Nashville events: 27 free festivals you should attend in 2019
There are plenty of free festivals in Nashville and Middle Tennessee that celebrate music, food, history and culture.
Nashville events: 27 free festivals you should attend in 2019 There are plenty of free festivals in Nashville and Middle Tennessee that celebrate music, food, history and culture. Check out this story on Tennessean.com: https://www.tennessean.com/story/life/shopping/ms-cheap/2019/01/25/nashville-things-to-do-festivals-2019/2618387002/
Mary Hance, Nashville Tennessean Published 7:00 a.m. CT Jan. 25, 2019 | Updated 8:05 a.m. CT April 18, 2019
Looking for things to do in Nashville? Ms. Cheap has the ultimate list to keep your 2019 fun with free events. Larry McCormack, lmccormack@tennessean.com
You can drop a lot of money going to big-name festivals across the country, but there's no need to torture your wallet.
There are plenty of free festivals in Middle Tennessee that celebrate music, food, history and culture. Here are 26 of my favorites for your 2019 calendar.
Stay cheap!
1. Earth Day Festival
The 17th annual free family Earth Day Festival will be in Centennial Park, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. April 20. There will be more than 100 booths hosted by community groups, environmental groups and government agencies. Plus live music, a green market, beer garden and lots of chances to recycle
Details: http://www.nashvilleearthday.org/
MORE: 104 free things to do around Nashville in 2019
2. Franklin's Main Street Festival
The Heritage Foundation's Main Street Festival in downtown Franklin is April 27-28. This outdoor arts and crafts show and entertainment festival, located along historic Main Street, features about 200 artists and craftspeople.
Details: williamsonheritage.org
3. Strawberry Festival
The 78th annual Middle Tennessee Strawberry Festival in downtown Portland will take place May 11. Not only does it include berries for sale on "Strawberry Lane," but it has a full day of family-friendly strawberry-themed fun. This year's theme is "Berried Treasures."
Details: middletennesseestrawberryfestival.net
Hank Pruett, center, wins a Strawberry eating contest during Strawberry Festival at Nashville Farmers Market on Saturday, May 16, 2015, in Nashville, Tenn. (Photo: Jae S. Lee / The Tennessean)
4. Tennessee Craft Fair
The Tennessee Craft Fair brings 200 artisans to Centennial Park twice a year with art for sale, artist demonstrations and other family fun. The 2019 dates are May 3-5 and Oct. 11-13.
Details: tennesseecraft.org or 615-736-7600
5. Tennessee Statehood Day
Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park, 600 James Robertson Parkway, is having a June 1 Statehood Day celebration with lots of history-filled activities.
Details: 615-741-5280
6. CMA Fest
The June 6-9 CMA Music Festival brings the biggest stars to town for its coveted nighttime ticketed concerts. But there will also be four full days of free music from hundreds of artists on seven stages in downtown Nashville, plus other activities.
Details: cmafest.com
Best of CMA Music Fest 2018
Luke Bryan performs at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Sunday, June 10, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
The crowd reacts to Thomas Rhett's perforance at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Sunday June 10, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Fans toss a ball in the Cumberland River while listening to music at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Saturday June 9, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Brett Eldredge interacts with fans at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Sunday, June 10, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Florida Georgia Line performs at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Sunday, June 10, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Willow Aspery, of Paducah, Ky., forms a heart shape with her hands while Scotty McCreery performs at the Chevy Riverfront Stage during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Sunday, June 10, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / Tennessean.com
Mason Massey, left sits with grandmother Chris Clark as she holds Finley and watches Tegan Marie at the Ascend Country Roads Stage at the CMA Festival in Nashville, Tenn., Saturday, June 9, 2018. Lacy Atkins / The Tennessean
Lauren Schroeder kisses Ryland Fisher as they hug and listen to music performed by artist Tyler Reeve in front of the Bridgestone Arena during the CMA Music Festival Saturday, June 9, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For tennessean.com
Kelsea Ballerini performs at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Saturday, June 9, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Matthew Ramsey of Old Dominion performs at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Friday, June 8, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Bobby Bare performs at the CMA Close Up Stage during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Sunday, June 10, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / tennessean.com
Bill Anderson takes a photo with Craig Urbani, of Salem, Ore., at the CMA Close Up Stage during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Sunday, June 10, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / tennessean.com
Randy and Mary Travis make an appearance at the Ascend Stage where he was awarded with the Cracker Barrel County legend award, at the CMA Festival in Nashville, Tenn., Saturday, June 9, 2018. Lacy Atkins / Tennessean.com
Patrons at Honky Tonk Central during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Friday, June 8, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / tennessean.com
Hannah Smith cools off with a fan mister bottle while listening to country music artists perform at the Riverfront Stage during the CMA Music Festival Friday, June 8, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For the Tennessean
Jim Hislop from Pennsylvania listens to Parmalee perform at the Riverfront Stage during the CMA Music Festival Saturday, June 9, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For tennessean.com
Three year old Aubre Massey stands on her grandfather Finley Clark to watch Tegan Marie at the Ascend Country Roads Stage at the CMA Festival in Nashville, Tenn., Saturday, June 9, 2018. Lacy Atkins / The Tennessean
The crowd reacts as Dustin Lynch performs at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Saturday June 9, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Bebe Rexha performs with Florida Georgia Line at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Sunday, June 10, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Randy Travis watches Dierks Bentley perform during the 2018 CMA Music Fest Sunday, June 10, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Dierks Bentley performs at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Sunday, June 10, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
