We dub September the month of local. Well, isn’t that every month in Nashville? It may be, but we’re super excited to kick off fall with these events, which celebrate all we know and love about our city! Read on to see how you can enjoy local, live music, local eats and local treats and support local charities all month long. For even more events, including concerts, trunk shows and more, check out the StyleBlueprint calendar of events. We will update the events listed below with 2016 dates as they become available.
Made South Market Event | September 10-12, 2015
Southern artisans (makers, chefs, distillers, musicians and artists) come together for this three-day market event to showcase their work. The weekend winds up with Makers Market, where you can shop for local and regional handmade goods. Order your tickets soon for the Thursday and Friday night events and swing my Saturday for great shopping. For tickets and details: madesouth.com
Tennessee State Fair | September 11-20, 2015
This popular, annual event encompasses the food, crafts and livestock that make Tennessee great. Opportunities for family entertainment, educational experiences, live music, eating true Southern food and riding exhilarating rides abound during the fair’s 10-day run. Tickets are $8 for adults and $6 for youth and seniors. tnstatefair.org
Wine on the River | September 12, 2015
Wine on the River takes you on a journey through 10 different regions as you sample wine, beer and spirits. These beverages will be paired with a culturally themed menu to give you a true taste of each region. The event takes place in a fun and lively setting on Shelby Street Pedestrian Bridge–sip wine as you take in the spectacular views of Music City. A $55 general admission ticket includes free wine glass and wine tastings and a $75 VIP includes early access, the ability to bypass lines and a special VIP glass. wineontheriver.com/index.html
Cumberland River Dragon Boat Festival | September 12, 2015
This age-old Chinese tradition comes to Nashville each year and people gather to watch dragon boat races, festive parades and drummers. This event is a colorful and lively celebration of tradition, water, the river, health and each other. Even if you aren”t participating in the race, be sure to swing by to watch the friendly competition and have fun with the whole family. This event is free but you can enjoy VIP perks, including a premiere veiwing area, air condiitoning, snacks, a private bathroom and two drink tickets, for $25/person ($15 if under 21). nashvilledragonboat.org
Americana Music Festival and Conference | September 15-20, 2015
Jam to 165 live performances scattered around different music venues downtown during the Americana Music Festival. Go big and purchase a wristband to experience every exciting moment of the festival or purchase tickets for individual showcases for $20 to $25. Throughout the week, the conference will include panels, seminars and educational forums held by industry professionals. americanamusic.org
SoBro Fest | September 18, 2015
Swing by one of Nashville’s favorite neighborhoods, South of Broadway, for the SoBro Fest. As a celebration of the growing neighborhood and flourishing businesses, this event will feature live music, food trucks, corn hole and a showcase of Nashville’s startups. For $10, gain access to all the fun, which takes place at the historic Trolley Barns. facebook.com/SoBroFest
Heritage Ball | September 19, 2015
The Heritage Ball brings folks from Williamson and Davidson counties together to observe the importance of historic preservation in the community and celebrate the Heritage Foundation of Franklin & Williamson County’s efforts. This year, the 42nd black-tie ball is inspired by Rhapsody in Blue and will include a cocktail hour, dinner by the Homestead Manor, a silent auction and music from two live bands. $375/person historicfranklin.com/events/event/heritage-ball
Music City Food + Wine Festival | September 19-20, 2015
These days, Nashville is home to more than just music; it is a destination for foodies and wine lovers. Music City Food + Wine Festival allows you to indulge in artisanal food, wine, beer and spirits, while becoming educated as experts share their experiences. The event will carry into the night with, you guessed it, live music. Purchase an all-access pass for $500, a day pass for $150 or a Harvest Night pass for $225. musiccityfoodandwinefestival.com
Tennessee Craft Fair | September 25-27, 2015
Shop pieces handcrafted by artisans who honor the rich history and tradition of Tennessee craft during this three-day event held at Centennial Park. The juried fair will have food vendors, family-friendly activities and demonstrations from artisans, in addition to the display of crafts. Craft Fairs are free and open to the public. tennesseecraft.org/events/craft-fairs
Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival | September 26-27, 2015
