Since 1958, we have built our reputation on a tradition of authenticity and exceptional care. As this community has grown, so have we. What started as a single building called Williamson County Hospital in 1958 has grown into a regional health system, with 30 different locations including primary care and orthopaedic clinics, outpatient lab and imaging services, EMS stations, walk-in clinics and more. We are proud to be poised to take care of our communities for generations to come. The entire Williamson Health organization is committed to providing world-class care that feels like home.
For more information, visit WilliamsonHealth.org.
FALL FUN
FEST
Join us for a spooky good time!
Get ready for Halloween with games, crafts, snacks, music, a selfie station and more! Don’t forget your costume!
Saturday, October 12th | 10am - 1pm
Lower Level | Main Atrium
Scan to Register
BEST OF SEPT.
The autumnal season is just around the bend!
Get ready for falling leaves and pumpkin patches opening up this month, in addition to Disney On Ice at Bridgestone Arena; the Nashville Fair; Cheekwood Harvest; the Middle Tennessee Highland Games & Celtic Festival; the Kidsville Family Festival and so much more!
18 LITTLES: TUNE YOUR TOT INTO MUSIC
Music can ignite all areas of child development, plus it can boost your child's vocabulary.
21 MR. SMITH, DO YOU KNOW MY CHILD?
Prep for parent/ teacher meetings with insightful questions geared toward helping the teacher really know your kid.
24
HELP YOUR KID DISCOVER THEIR INTERESTS
Observe your kids closely, then give them plenty of opportunities to try lots of different activities.
Disney On Ice glides into Bridgestone Arena, Sept. 19 - 22.
Editor’s Note
What it's like to go from one to two to three to four kids!
12
READER FEEDBACK:
“Do you teach your kids to say, 'Yes, Ma'am' and, 'Yes, Sir,' or is that outdated in your opinion?”
Parent News
The Baby Fair - Rutherford is Sept. 21! Plus, a Cover Kids reboot and more.
WIN on #WINSdays!
PUBLISHER
Stewart Day stewart@daycommedia.com
EDITOR IN CHIEF
Susan Swindell Day susan@daycommedia.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Sisters, Kyla and Cailey, photographed at Trey Park in Hartsville by Karen Moreland Photography.
Every Wednesday (WINSday) — on our Facebook page — we give away a prize. Get in on the fun by subscribing to our Thursday newsletter and using the #WINSday clue.
HOW IT WORKS
Subscribe to our Thursday enewsletter to get in on our #WINSday prize drawings!
A “clue” is included in the newsletter for the following week’s Wednesday WINSday. Each Wednesday, we announce the day’s prize on Facebook, asking, “What day is it?” You answer, giving the clue found in the previous Thursday newsletter.
UPCOMING GIVEAWAYS
WED., SEPT. 4
Four tickets to Waitress at Nashville Repertory Theatre.
WED., SEPT. 11
Win four tickets to DOZER DAY, taking place at the Comer Barn in Gallatin on Wednesday, Sept. 28 from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Join
Four tickets to Dozer Day where kids can operate construction machinery & more!
WED., SEPT. 18
Four tickets to My Best School Year Ever at NCT.
WED., SEPT. 25
A 30-minute session at Digital World Virtual Reality.
Michael W. Aldrich michael@daycommedia.com
PRODUCTION DIRECTOR
Tim Henard timhenard@daycommedia.com
ADVERTISING:
ACCOUNT MANAGERS
Robynn Butler, Alexandra Day, Noah Day, Christina Moody
MARKETPLACE
Noah Day noah@daycommedia.com
DISTRIBUTION MANAGER
Kevin Mutz distribution@daycommedia.com
ACCOUNTING
Jill Riffel accounting@daycommedia.com
MISSION STATEMENT
Nashville, Rutherford and Williamson Parent Magazines provide the community connection parents need.. We help moms, dads and families navigate the uncharted waters of family life, and we weave bright threads of joy and opportunity into the daily lives of families.
A Musing
“Two things can be true: we can love our work and our work can be very important to us and we can be all in on our work; and we can also love our personal life and it can be important to us and we can be all in there."
— Blake Lively American actress and mom of four on work/life commitments
From time to time over the years, people growing their family have inevitably asked, “What’s it like having four kids?” It’s not an easy answer beyond the word “chaos.” You can’t even say, “controlled chaos,” because that’s an impossible illusion. But here’s what it’s like going from one, to two, to three, to four. But first, a few requirements: flexibility, a good sense of humor and energy that lasts for days.
BABY ONE:
You know nothing, but you figure, how hard can it be? One little child’s no big deal. The upshot? Your figuring is wrong. One little child is a HUGE deal. You are now fully responsible for the care and feeding of a helpless tiny, needy soul who can tell you nothing without crying and it’s an extreme wakeup call. On top of that, getting a good night’s sleep is a joke. Somewhere around three months in you realize, oh I think I’ve got this. But then something unexpected happens and you realize you don’t. That’s one.
BABY TWO:
Thank God you have four hands between you because you need them all. Going to two kids is the easiest though, because you’ve already done the hard work of one. In fact, the second baby is pure joy. You simply build on to what you’ve already learned. The fuzzy sleeplessness continues though ... as it will for years to come.
BABY THREE:
I call this the divide-and-conquer baby because you are now outnumbered. There’s a lot of you do this, I’ll do that and we’ll meet at so-and-so. You have to delegate without being shrill. You are in danger of resentment if you think your partner isn’t doing enough to help. Don’t go there. Instead, say supportive words like, “Good job on that!” and keep the hugs and kisses flowing.
BABY FOUR:
This is the “fall-in” baby, because your crew is established and beyond day-to-day busy. So this baby simply has to fit in, no questions asked! You’ve already learned what A LOT means, so now you’re winging each day. If you don’t like to wing life a little bit, this may not be for you. But in my experience, the fourth baby is a charming addition to your first three and the first three just adore the little newcomer. The fourth is the icing on the cake — sweet! I think about my years with four kids ages 9 and younger as the BEST part my life. It is a whirlwind of activity and learning, mishaps and challenges, but it is the ultimate in the sharing experience. In never being alone. In fun and consequences and complications and merriment. What else are we here for if not these rich, involved relationships with our own intertwined kin? So yes, going from one, to two, to three, to four is a lot. But it’s the time of your life. And isn’t it fun for life to be a carnival? THAT’s four kids.
FEED BACK
“Do you teach your kids to say, ‘Yes, Ma’am,’ and, ‘Yes, Sir,’ or is that outdated in your opinion?”
“Yes, Ma’am” and “Yes, Sir” or No?
READERS SHARE OPINIONS
“Yes, and when we visit up north we get so many compliments on how polite and respectful my kids are.”
Tanya Bricco-McQuillan
“We taught both our boys to say it! It is showing respect.”
Kristie Hill Jackson
“Absolutely! My grown children still say it. I also still say it to my elders.”
Trudy Morris Lish
“No, not ever will be outdated!! It’s respect and unfortunately too many lack it!!”
Donna Cole Johnson
“This is an original quote (by me): Manners are free & everyone should have them!”
Dawn Skipworth Rizer
“It’s outdated. But he does say yes and no, not yeah/yup or nah/nope when speaking respectfully.”
John Ayers
“Absolutely because it’s respectful!”
Tori Epperson Schmelzer
“I don’t think it’s outdated, but I’ve been griped at too many times for saying, “Ma’am,” so I skip it now. It’s still polite to simply say yes or no and especially please and thank you so that will have to be enough.”
Dalena Watson
“My child grew up in the south and always said yes ma’am and sir until we moved back to the Midwest and people gave him funny looks and always commented about it and he dropped it over time. But, as he is a teenager now, I require it. I expect obedience and not talking back, so we have moved back to when I give him correction he must say yes ma’am or sir to dad and it’s been a night and day di erence in our house when he’s taught to respect authority. If he can’t listen to us and obey how will he ever learn to obey God?”
Amanda Martin
“Absolutely 100% necessary.”
Mary Lise Hutcheson
“It is outdated.”
Christel Uhde
“Definitely not out dated and yes, I do as well as my son’s teacher enforces it as well. Manners are never outdated! If anything we need to encourage manners be used by children!”
Heather Bostick-Smith
“Yes, because I say it.”
Kendra Nolen
“We never forced yes, ma’am or yes, sir. But I do expect them to say yes or no and instead of what? Or, huh? They say excuse me or pardon me.”
Shannon Gardner
“I was taught to say it, and I still do. In this day and age, though, I’ve taught my kids to just answer the question, leaving o the masc/fem addressing.”
Dan Broomhead
“Born and raised in the South. I have manners and my son was taught and he now has manners. Not outdated; it’s how we talk in the South.”
Michelle Warner Parker
Happenings
NEW! MONTHLY THEMES ALL AGES.
SEPTEMBER = WEATHER MONTH
This month is all about rain or shine! So, stomp through some puddles or enjoy the sun on your face as you make your way here to learn about weather! Themed activities are included in General Admission.
Family-Friendly
A Night Out
*Please drink responsibly.
TOUCH-A-TRUCK ALL AGES
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 14
Kids and adults of all ages can enjoy this free, outdoor event* from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm in our parking lot. “Quieter hour” from 9am to 10am.
General admission to the science center is not included in this event. Touch-a-Truck is a rain-or-shine event.
SCIENCE OF SPIRITS 21+
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 27
Did you know that certain fruits hide the flavor of tequila while others enhance it? Why? Science!
Science of Spirits includes unlimited* samples of specialty cocktails, mocktails, liquors, and spirits! Learn about your favorite cocktail, mocktail, and spirit with a splash of science.
TICKETS TO A SPIRITED EVENT
The Baby Fair - Rutherford
Head to Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital Rutherford on Saturday, Sept. 21!
Got a baby on board or a bump expecting one? Register now to attend Nashville and Middle Tennessee’s longest-running FREE annual event for new and expectant parents — THE BABY FAIR - Rutherford! LIVE and IN-PERSON, the second of Nashville Parent’s two 2024 Baby Fairs, this one takes place at Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital Rutherford, located at 1700 Medical Center Parkway in Murfreesboro. on Saturday, September 21, 2024 from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
The fun and informative fair feature great giveaways, vendors & booths with excellent resources for new parents, networking opportunities, a variety of games and more. Plus, attendees can tour the birthing facilities, meet OB/GYNs and certified nurse midwives and gain incredibly valuable insight from experts presenting informational sessions.
Admission to the fair is free, but PLEASE REGISTER so you can get up-to-date information on prizes, speakers and more!
BOOTHS ATTENDING THE BABY FAIR
• Allied Behavioral Health Solutions
• Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford
• CBR by CooperSurgical
• Health Markets Insurance Agency
• The Little Clinic - Kroger
• Music City Med/SurgPrep
• My Dreamy Sleeper (sleep consultant)
• Nashville 4D Baby
• Nurture the Next
• Restful Baby
• Tennessee Doulas Association
• The Southern School For Moms
• Twice Pediatric Dentistry
• Blue of Tennessee with Sanitas Medical Center
• Mothers’ Milk Bank of Tennessee
local news
It’s Baaack!
A brand-new season for Cover Kids is ramping up on nashvilleparent.com — enter your child today!
One of our favorite things is to show o local kids on the covers of our magazines. Now that we’re back into the full swing of a new school year, it’s time to photograph kids to appear on our upcoming issues.
Our Cover Kids contest is the avenue to take for our team of editors to consider your child for a cover. The ongoing photo contest is open to children ages 6 months – 12 years old.
IT’S EASY & FREE
Entering your child for Cover Kids is a snap. Simply go to nashvilleparent.com and click on the “Contest” tab then “Cover Kids.” Fill out the entry form and upload a photo of your child. It’s THAT EASY! When selecting a photo of your child to submit, please make sure your child’s face is clearly
facing the camera — no hats or sunglasses that obscure your child’s face.
If your child is chosen for an upcoming cover, you will be contacted via e-mail to schedule a photo shoot date and location. All children need their individual photo entered (unless you are entering as multiples, i.e. twins, triplets, etc. in which case it can be one photo of them all).
Our editors will make every e ort to accommodate you and your child’s schedule. Your child will receive a professional photo shoot experience that will result in a magazine cover to last a lifetime.
Scan the QR code to enter your kids today or go to nashvilleparent.com and click on “Contests.”
Quick Bits
Scan here to enter your kids for Cover Kids! It’s the ONLY way to get your child onto one of our covers!
• CAFÉ CHEESERIE, A CREATIVE NEW CONCEPT FROM THE GRILLED CHEESERIE opens at The Frist Museum in downtown Nashville on Thursday, September 5. Café Cheeserie will be serving during all hours that the Frist is open. Along with scratchmade sandwiches, seasonal soups and salads, Café Cheeserie will also o er baguette sandwiches, charcuterie boards, grab-and-go snacks and meals and other items exclusive to the Frist location. Additionally, Café Cheeserie will roll out a full coffee bar menu featuring Good Citizen Co ee with house-made breakfast items like croissants, pastries and other fresh-baked goods. For families, there will be an expanded kids’ menu with an emphasis on local, organic ingredients. The Frist is located at 919 Broadway in downtown Nashville. Learn more about the new café at fristartmuseum. org/cafe-cheeserie.
THE 26TH ANNUAL PTO TODAY EXPO takes place on Tuesday, Sept. 10 at the Farm Bureau Exposition Center located at 945 East Baddour Parkway in Lebanon. The one-day expo is designed for parent groups and booster clubs throughout the Middle Tennessee region. Registration for the event is happening now and costs $10. The PTO expo is an event that connects grups with dozens of vendors for fundraising ideas and more. In addition, you can explore products and services that can help your school parent group thrive throughout the school year. Prizes and giveaways are a part of the fun, too, and one lucky group will win a $500 award. Learn more and register for the expo at ptotoday.com.
• The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security (TDOSHS) is issuing NEW DRIVER LICENSES AND ID CARDS
with a fresh design and improved security features along with new self-service kiosks, which can reduce wait times at Driver Service Centers. The new credentials and kiosks will expand to all Driver Service Centers over the next few months.
The new Driver Licenses and ID cards prominently feature a stylized version of Tennessee’s historic State Capitol and state flag with its iconic three-stars representing the state’s three grand divisions. The new design features waves and patterns printed in very fine lines that are not able to be scanned or easily reproduced. For more information, visit tn.gov/ safety/driver-services.html.
• The Tennessee Immigration and Refugee Rights Coalition’s (TIRRC) fourth annual INTER”NASH”IONAL NIGHT MARKET on Saturday, September 21 from 6 pm – 9 pm. This is one of TIRRC’s largest annual events, hosted at TIRRC’s home in the heart of Antioch, bringing in neighbors, partners and supporters to build community and celebrate Nashville’s diverse cultures and culinary traditions. This year’s InterNASHional Night Market will feature 25 immigrant and refugeeowned food vendors and entrepreneurs. The Base Ticket Option is only $50 and includes 6 selections from any of the 25 immigrant and refugee local restaurants onsite. For more information, visit tnimmigrant.org.
Cheekwood Harvest | Sept 14 – Oct 27
Embrace fall at Cheekwood. Three pumpkin houses, an explosion of 75,000 pumpkins, a community scarecrow trail, and thousands of chrysanthemums create a festive experience. With something fun for everyone, Cheekwood Harvest brings joy with the changing of the leaves.
Reserve tickets at cheekwood.org.
Presented by Cheekwood is funded in part by
Tune Your Tot Into Music
Little ones need Mom and Dad to lead them to activities. Music is the universal language; bring it into your home, car and everywhere!
When 2-year-old
Emily Lynn Phelps was sick and in the hospital, the only thing that would cheer her up was her mom, Sherri, singing “Itty Bitty Baby Girl.”
“I sang this to Emily when she was an infant, and it totally helped calm her — and me! — down,” says Sherri.
Music can have a powerful effect on toddlers’ moods: It can distract them, amuse them, pacify them and even get them to cooperate. How many times have you belted out the “Clean Up” song to encourage your 3-year-old to put away their trucks? Or how often did you sing a silly song to keep your 2-year-old still while you tried to wriggle them into a car seat?
What’s more, experts say that songs can build cognitive skills and enhance your child’s ability to learn. There’s no hard evidence that exposing your toddler to music will make them smarter and raise their IQ, but music certainly can make learning easier and more fun. Case in point: A 2-year-old can’t memorize the alphabet by reading it, but if they hear the ABC song repeatedly, they’ll quickly learn the letters.
The toddler years are the ideal time to get kids to tune in.