John Osborne of Brothers Osborne plays guitar as he performs with Dierks Bentley at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Sunday, June 10, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Dierks Bentley performs with Brothers Osborne during Bentley's set at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Sunday, June 10, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Dierks Bentley performs with Dwight Yoakam during Bentley's set at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Sunday, June 10, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Thomas Rhett performs at the CMA Music Festival on Sunday, June 10, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Thomas Rhett performs at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Sunday June 10, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Thomas Rhett performs at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Sunday, June 10, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Show hosts Thomas Rhett and Kelsea Ballerini talk to the crowd at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Thursday, June 7, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Cole Swindell takes a photo for a fan as he performs at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Sunday June 10, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Brett Eldredge performs at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Sunday, June 10, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Brett Eldredge performs at the CMA Music Festival on Sunday, June 10, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Ricky Skaggs performs at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Sunday, June 10, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Ray Stevens sings the National Anthem at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Sunday June 10, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Kelsea Ballerini performs at the Closeup Stage during the CMA Music Festival Sunday, June 10, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For tennessean.com
Derek James, left, and Jerry Fuentes of The Last Bandoleros perform during the CMA Music Festival Sunday, June 10, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For tennessean.com
Diego Navaira of The Last Bandoleros performs during the CMA Music Festival Sunday, June 10, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For tennessean.com
Derek James of The Last Bandoleros performs during the CMA Music Festival Sunday, June 10, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For tennessean.com
Kelsea Ballerini greets fans after speaking and performing at the Closeup Stage during the CMA Music Festival Sunday, June 10, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For tennessean.com
Kelsea Ballerini answers questions as she talks to the crowd at the Closeup Stage during the CMA Music Festival Sunday, June 10, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For tennessean.com
Danny Michael, of Akron, Ohio, 4, lifts his earmuff while listienng to Canaan Smith at the Chevy Riverfront Stage during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Sunday, June 10, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / The Tennessean
Fans watch as Bobby Bare and Bill Anderson occupy the CMA Close Up Stage during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Sunday, June 10, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / tennessean.com
Kaitlin Gilbert, of Pardeeville, Wis., and Tori Simpson, of Church Hill, watch as Scotty McCreery performs at the Chevy Riverfront Stage during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Sunday, June 10, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / Tennessean.com
Mike Primozich, of St. Paul, Minn., uses a fan during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Sunday, June 10, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / The Tennessean
Scotty McCreery performs at the Chevy Riverfront Stage during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Sunday, June 10, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / Tennessean.com
Willow Aspery, of Paducah, Ky., cheers while Scotty McCreery performs at the Chevy Riverfront Stage during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Sunday, June 10, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / Tennessean.com
Concertgoers watch as Scotty McCreery performs at the Chevy Riverfront Stage during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Sunday, June 10, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / Tennessean.com
Luke Bryan takes a selfie with a fan before Scotty McCreery takes the stage at the Chevy Riverfront Stage during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Sunday, June 10, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / Tennessean.com
Bobby Bare occupies the CMA Close Up Stage with Bill Anderson during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Sunday, June 10, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / tennessean.com
Bill Anderson performs next to Bobby Bare at the CMA Close Up Stage during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Sunday, June 10, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / tennessean.com
Jamie Gorlick, of Toronto, Canada, cheers while listening to Canaan Smith at the Chevy Riverfront Stage during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Sunday, June 10, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / tennessean.com
Keith Urban performs at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Saturday, June 9, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Keith Urban performs at the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Saturday, June 9, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Jillian Jacqueline sings the National Anthem at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Saturday, June 9, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Lee Ann Womack performs at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Saturday, June 9, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Sam Hunt sings to the fans at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Saturday June 9, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Dustin Lynch performs at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Saturday June 9, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Chris Stapleton performs at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Saturday, June 9, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
People take their seats during Lee Ann Womack performance at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Saturday June 9, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. HELEN COMER/DNJ
Lee Ann Womack opens the night as the first performer at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Saturday June 9, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. HELEN COMER/DNJ
Tranyce Parmer sells CMA merchandise at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Saturday June 9, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. HELEN COMER/DNJ
Maggie Baugh dances to Tegan Marie at the Ascend Country Roads Stage at the CMA Festival in Nashville, Tenn., Saturday, June 9, 2018. Baugh is a close friend of Tegan Marie and played the violin in her video. Lacy Atkins / The Tennessean
Cole Swindell performs at the Ascend Stage at the CMA Festival in Nashville, Tenn., Saturday, June 9, 2018. Lacy Atkins / Tennessean.com
Michael Ray performs at the Ascend Country Roads Stage at the CMA Festival in Nashville, Tenn., Saturday, June 9, 2018. Lacy Atkins / Tennessean.com
Morgan Evans performs at the Ascend Stage at the CMA Festival in Nashville, Tenn., Saturday, June 9, 2018. Lacy Atkins / Tennessean.com
The crowd sings along with performers at the Ascend Stage at the CMA Festival in Nashville, Tenn., Saturday, June 9, 2018. Lacy Atkins / Tennessean.com
Randy Travis makes an appearance with his wife Mary at his side at the CMA Festival in Nashville, Tenn., Saturday, June 9, 2018. Lacy Atkins / Tennessean.com
Tegan Marie performs at the Ascend Country Roads Stage at the CMA Festival in Nashville, Tenn., Saturday, June 9, 2018. Lacy Atkins / The Tennessean
Carri Sakowicz wipes a tear away as she sings along with the performers in the "Forever Country, Never Forgotten" show at the Budweiser Forever Country Stage at the CMA Music Festival in Nashville on Saturday, June 9, 2018. Lacy Atkins / The Tennessean
