Things to Do in Nashville in November 2026: Events and Local Favorites
November in Nashville changes character halfway through the month. Early visitors can catch the Jonas Brothers or Dave Matthews Band at Bridgestone Arena. A few weeks later, the CMA Awards arrive, Cheekwood switches on its Christmas lights, and holiday markets begin filling with shoppers.
The dates you choose can make two November trips feel completely different.
There's no shortage of things to do in Nashville in November 2026, from country music and hockey to art exhibitions, illuminated gardens, and quieter afternoons exploring downtown.
For visitors staying at The Countrypolitan Nashville, the Union Street location near Printer's Alley offers a convenient starting point. Historic music venues, restaurants, and several cultural attractions are nearby, while the hotel's own dining and live music add to the experience.
Here's what's happening throughout the month and which dates deserve a place on your calendar.
Nashville November Events 2026: At a Glance
Nashville's November calendar begins with major arena concerts and gradually shifts toward holiday celebrations. Several events run for only one or two nights, so choosing your dates is especially important.
Date | Event | Location | Time |
Nov. 5 | Bridgestone Arena | 7:30 PM | |
Nov. 6 | Bridgestone Arena | 7:30 PM | |
Nov. 6–7 | Opry House | 7 PM & 9:30 PM | |
Nov. 11 | Ascend Amphitheater | 12:30–5 PM | |
Nov. 13–15 | Nashville Fairgrounds | Varies | |
Nov. 13–Jan. 3 | Nashville Zoo | 5–9 PM | |
Nov. 18 | Bridgestone Arena | 7 PM CT | |
Nov. 20–Jan. 3 | Cheekwood | 4:30–10 PM | |
Nov. 23–24 | Bridgestone Arena | 7 PM | |
Nov. 26 | Thanksgiving Day | Various locations | Varies |
Nov. 27 | Bridgestone Arena | Noon | |
Nov. 27–29 | Ryman Auditorium | Varies |
All times are Nashville local time. Tickets, event schedules, and artist lineups may change.
Early November is attractive for concert-focused trips. Midmonth brings the CMA Awards and holiday shopping, while the final week combines Thanksgiving with Christmas entertainment.
Catch a November Concert or Country Music Event
Nashville November concerts range from major pop tours to smaller performances in historic music venues.
The city's biggest stages offer different experiences, and the venue you choose can shape the rest of your evening.
Jonas Brothers, Dave Matthews Band, and Olivia Rodrigo at Bridgestone Arena
Bridgestone Arena opens November's major concert schedule with two consecutive nights of touring acts.
Thursday, November 5: The Jonas Brothers perform The Burning Up Tour All Over Again, with Franklin Jonas appearing as a special guest. The concert begins at 7:30 PM.
Friday, November 6: Dave Matthews Band takes the stage at 7:30 PM, bringing its extensive catalog and improvisational live performances to Nashville.
Later in the month, Olivia Rodrigo performs November 23 and 24 on The Unraveled Tour, joined by Devon Again. Both concerts begin at 7 PM.
The arena sits at 501 Broadway, surrounded by downtown restaurants and entertainment venues.
For guests at The Countrypolitan, Bridgestone Arena concert nights can begin with dinner on Union Street before heading toward Broadway.
Bridgestone discourages bringing bags to events, and guests should allow additional time for security screening.
Experience the 60th Annual CMA Awards on November 18
Wednesday, November 18 | Bridgestone Arena
The 60th Annual CMA Awards brings a particularly strong reason for country music fans to visit Nashville in November.
Lainey Wilson returns as host, while the nominations reflect an interesting mix of established performers and rising artists.
Ella Langley leads the 2026 nominations with nine, followed by Miranda Lambert with seven. Kacey Musgraves and Ben West have five each.
The ceremony brings live performances, collaborations, and award presentations to Bridgestone Arena.
Guests attending the show should pay close attention to the arrival requirements:
Doors open by 5:30 PM Central.
All attendees must be seated by 6:45 PM.
The live ceremony begins at 7 PM Central.
Anyone arriving after the seating deadline may have to remain on the concourse until the first commercial break.
Official CMA Awards tickets and attendee policies include purchasing arrangements and venue requirements.
For visitors spending several nights around the ceremony, CMA Awards week in Nashville brings plenty of opportunities to experience the city's country music culture.
Enjoy the Ryman Auditorium and Grand Ole Opry
The Ryman Auditorium provides a different concert atmosphere from Bridgestone Arena.
Its historic wooden pews and relatively intimate seating make it a favorite for artists who want a closer connection with their audience.