“If children are exposed to music before they’re 5, they’ll feel much more free to sing in an uninhibited way later on,” says Bonnie Ward Simon, co-creator of the Stories in Music CD series. “There’s a key window of opportunity at this age.”
Fortunately, it’s not too difficult to engage toddlers with tunes. Most instinctively love music, and singing songs together is a great bonding experience for you and your little one.
“The most natural way to develop your child’s love of music is to expose her to the music you love,” says Lori Custodero, DMA, an associate professor of music and music education.
Here are some ways for both of you to enjoy the sounds — and benefits — of music.
PROVIDE EASY ACCESS
Keep a basket of props in your living room. Scarves, hats, tutus and shakers all enhance your child’s musical experience by encouraging dramatic play. Get a stick, listen to Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5, and pretend you’re the conductor. Take two paper plates, put some beans inside and tape the plates’ edges together to make a shaker.
Music classes are also a good idea, but toddlers aren’t ready for formal lessons just yet. Instead, check out your local YMCA or look online for programs like Kindermusik or Music Together.
“Two- and 3-year-olds can learn about different sounds and can even begin to create their own songs,” says Kimberly Hill, a music teacher.
GIVE TIME TO EXPLORE
Your little one won’t clap to a steady beat or sing on key right away. But let them play in whatever way they want and simply enjoy what they’re hearing. “If she’s been exposed to music activity, by the time she’s about 4 she’ll probably be able to tap out a proper beat,”
says Kenneth K. Guilmartin, director and founder of Music Together, which has classes available locally and all across the country. Percussion instruments are easy for little hands to grasp, shake and tap. You can use pots and pans, and encourage them to think about the sounds they make. “Ask her which pan’s sound she likes best,” Custodero says. “Talk about the difference between loud and soft.”
USE MUSIC TO TEACH
Songs are a great way to help toddlers learn to experiment with words and sounds. They can learn rhyming patterns with songs like “I’m a Little Teapot” and “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star.” They can learn to spell (“B-I-N-G-O”), name the parts of their body (“Head, shoulders, knees and toes”), count (“5 Green Speckled Frogs”) and even speak new languages (“Frere Jacques”) through songs.
BE SPONTANEOUS
Little kids have no problem breaking into song — and you shouldn’t either. Narrate your walk to the car in an operatic voice, or sing about the clothes you’re picking out to the tune of “Old MacDonald” (“I am going to wear this shirt, E-I-E-I-O”). Soon you’ll see your child do the same thing, as they begin to develop a love of music that can last a lifetime.
Musical Notes
These tips will help you make music a part of your family’s life.
DO:
— Keep toy instruments for impromptu concerts. Maracas, rhythm sticks and small drums are perfect for this age.
— Take your child to concerts designed for 2- and 3-year-olds.
— Let your child tinker on the piano while you play a song alongside.
— Play music in the kitchen, play areas, car and your child’s room.
DON’T:
— Take your preschoolers to the symphony for older audiences or to a rock concert. They likely can’t sit that long.
— Limit them by listening to only one kind of music.
— Only buy toy instruments. A real tambourine makes a wonderful sound and often costs the same as a toy one.
Beth Kanter is a freelance writer. Her work has appeared in Parents; Business Insider; Working Mother; and many other publications. She is also the author of six books, most notably, No Access Washington DC: The Capital’s Hidden Treasures, Haunts and Forgotten Places.
There are 7,000 foster children in Tennesee waiting to be reunited with their families. Centerstone offers therapeutic foster care and a full range of services. Now’s the time to be a homework helper, driving instructor, and movie night sidekick.
foster parent
Be a today. Ready to learn more? Scan the QR code or visit centerstonefamilies.org/learnmore-tennessee
by Rebecca Hastings
Mr. Smith, Have You Met My Child?
Many of us walk out of parent/teacher conferences feeling like it was a bit generic. A 15-minute time slot doesn’t provide much time for diving deep. Here are seven productive questions to ensure the teacher knows your kid.
As a parent, I get excited about that fifteen-minute slot allotted to have a one-on-one with my child’s teacher. I look forward to hearing about the progress my child has made as well as their struggles and strengths. I see a fraction of this in their homework, but I want to know more. Sometimes a conference goes great, but sometimes we walk away thinking we just
heard a script that is being repeated for every student.
Starting the conference with specific questions allows you to focus on what is important regarding your child. Areas of study covered or assessment scores can be done quickly and even in other communications. Addressing the following questions will give both you and the teacher a better understanding of the child throughout the year.
Here are seven questions you can ask to help you get the most from those minutes with the teacher:
(please
SCHOOL DAYS
1. What do you see as an area of strength for my child?
This question focuses the discussion on your child specifically while still allowing the teacher to evaluate all subjects. You may find this surprising as kids can show different abilities in the classroom than at home. Fostering a love of learning can help bring these hidden strengths out in the home as well as at school.
2. If you could pick one area to focus on improving for my child, what would it be?
Sometimes it isn’t easy to think about all areas of learning at once. Focusing on one area at a time for improvement helps define the priorities within the classroom. It also gives something concrete to work on at home.
It is great to update this question with the teacher throughout the year. Sending an email or utilizing school communication apps is a great way to check in regarding progress and allow the teacher to shift the focus to something new as your child improves.
3. Is my child following school guidelines and rules?
Every school and classroom have different policies in place. Understanding how your child is following the guidelines is important to maximizing their learning time.
This also gives you a chance to ensure you fully understand and are comfortable with the guidelines. It is important to note that a conference is not an invitation to argue about the rules. Likely, the teacher has little say in what the guidelines are; those discussions are between you and the administration. It is helpful, however, to make sure you and your child understand and follow the daily guidelines in the classroom so their learning is uninterrupted and as successful as possible.
4. How does my child contribute to the class atmosphere?
This may seem like an unusual question, but it can provide a lot of information. Different personalities shine in different ways independently, but as you blend 20 of those unique personalities new things can be revealed.
This will give you an idea of how much your child may contribute to class discussions or how they may be a great helper for another student. Maybe you’ll discover that your child is great at following directions and modeling good behavior for other students or even that they provide a funny idea to give everyone a laugh.
Asking this question gives insight into how your child’s personality comes through in an academic environment. This is especially useful to understand as kids approach middle school and issues like popularity can impact their learning experience.
5. Who does my child work well with?
Allowing the teacher to look at the social element of learning is just as important as academics. This can be a good barometer of how a child is doing socially as well as give you insight.
Understanding who your child can work well with at school versus who they have fun with (but can be a distraction when it comes to school work) will help everyone create a more successful learning environment.
Vanderbilt University has shown that increasing social skills results in students who are more responsive to academic learning.
6. How is my child handling the emotional elements of school?
Beyond following rules and learning, asking specifically about the mental health components of your child is essential. Frequent, open discussion about their mental health has never been more important.
Talk about any emotional struggles you see and ask the teacher what they see in the classroom. This is a great opportunity to discuss resources like school counseling or lunch groups that may help your child process complex feelings.
7. Do you have any concerns about my child?
This question can never be asked too much. Sometimes we are so busy getting through the list of assessments, reading levels and academic achievements that we can miss the bigger picture.
Giving teachers and you the pause to consider any areas of concern emotionally, socially or developmentally addresses the whole child in their learning environment.
Rebecca Hastings is a mom and freelance writer. KIDS
TIPS FOR PARENTING THROUGH THE SCHOOL YEAR
• COMMUNICATE AND ASK QUESTIONS. Studies show that kids do better in school when they have warm, positive communication with their parents. Ask your kids, “What do you like best about school?” and, “What subject do you wish you only had once a week?”
• KNOW THAT KIDS BEHAVE DIFFERENTLY AT HOME AND SCHOOL. Teachers should be able to provide you information on how your child is functioning.
• DON’T DELAY GETTING SUPPORT. If teachers indicate concern about your child, inquire about evaluations and perspective from others who know your child. Schools must ensure that kids receive the services they need to reach their potential.
• MONITOR YOUR CHILD’S MOODS.
A large number of children struggle with learning disorders. In fact, roughly half of all children with ADHD have dyslexia and half of all children with learning disorders develop chronic depression. One of the most important things you can do is trust your intuition when your child’s behavior seems abnormal. Pay attention to personality changes in the same way you watch for rising and falling grades. Academic achievement is tied to emotional well-being.
Source: The Child Mind Institute
Try Activities
to See What Sticks
Don’t let your kids just fritter away time on video games and on screens. Help them find what inspires them by exploring and discovering together.
“I’m bored,” my 11-year-old daughter grumbles as she collapses onto the couch. It was a rare unscheduled moment in her life. I cringe as I know what can occur when she has a spontaneous second. At the age of 3, I assumed she was quietly playing with her toys only to discover the entire wall was covered with a new crayon-drawn mural. We are both happier now that she is enrolled in art classes. She prefers being busy which is why she partook in six different extracurricular activities this past spring. Her interests ranged from sign language class to swim team. Besides avoiding boredom (and messes!), there are many benefits to having scheduled activities for kids. Research by the National Center for Research Statistics says that students who participate in after school activities have better attendance, higher levels of achievement and aspirations to higher levels of education.
BETTER ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE
Even though my daughter was in six different clubs or sports, she
received all A’s in her academic classes. By participating in extracurricular activities, a kid is able to learn new skills which can be applied to the school setting. For example, a kid in a garden club can use the information learned about plants in science class. Sports such as basketball, baseball and football use statistics, addition/subtraction, probability and geometry which can be applied to math class.
A number of research studies find that kids who participate in extracurricular activities perform better in school. Author Douglas Reeves studied high school data and found students who were in three or four extracurricular activities during the year had dramatically better grades than those who participated in no extra-curricular activities. Additionally, a study done by the College Board found high school extracurricular participation is correlated with higher SAT scores, SAT math by 45 points and SAT verbal scores by 53 points.
MORE ADAPTABLE
If a child is participating in more than one activity, they will also experience more than one coach or teacher who will have different rules and expectations. They will have the opportunity to meet kids with a range of personalities and interests. These interactions will teach a child how to
be adaptable to multiple people and situations.
Maddi and Deborah Khoshaba’s training guide, Resilience at Work, discusses the importance of being adaptable and how when adaptable people lose their jobs they thrive due to their ability to adapt to changing circumstances. Being adaptable is a skill which can be beneficial both in the school or work setting.
BETTER SOCIAL SKILLS
Children will gain social skills both from the person in charge of the activity or sport and by interacting with their peers. They also have the opportunity to learn about team work by either playing a sport together or doing a group class such as a musical or play.
In my daughter’s book club, at the end of their discussion of the book, they have social time. During one meeting she didn’t read the book, but she still wanted to go to the club since she loved the social interaction with her peers.
LESS SCREEN TIME
Common Sense Media research shows that on average, teens spend more than nine hours per day playing video games or watching TV. If children are participating in after school activities they will have less op-
portunity to either watch TV or play video games and they will hopefully learn new skills. There will always be down time for gaming and such.
DECREASED RISK OF OBESITY
According to the CDC, obesity affected about 12.7 million children and adolescents for the past decade.
If a child participates in a sport they will be more active which leads to better health benefits from being physically fit. Even if a child did a club or an after-school activity they will be more active than if they are sitting with a game controller.
HOW TO BALANCE YOUR CHILD’S SCHEDULE
Sometimes, even for my daughter, you can have too many activities. I’m always cognizant of her energy level. If she needs to skip an activity once in a while, I let her. When I noticed she wasn’t enthusiastic about going to gymnastics anymore, we both decided it would be best not to sign up for the next session.
Cheryl Maguire is a freelance journalist who has been published in The New York Times; Parents magazine; National Geographic and other publications. She is a mom and holds a Masters in Counseling Psychology.
Discover Your Kid’s Passion
1. Observe Their Natural Interests
Notice what makes your child light up and listen to things they say. They might show excitement about certain topics, activities or hobbies.
2. Provide a Variety of Experiences
Enroll them in sports, arts, music, science and more. Pursue what they love, drop what they don’t. Attend interesting events, go to museums, shows, etc.
3. Encourage Exploration
Let them choose activities. Exploring different interests can lead to discoveries. If they show interest in a topic, provide resources such as books, kits or related activities, but don’t over do it!
4. Engage in Conversations
Ask your kids what they enjoy doing in their free time or what they’d like to learn more about. After trying something new, ask how it felt and if they’d like to go again.
5. Encourage Reflection
Encourage small, achievable goal-setting related to their interests. Also, talk about what they’ve enjoyed or found challenging.
6. Provide Positive Reinforcement
Praise your child’s efforts and achievements regardless of the outcome. Once they show a clear interest, be supportive no matter what it is.
7. Be Patient and Open-Minded
Discovering a passion can take time, but avoid pressure without imposing your own interests or expectations.
8. Model Passion and Curiosity
Your enthusiasm for learning and exploring can be inspiring for your child as long as it’s genuine and not boastful.
John Long, M.D.
Chris Smeltzer, M.D.
Kylie Cormier, M.D.
Vicky Phillips, M.D.
Kristen Powell, M.D. Caroline Prescott, M.D.
by Michael W. Aldrich
September
You're viewing the #1 events calendar in the nation for 2023 per judges at the Parenting Media Association.
THINGS TO DO
FALL MUSICIANS CORNER + KIDSVILLE
Fridays in September
Centennial Park, Nashville
Page 33
Bring your moves for this FREE, family-friendly concert series on Friday evenings with musical performances, a variety of food trucks, local artisans and Kidsville activities.
33
Events in day-by-day order.
NASHVILLE FAIR Livestock shows, live butterflies, arts demos, wacky contests, midway rides, racing pigs and more Sept. 6 – 15.
35
MIDDLE TN HIGHLAND GAMES
Celebrate Scottish & Celtic culture with bagpipes, games and activities.
TOUCH-A-TRUCK
Saturday, Sept. 14
Adventure Science Center, Nashville
Page 39
Ready to get up close and personal with some BIG trucks?! Bring your Littles to see and touch heavy machinery used in the construction industry.
NASHVILLE GREEK FESTIVAL
Friday, Sept. 27 – Sunday, Sept. 29
Holy Trinity Greek Orth. Church, Nashville
Page 49
This unique food festival features centuries-old recipes and smiling chefs to please all foodies, in addition to music, lively dancing and educational tours.
36 GREEN HILLS PARK FESTIVAL
Family-fun activities, food trucks, live music and more on Sept. 7 at Green Hills Park in Nashville.
39 THOMAS EDISON'S SECTRET
LABORATORY
Get a sneak peak of the Discovery Center's newest exhibit.
42 BIG MACHINE MUSIC CITY GRAND PRIX
Attention, race fans and music lovers! The fourth annual event returns Sept. 14 – 15.
CHEEKWOOD HARVEST
Saturday, Sept. 14 – Sunday, Oct. 27
Cheekwood, Nashville
Page 42
A pumpkin village featuring three pumpkin houses, a scarecrow trail, more than 4,000 chrysanthemums, a nine-foot-tall "P’mumkin" topiary made of orange mums and more.
HISPANIC HERITAGE FESTIVAL
Saturday, Sept. 28
Nashville Zoo, Nashville
Page 52
Get festive with dance performances, a puppet show, musicians and a variety of other live performances celebrating Hispanic culture.
THE BEST WORST SCHOOL YEAR EVER
Saturday, Sept. 7 – Sunday, Sept. 29
Nashville Children's Theatre, Nashville Page 35
Follow Beth, who gets paired on a project with the Herdmans — a group of crazy kids up to no good.
DISNEY ON ICE
Thursday, Sept. 19 – Sunday, Sept. 22
Bridgestone Arena, Nashville Page 45
See your favorite Disney characters and stories brought to life with dazzling ice skating!
KIDSVILLE FAMILY FESTIVAL
Saturday, Sept. 28
Centennial Park, Nashville Page 55
Bring the whole family out for a day filled with live music, costumes, arts & crafts, a mascot photo station, musical meet & greets, inflatables & lawn games, an obstacle course, painting and more.
47 FALL FAMILY PUMPKIN FEST
Pumpkin picking, a corn maze, wagon & pony rides and more at Lucky Ladd Farms Sept. 21 – Nov. 1.
48 UNICORN WORLD
Little unicorn-lovers can visit a "magical forest" at The Fairgrounds Nashville on Sept. 21 – 22.
52 WILCO POW WOW
Experience a real Native American Pow Wow on Sept. 28 – 29 at the Wilson County Fairgrounds.
