The halls have officially been decked, Nashville! It’s that magical time of year when we can skitter down ice slides, snap selfies by the fire, and sip seasonal drinks. Whether you’re looking for your next family outing or an intimate spot to cozy up with a cocktail, there are plenty of holiday pop-ups and events around town to get you in the spirit.
*Listed in alphabetical order
9 3/4 Holiday Pop-Up at Union Station Nashville Yards
For More Info + Holiday Hours: marriott.com
Wands at the ready, Harry Potter fans! Through December 29, Union Station Nashville Yards is the place to be — wizards and muggles alike, all ages welcome. With specialty cocktails, themed bites, and Wizarding World-inspired decor, the lobby of the historic train station has transformed into an oasis of floating candles, house banners, and all things magical. Take an Instagram-worthy snapshot at the luggage cart photo op, sip on cocktails like the Goblet of Fire and Dark Magic, and enjoy bites like the Two Brooms Burger. This pop-up is even open on weekdays!
A Cozy Christmas at 5 Points Diner
More Info + Holiday Hours: 5pointsdiner.com
Tucked away in the back of East Nashville’s 5 Points Diner, you’ll find an intimate cocktail bar all decked out for the season. True to its name, A Cozy Christmas is a dimly lit space complete with holiday greenery, baubles, and a roaring (digital) fire overlooking the bar. From sugary shots to carefully balanced cocktails, you can expect a full list of seasonal drinks, plus all of the classics. We especially loved the Spicy Mrs. Claus, a mulled Cabernet featuring allspice, cinnamon, and orange.
Buddy’s Bar at Downtown Pancake Pantry
For More Info + Holiday Hours: thepancakepantry.com
As if folks needed another reason to line up outside the Pancake Pantry, fans of Elf will love the chance to check out the festive decor at Buddy’s Bar at the Downtown location! This brand-new Christmas pop-up bar pays homage to Will Ferrell’s classic character. The bar is open from Thursday through Saturday, 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., until January 6, 2024. From pretzel sticks and hot chicken sliders to the “Spaghetti & Syrup” pancakes, you’re in for a treat. You can even sip fun cocktails like the Cotton-Headed Ninny Muggin Mule and Jingle Juice.
Camp Bobby at Bobby Hotel
For More Info + Holiday Hours: bobbyhotel.com
Camp Bobby is back at the Bobby Hotel! The nostalgic campsite — complete with a retrofitted Scenicruiser — is aglow on the hotel rooftop, surrounded by lights and igloos for a one-of-a-kind retreat. Enjoy snacks like pecan pie and spiked hot cocoa or main dishes such as brisket chili nachos and Campfire S’mores for dessert. You can also dance the night away to a live DJ in Bobby’s “mess hall.” Camp Bobby will remain open through February 18, 2024, so you have plenty of time to don your coziest sweater and head over. You can reserve an igloo or “lounge” space on the bus here.
Candy Cane Jane’s at Jane’s Hideaway
For More Info + Holiday Hours: janeshideaway.com
East Nashville is spreading some serious Christmas cheer, thanks to the fourth-annual appearance of Candy Cane Jane’s at Jane’s Hideaway. Whether you’re sipping on some festive eggnog or a spiked hot cocoa with whipped cream, you’ll feel merry and bright in no time. Of course, you can also munch on some great dishes and even build your own gingerbread. Live music is the cherry on top! You can enjoy this pop-up through January 1, 2024. And since the final night falls on New Year’s Eve, get ready for a big party — no tickets required.
Chalet 27 at The Westin Nashville
For More Info + Holiday Hours: l27nashville.com
The French Alps don’t seem quite so far from Nashville at Chalet 27, the après ski pop-up at The Westin Nashville’s L27 Rooftop Lounge. Luxurious and intimate, the winter oasis is the perfect spot to kick back with faux fur blankets, sip cocktails like the Cabin Fever (vodka, blackberry, lemon juice, and simple syrup), and snack on fondue, Alpine salad, and Black Forest cake. You can even take some fantastic pics on the ski lift! The pop-up runs through February 20, 2024, so there’s plenty of time to check it out.
Cheekwood Holiday LIGHTS
For More Info + Holiday Hours: cheekwood.org
Cheekwood is a longstanding favorite when it comes to light displays. This year’s annual Holiday LIGHTS at Cheekwood features over one million lights and a one-mile walking path filled with illuminated gardens and artistic installations. There are even s’mores stations and bar setups along the way!
For $100 (Cheekwood members) or $125 (non-members), you can get the “Merry and Bright” package, which includes two adult Garden and Mansion entry passes, two beverage vouchers, and two s’mores kits. Stroll the grounds, enjoy the holiday marketplace, and take a picture in front of the historic mansion’s 20-foot-tall poinsettia tree. This event runs through January 7, 2024.
A Country Christmas at Gaylord Opryland (Featuring ICE!)
