Nashville shines brightest during the holiday season. Known worldwide for its vibrant music scene, the city transforms into a Christmas wonderland filled with sparkling lights, joyful melodies, and family-friendly festivities. What sets Nashville apart for holiday cheer is its blend of musical traditions and eye-catching displays, making it an ideal spot for those who love both music and festive decorating. Whether you’re into sing-alongs at iconic venues or private lighting tours through historic neighborhoods, Nashville offers a variety of Christmas Experiences & Tours that cater to different interests and budgets.
This guide will introduce you to five top-rated holiday excursions, from lively Christmas shows at the Grand Ole Opry to luxury private lighting tours in Franklin. Each offers a unique way to soak up Nashville’s yuletide spirit—whether you prefer a classic country holiday concert or a chauffeured drive through elaborately decorated neighborhoods. Keep reading to find the perfect Christmas activity for your Nashville holiday visit.
Quick Overview
Our list features a diverse mix of Christmas Experiences & Tours: a lively live country Christmas show (Nashville: Country Christmas Music Show at the Opry House), an exclusive luxury tour of Cookeville’s holiday lights (Cookeville Christmas Lights Luxury Tour), a scenic and stylish lighting tour of Franklin’s neighborhoods (Franklin’s Festive Lights Spectacular), a private, all-day Nashville Christmas lights adventure (Private Enchanting Nashville Christmas Lights Tour), and a festive tour blending Nashville’s music landmarks with holiday decor (Nashville’s Holiday Harmony). Now, let’s explore each one in detail.
1. Nashville: Country Christmas Music Show at the Opry House
This popular holiday concert combines Nashville’s signature country music with the festive spirit of Christmas. For just $64 a ticket, you’ll enjoy a lively show at the Grand Ole Opry House that features legendary artists performing beloved holiday classics. The performance is a true musical celebration, with the historical venue decorated for the season, amplifying the holiday magic.
What makes this show special is its ability to bring together Nashville’s musical heritage with Christmas cheer. Expect passionate renditions of favorite holiday hits, along with possibly some surprise appearances that create a sense of tradition. The show lasts about an hour and a half, often with multiple performances through the day, so you’ll find a starting time that suits your schedule. Many visitors find that singing along with live musicians makes for an uplifting, memorable experience.
This concert is perfect for lovers of country music and those wanting a classic Nashville-style holiday event. The only potential downside is that seating can fill quickly, so booking ahead is recommended. Overall, it offers excellent value for money and an authentic Nashville Christmas experience.
Bottom Line: A lively, musical holiday show that captures the heart of Nashville’s country roots, perfect for music fans seeking festive entertainment.
2. Cookeville Christmas Lights Luxury Tour in the RoadStallion
For those who prefer their Christmas lights with a side of luxury, the Cookeville Christmas Lights Luxury Tour offers an upscale way to view holiday displays. Priced at $1,200 for up to 8 people, this 3.5-hour journey is all about comfort and intimacy. You’ll travel in a plush RoadStallion, a spacious vehicle with panoramic windows, ideal for taking in the sights without leaving the warmth.
Your tour begins with hot chocolate, festive eggnog (on request), and Christmas cookies. The first stop is Hidden Hollow Park, where synchronized light displays pulse to holiday music. Then, you’ll visit Dogwood Park to see a 40-foot-tall Christmas tree perform a 15-minute light show. The final part is a self-guided drive through Cookeville’s decorated neighborhoods, enjoying Christmas lights from the comfort of your vehicle.
What sets this tour apart is its luxury and personalized experience, perfect for families or groups wanting a relaxed and elegant outing. While it’s a significant investment, the inclusion of concessions and private transportation makes it good value for an exclusive holiday evening. It’s well suited to those who want a combination of sightseeing, comfort, and a touch of class.
Bottom Line: An elegant way to enjoy Cookeville’s spectacular holiday lights, ideal for groups celebrating in style.
3. Franklin’s Festive Lights Spectacular A Christmas Wonderland Tour
Franklin’s Festive Lights Spectacular offers a luxurious, 3-hour holiday journey through Nashville’s charming suburb. Priced at $1,800 for up to 8 people, this tour provides a high-end experience aboard a spacious RoadStallion with panoramic windows for optimal viewing. It starts in downtown Franklin, where the historic Main Street is decorated with thousands of lights, creating a charming winter scene.