55 PILGRIMAGE MUSIC FESTIVAL
Great live music with children’s musicians for the kids Sept. 28 – 29 at The Park at Harlinsdale Farm.
55
ON YOUR RADAR
Mark your calendars for next month’s select outings. SCAN HERE TO VIEW "THINGS TO DO" ON YOUR PHONE!
DAILY EVENTS
SUN 1
BOOT
SCOOTIN’ COWBOY BOOTS
615-416-2001
countrymusichallo ame.org
Inspired by fashionable footwear featured in the museum galleries, young designers will create boot patterns to reflect their own personalities from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. at Country Music Hall of Fame (222 Rep. John Lewis Way S, Nashville). Included with museum admission; free to members.
COW AND PIG CUDDLING
AT THE GENTLE BARN
661-252-2440
gentlebarn.org/tennessee
Come hug the cows, give the pigs tummy rubs and spend time with the turkeys at the Gentle Barn (9295 Christiana Fosterville Road, Christiana) from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. or 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Donations are $20 for adults; $10 for kids 2 – 12; 2 and younger are free. Reserve tickets in advance.
FAMILY CAMPFIRE & STARGAZING
615-459-9710
townofsmyrna.org
Join the Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center sta around the campfire for games, friends and yummy s’mores at Sharp Springs Natural Area (1000 Espey Drive, Smyrna) from 7 – 9 p.m. There will also be a telescope that you can view them through! Cost is $2.
MAURY COUNTY FAIR
maurycountyfair.com
Come out for carnival rides, exotic animals, science shows and more through Sept 2 at the Maury County Fair (1018 Maury County Park Drive, Columbia). Gates open at 2 p.m. (Midway at 3 p.m.) Sunday & Monday. Tickets are $10 for adults Sunday ($12 on Monday); $10 for kids ages 7 -12 Sunday (free on Monday). Midway armbands are $30 (BOGO) Sunday and Monday.
FREE NASHVILLE SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL
615-255-2273
nashvilleshakes.org
Get in touch with your dramatic side at the Nashville Shakespeare Festival's 2024 Summer Shakespeare series, featuring one of Shakespeare’s most romantic comedies, As You Like It. The show plays at The Yard at ONEC1TY (8 City Blvd., Nashville) Thursdays –Sundays through Sept. 22 (plus Labor Day Monday, Sept. 4) and then again at Academy Park (120 Everbright Ave., Franklin) Thursday – Sunday, Sept. 26 – 29. The Festival is a free event (with a suggested $10 per person donation per show). Each evening begins with food vendors at 5:15, an “Insight” talk at 5:30, a pre-show concert at 6 and the main performance at 7 p.m.
CAGE THE ELEPHANT
See alternative rock band Cage The Elephant perform live at Ascend Amphitheater (310 1st Ave. S, Nashville). Concert starts at 6:30 p.m. Tickets start at $54.35.
FIREWORKS AT NASHVILLE
SHORES
nashvilleshores.com
Celebrate Labor Day weekend at Nashville Shores (4001 Bell Road, Nashville) with an amazing fireworks display at dusk (approximately 8:45 p.m.). The waterpark attractions will close at 8 p.m., but the park and concessions will remain open. Twilight tickets (after 4 p.m.) are $29.99 at the gate.
SPIDER-MAN: ACROSS THE SPIDER-VERSE IN CONCERT tpac.org
Enjoy the movie on a HD screen, complemented by a diverse ensemble performing the film’s iconic score and soundtrack live in TPAC's Jackson Hall (505 Deaderick Street, Nashville). The lineup includes a full orchestra, a skilled scratch DJ on turntables, as well as percussionists. Tickets start at $29.
MAURY COUNTY FAIR
See Sunday, Sept. 1.
FREE NASHVILLE SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL
See Sunday, Sept. 1.
TUE 3
FREE TODDLER TIME AT THE FRANKLIN LIBRARY
615-794-3105 wcpltn.org
Caregivers and their little ones aged 18 months to 3 years are welcome to join the Franklin Library (1314 Columbia Ave., Franklin) as they sing, listen to stories, shake some shakers and have fun. Happens at 9:30, 10:15 or 11 a.m.
STORYTIMES AT BRENTWOOD LIBRARY
615-371-0090
brentwood-tn.libcal.com
CHILDISH GAMBINO bridgestonearena.com
Come see Donald Glover, a.k.a. Childish Gambino, perform live at Bridgestone Arena (501 Broadway, Nashville). Show starts at 8 p.m.
MON 2
LABOR DAY!
Explore with fun stories, songs, puppets and more at the Brentwood Library (8109 Concord Road, Brentwood) on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Ages 18 months – 3 years can come at 10 a.m. and ages 3 – 5 can come at 11 a.m.
TOTS! AT CHEEKWOOD
615-356-8000
cheekwood.org
Cheekwood's toddler program returns on Tuesday through Saturday mornings, Sept. 3 – Oct. 26, in the Bracken Foundation Children’s Garden at Cheekwood (1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville). Tots and their guardians can enjoy drop-in style, hands-on activities and storytimes from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Also, join for Turtle Talks at 11:45 a.m. as they feed the turtles and answer questions about the Children’s Garden’s shelled residents.
FREE STORYTIME AT LINEBAUGH LIBRARY
615-893-4131 x114 rclstn.org
Discover classic and modern twists on fairy tales, folklore and mythological creatures on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at Linebaugh Library (105 W. Vine St., Murfreesboro). For children ages 2-8, this storytime features a mix of stories, songs and puppet shows from 10 – 10:45 a.m.
FREE TUESDAY STORYTIMES AT NASHVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY library.nashville.org
Age-appropriate songs, activities and lots of early literacy fun on Tuesday mornings at multiple Nashville Public Library branches. Participating branches include the Bordeaux, Donelson, Edgehill, Edmondson Pike, Green Hills, Hermitage and Richland Park branches. Check online for specific times. For ages 0-5, call ahead to make sure there's open spots.
Nashvile Shakespeare Festival: Get in touch with your dramatic side at the 2024 Summer Shakespeare series featuring As You Like It . The show opens in Nashville then moves to Franklin in late September.
FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT NOLENSVILLE LIBRARY
615-776-5490
wcpltn.org
Join at the Nolensville Public Library (915 Oldham Drive, Nolensville) for stories, songs and a craft for ages 3 –5 on Tuesdays at 10 or 10:30 a.m.
FREE WISHING CHAIR
STORYTIME AT THE BORDEAUX LIBRARY
615-862-5856
library.nashville.org
See Wishing Chair Productions bring singing, dancing and more to the Nashville Public Library Bordeaux Branch (4000 Clarksville Pike, Nashville) every Tuesday in September at 10:30 a.m.
FREE COURTYARD CONCERTS AT NASHVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY
libraryconcerts.com
See free live concerts in the courtyard of Nashville Public Library a.k.a Church Street Park (600 Church St., Nashville) from 11:45 a.m. – 1 p.m.
FREE EAST NASHVILLE FARMERS MARKET
eastnashvillemarket.com
A community farmers' market pop up every Tuesday from 3:30 – 6:30 p.m. at the corner of 5th & Woodland in East Nashville.
NASHVILLE SOUNDS: TAIL WAGGIN' TUESDAYS
615-690-4487
milb.com/nashville
Head to First Horizon Park (19 Jr Gilliam Way, Nashville) to see the Nashville Sounds starting at 6:35 p.m. On select Tuesdays, dogs are allowed entry at the ballpark to watch Sounds baseball with their owners (you must present proof of the dog's up-to-date rabies vaccination).
FREE BABY & ME PLAYTIME AT NOLENSVILLE LIBRARY
615-776-5490 wcpltn.org
An open playtime at Nolensville Public Library (915 Oldham Drive, Nolensville) designed for babies 0 – 18 months and their caregivers every Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. Older siblings are welcome!
FREE NATURE STORY & SONG friendsofshelby.org
Join at Shelby Bottoms Nature Center (1900 Davidson St., Nashville) for nature-themed books and a few songs in between the first Wednesday of each month from 10 – 11:30 a.m.
FREE STORYTIMES AT BRENTWOOD LIBRARY
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
FREE STORYTIME AT LINEBAUGH LIBRARY
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
TOTS! AT CHEEKWOOD
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
SOAC CLIMBING CLUB
615-459-9710
townofsmyrna.org
Join staff on Tuesdays after school to climb the indoor rock wall at Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center (100 Sam Ridley Pkwy. E, Smyrna). Climbers must weigh at least 50 lbs and wear closed-toed shoes. Happens from 4:20 – 5 and 5:20 – 6 p.m. Cost is $2.
TASTY TUESDAYS AT THE DISCOVERY CENTER
615-890-2300
explorethedc.org
Use your math and science knowledge to whip up some yummy food while also gaining some basic cooking skills at the Discovery Center (502 SE Broad St., Murfreesboro) on Tuesdays at 4 p.m.
WED 4
FREE WEDNESDAY
TURTLE TALKS AT THE DISCOVERY CENTER
615-890-2300
explorethedc.org
Drop by the Discovery Center (502 SE Broad St., Murfreesboro) every Wednesday and Friday at 3 p.m. for turtle feedings. Included with admission, free for members.
FREE WILD WEDNESDAY AT THE SMYRNA OUTDOOR ADVENTURE CENTER
615-459-9710 townofsmyrna.org
Join the Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center (100 Sam Ridley Pkwy. E, Smyrna) to discover something wild about nature on Wednesdays from 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. You may meet an animal or enjoy a nature-based activity.
NASHVILLE SOUNDS: WINNING WEDNESDAYS
615-690-4487
milb.com/nashville
STORYTIMES AT NASHVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY library.nashville.org
Songs, stories and more on Wednesday mornings at multiple Nashville Public Library branches. Participating branches include Edmondson Pike, Donelson, East, Green Hills. Goodlettsville, Hermitage, Looby and Richland Park. Check online for specific times.
FREE BABIES & BOOKS STORYTIME AT FRANKLIN LIBRARY
615-794-3105
wcpltn.org
Drop by the Franklin Library (1314 Columbia Ave., Franklin) for this this storytime for parents, caregivers and babies (0 to 18 months) on Wednesdays from 10 – 10:30 or 10:45 – 11:15 a.m.
Head to First Horizon Park (19 Jr Gilliam Way, Nashville) starting at 6:35 p.m. The first 1,000 fans in the gates receive a scratch -off card with a guaranteed prize. Also, if the Sounds win, fans get to run the bases!
NIGHT SOUNDS HIKE AT THE WILDERNESS STATION
ekreuziger@murfreesborotn.gov
Meet at the Wilderness Station at Barfield Crescent Park (401 Volunteer Road, Murfreesboro) for a fun walk through the dark woods in search of our local night time critters from 7 –8:30 p.m. Registration is required.
AVRIL LAVIGNE
See Avril perform live at Ascend Amphitheater (310 1st Ave. S, Nashville) at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $114.21.
THINGS TO DO
THU 5
FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT FRANKLIN LIBRARY 615-794-3105
wcpltn.org
Kids ages 3 – 5 and their parents can join Franklin Library (1314 Columbia Ave., Franklin) for stories, songs, rhymes and more fun! Happens on Thursdays and Fridays from 10 – 10:30 a.m. or 10:45 – 11 a.m.
FREE STORYTIME AT THE TEC 615-225-8312
rclstn.org
Bring the little ones for stories, songs and coloring at the Technology Engagement Center (306 Minerva Drive, Murfreesboro) on Thursdays at 10:30 a.m.
FREE ITTY BITTY STORYTIME AT LINEBAUGH LIBRARY 615-893-4131 x114
rclstn.org
A special storytime for ages 0-23 months at Linebaugh Public Library (105 W Vine St., Murfreesboro) and storytime takes place from 10:30 – 11 a.m. These storytimes include stories, fingerplays, lap bounces, tickles, scarves and songs.
FREE TODDLER STORYTIME AT NOLENSVILLE LIBRARY 615-776-5490
wcpltn.org
Join Miss Cora for songs and stories perfect for ages 18 months to 3 yearsold on Thursdays at Nolensville Library (915 Oldham Drive, Nolensville) at 10 and 10:45 a.m.
TOTS! AT CHEEKWOOD
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
EARLY LEARNERS AT THE SMYRNA OUTDOOR ADVENTURE CENTER
615-459-9710
townofsmyrna.org
Little ones ages 2 – 6 can join the staff at Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center (100 Sam Ridley Pkwy. E, Smyrna) from 1 – 2 p.m. Each lesson includes various activities, from crafts to games to storytime! There are different themes each week. Cost is $2.
CAMPFIRE STORYTIME AT THE DISCOVERY CENTER
615-890-2300
explorethedc.org
Drop by the Discovery Center (502 SE Broad St., Murfreesboro) every Thursday at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. for storytime in the "Great Outdoors" section. Included with admission ($12).
FREE GOODLETTSVILLE FARMERS MARKET
Shop fresh goods Thursdays thru October from 3 – 7 p.m. on the lawn and in the parking lot of the Goodlettsville Visitor’s Center at Moss-Wright Park (705 Caldwell Drive, Goodlettsville).
(please turn the page)
SOAC Climbing Club: Join staff on Tuesdays after school to climb the indoor rock wall at the Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center.
Nashville Fair: The third annual fair returns to The Fairgrounds Nashville September 6 – 15 for “A Barn Good Time,” featuring sky-high entertainment, midway attractions, agricultural know-how, wholesome family fun and more.
FREE GIRLS WHO CODE CLUB
615-893-4131
rclstn.org
An after-school computer science program for all third through fifth graders (boys, too!). Program happens from 4 – 4:45 p.m. at Linebaugh Library (105 W Vine St., Murfreesboro).
ARCHERY CLUB AT THE SMYRNA OUTDOOR ADVENTURE CENTER
615-459-9710
townofsmyrna.org
Enjoy the opportunity to try something new or sharpen your existing archery skills at the Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center (100 Sam Ridley Pkwy., Smyrna). Happens from 4:30 – 6 p.m. Programs are always led by USA Archery certified instructors or coaches. Cost is $3 for members and $5 for non-members per class. For ages 8 and older, no exceptions.
FREE HENDERSONVILLE SUMMER CONCERT SERIES
streetsofindianlake.com
Bring lawn chairs, blankets or enjoy seating throughout the plaza for the final concert in this series under the stars at the Streets of Indian Lake (300 Indian Lake Blvd., Hendersonville). Starts at 6:30 p.m.
NASHVILLE SOUNDS: THROWBACK THURSDAYS
615-690-4487
milb.com/nashville
Head to First Horizon Park (19 Jr Gilliam Way, Nashville) to see the Nashville Sounds starting at 6:35 p.m. Every Thursday, the Sounds wear their 1978 uniforms to commemorate the team’s original uniform style.
FREE NASHVILLE SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL
See Sunday, Sept. 1.
THURSDAY NIGHT OUT
cheekwood.org
Kick o the weekend at Cheekwood's Thursday Night Out, happening every Thursday evening from 5:30 – 9 p.m. through October. Enjoy a diverse music lineup provides the eclectic soundtrack. In addition, the evenings feature regionally-sourced food and spirits, lawn games, wellness classes and more. Tickets are $10 for members and $22 for non members. Advanced reservation required.
FRI 6
HERITAGE DAYS AT SAM DAVIS HOME
615-459-2341 samdavishome.org
This popular living history field trip at Sam Davis Home (1399 Sam Davis Road, Smyrna) features numerous historical demonstrations with hands-on activities, live animals and reenactors from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Students learn about 19th century life as they are immersed in history. Cost is $8 per student, one parent is free.
FREE MGL STORYTIME
615-907-3429 rclstn.org
FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT FRANKLIN LIBRARY
See Thursday, Sept. 5.
FREE FALL MUSICIANS CORNER & KIDSVILLE musicianscornernashville.com
This outdoor concert series is celebrating 15 years with performances, 75+ artisan vendors, food trucks and more on Fridays in September at Nashville's Centennial Park (near the West End Avenue park entrance). Kidsville is where little ones can enjoy fun, fitness, crafts and educational guests and activities.
FREE FRANKLIN ART CRAWL artscouncilwc.org/art-crawl
Enjoy an art crawl through some of Franklin’s historic buildings on the first Friday of each month from 6 – 9 p.m. Many of the galleries serve complimentary refreshments during the evening and some o er live music.
Join for stories, songs and a craft every Friday morning at 10 a.m. at the MGL (Myrtle Glanton Lord) Public Library inside Patterson Park Community Center (521 Dr Martin Luther King Jr Blvd., Murfreesboro).
