For a lot of college students, this will be the first summer spent in Nashville. Internships, jobs, summer classes and finally getting over homesickness are all reasons why college students decide to stay in their college town for the summer. Lucky for you, that town just happens to be Nashville, an incredible city that hosts amazing and (mostly) free events all summer! You may not be able to travel much this summer (thanks boss) but that doesn't mean that your summer will be boring by any means! Here are 10 events you won't want to miss this summer in Nashville!
1. Centennial Park Big Band Dance.
Every Saturday night from 7-10pm at Centennial Park there is swing/ballroom dancing lessons and incredible live big bands. Dance lessons are twice per night (7 and 8:30 usually) and then the rest of the night is spent dancing and enjoying incredible music. Great for beginners to advanced! Bring a blanket and drinks and get ready to dance away! Cost: FREE.
2. Let Freedom Sing: 4th of July Downtown!
Most natives will tell you this is THE EVENT of the summer. Nashville recently got rated in the top 5 places in the United States for their 4th of July celebration. You will not want to miss this! Line up so far is Sheryl Crow, Maddie & Tae, Erin McCarley, Andrew Combs, Ruby Amanfu, and the Nashville Symphony! This is an all day event for everyone! Cost: FREE.
3. Blue Bird on the Mountain
This is a less known event that happens every summer. Bluebird Café brings the musicians up to Dyer Observatory from 8-10pm to hear their melodies under the stars. The next ones are July 23, August 20, September 17, and October 1. After you listen to the writers, enjoy the telescope and find that star your significant other bought you for your birthday. Cost: Varies.
4. Live on the Green
This iconic Nashville event is happeningAugust 11, 18, 25, and September 1-3 this year. Known for attracting some of the biggest stars in the music industry both on the stage and in the crowd! The lineup this year includes: Young the Giant, Andra Day, Passenger, Borns, Allen Stone, and Judah and the Lion! Cost: FREE (VIP packages available). http://liveonthegreen.net
5. Full Moon Paddle Board
Paddle under the full moon every month! Previous experience is required (another day of fun!) but this is sure to be a magical event. Look at the stars, do some yoga, scare your friends! Wednesday, July 20th 8-9:30pm at Percy Priest Lake. Cost: $35. Book in advance! https://fareharbor.com/nashvillepaddle
6. Nashville Sounds Baseball Game
The Nashville Sounds now officially have their own stadium! Whether you are into the Nation's Sport or not, Sounds games are a great way to enjoy this summer. Put on some sunscreen, grab a beer and a hot dog, bring some friends and you'll be set to cheer on our town's team! Cost: Varies. (Tickets and Schedule).
7. Cummins Falls
Just an hour and 45 minutes away from Nashville, this gorgeous and massive falls is well worth the drive! Full pool at the bottom for swimming as well as cascading falls great for the daring to climb! Make sure you bring those water shoes though, over half the trail is going (literally) up a creek. 1081 Cummins Mill Road, Cookeville.Cost: FREE
8. Peach Festival and Farmer's Market
Nestled in on 12th South's Sevier Park, shop for your local produce and goods! Peach Festival (food trucks, music vendors) is June 28th from 3:30-7:30. Farmers market is every Tuesday from 3:30-6:30pm. Check out the website for schedule, vendors, and more! Cost: FREE (+whatever you buy)
9. Southern Grist Brewery
This brewery is just opening in time for your summer tasting adventures! Located in East Nashville, this brewery boasts 49 seats and 12 rotating taps. Grab your (21+) friend and try some brews! Cost: Varies. For more brewing options, check out Jackalope Brewing Company, rated best in the area!
10. Pickin' in the Plaza
Embrace your inner hillbilly and enjoy some finger lickin' good bluegrass music! Part of Ryman's Bluegrass Series, Dates areJune 23, 30, July 7, 14, and 21 at 6pm. Tickets for actual show are for sale but the plaza party is FREE.
11. Shakespeare on the Lawn
Experience a bit of culture and arts as you sit on a blanket with your closest (and most well rounded) friends. This year they are performing Macbeth and Comedy of Errors (my personal favorite). August 11-Sept. 18th Thursdays-Sundays 7:30pm at Centennial Park. Cost:Suggested donation.
