Nashville events are frequent, and there are many annual festivals that draw visitors for music, antiques, and food, among other interests. During any time of the year you won’t have to try very hard to find Nashville entertainment, but a few special annual events are guaranteed to make your trip all the more memorable. The best-known event is the annual CMA Festival, held every June, featuring a variety of country music. Music is celebrated year-round in Nashville, from nightly performances to the Country Music Hall of Fame to the Grand Ole Opry to various annual events. Plan a trip to attend Nashville festivals or enjoy the regular offerings that Music City has to offer.

Nashville events extend to all of the arts. If you’re looking for free events in Nashville, one of the most popular is Art After Hours, a citywide art crawl on the first Thursday of every month, when galleries open their doors for special hours. Nashville entertainment is scheduled all year long, including the Antiques and Garden Show held every February. With more than 150 antiques dealers, this is one of the top shopping events in Nashville. Lectures are also included in this annual event. There are free events in celebrations of holidays as well, including the free Easter Egg hunt at Belmont Mansion every year.

By far, the most popular of all Nashville events is the CMA Festival. Held each June, the Country Music Association brings the best artists in country music to Nashville. The lineup has included country music legends Alan Jackson, Carrie Underwood, Tim McGraw, Keith Urban, Martina McBride, and Rascal Flatts. Tickets for the CMA Festival can be purchased for individual days or for the four-night package. During this festival, airfare and hotel prices can go up, so if you plan on attending, be sure to book your flight and accommodation as early as possible. Venues are scattered throughout downtown Nashville including LP Field, Riverfront Park, and the Nashville Convention Center.

Nashville Map

This country music festival has been a favorite on the Nashville scene since it began in 1972. In 2001 the festival was moved to downtown Nashville and now attracts almost 60,000 country music fans per day of the festival. If you’re attending the festival, check your local listings for primetime specials. The web site for the festival is very helpful and can assist travelers in finding hotel and travel packages and it provides great tips for parking, transportation, getting autographs from your favorite artists, information booths, food & beverage, and what to bring to the festival.

Nashville entertainment beyond music can be just as fun. Each May the Toast of Tennessee Wine Festival draws food and wine lovers to the state. The American Artisan Festival every June brings together artisans from across the country including those that specialize in glass, furniture, jewelry, and more. Every August the Bell Witch Bluegrass Festival brings more music-lovers to town and the Belmont Fashion Show attracts shopping enthusiasts. No matter what month you want to travel to Nashville, you will find a range of events that will help you to get to know a different side of Music City.