November's confirmed performances include The Stray Cats on November 18, Joy Oladokun on November 19, and Punch Brothers on November 21.
Brett Eldredge follows with his Glow 10 Year Anniversary Tour from November 27 through 29, bringing Christmas music to the Ryman.
The Grand Ole Opry offers another Nashville tradition.
Carrie Underwood performs four Opry shows across November 6 and 7, with performances at 7 PM and 9:30 PM each evening.
Unlike the Ryman, the Opry House is outside downtown Nashville at 600 Opry Mills Drive. Visitors arranging an Opry evening from downtown should plan transportation separately.
See Nashville's Christmas Lights Come to Life
One of the most appealing things to do in Nashville in November is experience the beginning of the Christmas season.
The city's major light attractions open on different dates, giving visitors several opportunities to enjoy seasonal displays.
Cheekwood Holiday LIGHTS: Starting November 20
Cheekwood Estate & Gardens becomes an illuminated winter attraction beginning November 20, 2026.
More than a million lights transform the gardens, with glowing trees, decorative installations, and seasonal displays creating a memorable evening walk.
The historic estate provides a particularly atmospheric setting for couples. Visitors can explore illuminated pathways, pause for photographs, and enjoy seasonal refreshments.
Holiday LIGHTS runs through January 3, 2027.
Admission begins at 4:30 PM, with timed-entry windows continuing until 8:30 PM. The grounds close at 10 PM.
Cheekwood closes on Thanksgiving Day and night, November 26.
Tickets should be reserved in advance, particularly for popular weekend dates. The displays are primarily outdoors, so comfortable shoes and warm clothing are useful.
Christmas at Gaylord Opryland: Starting November 6
Christmas festivities begin earlier at Gaylord Opryland, where the annual A Country Christmas celebration runs from November 6, 2026, through January 2, 2027.
Its headline attraction, ICE! featuring Home Alone, recreates scenes from the Christmas movie using more than two million pounds of carved ice.
Visitors walk through colorful frozen sculptures, elaborate tunnels, and ice slides.
The attraction maintains a temperature around 9°F, with insulated parkas provided for guests.
ICE! requires advance tickets and timed entry. Resort access restrictions also apply on selected November dates, particularly after 3 PM.
Gaylord Opryland is outside downtown, so allow time for transportation rather than combining it with several central Nashville stops.
Nashville Zoo Glow Wild: Starting November 13
Nashville Zoo introduces Glow Wild on November 13, replacing the canceled 2026 Zoolumination event.
The new nighttime attraction features illuminated animals, festive displays, and an 85-foot Christmas tree with synchronized lights.
Glow Wild runs nightly from 5 PM to 9 PM through January 3, 2027.
Selected animal exhibits remain open late, adding another reason for families to visit.
The zoo also offers seasonal activities, including an outdoor ice rink, with admission arrangements varying by experience.
For those choosing between Nashville's 2026 Christmas light displays, Cheekwood is particularly appealing for its garden setting. Glow Wild offers more animal-themed entertainment for families.
Shop Nashville's November Holiday Markets
Christmas shopping arrives well before Thanksgiving, bringing another reason to plan a midmonth getaway.
Christmas Village runs November 13–15 at the Nashville Fairgrounds, with more than 250 merchants selling home décor, jewelry, clothing, pottery, and seasonal gifts.
The public event opens Friday from 9 AM to 9 PM, Saturday from 9 AM to 6 PM, and Sunday from noon to 6 PM.
Another option is the Holiday Market at the Mansion, held November 21–22 at Andrew Jackson's Hermitage.
This free outdoor market features local artisans, handmade gifts, food vendors, and seasonal activities.
Both markets require transportation from downtown.
Visitors interested in Nashville's Christmas markets and independent makers can explore several different shopping experiences during a longer visit.
Explore Nashville's Museums on a Cooler Day
A November morning might be sunny enough for a riverfront walk, while the afternoon brings rain and a noticeable drop in temperature.
Fortunately, among the indoor activities Nashville offers are several museums worth visiting regardless of the forecast.
Country Music Hall of Fame and National Museum of African American Music
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum traces the development of country music through instruments, stage costumes, recordings, and historical exhibits.
Allow at least two hours for its self-guided galleries.
The museum opens daily during its regular schedule but closes on Thanksgiving Day.
The nearby National Museum of African American Music explores the influence of African American musicians across gospel, blues, jazz, R&B, and hip-hop.
Its interactive galleries include opportunities to explore musical traditions through multimedia displays.
The museum also closes on Thanksgiving Day, and its final daily admission is at 4 PM.
