What are you doing this 4th of July weekend in Nashville?
It was recently announced that Nashville is scheduled to have the largest fireworks show in the country this year. Bigger than New York City!
Headed to Nashville for July 4th weekend? Or are you hosting friends/family in from out of town this year? It's going to be a good one! We're here to give you some insider tips on what to do and where to go.
Friday, July 3rd
Kick off this hot weekend with a cool, sweet treat. Las Paletas or Jeni's Ice Cream on 12th Avenue South will not disappoint. While you're there, you can checkout a few boutique shops like Imogene + Willie or Cadeau and spend time in one of our favorite neighborhoods. From there, head to happy hour. There's a great list of specials here.
There's not much that will get you in the Spirit of Independence Day like chanting "USA, USA, USA!" with thousands of people dressed in American flag colors. The U.S. Men's National Soccer Team will face off with Guatemala on Friday, July 3, at 5:30 p.m. CT at LP Field. Cheer on our country's team right here in Nashville!
If sporting events aren't your thing, then take the crew to the First "Saturday" Art Crawl, which is being held on Friday, July 3rd this month to allow everyone to join in the big July 4th celebration on Saturday. Start by making your way down 5th Avenue and through the Historic Arcade for wine and artwork after dinner at Puckett's in the St. Cloud Building.
Both events should wrap up around 9pm and if you're interested in some late nightlife, wander downtown on Broadway to catch some live music at The Stage, Tin Roof, or Acme Feed & Seed to cap off your first day.
Saturday, July 4th
If there's one thing you notice about Nashville, it's probably all the good food! Start off your Independence Day with a walk or run through the streets of downtown Nashville for the Music City July 4th 5K or 10K and burn a few extra calories. All participants will receive a free commemorative shirt and medal for crossing the finish line.
Once you've worked up an appetite, grab lunch at the Music City Hot Chicken Festival at East Park from 11am to 3pm. The first 500 people sample the best hot chicken in Nashville for free. Doesn't get much better than that.
After all that hot chicken, you'll want to cool off with an iced coffee, of course. May we suggest Barista Parlor? They've been named one of the top coffee shops you must visit by both People Magazine and GQ this year and we couldn't agree more.
Finally, head downtown for the big show! This year's Music City July 4th Celebration is going to be bigger and better than ever. You'll want to get there early because there's going to be a crowd....like 200,000+ people. Get a good spot for the show and you'll get to see Mikky Ekko, Martina McBride, and the Nashville Symphony perform along with the largest fireworks show in the country - for free!
Sunday, July 5th
You'll need some recovery time from the big night, but when you're ready to head to brunch, make your way to Pinewood Social. You can't go wrong with the Broken Yolk Tacos or The Graceland - a waffle with peanut butter mouse, bacon & bananas. Enjoy a cup of coffee or a brunch cocktail while you're there.
If you have extra time, you can sit by the pool or try your hand at retro bowling at Pinewood Social. Otherwise, head downtown to check out the Country Music Hall of Fame or the Johnny Cash Museum.
Of course, there's a lot more to do in Nashville, but this will give you a taste of the city and a one heck of a weekend to remember!
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-HNG-