Ira Dean performs Mel Tillis songs while wearing a jacket that the late Tillis gave him at the Budweiser Forever Country Stage at the CMA Music Festival in Nashville on Saturday, June 9, 2018. Lacy Atkins / The Tennessean
Country artist George Ducas greets Trish Fuller at the Budweiser Forever Country Stage at the CMA Festival in Nashville, Tenn., Saturday, June 9, 2018. Lacy Atkins / tennessean.com
Fans watch performances from all levels at the Budweiser Forever Country Stage at the CMA Festival in Nashville, Tenn., Saturday, June 9, 2018. Lacy Atkins / tennessean.com
Jennifer Borntrager runs through the crowd as they watch performers play at the Budweiser Forever Country Stage at the CMA Festival in Nashville, Tenn., Saturday, June 9, 2018. Lacy Atkins / tennessean.com
Fans cheer as Jamie O'Neal performs at the Budweiser Forever Country Stage at the CMA Festival in Nashville, Tenn., Saturday, June 9, 2018. Lacy Atkins / tennessean.com
Stephanie Cox takes a picture on the Forever County, Never Forgotten show at the Budweiser Forever Country Stage at the CMA Festival in Nashville, Tenn., Saturday, June 9, 2018. Lacy Atkins / The Tennessean
Casee Demets takes a selfie with TyHerndon after he performs at the Budweiser Forever Country Stage at the CMA Festival in Nashville, Tenn., Saturday, June 9, 2018. Lacy Atkins / The Tennessean
Ty Herndon pays tribute to Glenn Campbell in the Forever County, Never Forgotten show at the Budweiser Forever Country Stage at the CMA Festival in Nashville, Tenn., Saturday, June 9, 2018. Lacy Atkins / The Tennessean
Fan Joana Ganey gives Country artist George Ducas a kiss after meeting him at the Budweiser Forever Country Stage at the CMA Festival in Nashville, Tenn., Saturday, June 9, 2018. Lacy Atkins / The Tennessean
Halfway to Hazard perform in the Forever County, Never Forgotten show at the Budweiser Forever Country Stage at the CMA Festival in Nashville, Tenn., Saturday, June 9, 2018. Lacy Atkins / The Tennessean
Fans watch performers play at the Budweiser Forever Country Stage at the CMA Festival in Nashville, Tenn., Saturday, June 9, 2018. Lacy Atkins / The Tennessean
Mark and Carri Sakowicz sing along with the Forever County, Never Forgotten performances at the Budweiser Forever Country Stage at the CMA Festival in Nashville, Tenn., Saturday, June 9, 2018. Lacy Atkins / The Tennessean
A man wearing American flag shorts during the CMA Music Festival Saturday, June 9, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For tennessean.com
Megan Razick dances with her cousin Brian Freeman as they listen to country music at the Music City Walk of Fame Park during the CMA Music Festival Saturday, June 9, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For tennessean.com
A group of women buy concert tickets from a man selling them along Broadway during the CMA Music Festival Saturday, June 9, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For tennessean.com
People cross the street at 4th Avenue North and Broadway during the CMA Music Festival Saturday, June 9, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For tennessean.com
Music fans stand and sit under the Bridgestone Arena air conditioning vents as cool air blows on them during the CMA Music Festival Saturday, June 9, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For tennessean.com
Lee Ann Womack performs during the CMA Music Festival Saturday, June 9, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For tennessean.com
Music artist Chris Bandi greets fans after performing at the Music City Walk of Fame Park during the CMA Music Festival Saturday, June 9, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For tennessean.com
Music fans dance and cheer as they listen to Parmalee perform at the Riverfront Stage during the CMA Music Festival Saturday, June 9, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For tennessean.com
Music fans walk around lower Broadway during the CMA Music Festival Saturday, June 9, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For tennessean.com
Lauren Alaina brings a fan to the stage during a performance of the song "Next Boyfriend" at the HGTV Lodge during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Saturday, June 9, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / tennessean.com
Fans raise big fingers as Lauren Alaina performs at the HGTV Lodge during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Saturday, June 9, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / tennessean.com
A fan records Lauren Alaina dancing with a fan on stage during a performance of the song "Next Boyfriend" at the HGTV Lodge during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Saturday, June 9, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / tennessean.com
Lauren Alaina dances with a fan on stage during a performance of the song "Next Boyfriend" at the HGTV Lodge during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Saturday, June 9, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / tennessean.com
Boaters float on the Cumberland River near the Chevy Riverfront Stage during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Saturday, June 9, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / tennessean.com
Terrell Nelson, of Nashville, uses a towel over his head before the start of a concert at the Chevy Riverfront Stage during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Saturday, June 9, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / tennessean.com
Mohnish Verma, of Pune, India, 5, attempts to cool off in front of a fan while being held up by his father Pankaj Verma during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Saturday, June 9, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / tennessean.com
Carter Knowles, 5, of Polk City, Fla., attempts to cool herself with an ice pack on her head while waiting with her grandmother to see Dustin Lynch at the HGTV Lodge during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Saturday, June 9, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / tennessean.com
People dance along to the "YMCA" while riding abroad the Honky Tonk Party Express during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Saturday, June 9, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / tennessean.com
Natalie Wilson, of Toronto, Canada, utilizes a fan attached to a phone during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Saturday, June 9, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / tennessean.com
Knox Branscum, of Russell Springs, Ky., looks into a fountain during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Saturday, June 9, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / tennessean.com
Carol Noreika, of Perkasie, Penn., has her picture made by Belinda Jo, of Gallatin, during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Saturday, June 9, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / tennessean.com
Damen Weeks, of Gulf Shores, Ala., sports a Katy Perry fan while on Broadway during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Saturday, June 9, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / tennessean.com
Luke Bryan talks with the crowd at his fan club party during the CMA Music Festival on Friday, June 8, 2018, in Nashville. Mark Zaleski / For Tennessean.com