For More Info + Holiday Hours: christmasatgaylordopryland.marriott.com
When you think of Christmas in Nashville, chances are, Opryland comes to mind. As Tennessee’s longest-running holiday attraction, this year’s “A Country Christmas” lineup promises to wow, from ice tubing and skating to gingerbread decorating. Did we mention the dazzling holiday lights? Plus, ICE! is back again this year, featuring The Polar Express™. Other attractions and events include the Darryl Worley & Friends: Home for the Holidays Dinner Show, Breakfast with Charlie Brown & Friends™, and the incredible annual Christmas decorations inside the hotel. You can enjoy the Christmas festivities through January 1, 2024.
The Dancing Lights of Christmas
For More Info + Holiday Hours: thedancinglightsofchristmas.com
Though not in Nashville proper, The Dancing Lights of Christmas — Tennessee’s largest drive-through light-and-music show — is worth the drive to Lebanon to see the elaborate display of lights that “dance” to the beat of beloved holiday tunes. Entry is $30 per vehicle, so plan to pack in your family and friends! Admission includes access to Santa’s village, which features a petting zoo, pictures with Santa, carnival rides, inflatables, and more. Open through December 31, the experience also benefits charities such as Ronald McDonald House, Second Harvest Food Bank, and Wounded Warrior Project.
SB Tip: You can expect LONG wait times on Friday and Saturday nights, so plan accordingly!
Family Vacation at The Treehouse
For More Info + Holiday Hours: treehousenashville.com
Through December 30, visit The Treehouse for some holiday pop-up magic. Enjoy specialty seasonal cocktails, thanks to a collaboration with Ketel One, George Dickel, and Don Julio, and celebrate the holiday in true Christmas Vacation style.
Fireside at Denim
For More Info + Holiday Hours: thejosephnashville.com/denim
From Friday, December 8 through Sunday, March 31, you can enjoy warm winter memories at Denim. Overlooking a stunning view of the city, camp out on the rooftop of The Joseph Hotel for fireside bites and cocktails in a private cabana, including two culinary offerings from Chef de Cuisine Shane Midnight and Executive Pastry Chef Noelle Marchetti. Dip into some fondue, snack on s’mores, and sip bourbon. Yum!
Frosted Fairlane
For More Info + Holiday Hours: fairlanehotel.com
Head to a frosted, wintery wonderland simply by taking the elevator to The Fairlane Hotel Penthouse Suite! The Fairlane continues to deliver with its whimsical pop-ups, and this one is no exception. Head to the Snow Bar for a seasonal cocktail such as the Jack Frost (an elevated cola slushie), or sip on some hot mulled wine outside on the patio as you take in the view. Enjoy a few holiday-themed bites, and don’t forget to take a selfie at the “Naughty or Nice” wall!
Hard Candy Christmas at Americana Taphouse
For More Info + Holiday Hours: americanataphouse.com
Head to historic Downtown Franklin through December 31 for Americana Taphouse’s first holiday pop-up bar, Hard Candy Christmas. Main Street is already magical, but you’ll also find tableside s’mores, live music on the heated patio, photo ops, specialty bites, and fun cocktails like the Hot Buttered Bourbon and Candy Cane Martini. The family-friendly space will be decked out in vibrant pink and green — perfect for photos.
The Holiday Factory at Dream Nashville
For More Info + Holiday Hours: hyatt.com
Take photo ops in front of a life-size lollipop forest as you experience The Holiday Factory at Dream Nashville’s Parlour Bar. Festive decor abounds, along with fluorescent gumball lights, and cocktails galore. Try one of the concoctions on the “12 Cocktails of Christmas” menu, such as The Pear Tree (featuring spiced rum, spiced pear, honey, lemon, and orange, or the Tequila Calling Bird (featuring tequila, orange liqueur, cinnamon, lime, and cranberry)
Jollypalooza at Sidebar
For More Info + Holiday Hours: sidebarnash. co
Bode Nashville is putting a retro twist on the holiday at its Jollypalooza pop-up at Sidebar. Get in the spirit with themed specialty cocktails like the Gingerbread Jitterbug, featuring vodka, house-made cold brew, coffee liqueur, allspice, angostura bitters, and gingerbread cold foam. This non-ticketed pop-up also includes shareable bites, fun seasonal decor, and a stellar playlist! This pop-up runs through January 31, 2024.
JW Starlight
For More Info + Holiday Hours: jwnashvillemarriott.com
Through January 7, 2024, the JW Marriott lobby will be hosting the JW Starlight, an immersive holiday pop-up featuring a virtual train installation! Be transported through winter scenes as you experience a 60-minute feast for the senses and sip classic craft cocktails in the 1920s bar car, such as the Starlight Martini or Winter Old Fashioned. The 3D animation will surprise and delight you as you view the countryside and changing weather. The installation is for guests 21 and over; tickets are available for $30-$40. (Complimentary valet is included!)