TOTS! AT CHEEKWOOD
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
NASHVILLE FAIR nashfair.fun
The Nashville Fair returns to the Fairgrounds Nashville (320 Wedgewood Ave., Nashville) Sept. 6 – 15. Highlights include aerialist, STEAM and western-themed shows daily; livestock shows and arts demos; midway rides and more. $10 parking is located at 300 Rains Ave. Fair hours are Monday
– Friday from 5 – 10 p.m. and Saturday
– Sunday from 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Monday – Friday from 5 – 10:30 p.m. and Saturday – Sunday from 11 a.m. –10:30 p.m. Midway hours are Monday – Friday from 5 – 11 p.m. and Saturday – Sunday from 11 a.m. – 11:30 p.m.
Cost is $10 for adults, $8 for kids and seniors, kids 5 and under are free.
Grab your peanuts and cracker jacks and head to First Horizon Park (19 Jr Gilliam Way, Nashville) to see the Nashville Sounds starting at 6:35 p.m. Every Friday, watch the Nashville sky light up with postgame fireworks.
ONE VISION OF QUEEN FEAT. MARC MARTEL
thefishercenter.com
Join for an encore concert as One Vision of Queen feat. Marc Martel returns to the Fisher Center for the Performing Arts (2020 Belmont Blvd., Nashville) after last year’s sold-out performance. Show starts at 7 p.m. and tickets start at $44.
BLUEGRASS UNDER THE STARS CONCERT
615-356-8000 cheekwood.org
Experience authentic bluegrass set against the backdrop of Cheekwood’s gardens (1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville). Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy a slow-down session in the summer breeze. Concerts start at 7 p.m. and tickets start at $65.
CANDLELIGHT CONCERT: A TRIBUTE TO ADELE feverup.com
Enjoy a talented string quartet playing your favorite anthems by Adele inside The Parthenon (2500 West End Ave., Nashville) bathed in candlelight. Starts at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $33.
CANDLELIGHT CONCERT: A TRIBUTE TO QUEEN feverup.com
Discover the music of Queen played by a string quartet The Parthenon at Centennial Park (2500 West End Ave., Nashville). Starts at 9 p.m. Tickets start at $33. For ages 8 and older.
SAT 7
FREE FRANKLIN FARMERS MARKET factoryatfranklin.com
Browse fresh and local produce every Saturday at The Factory (230 Franklin Road, Franklin) from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
FREE MURFREESBORO FARMERS MARKET
mainstreetmurfreesboro.org
Stroll around the downtown Murfreesboro square for this weekly farmers market every Saturday through October from 8 a.m. until noon.
(please turn the page)
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Valerie, Franklin
Tuesday, September 17 from 4-7 PM
“She went from a C student to an A and B student. She passed TCAP with flying colors, and now she wants to read at night.”
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“LearningRx has revitalized my daughters want and drive, and that’s huge for me as a mom. Her teachers also see it, for sure!
Emily, Spring Hill
FREE NOLENSVILLE FARMERS MARKET
nolensvillefarmersmarket.com
Stop by this weekly market (7248 Nolensville Road, Nolensville) for organic produce, baked goods and food trucks on Saturdays from 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
FREE HENDERSONVILLE FARMERS MARKET
streetsofindianlake.com
Shop for in-season produce from 8:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Saturdays at The Streets of Indian Lake (300 Indian Lake Blvd., Hendersonville).
FREE MIDDLE TENNESSEE HIGHLAND GAMES
midtenngames.com
Celebrate Scottish and Celtic culture with athletic events, a kid's zone, Celtic crafts, bagpipe competitions, sheep herding demonstrations and more at Sanders Ferry Park (513 Sanders Ferry Road, Hendersonville) on Saturday, Sept. 7 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday, Sept. 8 from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Cost is $20 for one day adult admission and $7 for one day child admission.
FREE MIDDLE TN FRIED PICKLE FESTIVAL
931-259-3413
centerhillevents.com
150+ arts & crafts, boutiques, food trucks, petting zoo, bounce houses, face painting and — of course — fried pickles and pickle related items! Happens from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Lane Agri-Park (315 John Rice Blvd., Murfreesboro).
NASHVILLE FAIR
See Friday, Sept. 6.
FREE HUMMINGBIRD CELEBRATION
615-862-8555
This free event at Warner Park Nature Center (7311 Highway 100, Nashville) features fun and educational activities for all ages, including hummingbird banding from 9 – 11 a.m., observation and education stations, face painting, art activities, tips on attracting hummingbirds and more.
GOAT FARM EXPERIENCE
615-481-9546
DROP-IN KIDS ART CLASSES
615-933-9644
littlearthousenashville.com
Explore various mediums and create original works of art on Saturdays at Little Art House (338 46th Ave., N Nashville). Happens at 9:30 and 10:15 a.m. for Littles and then at 11 a.m. for ages 4 – 10. Cost is $20 – $25.
PARNASSUS BOOKS
STORYTIME parnassusbooks.net
Come out to Parnassus Books (3900 Hillsboro Pike Suite 14, Nashville) for a special storytime from 10:30 – 11 a.m.
For ages 0 – 7. On Sept. 7, enjoy storytime with Brad & Kristi Montague, authors of Fail-A-Bration
FREE SATURDAY STORYTIME AT BRENTWOOD LIBRARY
615-371-0090
brentwood-tn.libcal.com
Families can join the Brentwood Library (8109 Concord Road, Brentwood) in the Story Room for stories, songs and crafts on Saturdays from 10:30 –11 a.m. For ages 3 and older.
FREE BILINGUAL SONG & STORYTIME WITH SEÑORA RACHEL
615-862-5873
library.nashville.org
Little ones will learn about Hispanic culture through stories, music and dance with Rachel Rodriguez at the Nashville Public Library Thompson Lane Branch (380 Thompson Ln., Nashville). Singing, dancing and fun for all from 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Best for ages 3 to 7 years.
THE BEST WORST SCHOOL YEAR EVER AT NASHVILLE CHILDREN’S THEATRE
615-254-9103
nashvillechildrenstheatre.org
The hilarious book by Barbara Robinson comes to life on stage at the Nashville Children's Theatre (25 Middleton St., Nashville) on Saturdays and Sundays, Sept. 7 – 29. This show will be NCT’s 20th and final world premiere under Executive Artistic Director Ernie Nolan’s visionary leadership. Shows are at 2 p.m. Tickets are $32.50 for adults, $22.50 for children. Recommended for ages 5 – 10. Show is 60 minutes (no intermission).
CHUKKERS FOR CHARITY chukkersforcharity.net
noble-springs.com
Head to Noble Springs Dairy Farm (3144 Blazer Road, Franklin) to spend time kid goat cuddling and meeting farm animals. Come anytime between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. and plan on joining a guided educational tour at 11 a.m., if you'd like. Admission is $12 per person. Children 2 and younger, free.
FREE AUTUMN ANIMALS
615-459-9710 townofsmyrna.org
Come out to Sharp Springs Park (311 Je erson Pike, Smyrna) from 10 a.m. –1 p.m. and enjoy an animal presentation, wildlife crafts and a live fish release from TWRA Biologists.
FREE KIDSVILLE AT THE PARTHENON kidsvilleonline.org
Join Kidsville at the Parthenon on select Saturdays each month. Families with children ages 12 and under can enter the Parthenon (2500 West End Ave., Nashville) on Saturdays. Registration begins at 10:30 a.m. Weekly storytelling or special guest programming will begin promptly at 11 a.m.
FREE BACK TO SCHOOL POPSICLE PARTY friendsofshelby.org
Join Friends of Shelby and the Shelby Bottoms Nature Center (1900 Davidson St., Nashville) anytime from 3 – 5 p.m. to celebrate the new school year with free popsicles (for the first 400 attendees), yard games, crafts and more.
The Chukkers for Charity Polo Match returns on Saturday, Sept. 7 for the 28th annual sporting event held at Riverview Farm (1475 Moran Road, Franklin), benefiting Rochelle Center and Saddle Up! The gates open at 1 p.m. for tailgaters and 2 p.m. for sponsors and patrons. The opening ceremony will be held at 2:45 p.m. with the polo match beginning around 3 p.m.
FREE HUMMINGBIRD WATCH
615-862-8580
nashville.gov
It’s Hummingbird Happy Hour at Beaman Park Nature Center (5911 Old Hickory Blvd., Ashland City)! Drop by between 1 – 2 p.m. and observe rubythroats flying 60 miles per hour from feeder to flower as they fuel up for their long journey South.
GLOW IN THE PARK
615-610-9500
myadventurepark.com
Zipline through trees lit up by glow attire, colored LED lights, music and more at The Adventure Park at Nashville (801 Percy Warner Blvd., Nashville) from 5 – 9 p.m. Include 30 minutes for a safety briefing and self-harnessing session plus two hours of self guided climbing in the trees! Cost is $47.
NASHVILLE SOUNDS: HIT CITY SATURDAYS
615-690-4487
milb.com/nashville
Head to First Horizon Park (19 Jr Gilliam Way, Nashville) to see the Nashville Sounds at 6:35 p.m. On Saturdays, make the ballpark the place to be in Nashville with entertainment options like Third and Home and The Band Box.
(please turn the page)
Middle Tennessee Highland Games: Celebrate Scottish and Celtic culture with athletic events, a kid's zone, crafts, bagpipe competitions and more at Sanders Ferry Park in Hendersonville on Saturday, Sept. 7. and Sunday, Sept. 8.
THINGS TO DO
FREE GREEN HILLS PARK FESTIVAL
greenhillsparkfest.com
Shop vendors, enjoy family-fun activities, grab a bite from local food trucks and beer & wine vendors, dance with the live band Incognito Cartel, shop the Children’s Entrepreneur Market and more at the 8th annual Green Hills Park Festival (1200 Lone Oak Road, Nashville). Make sure to stick around for a family movie night-showing Shrek! Happens from 5 – 9 p.m.
FREE NASHVILLE SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL
See Sunday, Sept. 1.
DIERKS BENTLEY
bridgestonearena.com
See Country Music artist Dierks Bentley perform live at Bridgestone Arena (501 Broadway, Nashville). Show starts at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $29.75.
FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH ORCHESTRA WORLD TOUR W/ THE NASHVILLE SYMPHONY nashvillesymphony.org
An electrifying new concert based entirely on the groundbreaking game performed by your Nashville Symphony at Schermerhorn Symphony Center (1 Symphony Place, Nashville). Experience all-new symphonic arrangements based with high-definition video scenes from the new game. Concert starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $66.
FOREVER ABBEY ROAD:
BEATLES TRIBUTE
615-786-0186 ext. 2525 wcpactn.com
Come out to the Williamson County Performing Arts Center at Academy Park (112 Everbright Ave., Franklin) for this special musical tribute to The Beatles. Tickets are $27.50 for adults and $25 for seniors 55 and over. Concerts start at 7 p.m.
SUN 8
COW AND PIG CUDDLING AT THE GENTLE BARN
See Sunday, Sept. 1.
FREE MIDDLE TENNESSEE HIGHLAND GAMES
See Saturday, Sept. 7.
FRIST FAMILY SUNDAY fristartmuseum.org
On the second Sunday of each month, head to the Frist Art Museum for kid-friendly programming, family tours, multisensory gallery experiences and a visit to the Martin ArtQuest Gallery from 1 – 5 p.m.
NASHVILLE FAIR
FREE NASHVILLE SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL
See Sunday, Sept. 1.
NASHVILLE SOUNDS: FAMILY FUN SUNDAY
615-690-4487
milb.com/nashville
Head to First Horizon Park (19 Jr Gilliam Way, Nashville) to see the Nashville Sounds starting at 1:05 p.m. On Sundays, it’s all about families with child-focused giveaways throughout the season plus kids can run the bases after the game. Tickets start at $15.
THE BEST WORST SCHOOL YEAR EVER AT NASHVILLE CHILDREN’S THEATRE
See Saturday, Sept. 7.
MON 9
FREE MONDAY STORYTIMES AT NASHVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY
See Monday, Sept. 2.
NASHVILLE FAIR
See Friday, Sept. 6.
SPARK! AT THE DISCOVERY CENTER: BACKYARD BUGS
615-890-2300
explorethedc.org/spark
Children ages 1 – 6 and their caregivers can come to Discovery Center (502 SE Broad St., Murfreesboro) for hands-on exploratory STEAM learning. Check-in between 9 – 9:30 a.m. Program runs from 9:30 – 11 a.m. Cost is $4 per child, adults are free.
TUE 10
TOTS! AT CHEEKWOOD
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
FREE TUESDAY STORYTIMES AT NASHVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
FREE WISHING CHAIR STORYTIME AT THE BORDEAUX LIBRARY
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
FREE STORYTIMES AT BRENTWOOD LIBRARY
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
See Friday, Sept. 6.
FREE STORYTIME AT LINEBAUGH LIBRARY
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
FREE TODDLER TIME AT THE FRANKLIN LIBRARY
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
FREE EAST NASHVILLE FARMERS MARKET
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
FREE COURTYARD CONCERTS AT NASHVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
SOAC CLIMBING CLUB
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
PTO TODAY EXPO
ptotoday.com.
School Family Media's 26th Annual PTO Today Expo for parent group leaders and volunteers takes place from 4 – 7 p.m. at the Farm Bureau Exposition Center (945 E. Baddour Pkwy., Lebanon). M eet with dozens of vendors that work exclusively with parent groups, watch live-demos, enter ra es, snag tons of freebies and more. Must register.
MEGHAN TRAINOR
firstbankamphitheater.com
See Meghan Trainor's "The Timeless Tour" with special guests Paul Russell and Ryan Trainor live at FirstBank Amphitheater (4525 Graystone Quarry Lane, Franklin). Show starts at 6:30 p.m. and tickets start at $55.
CLUE
615-782-4040 tpac.org
Based on the cult 1985 Paramount movie and inspired by the classic Hasbro board game, this special whodunit from Broadway comes to Music City with 8 performances, Sept. 10 – 15 at TPAC's Jackson Hall (505 Deaderick Street, Nashville). Tickets start at $48.30.
NASHVILLE FAIR
See Friday, Sept. 6.
NASHVILLE SOUNDS: TAIL WAGGIN' TUESDAYS
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
WED 11
FREE WEDNESDAY STORYTIMES AT NASHVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY
See Wednesday, Sept. 4.
FREE STORYTIMES AT BRENTWOOD LIBRARY
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
FREE STORYTIME AT LINEBAUGH LIBRARY
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
AMPHICAR RIDES
615-742-7445
lanemotormuseum.org
Lane Motor Museum (702 Murfreesboro Pike, Nashville) presents this special event for members cruising around Percy Priest Lake (1999 Stewarts Ferry Pike, Mt. Juliet) in the 1964 Amphicar. Happens from 4 – 6:30 p.m. Cost is $10 per person. Must reserve is advance!
FREE BABIES & BOOKS STORYTIME AT FRANKLIN LIBRARY
See Wednesday, Sept. 4.
FREE BABY & ME PLAYTIME AT NOLENSVILLE LIBRARY
See Wednesday, Sept. 4.
Green Hills Park Festival: Vendors, family-fun activities, food trucks, live music, a movie and more on Saturday, Sept. 7 at Green Hills Park in Nashville.
BEGINNER ARCHERY AT THE WILDERNESS STATION
See Wednesday, Sept. 4.
FREE LEGO CLUB AT THE BRENTWOOD LIBRARY
615-371-0090
brentwood-tn.libcal.com
Bring your imagination to Brentwood Library (8109 Concord Road, Brentwood) and they’ll provide the Legos! Program happens from 4:30 – 5:15 and is for Pre K – 5th Grade.
NASHVILLE FAIR
See Friday, Sept. 6.
TURTLE TALKS AT THE DISCOVERY CENTER
See Wednesday, Sept. 4.
FREE WILD WEDNESDAY AT THE SMYRNA OUTDOOR ADVENTURE CENTER
See Wednesday, Sept. 4.
NASHVILLE SOUNDS: WINNING WEDNESDAYS
See Wednesday, Sept. 4.
CLUE
See Tuesday, Sept. 10.
THU 12
TOTS! AT CHEEKWOOD
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
FREE TODDLER STORYTIME AT NOLENSVILLE LIBRARY
See Thursday, Sept. 5.
FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT FRANKLIN LIBRARY
See Thursday, Sept. 5.
FREE ITTY BITTY STORYTIME AT LINEBAUGH LIBRARY
See Thursday, Sept. 5.