Blake Shelton performs at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Friday, June 8, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Kane Brown performs at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Thursday, June 7, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Carrie Underwood performs at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Friday June 8, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Mason Ramsey bows after singing the National Anthem at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Friday June 8, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Luke Combs interacts with fans at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Friday, June 8, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Kane Brown and Lauren Alaina wave to the crowd at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Thursday, June 7, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Charley Pride performs at the CMA Music Festival on June 8, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Brett Young responds to the crowd at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Friday June 8, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Jake Owen performs at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Friday, June 8, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Brett Young performs at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Friday June 8, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Members of the Andrew Jackson Eagle Honor Choir perform at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Friday, June 8, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Blake Shelton performs at LP Field for the Friday night series of concerts at the 2013 CMA Music Festival on June 7, 2013, in Nashville. Larry McCormack / The Tennessean
Andrew Jackson Eagle Honor Choir performs at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Friday June 8, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Luke Combs performs at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Friday, June 8, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Jessica Benson relaxes as she listens to Cale Hobbs perform during the CMA Music Festival Friday, June 8, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For the Tennessean
Bianca Rigazzo watches country music artist Aaron Watson perform at the Riverfront Stage during the CMA Music Festival Friday, June 8, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For the Tennessean
Dana and Bob Cohen of Florida share a moment together while listening to music at the Music City Walk of Fame Park during the CMA Music Festival Friday, June 8, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For Tennessean.com
Luke Bryan performs at his Fan Club Party during the CMA Music Festival Friday, June 8, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For Tennessean.com
Hayley Bass holds her 2-month-old daughter Reagan, wearing protective baby earmuffs, as they dance together while while music is played at the Music City Walk of Fame Park during the CMA Music Festival Friday, June 8, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For Tennessean.com
Taylor Davis, second from left, Allie Parson, and Marlee Carom, second from right, cheer as they listen to country music artist Aaron Watson perform at the Riverfront Stage during the CMA Music Festival Friday, June 8, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For the Tennessean
People walk along Broadway during the CMA Music Festival Friday, June 8, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For Tennessean.com
Papa John's employees Jeremy Hon, left, and Deven Burgess dunk fellow worker Jacob Amick into a barrel of cold water to cool off during the CMA Music Festival Friday, June 8, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For Tennessean.com
Papa John's employee Jacob Amick, center, reacts after being dunked into a barrel of cold water to cool off by fellow workers Jeremy Hon, left, and Deven Burgess during the CMA Music Festival Friday, June 8, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For Tennessean.com
Beth Benton, left, Wes Verzwyzelt, Steve and Lisa Mellon, walk around Lower Broadway wearing their ballon hats during the CMA Music Festival Friday, June 8, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For Tennessean.com
Patrick Garrett, Kiana Crall, left, and Kelsee Williams walk to the Riverfront Stage for a concert during the CMA Music Festival Friday, June 8, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For Tennessean.com
Casey Scheele, left, and Skylar Pierce take a photograph with country music artists LeRoy Parnell and Lisa Stewart during the CMA Music Festival Friday, June 8, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For the Tennessean
Logan Carr, center bottom, fans himself while lying down as he listens to music at the Riverfront Stage during the CMA Music Festival Friday, June 8, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For the Tennessean
Richard and Renee Prather enjoy listening to country music artists perform at the Music City Walk of Fame Park during the CMA Music Festival Friday, June 8, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For the Tennessean
Kalan Alder, left, and Alex Whipple enjoy the country music artist perform at the Riverfront Stage during the CMA Music Festival Friday, June 8, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For the Tennessean
Luke Bryan fans sing along as he performs at his Fan Club Party during the CMA Music Festival Friday, June 8, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For the Tennessean
Taylor Davis, left, Allie Parson, and Marlee Carom, second from right, cheer as they listen to country music artist Aaron Watson perform at the Riverfront Stage during the CMA Music Festival Friday, June 8, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For the Tennessean
A fan takes a photo as Kane Brown performs at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Thursday, June 7, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Carrie Underwood performs at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Friday, June 8, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
People listen to country music artists performing at the Riverfront stage along the Cumberland River during the CMA Music Festival Friday, June 8, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For the Tennessean
The Andrew Jackson Eagle Honor Choir performs at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Friday, June 8, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Jake Owen interacts with the fans at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Friday, June 8, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Luke Bryan speaks with "American Idol" winner Maddie Poppe at the CMA Close Up Stage during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Friday, June 8, 2018, in Nashville. Jacob Wiegand / tennessean.com
Vehicles make their way along 4th Avenue South during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Friday, June 8, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / tennessean.com
Carol Pike, of Oxford, Alabama, writes on a coloring wall at the Fan Fair X in the Music City Center during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Friday, June 8, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / tennessean.com
Cindy Dawson and Tom Dawson, of Fort Wayne, Ind., have their picture taken by their daughter-in-law Jenna Dawson, also of Fort Wayne, during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Friday, June 8, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / tennessean.com
Pedestrians make their way along the Broadway sidewalk as seen from Honky Tonk Central during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Friday, June 8, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / tennessean.com
