atmosphere will be packed with family friendly entertainment, including local food trucks, health vendors, and a live DJ spinning tunes. Most importantly, all proceeds go directly toward launching "A Worthy Movement," a dedicated mobile bus initiative designed to bring nutrition education, movement, and mindfulness straight to youth in need.

Dates: Saturday, December 12th, 2026
Admission: Ticketed
Street Address: Riverside Park, 511 Riverside Dr, Columbia, TN 38401
Kid Friendly: Yes
Pet Friendly: Yes (Leashed dogs are welcome on the outdoor park pathways)
Parking: Free public parking available on-site at the main Riverside Park lots
Website: https://runsignup.com/Race/TN/Columbia/AWorthyClause?aflt_token=QZt1KFBDIiIun5smo9vi7y59qq2fNLcB

Insider Tip: Make sure to budget some extra time and bring your wallet for after the race. The finish line area transforms into a full community block party with a live DJ, health vendors, and a lineup of local food trucks, making it the perfect spot to hang out and grab lunch.

9. Candy Cane Course — Nashville

The annual Candy Cane Course brings a wonderful, Christmas themed racing experience straight to Heartland Park that is ideal for the entire family. Participants can choose between a fully chip timed 5K, 10K, or 15K distance, while an untimed Mile walk is also available. The event is packed with high end perks, including free professional race photography and a variety of delicious holiday treats waiting at the finish line. For those who cannot make it to the park in person, a flexible virtual race option allows you to run anywhere at any time and still earn all the Christmas gear.

Dates: Saturday, December 19th, 2026
Admission: Ticketed
Street Address: Heartland Park, 3135 Heartland Dr, Nashville, TN 37214
Kid Friendly: Yes
Pet Friendly: Yes (On a leash along the outdoor park trails)
Parking: Free public parking available on-site at the Heartland Park lot
Website: https://www.findtherun.com/race/10574/candy-cane-course-nashville

Insider Tip: Leave your own camera or phone tucked away during the run and just focus on your stride. The race includes free professional photography as part of your registration, so look out for the photographers along the course and at the finish line to get high-quality action shots without paying extra!

10. Nashville Jingle Bell Trot — Antioch

Get into the holiday spirit with the Jingle Bell Trot 5K, a festive run winding through the gorgeous winter trails of Orchard Bend Park. This brand new holiday tradition features a professionally chip timed course packed with festive music, cheerful decorations, and a highly energetic community vibe. Participants of all fitness levels are welcome to run or walk, and everyone is highly encouraged to dress up in Santa hats, reindeer antlers, or jingling bells. Best of all, proceeds from this event directly benefit The Nashville Food Project to help combat food insecurity across the region.

Dates: Saturday, December 19th, 2026
Admission: Ticketed
Street Address: Orchard Bend Park, 5605 Pettus Rd, Antioch, TN 37013
Kid Friendly: Yes (Perfect for families and strollers of all ages)
Pet Friendly: Yes (Leashed dogs welcome on the park trails)
Parking: Free parking available within the designated Orchard Bend Park public lot
Website: https://runsignup.com/Race/TN/Antioch/NashvilleJingleBellTrot?aflt_token=QZt1KFBDIiIun5smo9vi7y59qq2fNLcB

Insider Tip: Don't skimp on the holiday accessories, bring actual bells to tie to your shoes or a bright Santa hat. The event hosts an official "Best Dressed Participant" award category alongside the standard athletic podiums, meaning you can take home a prize package purely for having the most festive holiday spirit on the trail.

Tips for Enjoying Christmas Attractions and Experiences in Nashville

Book Santa photos early: Popular Santa visits at malls, train rides, and holiday villages sell out weeks in advance. Book as soon as dates are announced.
Plan around nap and meal times: Holiday events draw crowds at peak times. Going right at opening or in the late afternoon often works better for younger kids.
Layer up for outdoor events: Many Christmas experiences and attractions are partially or fully outdoors. Bring extra layers, hats, and gloves for chilly evenings.
Bring snacks: Food at holiday events often has long lines and inflated prices. Packing your own snacks saves money and meltdowns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here's what to know before you go to any of the listed Nashville experiences or attractions this season.

What are the best Christmas attractions and experiences for kids in Nashville?

Nashville offers everything from Santa visits and ice skating to holiday train rides and interactive Christmas villages. The right pick depends on your kids' ages and interests. Check the listings above for age recommendations.

Where can I take a photo with Santa in Nashville?

Major shopping centers, holiday villages, train experiences, and select neighborhood events offer photos with Santa. Reservations are strongly recommended for the most popular Santa visits, which book up weeks in advance.

Are Nashville Christmas activities free for kids?

Many Christmas attractions in Nashville offer free or reduced price tickets for young kids. Experiences like Santa photos, train rides, and holiday workshops typically charge admission.

When should I book Christmas attractions and experiences in Nashville?

Book ticketed activities as soon as dates are announced, typically in October. The closer to Christmas, the harder tickets are to get.

Can I add my event to this guide?

We'd love to feature your Christmas event! Simply share your event through our quick submission form and we will get it added to the list!

Christmas Experiences and Attractions Worth the Drive from Nashville

Nashville isn't the only place worth visiting for Christmas attractions and experiences this season. Within a couple of hours' drive, you'll find several other cities with their own kid-friendly holiday events worth the trip.

Pigeon Forge & Gatlinburg, Tennessee — 3 Hours 40 Minutes from Nashville

From mountain-top celebrations to family-friendly attractions, the Smokies offer plenty of ways to enjoy the holiday season. Take in the festive atmosphere during Anakeesta's Enchanted Winter Celebration in Gatlinburg, then head to Pigeon Forge for Dollywood's Smoky Mountain Christmas, where more than 6 million lights, award-winning holiday shows, thrilling rides, festive treats, and seasonal attractions create one of the country's most beloved Christmas experiences.

Memphis, Tennessee — 3 Hours 15 Minutes from Nashville

From Santa encounters to hands-on holiday experiences, Memphis offers plenty of unique ways to celebrate Christmas with the family. Visit Bass Pro Shops Santa’s Wonderland for a festive visit with Santa, photos, and seasonal fun, then head to Cedar Hill Farm for a memorable Eat with Santa experience featuring a holiday meal and farm-style Christmas traditions.