FREE STORYTIME AT THE TEC
See Thursday, Sept. 5.
CAMPFIRE STORYTIME AT THE DISCOVERY CENTER
See Thursday, Sept. 5.
EARLY LEARNERS AT THE SMYRNA OUTDOOR ADVENTURE CENTER
See Thursday, Sept. 5.
FREE GIRLS WHO CODE CLUB
See Thursday, Sept. 5.
FREE GOODLETTSVILLE FARMERS MARKET
See Thursday, Sept. 5.
ARCHERY CLUB AT THE SMYRNA OUTDOOR ADVENTURE CENTER
See Thursday, Sept. 5.
FREE LIBRARY ESCAPE ROOM
615-371-0090
brentwood-tn.libcal.com
Can you crack the code? Kids will learn to utilize library resources to solve a library-themed escape room at the Brentwood Library (8109 Concord Road, Brentwood) starting at 5 p.m. For ages 8-12. Registration required.
NASHVILLE FAIR
See Friday, Sept. 6.
FREE NASHVILLE SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL
See Sunday, Sept. 1.
NASHVILLE SOUNDS: THROWBACK THURSDAYS
See Thursday, Sept. 5.
THURSDAY NIGHT OUT
See Thursday, Sept. 5.
CLUE
See Tuesday, Sept. 10.
BRIGHT STAR AT HPAC
615-826-6037
hpactn.com
This musical written and composed by Steve Martin and Edie Brickell and set in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina in 1945–46 with flashbacks to 1923 comes to Hendersonville Performing Arts Company (260 West Main St., Suite 204, Hendersonville) Thursdays – Sundays, Sept. 12 – 29. Tickets are $19 – $22.
FRI 13
TOTS! AT CHEEKWOOD
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT FRANKLIN LIBRARY
See Thursday, Sept. 5.
FREE MGL STORYTIME
See Friday, Sept. 6.
TURTLE TALKS AT THE DISCOVERY CENTER
See Wednesday, Sept. 4.
MOTHER-DAUGHTER GETAWAY
615-794-2918
deerrun.camp/mother-daughter
This special weekend getaway starting Friday, Sept. 13 at 4 p.m. through Sunday, Sept. 15 at 11 a.m. helps you purposely have mother-daughter time together and connect on a deeper level at Deer Run in Thompson's Station. Cost starts at 139/person without overnite accommodations up to $389/ person with overnite accommodations. This event is popular for moms with daughters ages 5-14. However, daughters of all ages (and grandmothers!) have a great time.
ADULTS ONLY POOL PARTY
615-889-7050 x211
nashvilleshores.com
Nashville Shores (4001 Bell Road, Hermitage) will be open from 5 – 10 p.m. for adults only and feature the Wavepool, Lazy River, Mega Mayhem, Big Kahuna & Glow Foam Party with a DJ! General admission is $40 + tax.
FREE FALL MUSICIANS CORNER & KIDSVILLE
See Friday, Sept. 6.
FAMILY CAMPFIRE AT THE WILDERNESS STATION
615-642-1103
ekreuziger@murfreesborotn.gov
Gather around a campfire for s'mores and fun! Meet at The Wilderness Station at Barfield Crescent Park (401 Volunteer Road, Murfreesboro) at 6:30 p.m. and hike out to the campground for a fire, snacks, a few campfire stories, cook s’mores and socialization. Cost is $3 for ages 4 – 17; $5 for ages 18 and up free for ages 3 and under. Must register. family campfire 2
FULL MOON PICKIN’ PARTIES
615-370-8053
warnerparks.org
Enjoy live bluegrass, local food trucks, cold brews and more in Percy Warner Park (2500 Old Hickory Blvd., Nashville) from 5 – 9 p.m.
NASHVILLE FAIR
See Friday, Sept. 6.
FREE NASHVILLE SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL
See Sunday, Sept. 1.
(please turn the page)
Amphicar Rides: Cruise around Percy Priest Lake in a 1964 Amphicar from Nashville's Lane Motor Museum in this members-only special event on Wednesday Sept. 11.
NASHVILLE SOUNDS: FOX17 (FIREWORK) FRIDAYS
See Friday, Sept. 6.
HAUNTED HISTORY TOURS AT SAM DAVIS HOME
615-459-2341
samdavishome.org
Bring your older teens for some spooky fun at Sam Davis Home (1399 Sam Davis Road., Smyrna) on select Fridays and Saturdays, Sept. 13 through Oct. 26 from 6 – 10 p.m. Jump on the hayride to begin your spooky tour, then enter the historic house after dark and hear about some of the creepy encounters that have taken place over the years. The house is set for a funeral to explore Victorian mourning customs and traditions. Last tour begins at 9 p.m. Cost is $30. For ages 18 and up.
THOMAS EDISON’S SECRET LABORATORY PREVIEW NIGHT
615-890-2300
explorethedc.org
Join for a night of fun activities, experiments and early access to the Thomas Edison’s Secret Lab® exhibit opening at the Discovery Center (502 SE Broad Street, Murfreesboro) from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Free for members. Must register.
WAITRESS BY NASHVILLE REP
615-244-4878
nashvillerep.org
Nashville Rep produces Sara Bareilles' award-winning musical at TPAC's Polk Theater (505 Deaderick Street, Nashville) Sept. 13 – 22. The show runs Thursdays – Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays at 2 p.m.
A RAISIN IN THE SUN AT CENTER FOR THE ARTS
615-904-2787
boroarts.org
Set on Chicago’s South Side, Lorraine Hansberry's celebrated play concerns the divergent dreams and conflicts in three generations of the Younger family. Performances are at the Center for the Arts (110 W College St., Murfreesboro), Sept. 13 – 22, on Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Adults are $22; children are $20. Rated PG-13.
Giancarlo Guerrero’s final season as Music Director opens with a favorite guest of the Nashville Symphony and two works that nod to his first season in the role. Pianist Joyce Yang performs Rachmanino ’s Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, and Guerrero also revisits Mahler’s Symphony No. 5, a celebration of the virtuosity found within the orchestra. The concerts take place on Friday, Sept. 13 and Saturday, Sept. 14 at 7:30 pm at Schermerhorn Symphony Center (1 Symphony Place, Nashville).
BETH HART WITH SPECIAL GUEST JOHN OATES
thefishercenter.com
See Beth Hart with Special Guest John Oates at Belmont's Fisher Center (2020 Belmont Blvd., Nashville) at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $44.
CLUE
See Tuesday, Sept. 10.
BRIGHT STAR AT HPAC
See Thursday, Sept. 12.
LIVE TELESCOPE NIGHT
615-373-4897
dyer.vanderbilt.edu
Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory (1000 Oman Drive, Brentwood) will open its doors so you can view the exhibits, engage with astronomers and gaze at various celestial objects (weather permitting) from 9 – 10 p.m. Suggested for ages 8 and up. Cost is $7.18. Must register.
SAT 14
FREE FRANKLIN FARMERS MARKET
See Saturday, Sept. 7.
FREE HENDERSONVILLE FARMERS MARKET
See Saturday, Sept. 7.
THE AVETT BROTHERS
firstbankamphitheater.com
See The Avett Brothers with special guest Melissa Etheridge perform live at FirstBank Amphitheater (4525 Graystone Quarry Ln., Franklin) at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $56.35.
FREE MURFREESBORO SATURDAY FARMERS MARKET
See Saturday, Sept. 7.
FREE NOLENSVILLE FARMERS MARKET
See Saturday, Sept. 7.
TOTS! AT CHEEKWOOD
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
FREE NASHVILLE SPORTS CARD SHOW
615-298-4572
Collectors and sports-lovers unite to browse over 100+ tables at Lighthouse Christian School Gym (5100 Blue Hole Road, Nashville) from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
PARNASSUS BOOKS STORYTIME
615-953-2243
parnassusbooks.net
Come out to Parnassus Books (3900 Hillsboro Pike Suite 14, Nashville) for a special storytime from 10:30 – 11 a.m. For ages 0 – 7. On Sept. 14, enjoy storytime with Christina Soontornvat, author of Leo's First Vote
FREE SATURDAY STORYTIME AT THE BRENTWOOD LIBRARY
See Saturday, Sept. 7.
FREE TOUCH-A-TRUCK
615-862-5160
adventuresci.org
Children (and adults!) will have a chance to see and touch heavy machinery utilized in the construction industry and speak with the people who operate them at Adventure Science Center (800 Fort Negley Blvd., Nashville). There will be a variety of equipment on display and host floor cart activities promoting engineering from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. (quieter hour from 9 – 10 a.m.).
FREE YOUTH MAGIC CLUB
615-893-4131 x114
rclstn.org
Presto! Aspiring magicians can join in the fun at 10 a.m. for this free club geared toward ages 6-12. Meetings take place at Linebaugh (105 W Vine St., Murfreesboro) on the second Saturday of each month.
DROP-IN KIDS ART CLASSES
See Saturday, Sept. 7.
FREE EXPLORE WITH A NATURALIST
615-862-8555
wpnc.nashville.gov
Do you want your kids to spend more time in the great outdoors? Take them to explore with a naturalist this weekend at Warner Park Nature Center (7311 Highway 100, Nashville). This free outdoor exploration focuses on discovery, observation and connecting with nature from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
FREE FRANKLIN FLEA MARKET
502-456-2244
Find treasures old and new at the Williamson County Agricultural EXPO Park (4215 Long Lane Franklin) on Saturday, Sept. 14 and Sunday, Sept. 15 from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Shop over 500 indoor and outdoor booths of dealers selling antiques, collectibles, jewelry, clothes, bath & body, surplus and more. Free admission; $5 parking.
(please turn the page)
Thomas Edison’s Secret Laboratory Exhibit Opening: Come out on Friday, Sept. 13 for a night of fun activities, experiments and early access to the Thomas Edison’s Secret Lab® exhibit opening at Murfreesboro's Discovery Center.
THINGS TO DO
FREE HISPANIC HERITAGE DAY
615-890-2300
explorethedc.org
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with exciting activities from 10 a.m. –5 p.m. at the Discovery Center (502 Southeast Broad St., Murfreesboro) led by Discovery Center sta and community partners.
ASIAN CULTURE HERITAGE DAY AT THE SOAC
615-459-9710
townofsmyrna.org
Celebrate Asian cultures at the Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center (100 Sam Ridley Parkway East, Smyrna) from 10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Enjoy representatives from Indonesia, India, China, Japan, the Philippines; plus live performances, martial arts, a fashion show; exhibits and demonstrations by skilled craftsmen; a marketplace and more!
BIG MACHINE MUSIC CITY GRAND PRIX
615-270-8705
musiccitygp.com
Start your engines, Nashville! Race fans and music lovers can experience the best on the track and on the stages for the fourth annual event, this year at the Nashville Superspeedway (4847-F McCrary Road, Lebanon) Sept 14 – 15. Two-day general admission tickets are $60 and include admission to the iHeartCountry FanZone and all Concerts throughout the weekend.
THE BEST WORST SCHOOL YEAR EVER AT NASHVILLE CHILDREN’S THEATRE
See Saturday, Sept. 7.
FREE KIDSVILLE AT THE PARTHENON
See Saturday, Sept. 7.
FREE NASHVILLE BALLET OPEN HOUSE
615-297-2966 x710
nashvilleballet.com
Get an exclusive sneak peek into the world of Nashville Ballet through activities and behind-the-scenes tours at The Martin Center (3630 Redmon Street, Nashville) from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Enjoy complimentary performances showcasing highlights from our diverse repertoire, engage in insightful Q&A sessions and meet the talented artists who bring these stories to life.
NASHVILLE FAIR
See Friday, Sept. 6.
FREE BUILD A ROLLERCOASTER WITH JENNIFER STOCKDALE
615-794-3105
wcpltn.org
Children ages 7-12 can join in the Children’s Activity Room at
GLOW IN THE PARK
See Saturday, Sept. 7.
HAUNTED HISTORY TOURS AT SAM DAVIS HOME
See Friday, Sept. 13.
FREE NASHVILLE SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL
See Sunday, Sept. 1.
CHEEKWOOD HARVEST
615-356-8000 cheekwood.org
Activities and experiences for kids make this six-week celebration the perfect time to visit Cheekwood (1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville). Highlights include the Pumpkin Village featuring three pumpkin houses, a scarecrow trail, more than 4,000 chrysanthemums and a nine-foot-tall P’mumkin topiary made of orange mums. Happens Tuesdays – Sundays, Sept. 14 through Oct. 27, 2024. Garden tickets for nonmembers are $20-$26 for adults, $16-$26 for students (with ID), $13-$19 for youth (3-17) and free for littles 2 and under.
NASHVILLE SOUNDS: HIT CITY SATURDAYS
See Saturday, Sept. 7.
LASER BOWIE adventuresci.org
Enjoy the music of David Bowie, aka Ziggy Stardust, set to laser lights in the Sudekum Planetarium at Adventure Science Center (800 Fort Negley Boulevard, Nashville) from 5:30 – 6:15 p.m. Cost is $11 for non-members; $7 for members. The show runs 47 minutes and is recommended for ages 8 and up.
ELO LASER SHOW
615-782-4040 adventuresci.org
Enjoy the songs you've heard over the decades, from Telephone Line to Mr. Blue Sky, at the Adventure Science Center (800 Fort Negley Blvd., Nashville). Cost is $11 for non-members; $7 for members. Happens from 7:30 – 8:15 p.m. For ages 8 and up.
LASER PRINCE
615-782-4040 adventuresci.org
Experience the music of Prince in with stunning laser lights under the dome at the Sudekum Planetarium in Adventure Science Center (800 Fort Negley Blvd., Nashville) from 6:30 – 7:15 p.m. This show contains some explicit lyrics. Recommended ages 16 and up. Cost is $11 for non-members; $7 for members.
WINE ON THE RIVER wineontherivernashville.com
Sample wine, beer and spirits and taste culturally-themed menus at this outdoor tasting event at Riverfront Park (100 1st Ave. N, Nashville) from 3 – 7 p.m. General admission is $59. designated driver tickets are $20. Must be 21+ with a valid ID to enter. No photo description available.
Music fans often wear buttons, shirts and other accessories to support for their favorite artists. Attendees can design a button that represents what they love about country music from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. at the Country Music Hall of Fame (222 Rep. John Lewis Way S, Nashville). Included with museum admission; Free to museum members.
CHEEKWOOD HARVEST
See Saturday, Sept. 14.
COW AND PIG CUDDLING AT THE GENTLE BARN
See Sunday, Sept. 1.
FREE FRANKLIN FLEA MARKET
See Saturday, Sept. 14.
KAYAK FLOAT IN SMYRNA townofsmyrna.org
Join on the water at Volunteer Park (850 8th Ave., Smyrna) and learn all about kayaks! Boats, PFD’s and paddles provided; sunscreen and bug spray recommended; bring a bottle of water and clothes that can get wet. Happens at 10 a.m. Cost is $5; for ages 12 and up.
(please turn the page)
Big Machine Music City Grand Prix: Experience the best and brightest racers on the track and musicians on the stages for the fourth annual event, this year at the Nashville Superspeedway in Lebanon, Sept 14 - 15.
Boredom Be Gone!
THINGS TO DO
NASHVILLE SOUNDS: FAMILY FUN SUNDAYS
See Saturday, Sept. 7.
REGULAR SEASON HOME OPENER: TENNESSEE TITANS VS. NEW YORK JETS
tennesseetitans.com
The Titans take on the New York Jets for their home opener at Nissan Stadium (1 Titans Way, Nashville). Kickoff's at noon. Titan up!
BIG MACHINE MUSIC CITY GRAND PRIX
See Saturday, Sept. 14.
JAPANESE MOON VIEWING
615-356-8000
cheekwood.org
The 10th Annual Japanese Moon Viewing festival at Cheekwood (1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville) takes place from 4 – 9 p.m. The afternoon and moonlit evening will feature tea ceremony demonstrations, origami and other hands-on activities and music and dance celebrating Japanese art, gardens and culture. Cost is included with admission; free for members.
FREE NASHVILLE SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL
See Sunday, Sept. 1.
THE BEST WORST SCHOOL YEAR EVER AT NASHVILLE CHILDREN’S THEATRE
See Saturday, Sept. 7.
A RAISIN IN THE SUN AT CENTER FOR THE ARTS
See Friday, Sept. 13.
BRIGHT STAR AT HPAC
See Thursday, Sept. 12.
CLUE
See Tuesday, Sept. 10.