Butch Buck, of West Branch, Iowa, poses for a portrait during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Friday, June 8, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / tennessean.com
Tracy Lawrence speaks at the CMA Close Up Stage during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Friday, June 8, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / tennessean.com
Tracy Lawrence, middle, performs at the CMA Close Up Stage during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Friday, June 8, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / tennessean.com
Kaitlyn Moran, of Bellaire, Mich., 17, uses her phone while attending an event at the CMA Close Up Stage featuring Luke Bryan and American Idol winner Maddie Poppe during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Friday, June 8, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Moran was able to attend the CMA Music Festival with the help of the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Jacob Wiegand / tennessean.com
Molly Henry, of Pound Ridge, N.Y., and Kaitlyn Moran, of Bellaire, Mich., both 17, laugh while attending an event featuring Luke Bryan and American Idol winner Maddie Poppe at the CMA Close Up Stage during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Friday, June 8, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Henry and Moran were able to attend the CMA Music Festival with the help of the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Jacob Wiegand / tennessean.com
Abigail and her mother Charlotte Henry from Memphis listen to Jordan Davis perform at the Radio Disney Country Stage during CMA Fest week at the Music City Center in Nashville, Tenn., Thursday, June 7, 2018. Lacy Atkins / tennesseancom
The crowd cheers as they listen to their favorite county artists at the CMA Fest at the Music City Center in Nashville, Tenn., Thursday, June 7, 2018. Lacy Atkins / tennessean.com
Sadie Campbell and her friend Olivia Decossas pose for a selfie with Jordan Davis after getting his autograph during CMA Fest week at the Music City Center in Nashville, Tenn., Thursday, June 7, 2018. Lacy Atkins ? tennesseancom
Young country star Tegan Marie, 14, runs onto the Radio Disney Country Stage to perform during CMA Fest week at the Music City Center in Nashville, Tenn., Thursday, June 7, 2018. Lacy Atkins / tennessean.com
Dierk Bentley answers questions from the Close Up Stage during the CMA Fest at the Music City Center in Nashville, Tenn., Thursday, June 7, 2018. Lacy Atkins / Tennessean.com
Shannon Sullivan, 20, has Carrie Underwood's tear painted on her face by Shatara Cooper during CMA Fest at the Music City Center in Nashville, Tenn., Thursday, June 7, 2018. Lacy Atkins / Tennessean.com
Brooklyn Davis waits in line for some fresh lemonade along Broadway during the CMA Fest in Nashville, Tenn., Thursday, June 7, 2018. Lacy Atkins / tennessean.com
Jon Pardi performs during the CMA Music Festival Thursday, June 7, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For Tennessean.com
Matt Brogan jokes around with Dusty Frady under the Broadway sign during the CMA Fest week in Nashville, Tenn., Thursday, June 7, 2018. Lacy Atkins / tennessean.com
Ryan Ellis, right, from Los Angeles California, waits in line to enter the Riverfront stage for the morning concerts during the CMA Music Festival Thursday, June 7, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For tennessean.com
People walk past a painted stencil along Broadway from Kelsea Ballerina during the CMA Music Festival Thursday, June 7, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For tennessean.com
Scott Bryant walks down the Music City Center steps with his six concert passes around his neck during the CMA Music Festival Thursday, June 7, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For tennessean.com
Matthew Foster, left, and Caryn Mizzell spend time coloring on a wall set up inside the Music City Center during the CMA Music Festival Thursday, June 7, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For tennesseancom
Country music fans cheer as they listen to Jon Pardi perform at the Riverfront stage during the CMA Music Festival Thursday, June 7, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For tennessean.com
Jon Pardi performs for country music fans at the Riverfront stage during the CMA Music Festival Thursday, June 7, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For tennessean.com
The Bang This Twins have their photograph taken waiting to get into the Riverfront stage for a concert during the CMA Music Festival Thursday, June 7, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For tennessean.com
Hannah Mulholland, left, Naomi Cooke, and Jennifer Wayne of Runaway June sing the National Anthem at the Riverfront stage during the CMA Music Festival Thursday, June 7, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For tennessean.com
The Bang This Twins have their photograph taken waiting to get into the Riverfront stage for a concert during the CMA Music Festival Thursday, June 7, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For The Tennessean.com
Cam performs in the Music City Center during the CMA Music Festival Thursday, June 7, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For The Tennessean.com
Jana Horvath rests inside the Music City Center during the CMA Music Festival Thursday, June 7, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For The Tennessean
Cam performs in the Music City Center during the CMA Music Festival Thursday, June 7, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For Tennessean.com
Larry Blumer listens to Cam perform in the Music City Center Radio Disney stage during the CMA Music Festival Thursday, June 7, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For Tennessean.com
Kathy Marietta cools off while being sprayed by a power breezer mister during the CMA Music Festival Thursday, June 7, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For Tennessean.com
Pedestrians wait for their turn to cross a street along Broadway during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Thursday, June 7, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / tennessean.com
Pedestrians occupy the balconies of Honky Tonk Central along Broadway during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Thursday, June 7, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / tennessean.com
Kelly Cich, of Athens, Georgia, and Meg Camery, of Nashville, have their picture taken along Broadway during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Thursday, June 7, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / tennessean.com
Debbie Curtis, of Hartford, Conn., attempts to cool off near a fan near Broadway during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Thursday, June 7, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / tennessean.com
Andy Wiechert, of Bad Kissingen, Germany, sports a hat and pipe while posing for a portrait near Broadway during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Thursday, June 7, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / tennessean.com
Kayla Thomas, of Bowling Green, Ky., 17, sports a red, white and blue hat while posing for a portrait along Broadway during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Thursday, June 7, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / tennessean.com
Pedestrians cross a street along Broadway during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Thursday, June 7, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / tennessean.com
Alex Dehn, of Melbourne, Australia, watches as Ashley McBryde performs at the Chevy Breakout Stage during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Thursday, June 7, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Dehn said he came to the festival while studying abroad for school. Jacob Wiegand / tennessean.com