Next, you’ll visit the Lynch Family Light Spectacular—an interactive display with over 21,000 synchronized lights set to holiday music. This show is particularly noteworthy because visitors can even control parts of the display, adding a fun, interactive element. The final stop takes you through the Westhaven community, renowned for its elaborate, creative holiday displays.
This tour shines for its combination of beautiful neighborhoods, impressive light shows, and personalized experience. It’s best suited for those who want to combine sightseeing with a high level of comfort and style. The only potential drawback might be its price, but the inclusive nature and exclusive vehicle make it a worthwhile splurge.
Bottom Line: A luxurious, all-encompassing holiday light tour through Franklin’s best displays, ideal for families and couples seeking elegance.
4. Private Enchanting Nashville Christmas Lights Tour
For a truly custom holiday experience, the Private Enchanting Nashville Christmas Lights Tour is hard to beat. At around $1,800 for up to 8 people, this 5.5-hour tour offers a comprehensive journey through Nashville’s most dazzling holiday scenes. You’ll be riding in a luxurious RoadStallion, with panoramic windows and plush seats, perfect for relaxing while taking in the sights.
Your itinerary begins at the Gaylord Opryland Resort, where indoor gardens and outdoor displays create a Christmas movie scene. Next, you’ll visit Cheekwood for its one-mile pathway of whimsical light displays. The tour ends with a festive stroll through downtown Nashville’s Broadway area, decorated with lights and holiday decor.
This private tour is ideal for families, groups, or anyone wanting an immersive, flexible experience. Its inclusive nature means you can customize the route and stops, making it especially appealing for those who want a personalized holiday adventure. As it lasts over five hours, it’s suited for those with a full day to explore Nashville’s holiday displays.
Bottom Line: A flexible, private Christmas lights tour, perfect for groups seeking a curated, all-day Nashville holiday experience.
5. Nashville’s Holiday Harmony: A Christmas Melody Tour
Rounding out our list, Nashville’s Holiday Harmony is an intimate, 2-hour tour for up to 4 people, priced at $585. It combines Nashville’s musical landmarks with festive holiday decorations, offering a musical and visual Christmas experience. Starting at the Country Music Hall of Fame, your guide will take you on a journey through Nashville’s music history and holiday sights.
Highlights include a guided tour of the Hall of Fame, a walk through Bridgestone Arena’s holiday lights, and a visit to the Nashville Symphony. The tour concludes at the Nashville Christmas Tree display at Riverfront Park. This tour emphasizes music and downtown scenery, making it great for visitors interested in Nashville’s cultural side.
Rated 5/5 based on reviews, many find the guide “terrific,” and praise it as both fun and informative. It’s a good choice for couples or small groups wanting a short, engaging holiday outing with a strong local flavor.
Bottom Line: Ideal for music lovers wanting a compact, culturally rich Christmas experience in Nashville’s downtown.
How to Choose the Right Christmas Tour in Nashville
When selecting a Christmas Experience or Tour, consider your budget, available time, and personal interests. If you want a classic holiday concert, the Country Christmas Music Show offers lively entertainment with a Nashville twist. For those seeking a luxurious, private experience, the Franklin Lights Tour or the Private Nashville Lights Tour provide comfort and customization.
Budget-conscious travelers might prefer the Nashville’s Holiday Harmony, which offers a shorter but rich cultural experience. If you’re interested in elaborate neighborhood displays and a relaxed sightseeing experience, the Cookeville Lights Tour is perfect, especially if you’re traveling with a group.
Booking early is always wise, especially for popular shows and private tours, as they tend to fill up during peak holiday season. These experiences all deliver a memorable way to celebrate Christmas in Nashville, whether you’re after a lively concert, a scenic drive, or an exclusive private outing.
Final Thoughts
Nashville during Christmas offers a spectrum of memorable ways to celebrate the season. From the lively, country-flavored Opry House show to luxurious private tours through Franklin’s decorated streets, there’s something for every style and budget. Consider your priorities—whether it’s music, comfort, or sightseeing—and pick the experience that best matches your holiday spirit.
Remember, holiday magic in Music City doesn’t last forever, so booking early will ensure you secure your spot. No matter which tour you choose, you’re sure to create festive memories that will last long after the season ends.