Frist Art Museum: Exhibitions and Art Events
The Frist Art Museum occupies a historic Art Deco building on Broadway.
Two exhibitions running throughout November offer notably different experiences.
Shimmer: Dreaming the Posthuman explores relationships between people, technology, and the natural world through contemporary artwork.
Beauty and Ritual: Judaica from the Jewish Museum, New York features more than 130 ceremonial objects spanning centuries of artistic and religious traditions.
On Sunday, November 8, Frist Arts Fest adds live performances, art-making activities, and programming celebrating the museum's current exhibitions.
The event runs from 1 PM to 5 PM, with free admission for members and visitors 18 and younger. Adult admission is $20.
The Frist's November exhibitions and event schedule provide an inviting alternative to another afternoon of shopping or sightseeing.
Visitors staying downtown also have access to several art museums and cultural attractions near Broadway and Printer's Alley.
Tennessee State Museum: History Without an Admission Fee
The Tennessee State Museum offers free admission to exhibitions covering the state's history, from its earliest inhabitants through major cultural and political developments.
Located near Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park, it combines well with a walk through the surrounding area.
The museum is generally open Tuesday through Sunday and closes on Thanksgiving Day.
Explore Nashville Outdoors Before Winter Arrives
Cooler weather also makes November a pleasant time to explore the city on foot.
Among Nashville fall activities, a walk through historic downtown streets is particularly accessible for visitors staying centrally.
Printer's Alley and the Cumberland River
The Countrypolitan sits at the corner of Union Street and Printer's Alley, one of downtown's most distinctive historic corridors.
Formerly associated with printing businesses, the alley later developed its reputation through jazz clubs, bars, and nightlife.
Its historic music venues and entertainment heritage remain part of the neighborhood's character.
From there, visitors can continue toward Riverfront Park and the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge.
The bridge offers views across the Cumberland River toward downtown and Nissan Stadium.
On clear November afternoons, it's an appealing stop for photographs or a relaxed walk between other activities.
Centennial Park and the Parthenon
Centennial Park offers a quieter setting with walking paths, Lake Watauga, and Nashville's full-scale replica of the ancient Greek Parthenon.
Fall colors may still be visible during November, although their intensity depends on the year's weather.
The Parthenon's museum interior is a separate ticketed attraction, while the surrounding park provides outdoor sightseeing opportunities.
Visitors who prefer longer walks can explore Nashville's parks and greenway trails.
Watch a Nashville Predators Home Game
Hockey adds another dimension to things to do in Nashville in November.
The Nashville Predators have five scheduled November home games at Bridgestone Arena, giving visitors opportunities throughout the month.
Date | Opponent | Puck Drop |
November 3 | Carolina Hurricanes | 7 PM |
November 7 | St. Louis Blues | Noon |
November 21 | Pittsburgh Penguins | 5 PM |
November 27 | Utah Mammoth | Noon |
November 30 | Ottawa Senators | Noon |
The November 27 game is particularly attractive for Thanksgiving weekend visitors.
A noon puck drop leaves the rest of the day available for dining, Christmas attractions, or live music.
The Bridgestone Arena game calendar provides official ticket access and updated event details.
For guests at The Countrypolitan, a Predators game in downtown Nashville pairs naturally with dinner near Broadway or music around Printer's Alley.
Enjoy Dinner and Live Music at The Countrypolitan
Some of the most enjoyable things to do in Nashville in November happen without an arena ticket.
At The Countrypolitan Nashville, dinner and live music can become the evening's main event.
The hotel's Bar & Kitchen serves elevated Southern food, cocktails, and desserts in a setting inspired by Nashville's musical heritage.
Regular dining includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, making it easy to arrange meals around concerts or sightseeing.
The hotel also hosts live music nightly, with local performers bringing country, Americana, and other Nashville-rooted sounds into an intimate setting.
Its music and happenings calendar features upcoming performances, allowing guests to choose an evening around a particular artist.
For couples, dinner followed by music can fill the night comfortably. Friends attending a major show might enjoy drinks before heading toward Broadway.
Just beyond the hotel, Printer's Alley offers jazz venues and historic nightlife, while Lower Broadway provides a livelier honky-tonk atmosphere.
Both areas have individual venue schedules, age restrictions, and cover policies.
Visiting Nashville Over Thanksgiving Weekend
Thanksgiving Day falls on Thursday, November 26, 2026, bringing a different schedule to Nashville's restaurants and attractions.
Several organized turkey trots take place that morning, while selected restaurants serve special holiday meals.