Fans gather around a large Chevy emblem before Ashley McBryde performs at the Chevy Breakout Stage during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Thursday, June 7, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / The Tennessean
Robert Kerney, of Chicago, sports a CMA hat as Ashley McBryde takes the stage at the Chevy Breakout Stage during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Thursday, June 7, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / tennessean.com
Ashley McBryde performs at the Chevy Breakout Stage during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Thursday, June 7, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / tennessean.com
Kaley Allen, of Manchester, Ky., attempts to cool herself with a Luke Bryan fan before Ashley McBryde performs at the Chevy Breakout Stage during the 2018 CMA Music Festival on Thursday, June 7, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Jacob Wiegand / Tennessean.com
Luke Bryan sings at LP Field for the first nightly concert at the 2013 CMA Music Festival on June 6, 2013, in Nashville. Larry McCormack / The Tennessean
Jason Aldean performs at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Thursday, June 7, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Jason Aldean interacts with fans at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Thursday, June 7, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
John Osborne of the Brothers Osborne performs at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Thursday, June 7, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
The Brothers Osborne gesture to the crowd at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Thursday, June 7, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
John Osborne of the Brothers Osborne gestures to the crowd at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Thursday, June 7, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
T.J. Osborne of the Osborne Brothers performs at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Thursday, June 7, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
The Brothers Osborne perform at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Thursday, June 7, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Randy Travis and wife Mary Davis listen to the Brothers Osborne at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Thursday, June 7, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Darius Rucker performs at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Thursday, June 7, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Darius Rucker interacts with the fans at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Thursday, June 7, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Shay Mooney of Dan + Shay performs at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Thursday, June 7, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
The crowd lights up the stadium at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Thursday, June 7 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Dan + Shay perform at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Thursday, June 7, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Dan + Shay get close to their fans at the CMA Music Festival on June 7, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville. Larry McCormack / Tennessean.com
Host Kelsea Ballerini waves to the crowd at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Thursday, June 7, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Shay Mooney of Dan + Shay reaches for the fans at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Thursday, June 7, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Charles Esten performs at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Thursday, June 7 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Jonathan Jackson performs with Charles Esten at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Thursday, June 7 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Charles Esten performs with the Nashville cast at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Thursday, June 7 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Charles Esten hugs fellow Nashville cast member Maisy Stella as Lennon Stella reaches out during a performance at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Thursday, June 7 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Kane Brown performs with Lauren Alaina at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Thursday, June 7 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
Kane Brown and Lauren Alaina hug near the end of their performance at the 2018 CMA Music Fest Thursday, June 7, 2018, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. Larry McCormack / tennessean.com
7. American Artisan Festival
This 45th annual juried American Artisan art show and fest in Centennial Park is June 14-16, with 150 artist booths, live music, free children's art activities and food and drink.
Details: americanartisanfestival.com
8. 50th birthday Brentfest
There is a Brentfest community festival from 3-9 p.m. June 15 to celebrate Brentwood's 50th birthday, with a beer garden, live bands, a parade and a kids zone.
Details: brentwoodtn.gov or 615-371-0060
9. RC-Moon Pie Festival
The 25th annual RC-Moon Pie Festival, celebrating the South's first "fast food," is June 15 in Bell Buckle. The one-day event, which attracts about 15,000 people, includes Moon Pie-themed games, a parade, crafts, live entertainment and plenty of chances to sample Moon Pies and RC Cola.
Details: bellbucklechamber.com or 931-389-9663
The 25th annual RC-Moon Pie Festival, celebrating the South's first "fast food," is June 15 in Bell Buckle. (Photo: John A. Gillis / File / Gannett Tennessee)
10. Fisk Food and Music Fest
Fisk University's third annual WFSK Jazzy 88.1 Food and Music Festival is set for June 29, featuring live jazz. The family event also includes games, local vendors and food trucks.
Details: skay@fisk.edu or 615-329-8754
11. Hot Chicken Festival
The Hot Chicken Festival has been an annual Fourth of July event since 2007. It takes place at East Park, 700 Woodland St., rain or shine. It starts with a parade of fire trucks and free hot chicken samples from numerous local hot chicken establishments. There is live music and kids activities.
Details: hot-chicken.com
A festival goer carries a freshly purchased order of hot chicken during the Music City Hot Chicken Festival Wednesday, July 4, 2018. (Photo: Alan Poizner / For The Tennessean)
12. Tomato Art Fest
The 16th annual Tomato Art Fest takes place Aug. 9-10 in and around the Art & Invention Gallery in Five Points in East Nashville. This is a full day of family-oriented, costume-friendly fun with plenty of tomato eating, tomato-themed games, contests, a parade, art and business booths, music and children's activities. Last year, an estimated 60,000 came to celebrate the beloved food, admire the art and enjoy the day's festivities.
Details: tomatoartfest.com or 615-226-2070
Dorothy Seavers, left, and Nora Maragno dance during the end of a parade during the 14th annual Tomato Art Fest in East Nashville on Saturday, August 12, 2017. (Photo: Shelley Mays/The Tennessean)
13. Kidsville festivals
Kidsville will present its first annual Kidsville Honey Bunny Festival on April 13 in the grass at the front door of the Parthenon. The event will celebrate spring and provide education about the importance of the 100,000-plus honey bees that reside in Centennial Park. The third annual Kidsville Family Festival will take place in September.