WAITRESS BY NASHVILLE REP
See Friday, Sept. 13.
MON 16
FREE MONDAY STORYTIMES AT NASHVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY
See Monday, Sept. 2.
TUE 17
TOTS! AT CHEEKWOOD
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
FREE TUESDAY STORYTIMES AT NASHVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
FREE WISHING CHAIR STORYTIME AT THE BORDEAUX LIBRARY
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
FREE STORYTIMES AT BRENTWOOD LIBRARY
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
Tennessee Titans: The Titans make their triumphant return to Nissan Stadium on Sunday, Sept. 15, taking on the New York Jets in their NFL 2024-25 regular season home opener. Kickoff's at noon. Titan up!
FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT NOLENSVILLE LIBRARY
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
FREE STORYTIME AT LINEBAUGH LIBRARY
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
FREE TODDLER TIME AT THE FRANKLIN LIBRARY
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
FREE COURTYARD CONCERTS AT NASHVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
CHEEKWOOD HARVEST
See Saturday, Sept. 14.
OWL’S HILL HOMESCHOOL DAY
615-370-4672
owlshill.org
Bring your homeschoolers out to Owl's Hill Nature Sanctuary (545 Beech Creek Road, Brentwood). There are two sessions available from 10 – 11:30 a.m. (featuring owls) and 1 – 2:30 p.m. (featuring insects). Cost is $10 per person (student or adult) per session. For ages 10 and older. Advance registration is required.
SOAC CLIMBING CLUB
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
FREE FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT: PIXAR’S COCO
615-862-5856
library.nashville.org
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at the Bordeaux Branch Library (4000 Clarksville Pike, Nashville) with elote-flavored popcorn and a feature film presentation of Pixar's Coco (2017). Starts at 5:30 p.m.
WEEZER
bridgestonearena.com
See the rock band Weezer perform its Blue Album in full with special guests
The Flaming Lips and Dinosaur, Jr. at Bridgestone Arena (501 Broadway, Nashville). Show starts at 7 p.m. and tickets start at $50.
THE LONE BELLOW WITH THE NASHVILLE SYMPHONY, AN AMERICANAFEST EVENT nashvillesymphony.org
See The Lone Bellow perform their hits backed by the Nashville Symphony at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center (1 Symphony Pl., Nashville) at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $40.
WED 18
TOTS! AT CHEEKWOOD
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
FREE BABIES & BOOKS STORYTIME AT FRANKLIN LIBRARY
See Wednesday, Sept. 4.
FREE BABY & ME PLAYTIME AT NOLENSVILLE LIBRARY
See Wednesday, Sept. 4.
BEGINNER ARCHERY AT THE WILDERNESS STATION
See Wednesday, Sept. 4.
FREE STORYTIMES AT BRENTWOOD LIBRARY
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
FREE STORYTIME AT LINEBAUGH LIBRARY
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
WEDNESDAY
STORYTIMES AT NASHVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY
See Wednesday, Sept. 4.
FREE WILD WEDNESDAY AT THE SMYRNA OUTDOOR ADVENTURE CENTER
See Wednesday, Sept. 4.
CHEEKWOOD HARVEST
See Saturday, Sept. 14.
FREE OUTDOOR EXPLORERS AT THE BRENTWOOD LIBRARY brentwood-tn.libcal.com
Explore the world with this family nature walk at the Brentwood Library (8109 Concord Road, Brentwood) from 5 – 6 p.m. For grades K – 7.
FREE EVENING CAVE TOUR wpnc.nashville.gov
Kids 10 and older can join Warner Park Nature Center (7311 Highway 100, Nashville) to explore a natural cave and learn about how it was formed and what creatures live inside from 6:30 –9 p.m. Email to register.
HERBIE HANCOCK 615-687-6400 nashvillesymphony.org
The jazz icon makes a rare Schermerhorn Symphony Center (1 Symphony Pl., Nashville) appearance. Show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $85.
MY MORNING JACKET AND NATHANIEL RATELIFF & TNS
Come see the rock bands My Morning Jacket and Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats perform live at Ascend Amphitheater (310 1st Avenue South, Nashville) Sept. 18 – 19 as part of their "Eye to Eye Tour." Concerts start at 7:30 p.m. and tickets start at $41.30.
NASHVILLE SC HOME GAMES nashvillesc.com
See the "Boys in Gold" face off at GEODIS Park (501 Benton Ave., Nashville). Match starts at 7:30 p.m.
NIGHT SOUNDS HIKE AT THE WILDERNESS STATION
615-217-3017
ekreuziger@murfreesborotn.gov
Meet at the Wilderness Station at Barfield Crescent Park (401 Volunteer Road, Murfreesboro) for a fun walk through the dark woods in search of our local night time critters! Expect a moderate 3 mile hike through the backcountry trails of the wilderness station. We will provide headlamps, but you are welcome to bring your own! Happens from 7 – 8:30 p.m. Registration is required.
THU 19
TOTS! AT CHEEKWOOD
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
FREE TODDLER STORYTIME AT NOLENSVILLE LIBRARY
See Thursday, Sept. 5.
FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT FRANKLIN LIBRARY
See Thursday, Sept. 5.
FREE STORYTIME AT THE TEC
See Thursday, Sept. 5.
FREE ITTY BITTY STORYTIME AT LINEBAUGH LIBRARY
See Thursday, Sept. 5.
CAMPFIRE STORYTIME AT THE DISCOVERY CENTER
See Thursday, Sept. 5.
EARLY LEARNERS AT THE SMYRNA OUTDOOR ADVENTURE CENTER
See Thursday, Sept. 5.
FREE GIRLS WHO CODE CLUB
See Thursday, Sept. 5.
CHEEKWOOD HARVEST
See Saturday, Sept. 14.
FREE GOODLETTSVILLE FARMERS MARKET
See Thursday, Sept. 5.
FREE NASHVILLE SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL
See Sunday, Sept. 1.
THURSDAY NIGHT OUT
See Thursday, Sept. 5.
ARCHERY CLUB AT THE SMYRNA OUTDOOR ADVENTURE CENTER
See Thursday, Sept. 5.
FREE ALL ACCESS NIGHT curias@explorethedc.org explorethedc.org
Enjoy this time for special-needs families to enjoy the exhibits in a sensoryfriendly environment at the Discovery Center (502 Southeast Broad Street, Murfreesboro). Happens from 6 – 8 p.m. Reservations are suggested.
DISNEY ON ICE bridgestonearena.com
Disney On Ice skates back into Bridgestone Arena (501 Broadway, Nashville) Sept. 19 – 22 featuring over 50 unforgettable Disney characters. Join Mirabel as she sets out to save her family’s beloved Casita; See how far Moana and Maui will go; Journey alongside Anna, Elsa and the snowman, Olaf; Dive “Under The Sea” with Ariel and more! Tickets start at $41.
BRIGHT STAR AT HPAC
See Thursday, Sept. 12.
WAITRESS BY NASHVILLE REP
See Friday, Sept. 13.
MY MORNING JACKET AND NATHANIEL RATELIFF & TNS
See Wednesday, Sept. 18.
NASHVILLE FILM FESTIVAL 615-742-2500
nashvillefilmfestival.org
Festival-goers can enjoy more than 125 films, Creators Conference panels, Q&As with filmmakers, the annual Music Program, and other exclusive content Sept. 19 – 25, 2024. Screenings are slated to take place at the Belcourt Theatre, Franklin Theatre, Regal Green Hills and more.
STEVE MARTIN & MARTIN SHORT ryman.com
These two titans of comedy come to the Grand Ole Opry House (2804 Opryland Drive, Nashville) featuring Jeff Babko and the Steep Canyon Rangers. The jokes come at you at a rapid-fire pace with little set-up and big punch lines as they mock Hollywood and the fickle nature of celebrity. Show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $59.50.
FRI 20
FREE BLOOMS & BUTTERFLIES
wpnc@nashville.gov
Explore the fall meadows full of colorful flowers and flittering butterflies at Warner Park Nature Center's (7311 Highway 100, Nashville) from 9 – 10:30 a.m. Learn all about our fall flowers and the beautiful pollinators who visit them. Email to register.
FREE NASHVILLE N-TRAK TRAIN SHOW library.nashville.org
Choo choo! Come see the huge model railroad display at the Nashville Public Library Hermitage Branch (3700 James Kay Ln., Hermitage) on Friday, Sept. 20 from 12 – 5 p.m. and Saturday, Sept. 21 from 10 a.m. –3:30 p.m.
CHEEKWOOD HARVEST
See Saturday, Sept. 14.
DISNEY ON ICE
See Thursday, Sept. 19.
FREE FALL MUSICIANS CORNER & KIDSVILLE
See Friday, Sept. 6.
FREE OUTDOOR MOVIE IN SPRINGFIELD
FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT FRANKLIN LIBRARY
See Thursday, Sept. 5.
Bring a blanket for this free outdoor movie series by Springfield Parks & Recreation at Martin Luther King, Jr. Park (2623 South Main St., Springfield). Movies start at sunset.
FREE FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE CONCERTS IN MURFREESBORO mainstreetmurfreesboro.org
Main Street Murfreesboro throws a musical party on the courthouse square featuring music from Everyday People (R&B) from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. There’s always room in front of the stage to cut a rug or bring a chair and enjoy the music sitting down.
FREE FRIDAYS BY THE RIVER friendsofshelby.org
Enjoy yard games, food trucks, beer gardens and music from 3 – 8 p.m. at Shelby Park near the Riverview Pavilion (451 South 20th St., Nashville). Beer and food will be available for purchase.
NASHVILLE FILM FESTIVAL
See Thursday, Sept. 19.
FREE NASHVILLE SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL
See Sunday, Sept. 1.
A RAISIN IN THE SUN AT CENTER FOR THE ARTS
See Friday, Sept. 13.
(please turn the page)
Steve Martin & Martin Short: These two titans of comedy come to the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville on Thursday, Sept. 19, featuring Jeff Babko and the Steep Canyon Rangers.
ADMISSION FOR KIDS
Fall Family Fun Pumpkin Festival: Pick the perfect pumpkin, get lost in the corn maze, enjoy a wagon or pony ride and more at Lucky Ladd Farms, Sept. 21 through Nov. 1 .
NASHVILLE BREW FESTIVAL
nashvillebrewfestival.com
The seventh annual Nashville Brew Festival returns to First Horizon Park (19 Junior Gilliam Way, Nashville) with dozens of local and domestic craft beers, food trucks, music and lawn games from 7 – 11 p.m. The festival will be a one of a kind experience to be on the field at First Horizon Park while enjoying some great beers and food from Nashville's best food trucks. Tickets stat at $68.71.
FREE FALL LANTERN
HIKE AT OWL’S HILL
615-370-4672
owlshill.org
Explore the woods at night by lantern light, listen for the sounds of nocturnal animals and share stories about the history of Owl's Hill (545 Beech Creek Road, Brentwood). Happens from 7 – 9 p.m. Cost is $18. For ages 12 and up.
CANDLELIGHT CONCERT:
FEATURING VIVALDI’S FOUR SEASONS & MORE feverup.com
Enjoy a string quartet performing Vivaldi classics and more under the glow of candlelight at The Parthenon (2500 West End Ave., Nashville). Performance stars at 7 p.m. For ages 8 and older. Tickets start at $33.
BRIGHT STAR AT HPAC
See Thursday, Sept. 12.
WAITRESS BY NASHVILLE REP
See Friday, Sept. 13.
CANDLELIGHT CONCERT: THE BEST OF HANS ZIMMER feverup.com
Discover the music of Hans Zimmer (Dune, Gladiator, Pirates of the Caribbean) under the glow of candlelight inside The Parthenon at Centennial Park (2500 West End Ave., Nashville). Concert starts at 9 p.m. Tickets start at $33. For ages 10 and older.
SAT 21
FREE FRANKLIN FARMERS MARKET
See Saturday, Sept. 7.
FREE HENDERSONVILLE FARMERS MARKET
See Saturday, Sept. 7.
FREE MURFREESBORO SATURDAY FARMERS MARKET
See Saturday, Sept. 7.
FREE NASHVILLE CONGENITAL HEART WALK
childrensheartfoundation.org
Join passionate walkers, teams, sponsors and volunteers supporting The Children's Heart Foundation's mission at the first ever Nashville Congenital Heart Walk at Edwin Warner Park (98 Vaughn Road), Nashville) at 9 a.m. The event will be a day of fun activities, entertainment, research updates and a family-friendly one-mile walk!
FREE NOLENSVILLE FARMERS MARKET
See Saturday, Sept. 7.
TOTS! AT CHEEKWOOD
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
FREE NASHVILLE N-TRAK TRAIN SHOW
See Friday, Sept. 20.
DROP-IN KIDS ART CLASSES
See Saturday, Sept. 7.
PARNASSUS BOOKS
STORYTIME & SIGNING LINE
615-953-2243
Come out to Parnassus Books (3900 Hillsboro Pike Suite 14, Nashville) for a signing line and storytime at 9 a.m. with Ann Patchett and Robin Preiss Glasser, author/illustrator of The Verts
CHEEKWOOD HARVEST
See Saturday, Sept. 14.
FREE RUTHERFORD BABY FAIR nashvilleparent.com
Got a baby on board or expecting one? Register now to attend Nashville and Middle Tennessee’s longestrunning FREE annual event for new and expectant parents at Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital Rutherford (Murfreesboro) from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
The event features great giveaways, vendors & booths with excellent resources for new parents, networking opportunities, a variety of games and more. Plus, attendees can tour birthing facilities, meet OB/GYNs and certified nurse midwives and gain incredibly valuable insight from experts presenting informational sessions.
TRAIN ROBBERY EXCURSION TRAIN tcry.org
Ride a restored passenger train at Tennessee Central Railway Museum (220 Willow St., Nashville) as the Mackle and Wilson Gangs attempt to hold up the train en route to Watertown! There might even be a shootout in Watertown amongst the US Marshall and the gangs! Boarding starts at 10 a.m. Departure at 11 a.m. and return back at 4:30 p.m. Cost is $32 for kids; $55 for coach seats.
FREE KIDSVILLE AT THE PARTHENON
See Saturday, Sept. 7.
FREE SATURDAY STORYTIME AT THE BRENTWOOD LIBRARY
See Saturday, Sept. 7.
THE BEST WORST SCHOOL YEAR EVER AT NASHVILLE CHILDREN’S THEATRE
See Saturday, Sept. 7.
UNICORN WORLD
865-217-6509, theunicornworld.com
The event features a magical forest, animatronic unicorns, balloon bubble houses and lots more at The Fairgrounds Nashville (625 Smith Ave., Nashville) Sept. 21 – 22. Families also can buy add-on experiences such as professional photos, rides, bounce houses and face painting. Tickets are $36 per person and free for children under age 2 and must be purchased in advance online.
FREE GREENWAY ARTS FESTIVAL shicks@murfreesborotn.gov
Over 100 local artists will display and sell their creative work along the Greenway trail within Old Fort Park (275 Golf Ln., Murfreesboro) for the 20th annual event from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
EXPLORE WEST AFRICAN STRING INSTRUMENTS
615-416-2001
countrymusichallo ame.org
Guided by multi-instrumentalists and performers of West African music originally from Guinea, try your hand at and explore two West African lutes, the kora and the n’goni at the Country Music Hall of Fame (222 5th Avenue South, Nashville) between 10:30 a.m. –12 p.m. Included with admission; free for members and kids 5 and under.
FALL FAMILY FUN PUMPKIN FESTIVAL AT LUCKY LADD
615-274-378
luckyladdfarms.com
Lucky Ladd kicks o their Fall Family Fun Festival! Enjoy the pumpkin patch, corn maze, animal encounters, wagon & pony rides and lots more at Lucky Ladd Farms (4374 Rocky Glade Road, Eagleville), Thursdays – Sundays, Sept. 21 through Nov. 1. Tickets start at $18 (with a $2 fee) online.
FREE LOWE’S BUILD & GROW WORKSHOP
lowes.com
Cruise into various Lowe’s locations with your mini DIYer for this month’s "Build & Grow" kit! They’ll provide all the parts needed to roll away with a fun, hand-built " Harvest Hayride" toy that kids can really play with. Workshop happens from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Reserve your spot online.
DISNEY ON ICE
See Thursday, Sept. 19.
(please turn the page)
THINGS TO DO
MUSICAL INSTRUMENT PETTING ZOO
countrymusichalloffame.org
Come bang a drum, pluck a guitar, strum a ukulele and more at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum (222 Rep. John Lewis Way S, Nashville) from 1 – 3 p.m. Included with admission; free to members.
