Holidays in the Neighborhood Nashville's Best Lights, Markets, & Merrymaking

When the holiday season arrives in Music City, downtown Nashville transforms into a shimmering, song-filled scene of lights, cheer and neighborhood magic. Stay at The Countrypolitan and you’ll be in the heart of it all - just steps from iconic displays, festive markets and live-music joy around every corner.

Stay Where the Music Meets the Merriment

Located at 315 Union Street, The Countrypolitan offers stylish guest rooms and suites in the heart of downtown Nashville, and a lively on-site destination: the Countrypolitan Bar & Kitchen. This restaurant and lounge serves elevated Southern fare and craft cocktails, and features live music nightly - making it the perfect base after your holiday outing.

Whether you’re returning from an illuminated stroll or sipping a warm drink before bed, you’ll find comfort and southern hospitality waiting for you.

Dazzling Lights & Seasonal Spectacles

Start your holiday adventures with one of Nashville’s standout experiences. Head to Holiday LIGHTS at Cheekwood (Nov 21 2025–Jan 4 2026), where more than a million twinkling lights illuminate the grounds of the historic Cheekwood Estate & Gardens in a magical evening walk. 

Another must-see is Zoolumination at the Nashville Zoo (Nov 13 2025–Feb 8 2026): over 1,000 silk lanterns, larger-than-life creatures and nightly Santa visits turn the zoo into a glowing wonderland. 

For drive-through brilliance, check out Franktown Festival of Lights (Nov 21–Dec 31) in nearby Franklin: over 200 synchronized light displays, cozy car rides and Wednesday walking nights make it a family favourite. 

Markets, Merrymaking & Neighborhood Cheer

Beyond lights, Nashville’s holiday markets and neighborhood strolls add warmth and charm to the season. Broadly speaking, downtown boutiques along Broadway and side streets fill with seasonal displays, artisan gifts and local craftsmanship. 

From handmade candles and cozy knits to locally-crafted ornaments and treats, the holiday shopping scene invites you to wander, discover and support the city’s creative energy. After shopping, you’re perfectly placed to retreat to The Countrypolitan Bar & Kitchen for dinner, a nightcap or live-music set.

Evenings Well Spent at The Countrypolitan

After exploring the glow of Nashville’s holiday lights, return to The Countrypolitan and let the evening unwind in style. The on-site restaurant and bar opens early and runs late, with Southern-inspired dishes, craft cocktails and live performance nights—making it ideal for holiday dining, celebratory drinks or a cozy end to a brisk day outside. 

From brunch to late-night sets, you’ll feel the rhythm of Music City, without leaving the building.

Your Holiday Checklist

·         Book a stay at The Countrypolitan for convenient access to downtown lights, music venues and seasonal event hubs.

·         Choose your light-show outing: Cheekwood for a magical walk, Zoolumination for lantern artistry, or Franktown for a car-friendly display.

·         Explore downtown shops for unique gifts and take a warm-up break back at The Countrypolitan Bar & Kitchen.

·         Finish each evening with live music or a cocktail at The Countrypolitan - because holiday spirit meets honky-tonk heart here.

Experience the magic of the holidays at The Countrypolitan.

From twinkling lights to soulful nights, Nashville shines brightest during the holidays. Whether you’re exploring the city’s glowing displays, browsing the markets along Broadway, or toasting the season at The Countrypolitan Bar & Kitchen, every moment feels wrapped in warmth and southern spirit. This year, let The Countrypolitan be your home for the holidays - a place where comfort, style, and Music City charm come together for a celebration you’ll remember long after the last carol fades.