Details: kidsvilleonline.org
14. Green Hills Park Festival
The Green Hills Park Festival will be 5 p.m. on Sept. 14. There will be food trucks, beer and wine vendors, booths for local shops, a Walk Bike Nashville bike rodeo, an obstacle course and a chance to set a park record (like longest Frisbee throw or fastest 50-yard dash). There will also be a family-friendly movie. Funds raised at the festival benefit Friends of Green Hills Park and will fund park improvements.
Details: friendsofgreenhillspark.org
15. African Street Festival
African American Cultural Alliance's annual three-day African Street Festival takes place in Hadley Park Sept. 20-22, with music (gospel, reggae, jazz, blues, African drumming and R&B), street dance, ethnic cuisine and children's activities.
Details: aacanashville.org or 615-942-0706
16. Granville festivals
The historic Granville community near the Jackson/Smith County line has several free festivals in the spring and fall and for the holidays. This year's festivals will be 1960s-themed, with the first on April 13. Other dates (with music, arts and old-time crafts) include the Cornbread and Moonshine Festival on May 4 and the 20th annual Granville Heritage Day on May 25.
Be sure to check out Granville's Sutton Homestead with its 1880s home, blacksmith shop, grist mill shop, log cabin and weaving shop.
Details: granvilletn.com
17. JazzFest in Murfreesboro
Main Street Murfreesboro JazzFest is May 3-4 on the downtown square, with jazz music from local high school jazz bands and touring jazz greats.
Details: downtownmurfreesboro.com
18. Lewisburg Goat Festival
The 17th annual Goats, Music and More Festival is Oct. 11-12 in Rock Creek Park in Lewisburg, with fainting goat shows, arts and crafts and live music.
Details: goatsmusicandmore.com
19. Gallatin Main Street Festival
The annual Gallatin Main Street Festival is Oct. 5, with two music stages, a children's area and crafts. There is also a Gallatin Square Fest on April 27, with music and crafts.
Details: downtowngallatin.com/main-street-festival or 615-452-5692
20. Celebrate Nashville
The Celebrate Nashville Cultural Festival on Oct. 5 showcases music and dance performances on multiple stages and includes a marketplace with handcrafted and imported items, more than 40 food vendors and an interactive children's area. In the Global Village, you can experience traditional music, languages, food, colorful clothing, decorations and traditions of the cultures that are right here in Nashville.
Plus, admission to the Parthenon is free that day.
Details: celebratenashville.org or 615-862-8400
Zoe McCord 7, dances with Lucy Tizer 8, as African dancers perform during the Celebrate Nashville event at Centennial Park. (Photo: George Walker IV / The Tennessean)
21. Southern Festival of Books
The 31st Annual Southern Festival of Books, set for Oct. 11-13 on War Memorial Plaza and at the downtown library, will feature as many as 200 authors gathered for talks, readings, panels and book signings. There are children's story times and music and book sales.
Details: humanitiestennessee.org
The Southern Festival of Books is a full weekend of author talks, panels, and readings, plus live music, used book sales, and children's activities (Photo: Submitted Photo)
22. Oktoberfest
The 40th annual Oktoberfest in historic Germantown is a raucous weekend of music and family fun that takes over 10 blocks. There is live German music, authentic polka dancing, strolling accordion players, a beer garden, authentic German food and a pup parade. The 2019 dates are Oct. 10-13.
Details: thenashvilleoktoberfest.com
A few runners chose to dress for the annual 5K Bier Run through the streets of Historic Germantown in downtown Nashville where runners get free 20 ounce beers at the end of the race.! Oktoberfest is Nashville's oldest & largest festival, and the 2nd largest Oktoberfest in the USA! Saturday Oct. 13, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. (Photo: Larry McCormack / tennessean)
23. Jack Daniel's BBQ fest
The 31st annual Jack Daniel's World Championship International Barbecue is Oct. 26 in Lynchburg. There will be live music, barbecue cooking competitions, games (butt bowling, bung toss and a country dog contest) and a lot of sampling.
Details: jackdaniels.com/en-us/BBQ
24. Pumpkinfest
The Heritage Foundation's 36th annual Pumpkinfest celebrates fall and Halloween on Oct. 26 along Main Street in downtown Franklin, with kids' activities, putt-putt golf, pet and kids costume contests, pumpkin carving, music and food. This festival attracts more than 65,000 people.