POOCH POOL PARTY
nashvilleshores.com
Nashville Shores (4001 Bell Road, Hermitage) is opening its gates from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. and allowing owners to bring their dogs for a dog-only swim day. $20 in advance; $30 day of.
NASHVILLE FILM FESTIVAL
See Thursday, Sept. 19.
FREE NATIONAL DANCE DAY
nashvilleballet.com
Nashville Ballet will celebrate National Dance Day by offering free classes for all ages and a performance at the Martin Center (3630 Redmon St, Nashville)! The day will feature a sample of Nashville Ballet's regularly programmed classes from 4 – 7 p.m. Capacity is limited, so they recommend signing up for classes prior.
FREE PICKIN’ IN THE PARK
The 12th annual concert series concludes in September at Harvey Park (4001 Miles Johnson Parkway, Spring Hill). The familyfriendly event features local musicians and songwriters. Bring chairs or blankets and enjoy an evening of music! Food trucks will be on site.
TEDESCHI TRUCKS BAND
See Tedeschi Trucks Band perform live at Ascend Amphitheater (310 1st Avenue South, Nashville). Show starts at 7:30 p.m. and tickets start at $62.20.
GLOW IN THE PARK
See Saturday, Sept. 7.
HAUNTED HISTORY TOURS AT SAM DAVIS HOME
See Friday, Sept. 13.
NASHVILLE SC HOME GAME
See Wednesday, Seot. 18.
FREE NASHVILLE SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL
See Sunday, Sept. 1.
A RAISIN IN THE SUN AT CENTER FOR THE ARTS
See Friday, Sept. 13.
BRIGHT STAR AT HPAC
See Thursday, Sept. 12.
WAITRESS BY NASHVILLE REP
See Friday, Sept. 13.
21 or Sunday, Sept. 22
SUN 22
CHEEKWOOD HARVEST
See Saturday, Sept. 14.
COW AND PIG CUDDLING AT THE GENTLE BARN
See Sunday, Sept. 1.
FALL FAMILY FUN PUMPKIN FESTIVAL AT LUCKY LADD
See Saturday, Sept. 21.
TENNESSEE TITANS VS. GREEN BAY PACKERS
tennesseetitans.com
The Titans will take on the Green Bay Packers at Nissan Stadium (1 Titans Way, Nashville), with kickoff scheduled for 12 p.m.
THE BEST WORST SCHOOL YEAR EVER AT NASHVILLE CHILDREN’S THEATRE
See Saturday, Sept. 7.
FREE “PAPER AND PENS, OF MICE AND MEN” A CONSTITUTION TALE tndar.org
Kids of all ages can enjoy this puppet show and learn about the United States Constitution! Created, produced and directed by members of the Old Glory Chapter, National Society of the American Revolution in Franklin, the play will be presented in the Williamson County Public Library Meeting Room (1314 Columbia Ave., Franklin) at 2 and 3:30 p.m. Constitution games and puzzles are also featured and refreshments will be served.
UNICORN WORLD
See Saturday, Sept. 21.
A RAISIN IN THE SUN AT CENTER FOR THE ARTS
See Friday, Sept. 13.
BRIGHT STAR AT HPAC
See Thursday, Sept. 12.
WAITRESS BY NASHVILLE REP
See Friday, Sept. 13.
NASHVILLE FILM FESTIVAL
See Thursday, Sept. 19.
FREE NASHVILLE SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL
See Sunday, Sept. 1.
DISNEY ON ICE
See Thursday, Sept. 19.
MON 23
FREE MONDAY STORYTIMES AT NASHVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY
See Monday, Sept. 2.
NASHVILLE FILM FESTIVAL
See Thursday, Sept. 19.
SPARK! AT DISCOVERY CENTER: WHAT IS A SCIENTIST? explorethedc.org
Children ages 1 – 6 and their caregivers can come to Discovery Center (502 SE Broad St., Murfreesboro) to enjoy hands-on exploratory STEAM learning. Check-in between 9 – 9:30 a.m. Program runs from 9:30 – 11 a.m. Cost is $4 per child, adults are free.
THE BEACH BOYS ryman.com
See The Beach Boys perform live at Ryman Auditorium (116 Fifth Ave. N, Nashville). Tickets start at $59.50 and show starts at 7:30 p.m.
TUE 24
TOTS! AT CHEEKWOOD
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
TODDLER TUESDAY AT SAM DAVIS HOME 615-459-2341 samdavishome.org
Littles ages 1 – 4 enjoy games, crafts, hikes, experiments, live animals and more at Sam Davis Home (1399 Sam Davis Road, Smyrna) on the last Tuesday of every month from 10 – 11 a.m. This month's theme is " Nature Adventure." Cost is $8 for toddlers and siblings, free for parents.
FREE TUESDAY STORYTIMES AT NASHVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
FREE WISHING CHAIR STORYTIME AT THE BORDEAUX LIBRARY
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
FREE STORYTIMES AT BRENTWOOD LIBRARY
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
Unicorn World: Bring your little unicorn-lover to The Fairgrounds Nashville on Saturday, Sept.
for animatronic unicorns, balloon bubble houses, rides, bounce houses, face painting and more.
FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT NOLENSVILLE LIBRARY
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
FREE STORYTIME AT LINEBAUGH LIBRARY
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
FREE TODDLER TIME AT THE FRANKLIN LIBRARY
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
FREE COURTYARD CONCERTS AT NASHVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
CHEEKWOOD HARVEST
See Saturday, Sept. 14.
SOAC CLIMBING CLUB
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
FREE GOAT CUDDLING AT ENBW
eastnashbeerworks.com
The baby goats are BAAAAAAAACK in the beer garden at East Nashville Beer Works (320 E Trinity Lane Nashville) for the last month this summer from 4 – 7 p.m. These sweet furry babies will be fenced in an area outside in the beer garden so you can come pet and show them some love. This is a fun event for all ages, so bring the fam and come on out for beer, pizza and GOATS!
FALL FAMILY FUN PUMPKIN FESTIVAL AT LUCKY LADD
See Saturday, Sept. 21.
JOHN PAUL WHITE: IN CONCERT WITH THE NASHVILLE SYMPHONY
615-687-6400
nashvillesymphony.org
The Alabama-based singer-songwriter, John Paul White is a four-time Grammy award-winner and half of the worldfamous duo The Civil Wars. White’s Schermerhorn debut with the Nashville Symphony, conducted by Daniel Steven, will amaze audiences with orchestrated versions of hits like "Once and Future Queen" and "My Dreams Have All Come True." Tickets start at $37.
NASHVILLE FILM FESTIVAL
See Thursday, Sept. 19.
WED 25
TOTS! AT CHEEKWOOD
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
FREE WEDNESDAY STORYTIMES AT NASHVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY
See Wednesday, Sept. 4
FREE BABIES & BOOKS STORYTIME AT FRANKLIN LIBRARY
See Wednesday, Sept. 4.
FREE BABY & ME PLAYTIME AT NOLENSVILLE LIBRARY
See Wednesday, Sept. 4.
FREE STORYTIMES AT BRENTWOOD LIBRARY
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
FREE STORYTIME AT LINEBAUGH LIBRARY
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
BEGINNER ARCHERY AT THE WILDERNESS STATION
See Wednesday, Sept. 4.
FREE WILD WEDNESDAY AT THE SMYRNA OUTDOOR ADVENTURE CENTER
See Wednesday, Sept. 4.
CHEEKWOOD HARVEST
See Saturday, Sept. 14.
A BRONX TALE: THE ONE MAN SHOW W/ CHAZZ PALMINTERI
615-687-6400
nashvillesymphony.org
This powerful one-man stage play depicts Palminteri’s bruising childhood, which included witnessing a gangland killing when he was nine years old. Palminteri plays 18 characters and brings them all to life. In the past 35 years, Chazz has appeared in over 60 films. Happens at Schermerhorn Symphony Center (1 Symphony Place, Nashville) at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $59.
FREE LEGO CLUB AT THE BRENTWOOD LIBRARY
See Wednesday, Sept. 11.
NASHVILLE FILM FESTIVAL
See Thursday, Sept. 19.
THU 26
TOTS! AT CHEEKWOOD
See Tuesday, Sept. 3.
FREE TODDLER STORYTIME AT NOLENSVILLE LIBRARY
See Thursday, Sept. 5.
FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT FRANKLIN LIBRARY
See Thursday, Sept. 5.
FREE STORYTIME AT THE TEC
See Thursday, Sept. 5.
FREE ITTY BITTY STORYTIME AT LINEBAUGH LIBRARY
See Thursday, Sept. 5.
CAMPFIRE STORYTIME AT THE DISCOVERY CENTER
See Thursday, Sept. 5.
EARLY LEARNERS AT THE SMYRNA OUTDOOR ADVENTURE CENTER
See Thursday, Sept. 5.
FREE GIRLS WHO CODE CLUB
See Thursday, Sept. 5.
CHEEKWOOD HARVEST
See Saturday, Sept. 14.
FREE NASHVILLE SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL
See Sunday, Sept. 1.
THURSDAY NIGHT OUT
See Thursday, Sept. 5.
ARCHERY CLUB AT THE SMYRNA OUTDOOR ADVENTURE CENTER
See Thursday, Sept. 5.
BRIGHT STAR AT HPAC
See Thursday, Sept. 12.
MEET THE ASTRONOMER TALK + TELESCOPE VIEWING
615-373-4897
dyer.vanderbilt.edu
Browse exhibits, enjoy an astro talk and view the sky through the historic Seyfert Telescope at the Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory (1000 Oman Drive, Brentwood). The event begins at 7 p.m. Cost is $7.18. Recommended for ages 12 and older.
CARMEN BY NASHVILLE OPERA nashvilleopera.org
Considered by many to be the most popular operas ever written, the sensual tale of the free-spirited Carmen comes to TPAC's Jackson Hall (505 Deaderick St., Nashville) Sept. 26 and 28. Performed by the Nashville Opera featuring the Nashville Opera Orchestra, the score is sung in French with projected English lyrics. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at at $30.
KINGS OF LEON
bridgestonearena.com
See Kings of Leon's "Can We Please Have Fun Tour" live with special guest Phantogram at Bridgestone Arena (501 Broadway, Nashville). Show starts at 8 p.m. and tickets start at $49.70.
FRI 27
FREE MGL STORYTIME
See Friday, Sept. 6.
MUSIC CITY SPORTS CARD, COLLECTIBLES & AUTOGRAPH SHOW
615-595-1227
musiccitycollectiblesshow.com
Top dealers from across the country will be set up with everything from sports trading cards and autographed memorabilia to music collectibles and more. Plus, get autographs from guests including Mike Tyson, Pete Rose, The Dukes of Hazzard, Wade Boggs and more. Happens at the Williamson County Agricultural EXPO Park (4215 Long Lane, Franklin) Friday, Sept. 27 from 4 – 8 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 28 from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Sunday, Sept. 29 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Cost is $10.
THINGS TO DO
FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT FRANKLIN LIBRARY
See Thursday, Sept. 5.
CHEEKWOOD HARVEST
See Saturday, Sept. 14.
FREE FALL MUSICIANS CORNER & KIDSVILLE
See Friday, Sept. 6.
FREE NASHVILLE FLEA MARKET
615-862-5016
nashvilleflea.com
Nashville's monthly flea market weekend returns with over 800 hundred vendors from 30 states to shop from at the Nashville Fairgrounds (625 Smith Ave., Nashville). Parking is $5.
NASHVILLE GREEK FESTIVAL nashvillegreekfestival.com
Savory cuisine, soulful music, lively dancing and educational tours transform the grounds of Holy Trinity Greek Orth. Church (4905 Franklin Pike, Nashville) into a three-day glendi. The festival features centuries-old recipes and smiling chefs to please all foodies. Admission is $5, and is valid all weekend. Children 12 and under, and first responders with valid ID, are free. Happens Friday, Sept. 27 from 4 to 9 p.m.; Saturday, Sept. 28 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday, Sept. 29 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
FREE FRIDAYS BY THE RIVER
See Friday, Sept. 20.
HAUNTED HISTORY TOURS AT SAM DAVIS HOME
See Friday, Sept. 13.
TOUCH OF BREWS FT. THE ROCK ‘N’ ROLL PLAYHOUSE
Join for the 4th annual Touch of Brews, a Grateful Dead-themed music festival, at Sevier Park (3021 Lealand Lane Nashville) on Sept. 27 – 28. Enjoy a free kids zone, a bark zone for dogs, food trucks and more. Plus on the second day at 12 p.m., check out the Rock 'n' Roll Playhouse featuring the Music of Phish for Kids. Adults are $18.38, kids 12 and under are free.
CANDLELIGHT CONCERT: A TRIBUTE TO COLDPLAY
ented string quartet playing your favorite anthems by the British band Coldplay (2500 West End Ave., Nashville). Concerts start at 7 and 9 p.m. Tickets start at
ZOMBIE PAINTBA HAYRIDE
GREAT FOR GROUPS, PARTIES, BIRTHDAYS, AND TEAM-BUILDING. EVERY FRIDAY AND SATURDAY IN OCTOBER.
THINGS TO DO
FRIENDS LIFE COMMUNITY SHOWCASE
tpac.org
Check out this showcase by Friends Life Community, a Nashville-based nonprofit serving adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, at TPAC’s Polk Theater (505 Deaderick St., Nashville). Tickets start at $15 and show starts at 6:30 p.m.
SCIENCE OF SPIRITS
615-862-5160
adventuresci.org
Did you know that certain fruits hide the flavor of tequila while others enhance it? Why? Discover the answer at this 21+ event at Adventure Science Center (800 Fort Negley Blvd., Nashville). Enjoy an array of drink samples while learning the science of your favorite cocktail, mocktail and spirit from 7 – 10 p.m. General admission is $70; designated driver tickets are $40.
FREE NASHVILLE SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL
See Sunday, Sept. 1.
SAT 28
FREE FRANKLIN FARMERS MARKET
See Saturday, Sept. 7.
FREE HENDERSONVILLE FARMERS MARKET
See Saturday, Sept. 7.
FREE MURFREESBORO SATURDAY FARMERS MARKET
See Saturday, Sept. 7.
FREE NOLENSVILLE FARMERS MARKET
See Saturday, Sept. 7.
2024 FANGTASTIC 5K
bridgestonearena.com
Kick o the NHL season with a 3.1 mile walk or run around downtown Nashville that starts and ends at Bridgestone Arena (501 Broadway, Nashville).
DOZER DAY
midtn.dozerday.org
Experience the thrill of operating dozers, backhoes, loaders, digging for real treasure and more at the Comer Barn (2310 Nashville Pike, Gallatin) from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Cost is $10 in advance, $15 day of event.
DROP-IN KIDS ART CLASSES
FREE KIDSVILLE AT THE PARTHENON
See Saturday, Sept. 7.
PARNASSUS BOOKS STORYTIME
615-953-2243
parnassusbooks.net
Come out to Parnassus Books (3900 Hillsboro Pike Suite 14, Nashville) for a special storytime from 10:30 – 11 a.m. For ages 0 – 7. On Sept. 7, enjoy storytime with Lesa Engelthaler, author of Joan of Art
FREE TOUCH-A-TRUCK AT TANGER OUTLETS
tanger.com/nashville
See Saturday, Sept. 7.
FREE NASHVILLE SPORTS CARD SHOW
See Saturday, Sept. 14.
WILD ABOUT CREEPY CRITTERS
615-370-4672
owlshill.org
Meet the slithering and skittering wildlife ambassadors at Owl's Hill Nature Sanctuary (545 Beech Creek Road, Brentwood) and find out why bugs, snakes and bats are fascinating from 10 a.m. – noon. Cost is $40 per group of 2 and includes one box kit.
MUSIC CITY SPORTS CARD, COLLECTIBLES & AUTOGRAPH SHOW
See Friday, Sept. 27.
Kids can explore di erent kinds of vehicles and meet the people who operate them at Tanger Outlets ( 4060 Cane Ridge Pkwy, Nashville) from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Enjoy music, roaming characters, games and more! Meet in the parking lot by The Green! A quieter, sensory friendly hour happens from 9 – 10 a.m.