Church & Union, Stateside Kitchen, and Puckett's have confirmed Thanksgiving menus. Monell's in Germantown offers family-style dining without reservations.
Major attractions including the Country Music Hall of Fame, National Museum of African American Music, and Ryman daytime tours close for the holiday.
Friday through Sunday bring additional concerts, including Brett Eldredge at the Ryman and Grand Ole Opry performances.
Opry Country Christmas begins November 29.
Visitors planning things to do in Nashville in November around Thanksgiving should reserve their main meal and ticketed performances first. The remaining time can be devoted to sightseeing and entertainment.
A Two-Day November Nashville Itinerary
The most practical way to enjoy a short Nashville trip is to build each day around one major attraction or event.
For visitors staying at The Countrypolitan, a walkable downtown itinerary can combine historic streets, museums, restaurants, and live music.
Time | Day 1: Downtown Music and Culture | Day 2: Seasonal Nashville |
Morning | Breakfast at The Countrypolitan, then Printer's Alley | Centennial Park and the Parthenon exterior |
Afternoon | Country Music Hall of Fame or Frist Art Museum | Tennessee State Museum or another cultural attraction |
Evening | Dinner and live music downtown | A concert, Predators game, or holiday light display |
The evening options depend on your travel dates.
Before November 13, arena concerts and local performances provide the strongest ticketed options.
From November 13 onward, Glow Wild and Christmas Village add seasonal activities. Cheekwood Holiday LIGHTS begins November 20.
Families might prefer the zoo's illuminated displays, while couples could choose Cheekwood followed by a relaxed evening downtown.
For destinations outside central Nashville, allow time for transportation rather than filling the schedule with several distant stops.
Where to Stay in Nashville in November
Choosing where to stay can shape how much of the city you experience between scheduled events.
The Countrypolitan Nashville, at 315 Union Street near Printer's Alley, places visitors close to the restaurants, music venues, and cultural attractions that make downtown appealing.
Its boutique-style guest rooms and spacious suites offer a comfortable retreat between outings.
The on-site restaurant and live music also provide another option for evenings when you don't have a concert ticket.
A November stay can take several forms. Couples might spend an afternoon at the Frist before dinner and music downtown. Friends can build a weekend around Bridgestone Arena, while families can explore museums and seasonal attractions.
Visitors interested in downtown's walkable neighborhoods and entertainment areas will find plenty to explore around Union Street.
Choose your November dates, find the events that interest you, and discover rooms and suites at The Countrypolitan.
You could spend an afternoon surrounded by contemporary art, an evening watching hockey, and the following night beneath Cheekwood's Christmas lights. Back downtown, Printer's Alley offers a different sort of entertainment, with music continuing beyond the scheduled show. November gives you plenty of reasons to visit Nashville. The Countrypolitan gives you a place to make the weekend your own.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is November a good time to visit Nashville?
Yes. November offers concerts, country music events, hockey, museums, and the beginning of Nashville's Christmas celebrations. Cooler weather also makes downtown walking more comfortable, although evenings can be chilly.
What are the best things to do in Nashville in November 2026?
Highlights include the CMA Awards on November 18, major concerts at Bridgestone Arena, Grand Ole Opry performances, Nashville Predators games, and Christmas lights. Museums, holiday markets, and downtown live music provide additional options throughout the month.
What indoor activities are available in Nashville in November?
Popular choices include the Country Music Hall of Fame, National Museum of African American Music, Frist Art Museum, and Tennessee State Museum. Concerts at Bridgestone Arena and performances at the Ryman also offer indoor entertainment.
When do Nashville's holiday lights begin in 2026?
Gaylord Opryland's Christmas celebration begins November 6. Nashville Zoo's Glow Wild opens November 13, followed by Cheekwood Holiday LIGHTS on November 20. Admission dates and holiday restrictions vary.
What should I pack for Nashville in November?
NOAA's 1991–2020 climate normals show average November temperatures of approximately 61°F for daytime highs and 39°F for overnight lows. Pack layers, a warm jacket, comfortable walking shoes, and rain protection.
What is open in Nashville on Thanksgiving Day?
Selected restaurants, organized races, and outdoor sightseeing areas operate on November 26. Major museums and several attractions close for Thanksgiving, so confirm holiday admission schedules and dining reservations before visiting.
Where should I stay for a November Nashville trip?
The Countrypolitan offers a central location near Printer's Alley, guest rooms and suites, an on-site restaurant, and regular live music. Its downtown setting is convenient for travelers attending concerts, exploring museums, and enjoying Nashville's restaurant scene.