The Lodge at PROOF at W Nashville
For More Info + Holiday Hours: resortpass.com
The W Nashville has transformed its rooftop into The Lodge at PROOF — a wonderful, wintery 1970s Après Ski experience from November through January 31, where you can relax on cozy couches surrounded by a snowy scene complete with pine trees, lampposts, and chic alpine decor. Gaze at the Nashville skyline while you sip on après ski-inspired cocktails and enjoy seasonal bites. Reserve a private experience or Indulge in the exclusive holiday shotski at the bar. Translucent cabins can accommodate up to eight guests and feature cozy couches, chic décor, and a rustic fireplace. Plus, you can snack on a complimentary fondue spread!
Miracle at Pearl Diver
For More Info + Holiday Hours: pearldivernashville.com
With holiday pop-ups from one coast to the other, Miracle® helps us get in the spirit with tons of holiday decor and carefully crafted drinks. Visit the pop-up at Pearl Diver through December 30 to try some spiked eggnog or the Marshmallows & Unicorns (gin, vanilla liqueur, velvet falernum, cherry liqueur, cardamom, black pepper, marshmallow, lemon, egg white, tiki bitters, and soda) for a little extra warmth — and you can buy the limited edition unicorn mug it comes in, too!
Nashville Nightmare Before Christmas
For More Info + Holiday Hours: nashvillenightmare.com
If you’re already pining for days of Halloween past, Nashville Nightmare has you covered with their three-day holiday scare-fest from December 15 through 17. Creepy meets Christmas at this limited-time event, where you’ll encounter spine-chilling Christmas characters and holiday horror as you stroll through elaborate scenes. Enjoy themed cocktails, snacks, and selfie stations. (Beware of sinister photo-bombers.) For additional fees, you can also explore other attractions, like the Laser Maze and mini escape rooms.
Ralphie’s Christmas Getaway at Hidden Bar
For More Info + Holiday Hours: noelle-nashville.com
The 1980s wouldn’t have been the same without A Christmas Story, and you can celebrate the nostalgia at Noelle Hotel’s pop-up, Ralphie’s Christmas Getaway. Get ready to be transported to the ultimate holiday experience through January 8, where you can sip Oval-tinis and munch on festive bites inspired by the classic film. You can also book the Ralphie’s Christmas Getaway package to enjoy complimentary valet parking, a $50 credit to Ralphie’s Christmas, and a “fast pass” to the experience.
The Rink Above Broadway
For More Info + Holiday Hours: therinkabovebroadway.com
Head to the Grand Hyatt Nashville to eat, drink, skate, and be merry. As the name of the pop-up so perfectly encapsulates, you can skate to your heart’s content while enjoying a view of the Downtown happenings below. Glide across the fifth-floor rooftop retreat and experience some seasonal enchantment!
Rudy’s Rooftop Retreat at Virgin Hotel
For More Info + Holiday Hours: virginhotels.com
Inspired by snowy and tranquil mountain getaways, Virgin Hotels Nashville offers a nostalgic winter journey at Rudy’s Rooftop Retreat. The seasonal pop-up has transformed The Pool Club into an enchanting winter oasis with twinkling lights, cozy blankets, and beyond. Plus, the pool is heated!
Purchasing a pool pass ($35 per person) gets you a dip in the 80-degree water as you gaze at the city skyline, a cup of boozy hot cocoa, and even a Virgin Hotel robe to keep you warm and take home! You can also rent a heated cabin for up to 12 guests ($550), where you can enjoy your personal fire pit, s’mores, and a dedicated server. The pop-up is slated to run through the holiday season.
Saint Nicky’s + Tropical Tidings at Nicky’s Coal Fired
For More Info + Holiday Hours: nickysnashville.com
Nicky’s Coal Fired is celebrating its annual Saint Nicky’s pop-up by introducing a new holiday tiki bar called Tropical Tidings, located on its heated back patio. Inside Saint Nicky’s, you can enjoy all of your favorite regular menu items, plus festive additions like Christmas Tree Pasta. Outside at Tropical Tidings, you can look forward to fun libations inside a cocktail cabana, such as Trade Tony’s Hot Cocoa or Light Up The Luau, featuring Smirnoff vodka, pineapple, coconut, and a snowflake sprinkle.
Both pop-ups will run from November 25 through December 23. Saint Nicky’s will be open daily; Tropical Tidings will only be available Thursday through Sunday.
World’s Best Cup of Coffee, a Christmas Bar at McGavock’s Coffee Bar and Provisions
For More Info + Holiday Hours: harpethhotel.com
Just around the corner from Franklin’s charming Main Street, The Harpeth Hotel presents “World’s Best Cup of Coffee, a Christmas Bar.” Located in the hotel’s on-site cafe, McGavock’s Coffee Bar and Provisions, the pop-up pays homage to holiday film favorites. From November 22 through New Year’s Eve, stop in for vibrant seasonal decor, plus specialty mocktails, and cocktails, such as the World’s Best Cup of Coffee, made with espresso-infused vodka, vanilla syrup, dark roast coffee, and spiced cream. You can also enjoy bites like the Cuddly as a Cactus, featuring bright green spinach and artichoke dip, potato chips, and pita chips.
Wishing you a festive, fun-filled season!
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