FREE WILCO POW WOW
615-512-0952
wilcopowwow.com
Experience an authentic Native American Pow Wow Sept. 28 – 29 at the James E. Ward Agricultural Center (945 Baddour Pkwy., Lebanon). Celebrate life, culture and community through dance, song, storytelling, food and crafts. Feel your heart pound to the beat of the drums, explore authentic Native arts & craftsand so more.
THE BEST WORST SCHOOL
YEAR EVER AT NASHVILLE CHILDREN’S THEATRE
See Saturday, Sept. 7.
DIGGING IN: JACK-SON LANTERN CARVING
615-889-2941
thehermitage.com
FREE NASHVILLE FLEA MARKET
See Friday, Sept. 27.
FREE EXPLORE WITH A NATURALIST
See Saturday, Sept. 14.
NASHVILLE GREEK FESTIVAL
See Friday, Sept. 27.
NASHVILLE TACO & MARGARITA FEST
Enjoy a variety of tacos from local trucks and restaurants but live performances at First Horizon Park (19 Jr. Gilliam Way, Nashville). Guests can also expect live pro wrestling, axe throwing, face painting, kids zone and more. Happens from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Tickets for ages 6 and older are $15 (pre-sale) or $25 (at the gate).
FALL FAMILY FUN PUMPKIN FESTIVAL AT LUCKY LADD
See Saturday, Sept. 21.
Join Andrew Jackson's Hermitage (4580 Rachel's Lane, Hermitage) for pumpkin lantern carving from 1 – 4 p.m. Guests will be provided a brief history and the ability to carve their own pumpkin to take home with them. Pumpkins, and necessary tools, are included with each ticket. Cost is $25 for adults, $20 for youth (ages 5-12), $5 for children 4 and younger.
HISPANIC HERITAGE FESTIVAL 615-833-1534
nashvillezoo.org
The festival will include dance performances, a puppet show and a variety of musicians to celebrate Hispanic culture at the Nashville Zoo. The Zoo will also o er animal shows and tours of the Grassmere Historic Home in Spanish at various times throughout the day.
PETER PAN MUSICAL BY BRAVO CREATIVE ARTS
bravocreativeartscenter.com
Bravo whisks audiences away to a place where dreams are born and no one ever grows up! Performances are at FSSD Performing Arts Center (1030 Excellence Wy, Franklin), Sept. 28 at 2 and 7 p.m. and Sept. 29 at 2 p.m. Based on J.M. Barrie's classic tale, this show is one of the most frequently performed family favorites of all time and includes flying of characters by ZFX! Tickets are $20.
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Wilco Pow Wow: Experience an authentic Native American Pow Wow with dance, song, storytelling, food and crafts on Saturday, Sept. 28 and Sunday, Sept. 29 at the James E. Ward Agricultural Center in Lebanon.
Saturday, October 19 10 am - 2 pm
• Live stage performances and kids entertainers
• Dozens of prize giveaways all day long!
• Carnival games
• Free face painting and children’s activities
• Trick-or-Treating fun with treat stations all around The Avenue and at our event
• Wear your costume and join our Costume Parade on stage
• Food, fun and more than 40 vendors!
Rain Date: Sunday, October 20.
GLOW IN THE PARK
See Saturday, Sept. 7.
FREE NASHVILLE SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL
See Sunday, Sept. 1.
FREE KIDSVILLE FAMILY FESTIVAL
kidsvilleonline.org
Kidsville Family Festival is returning to Centennial Park (2500 West End Avenue, Nashville) from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for a day filled with live music, costumes, arts & crafts, mascot photo station, musical meet & greets, inflatables & lawn games, obstacle course, painting and more. This event is free to attend and open to children of all ages!
BRIGHT STAR AT HPAC
See Thursday, Sept. 12.
TOUCH OF BREWS FT. THE ROCK ‘N’ ROLL PLAYHOUSE
See Friday, Sept. 27.
NASHVILLE PREDATORS PRESEASON
nhl.com/predators
Come see the Nashville Predators play on their home ice at Bridgestone Arena (501 Broadway, Nashville) for the 2024-25 season. Preseason home games are Sept. 28th and Oct. 5th. The regular season starts Oct. 10th.
CARMEN BY NASHVILLE OPERA
See Thursday, Sept. 26.
PILGRIMAGE MUSIC & CULTURAL FESTIVAL
pilgrimagefestival.com
This year’s Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival returns on Sept. 28 – 29 at The Park at Harlinsdale Farm (239 Franklin Road, Franklin) with Dave Matthews Band, Hozier, Noah Kahan and NEEDTOBREATHE leading the diverse bill. In addition, the Lil' Pilgrims stage and Mare Barn Theatre features renowned children’s musicians and fun filled activities for the little ones! Tickets start at $289.
Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival: Tons of great national touring musicians, plus children’s musicians for the kids Sept. 28 - 29 at The Park at Harlinsdale Farm in Franklin.
THE BEST WORST SCHOOL YEAR EVER AT NASHVILLE CHILDREN’S THEATRE
See Saturday, Sept. 7.
FREE NASHVILLE SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL
See Sunday, Sept. 1.
PILGRIMAGE MUSIC & CULTURAL FESTIVAL
See Saturday, Sept. 28.
BRIGHT STAR AT HPAC
See Thursday, Sept. 12.
MON 30
FREE MONDAY STORYTIMES AT NASHVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY
SUN 29
COW AND PIG CUDDLING AT THE GENTLE BARN
See Sunday, Sept. 1.
FALL FAMILY FUN PUMPKIN FESTIVAL AT LUCKY LADD
See Saturday, Sept. 21.
CHEEKWOOD HARVEST
See Saturday, Sept. 14.
MUSIC CITY SPORTS CARD, COLLECTIBLES & AUTOGRAPH SHOW
See Friday, Sept. 27.
EMBELLISHED INSTRUMENTS
countrymusichalloffame.org
Young designers can personalize paper instruments inspired by those on display in the galleries at Country Music Hall of Fame (222 Rep. John Lewis Way S, Nashville) from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Included with museum admission; free to museum members.
NASHVILLE GREEK FESTIVAL
See Friday, Sept. 27.
FREE NASHVILLE FLEA MARKET
See Friday, Sept. 27.
FREE WILCO POW WOW
See Saturday, Sept. 28.
PETER PAN MUSICAL BY BRAVO CREATIVE ARTS
See Saturday, Sept. 28.
See Monday, Sept. 2.
BLUEY'S BIG PLAY
Oct. 5 – 6
TPAC, Nashville tpac.org
NATIONAL BANANA PUDDING FESTIVAL
Oct. 5 – 6
Ag Pavilion, Centerville bananapuddingfest.org
FALL TENNESSEE CRAFT FAIR
Oct. 11 – 13
Centennial Park, Nashville tennesseecraft.org
BOO AT THE ZOO
Oct. 11 – 31
Nissan Zoo, Nashville tnashvillezoo.org/boo
PUMPKINFEST
Oct. 26
Downtown Franklin williamsonheritage.org
SOUTHERN FESTIVAL OF BOOKS
Oct. 26 – 27
Various Nashville venues sofestofbooks.org
DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS
Oct. 27
Schermerhorn Symphony Center, Nashville nashvillesymphony.org
CREEKSIDE
Riding Academy & Stables
TRAIL RIDES
Fully supervised with a professional horse handler, calm, happy ponies, and trail rides for all levels.
50+ acres to explore • 1+ hour
Starting at $75 per rider
2359 Lewisburg Pike, Franklin 615-595-7547
CHEVAL STABLES
Owned and Operated by Creekside
HORSE RIDING CLASSES
TRAIL RIDES
PONY PARTIES
PONY PARTIES
Pony parties for kids 7 and under. Prices start at $375 for a group.
creeksideridingstables.com Book Your Party Today!
Just 5 minutes from Creekside Stables! 3531 Tobe Robertson Road, Columbia 615-829-1105 chevalstables.com
TRClasses are aligned to three primary learning domains: Technology, Robotics, and Computer Science. Additionally, most classes are available for four primary age groups and learning goals:
Thriving in a competitive world requires a certain level of emotional and physical “toughness”. We help young people find a better version of themselves by reaching down deep and accomplishing their personal goals. See your child blossom into the best person they can be. Professional martial arts training helps your children become:
Act Too Players
Renowned for our outstanding musical theatre program, we extend our program offerings to include classes in acting, dance, and voice. Our youth education programming is designed to give each student the opportunity for a well rounded performing arts education. Our carefully curated classes, camps, and workshops not only unlock the doors to imagination and self-confidence but also instill the discipline and work ethic vital for any creative journey. Join us in the transformative world of performing arts at Act Too Players! 615-294-0667 | acttooplayers.com
1113 Murfreesboro Road, #119, Franklin
Adventure Science Center
Premier attraction and learning center for visitors throughout Middle Tennessee and beyond! Awardwinning programs including daily planetarium shows, themed builds, and camps.
615-862-5160 | adventuresci.org
800 Ft. Negley Blvd., Nashville
Enrichment Programs and After-School Activities
Bach to Rock Nashville West Bach to Rock Franklin
We are thrilled to announce the opening of our newest Bach to Rock music school in Franklin, Tennessee! As we gear up for a summer filled with music and learning, we invite the vibrant Franklin community to join us in celebrating our brand new location.
615-637-7242 | nashvillewest.b2rmusic.com
6702 Charlotte Pike #105, Nashville
615-468-9123 | bachtorock.com/franklin
1113 Murfreesboro Road #202, Franklin
At NCT we believe that theatre skills are life skills. We celebrate each student’s individuality. We believe in the power of ‘play’ and the greater learning that is derived from it. It is important to us for every young person to feel heard, celebrated, and uplifted. We currently offer fall, spring, Saturday classes and camps.
Learning doesn’t stop at the classroom door. There’s so much more available for your child with programs and activities that cover all the bases, from the arts to sports, STEM to advanced academics. Explore the options o ered in our area, including those listed here.
Whether you are a motivated young learner, the parent of an advanced child, or an educator who works with high-achieving students, there is something for everyone at PTY. Join us! We offer programs for talented children in grades K - 12 as well as their families and educators.
615-322-8261 | pty.vanderbilt.edu
Peabody #506, 230 Appleton Place, Nashville
listings continue on page
Nashville Children’s Theatre Drama School
Vanderbilt Programs for Talented Youth
Bill Taylor Bushido School of Karate
Come be a part of Bill Taylor’s Bushido School of Karate where we blend tradition with excellence. Our expert instructors are here to help you build discipline, confidence, and self-defense skills, no matter your age or experience. Whether you’re starting out or a seasoned martial artist, you’ll find personalized training in a supportive atmosphere.
Let’s Play! Let’s Learn! Let’s Discover! From splashing to experimenting to playing pretend, Discovery Center’s more than a dozen exhibits are designed to engage the curious mind. How cold is liquid nitrogen? What is visible light? Do reptiles lay eggs? Join Discovery Center staff as we explore the amazing world of science through hands-on experiments and demonstrations..
615-890-2300 | explorethedc.org/camps 502 SE Broad St., Murfreesboro
Enrichment Programs and After-School Activities
Cheekwood Estate and Gardens
Engage students in art, history, and botanical gardens with a trip to Cheekwood. Students can enjoy a self-guided experience, or a curriculum-centered guided field trip. Destination Cheekwood brings families in on a Saturday for a visit filled with art, garden, and historical experiences and activities. Cheekwood GROWS targets third grade students to teach them about gardening. 615-356-8000 | cheekwood.org 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville
E.T.C. Gymnastics
Join the excitement at ETC Gymnastics in Murfreesboro! Fall sign-ups are open for all skill levels, from beginner to advanced. Our experienced coaches help kids build confidence, strength, and agility in a fun, safe environment. Secure your spot today and watch your child flip into fun!
615-867-6900 | 615-617-7644 | etcgymnastics.com
1137 Haley Road, Murfreesboro 11301 Old Nashville Hwy, Smyrna
Lane Music
Providing professional lessons, rentals, repairs, and more to musicians of all levels. For over 35 years, Lane Music has helped educate and shape generations of musicians. Lane Music has expanded to include world-class stores in Nashville and Knoxville. From first-time players to seasoned professionals, Lane Music has the gear you need to ensure your musical endeavors thrive.
615-679-8888 | lanemusic.com
1625 Galleria Blvd., Brentwood
LearningRx
Creekside Riding Academy & Cheval Stables
Experience the beauty of fall at Creekside Riding Academy and Stables! Enjoy scenic trail rides, expert lessons, and family-friendly activities amidst vibrant autumn colors. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or new to the saddle, our welcoming staff and well-trained horses make every ride unforgettable. 615-595-7547 | creeksideridingstables.com 2359 Lewisburg Pike, Franklin 615-829-1105 | chevalstables.com
3531 Tobe Robertson Road, Columbia
Girl Scouts of Middle Tennessee
Ready to embark on a journey filled with adventure, leadership opportunities, and making lifelong friendships? Join the Girl Scouts and discover a world where girls grow into strong, confident, and capable leaders. Whether you’re interested in leading a community service project, organizing events, or simply speaking up for what you believe in, Girl Scouts provides a supportive environment where your voice is heard and your ideas are valued.
615-383-4090 | gsmidtn.org
Mobile Music Academy
615-601-3254 | learningrx.com/franklin 100 Cool Springs Blvd., Ste. 200, Franklin
At LearningRx, we transform the way you learn and think with the power of brain training! Through one-on-one training sessions, we help kids build early learning skills, including foundational skills for reading and math. Brain training gets to the root cause of how your child learns and our success is found in the smiles of our students and parents!
Offering private music instruction from fun, qualified teachers in your own home. We teach piano, guitar, bass, voice, strings, brass, and most other instruments. We offer competitive rates and flexible scheduling with special daytime rates available. We teach all ages, styles, and abilities. Serving the Middle TN area. Voted #1 for music instruction!
615-994-1915 | mmamusic.com
Serving the Greater Nashville Area
My Gym of Brentwood
Award-winning My Gym Brentwood offers a My Gym PreK Prep Program twice a week as well as our mommy and me and gymnastics classes, kids birthday parties, camps and other fantastic fun filled programs for ages 6 wks - 10 yrs. 615-371-5437 | mygym.com/brentwood 330 Franklin Road, Brentwood
Providence Christian Academy
We are an inter-denominational Pre-K – 12th grade independent school located in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. Providence Christian Academy offers a classical education with a Christian worldview, partnering with committed parents. Our mission is “to teach students to seek God’s truth and to equip them with the tools for a lifetime of learning.” Now enrolling for fall 2024
Karate Lessons for Kids! When you enroll in our kids karate classes, you’re signing up for proactive, professional instruction with teachers who invest in your children to help them develop goals, skills, and a personal best. Meeting students on their level is our specialty. Ninjas karate classes (ages 4 - 6). Youth karate classes (ages 7 - 12). Teen and adult classes offered as well.
615-972-0989 | newvisionsdojo.com 6601 Sugar Valley Drive #111, Nashville
Southern Stars Preschool
Our curriculum allows you and your child to grow at an individual pace. While many preschools focus on a singular facet of learning, we focus on every facet of learning, including: gross motor skills, fine motor skills, social skills, verbal skills, concentration and focus skills, literacy skills, match and history skills, art, music, and dance skills, and play-based learning..
We provide top-notch fencing training for all skill and fitness levels. As experienced coaches and a family devoted to fencing, we create a respectful and supportive environment. Whether your goal is to become an Olympic fencer, attend an elite university, or simply stay strong and happy, our club is the place for you. Join us to challenge your mind and body and discover that anything is possible.
346-971-1080 | fencingtn.com
Franklin, Nashville, Nolensville and Murfreesboro
Tennessee Robotics Center
Tennessee Robotics Center (TRC) offers engaging homeschool and after-school robotics and STEM education programs that captivate, inspire, and empower students to excel academically, socially, and technically through hands-on exploration into the exciting realms of technology, robotics, and computer science.
Specifically for new and expectant parents, our Baby Guide is packed with information, products, and services. Plus, our handy birthing facility chart provides valuable information about local hospitals.
Looking for an independent education for your child? Browse schools organized by county and school type. Use our handy chart to find tuition, enrollment, and more. Includes our school map and Beyond the Classroom Listings.
Mallette Dr. Jack
Dr. Mallette, a native of Murfreesboro, has over 16 years of Pediatric Dental experience serving the children in Middle Tennessee. He is a graduate of MTSU and the University of Tennessee College of Dentistry in Memphis, TN. He is also board certified by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.
Dr. Mallette is passionate about pediatric dentistry and is excited to be joining the Wild About Smiles team of experienced dentists and staff of 40 years!