The 230-acre Park at Harlinsdale former horse farm in Franklin acts as the perfect music festival venue and fall is the perfect time to be outside enjoying music. Sounds of rock ‘n’ roll, country, bluegrass, jazz, indie and gospel will be heard during this two-day festival. Kids can play in the designated play area, festival goers can enjoy the region’s best food and drink, and everyone can enjoy music from acts including: Willie Nelson, Sheryl Crow, Chris Stapleton, Trampled by Turtles, St. Paul & The Broken Bones, Holly Williams and many more. Grab a one-day ticket for $92, a two-day ticket for $172 or a VIP ticket for $499. pilgrimagefestival.com
Eat Green for Tennessee | September 16, 2015
Save yourself time in the kitchen and dine out at participating restaurants that celebrate the work of local farms and food sources. A percentage of food sales will support The Land Trust for Tennessee. These restaurants care about where their food comes from and by protecting Tennessee farmland, they can continue to service fresh, local produce. landtrusttn.org/egt
Chic AWEARness | September 21, 2015
This annual event, to benefit Gilda’s Club Nashville promotes Ovarian Cancer Awareness early symptom detection and treatment. Be prepared for an evening of fun, friends, education and new fall fashion. Kick off the event with cocktails and appetizers, followed by entertainment and fun. $125/person www.gildasclubnashville.org
Chukkers for Charity | September 12, 2015
At this event, guests can enjoy an afternoon filled with polo and outdoor excitement. Activities will include a car show, parade, a petting zoo, friendly decorating competition and entrainment making it a day of fun for the whole family. There will also be a silent auction and fine dining with proceed benefiting the Rochelle Center and Saddle Up. General Admission tickets are $20; Table of Ten Tickets are $1,750; Individual tickets are $175; Cabana and 6 Armbands are $300. chukkersforcharity.net
Taste of Tennessee and Craft Brewers Fest | September 5-7, 2015
The State Fair is back in town again from September 5-14 and we are thinking the first weekend is the time to go. With the Taste of Tennessee Festival festivities, including the 2nd Annual Craft Brewers festival on September 5, we are ready for a large dose of everything local. Plan to indulge in beer from more than 35 brewers from across the state, local music and food. Tickets start at $45 and we promise you will get your money’s worth! tnstatefair.org/tasteoftn
Live On The Green | Thursdays September + Weekend Festival
Lighting 100 brings local and national bands to Public Square Park, for free, each summer. Local and national bands will take the stage on Fridays during August and September and the fun continues into September with a multi-day festival with more great music. Make your way downtown for music, beer and food trucks. This event is free and open to folks of all ages. liveonthegreen.com
Shakespeare in the Park | Weekends, August – September
This year’s 27th annual Shakespeare in the Park production will feature As You Like It. As to be expected, this production will come with a twist. A Depression-era setting and original music by songwriter David Olney will make for a fun, interactive evening in the park. Head to the park around 6 p.m. to enjoy the food vendors and the pre-show entertainment before the performance begins at 7:30 p.m. This is a free event but donations are greatly appreciated. nashvilleshakes.org
First Saturday Art Crawl | First Saturday January – December
From January –through December, we find ourselves looking forward to the first Saturday of each month, when we have an excuse to check out our favorite galleries around downtown. Each month, we will be stopping by The Arts Company, Rymer Gallery, Tinney Contemporary, Hatch Show Print’s Haley Gallery, and dozens of additional galleries for their new exhibits! This event is free. www.nashvilledowntown.com
Nashville Flea Market | Third Saturday January – December
Each month, the Tennessee State Fairgrounds fills with dealers and vendors from more than 30 states to sell gifts, antiques, collectibles, jewelry, arts and crafts, tools, housewares, handmade clothing, furniture and hundreds of other items. Held the third Saturday of each month, you never know what treasures you will find at the Nashville Flea Market! styleblueprint.com/nashville-flea-market
Full Moon Pickin’ Party | Fridays closest to the full moon, May – October
Our Friends of Warner Parks are inviting us all to participate in the annual Full Moon Pickin’ Parties! The parties started in May and run through October. Make June 13 your night to relax and soak up some Bluegrass tunes. All funds raised by the Pickin’ Parties will go directly toward protecting the Warner Parks as well as funding educational programs and special projects that benefit park-goers of all ages. www.friendsofwarnerparks.com
Bluebird on the Mountain | Saturdays May – October
The Bluebird Cafe is famous for showcasing Nashville songwriters, both emerging and well-known. Take that experience and add the beautiful ground of the Dyer Observatory and you have Blue Bird on the Mountain. Held each May through October, tickets sell out fast and are $120/per carload of no more than eight people. Bring a picnic! dyer.vanderbilt.edu/entertainment/concerts