Franklin's 35th annual Pumpkinfest
Two dogs were dressed as Batman and Robin during a pet costume contest at the 35th annual Pumpkinfest in downtown Franklin on Saturday, Oct. 27, 2018. Shelley Mays/The Tennessean
Jessica Wilks dresses up as an alien during the 35th annual Pumpkinfest in downtown Franklin on Saturday, Oct. 27, 2018. Shelley Mays/The Tennessean
Ashley and Kurt Coalmer walk in a costume parade with their twin daughters, Charlotte Grace and Ava Monroe. The Coalmers dressed their 6-month-old daughters as Cabbage Patch Kids for a children's costume contest. They won first place at the 35th annual Pumpkinfest in downtown Franklin on Saturday, Oct. 27, 2018. Shelley Mays/The Tennessean
Gabrielle Butkerait, 11, dresses up as a clown for a costume competition at the 35th Annual Pumpkinfest in downtown Franklin on Saturday Oct. 27, 2018. Shelley Mays/The Tennessean
Glen Vanthoff dressed his dog, Charlie, up for the pet costume contest at the 35th annual Pumpkinfest in downtown Franklin on Saturday, Oct. 27, 2018. Shelley Mays/The Tennessean
Members of the Leiper's Fork Carving Club offered extreme pumpkin carving demonstrations during the 35th annual Pumpkinfest in downtown Franklin on Saturday, Oct. 27, 2018. Shelley Mays/The Tennessean
Leah Belcher, 9, dressed up as NASA astronaut during a costume contest at the 35th annual Pumpkinfest in downtown Franklin on Saturday, Oct. 27, 2018. Shelley Mays/The Tennessean
People walk down Main Steet at the 35th annual Pumpkinfest in downtown Franklin on Saturday, Oct. 27, 2018. Shelley Mays/The Tennessean
Ashley and Kurt Coalmer walk in a costume parade with their twin daughters, Charlotte Grace and Ava Monroe. The Coalmers dressed their 6-month-old daughters as Cabbage Patch Kids for a children's costume contest at the 35th annual Pumpkinfest in downtown Franklin on Saturday, Oct. 27, 2018. They won first place. Shelley Mays/The Tennessean
Damion Neal dressed up his dog, Maverick, as a wolf during the 35th annual Pumpkinfest in downtown Franklin on Saturday, Oct. 27, 2018. Shelley Mays/The Tennessean
Children stand on stage to compete in a costume contest during the 35th Annual Pumpkinfest in downtown Franklin on Saturday, Oct. 27, 2018. Shelley Mays/The Tennessean
Sisters Samantha and Michal Knox dressed up as a Moon Pie and RC Cola for a costume contest during the 35th annual Pumpkinfest in downtown Franklin on Saturday, Oct. 27, 2018. Shelley Mays/The Tennessean
Lydia Roberts, 1, competes in a children's costume contest during the 35th Annual Pumpkinfest in downtown Franklin on Saturday, Oct. 27, 2018. Roberts dressed up as Mrs. Fox. Shelley Mays/The Tennessean
Dancers from Ann Carroll School of Dance perform during the 35th annual Pumpkinfest in downtown Franklin on Saturday, Oct. 27, 2018. Shelley Mays/The Tennessean
Children play in corn in the Kids Zone at the 35th annual Pumpkinfest in downtown Franklin on Saturday, Oct. 27, 2018. Shelley Mays/The Tennessean
Tara Gess competes in the costume contest as Little Mermaid's character, Ursula, at the 35th annual Pumpkinfest in downtown Franklin on Saturday, Oct. 27, 2018. Shelley Mays/The Tennessean
Children stand on stage to compete in a costume concert during the 35th Annual Pumpkinfest in downtown Franklin on Saturday, Oct. 27, 2018. Shelley Mays/The Tennessean
Vic Hood of the Leiper's Fork Carving Club gives a extreme pumpkin carving demonstration during the 35th annual Pumpkinfest in downtown Franklin on Saturday, Oct. 27, 2018. Shelley Mays/The Tennessean
25. Ghost Story Festival
The annual Haunted Museum Ghost Story Festival is a longstanding tradition at the Tennessee State Museum. The festival is 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oct 26. There will be a costume contest, crafts, scary stories and games. This popular event always includes a ghost trail and Tennessee characters such as the Bell Witch, Cherokee spirit Spearfinger and John Murrell's thumb.
Details: tnmuseum.org
26. Dickens of a Christmas
The Heritage Foundation's 35th annual Dickens of a Christmas in downtown Franklin is set for Dec. 14-15. This Victorian festival includes costumed characters, strolling carolers and several characters from Dickens — the nefarious Fagin from "Oliver Twist"; Jacob Marley, Ebenezer Scrooge and Tiny Tim Cratchit from "A Christmas Carol"; and of course, a Victorian Father and Mother Christmas.
Franklin enjoys a 'Dickens of a Christmas'
Amber Walker and her son Brodie laugh as they watch snow being made during the Dickens of a Christmas on Saturday, Dec. 8, 2018, in Franklin, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For the Tennessean
A festive atmosphere persisted through dreary weather at the Dickens of a Christmas on Saturday, Dec. 8, 2018, in Franklin, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For the Tennessean
Mark Price, dressed as Ebenezer Scrooge from the Christmas Carol, performs during the Dickens of a Christmas on Saturday, Dec. 8, 2018, in Franklin, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For the Tennessean
The Dancing Divas perform during the Dickens of a Christmas on Saturday, Dec. 8, 2018, in Franklin, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For the Tennessean
Caroline Pistole hugs her daughter Natalie, 15, after she performed with The Dancing Divas during the Dickens of a Christmas on Saturday, Dec. 8, 2018, in Franklin, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For the Tennessean
John Kitson dresses up as ghost character from A Christmas Carol as he interacts with people during the Dickens of a Christmas on Saturday, Dec. 8, 2018, in Franklin, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For the Tennessean
Daniel Dark, left, with his vintage bicycle during the Dickens of a Christmas on Saturday, Dec. 8, 2018, in Franklin, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For the Tennessean
Alan Corry, left, his wife, Carla, and Andrew Nixon, 6, as Oliver Twist, spend time during the Dickens of a Christmas on Saturday, Dec. 8, 2018, in Franklin, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For the Tennessean
Calvin Wyatt walks with his father, Jason Wyatt, during the Dickens of a Christmas on Saturday, Dec. 8, 2018, in Franklin, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For the Tennessean
Christmas Carol and Oliver Twist cast members open the Dickens of a Christmas on Saturday, Dec. 8, 2018, in Franklin, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For the Tennessean
Visitors dress in period clothing for the Dickens of a Christmas on Saturday, Dec. 8, 2018, in Franklin, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/ For the Tennessean
A child plays as snow is made during the Dickens of a Christmas on Saturday, Dec. 8, 2018, in Franklin, Tenn. Mark Zaleski/For the Tennessean
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