Save the Humans | Through September 1
Six gigantic sculptural trolls by prominent Denmark-based recycle artist Thomas Dambo take up residence at Cheekwood to share messages of stewardship and sustainability. Reserve tickets at cheekwood.org.
DAILY ACTIVITIES FOR FAMILIES • MEMORIAL DAY TO LABOR DAY
Local youth 18 and under who are residents of Davidson and bordering counties, including Cheatham, Robertson, Rutherford, Sumner, Williamson, and Wilson are always free, plus 25% off admission for up to two accompanying adults.
NEW! MONTHLY THEMES ALL AGES
JULY = MARINE SCIENCE
Cool off at the science center with a theme that will have you ready for a day at sea (without sunburns and sand everywhere). Themed activities are included in General Admission.
PLAN YOUR ADVENTURE
ALL AGES
THURSDAY, JULY 4, 6:30 PM - 10 PM
This fan-favorite, 4th of July event is the perfect opportunity to celebrate Independence Day with food, fun, and fireworks. Plus, enjoy air-conditioned activities and games to beat the summer heat.
GET YOUR TICKETS
CR3W CAREER FAIR 6TH - 12TH GRADE
MONDAY, JULY 15 , 10:30 AM - 1:30 PM
Our career fair is designed for 6th -12th grade students who are interested in pursuing a career in STEM. Students can explore careers from scientists to designers and everything in between. We will have booths at the science center from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm with industry professionals eager to share their knowledge and answer questions.
FREE ENTRY, SIGN UP HERE!
Cirque du Soleil and country music come together for Songblazers, playing at TPAC, July 2 - 30.
BOOM! There are so many fun, family events this month! Enjoy "Let Freedom Sing!" in downtown Nashville; Red, White & Boom at Adventure Science Center; the Tennessee Sunflower Festival at Lucky Ladd; a LEGO fan expo at the Fairgrounds Nashville; Bluegrass Along the Harpeth in downtown Franklin and so much more!
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Things to do in day-to-day order.
71 ON YOUR RADAR Events to know about for NEXT month. BEST OF JULY
Editor’s Note
You know more than you think you do, Dr. Spock told me. And it made all the difference.
“Do you allow your 17-yearold daughter to hang out in her room with a boy?”
The Baby Fair is at Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital Midtown next month; what's new at the Country Music Hall of Fame and local parent briefs.
Win a Family Four-Pack to Nashville Zoo at Grassmere this month!
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.
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.
WED., JULY 3
A two-night Gaylord Summer Getaway Package.
WED., JULY 10
Four tickets to see Silent Movie Classics at the Nashville Symphony on July 28.
WED., JULY 17
A Family Four-Pack to Nashville Zoo at Grassmere.
WED., JULY 24
A $100 Gift Card to A Moment's Peace Salon & Spa.
WED., JULY 31
A Family Four-Pack to Nashville Zoo at Grassmere.
“My daughter's only 6 months old and already drawing. I'd hang it on the fridge, but honestly it's absolute garbage."
— Ryan Reynolds Actor, producer, businessman
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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.
Our magazines are published monthly by Day Communications, Inc. The mailing address is 1229 Lakeview Drive, Ste. A., Franklin, TN 37067. Phone number: 615-475-5220. E-mail to: npinfo@daycommedia.com. Every precaution has been taken to ensure the accuracy of published material, however, NASHVILLE/RUTHERFORD/WILLIAMSON PARENT cannot be held responsible for opinions expressed or facts supplied by its authors. NASHVILLE/ RUTHERFORD/WILLIAMSON PARENT is copyright © 2024 by Day Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction without written permission is prohibited.
“My son used to study 2-3 hours and come home with a 75 on his test. Now he’ll study for 30-45 minutes, and he’ll say, ‘I think I have it.’ And he’ll come home with a high B or an A on a test. It’s amazing. It just makes the night so much more relaxing at home.”
– Valerie, Franklin
by Susan Swindell Day
How I ever managed to have four children without my mother around, I’ll never know. I can remember being pregnant with my first baby and sobbing as I drove the highway. It hit me like a thunder bolt that my mother would never know my children. And they would never get to hear her amazing, musical laughter. She was so much fun. But who was going to advise me on my baby?!
Life goes on. I went on. I had one, then two then three then four. Blessed, but I had never taken care of another person in my life. One day I realized I was at home with three Littles and another on the way. There was no time for uncertainty. I was in it to win it.
We all know next to nothing when we have our first baby. It shocked me when my father-in-law observed me bouncing my firstborn and said, as only he could under his bushy brows, “Well, you’re an expert now.” Far from it! But what he meant was, I now had an infant and I was its mother and I was going to be in charge and on call everyday going forward. He also meant that being in charge of someone means you are an expert to them. It’s humbling. Because I was so green, I leaned into my faith. And many a time I hunkered down in my glider with good old Dr. Spock. This no-nonsense 832-page reference paperback (Dr. Spock’s Baby and Child Care; absolutely dog eared now) set me straight many times on what I was or wasn’t doing “right” with my babies. Approximately zero parents use Dr. Spock’s book today. I found it an amazing and practical reference book that gave me confidence. Spock told me:
You know more than you think you do. Don’t take too seriously all that the neighbors say. Don’t be overawed by what the experts say. Don’t be afraid to trust your own common sense. Bringing up your child won’t be a complicated job if you take it easy, trust your own instincts and follow the directions that your doctor gives you.
Common sense? I had that in spades. Take it easy? Not so much. But then, I just sort of found my sea legs — and remembered my mother’s laughter and learned how not to make a big deal about so many things that are made big deals about. My mother was outstanding at laughing it off. Many times, uncertain of what was happening with my child’s teething or a rash or a fever or any number of things, I reached for Spock. He made it so manageable. Just look the topic up in the back, then flip to where the wisdom is. I mean, it’s great to have a pediatrician you can go see, but many times Dr. Spock made me feel like I could handle what was going on — and I did. Ultimately, it seems like our pediatric visits boiled down to well-child visits, then Amoxycillin prescriptions for Step Throat and cortisone cream for just about any bite or rash. And signatures. You need your pediatrician’s signature on camp and sport’s physicals. But you can do most of your childcare yourself — if you have Dr. Spock along the way and the memory of a joyful, laughing mother to embolden you. Remember: You know more than you think you do.
Tough stuff with big kids!
“Do you allow your 17-year-old daughter to hang out in her room with a boy?”
“I have three sons and they will never have the OK from us to be in a female’s room where she does not pay rent or mortgage. Whatever they want to say or do can happen in the family room or any other shared space.”
Crysta Crum
“Door open at all times and if you trust your daughter it should not be a problem. I think as long as someone is home and aware and looking out, it’s really how much you trust them.”
Lisa Hastings
“Depends on where her room is? Growing up, my bedroom was right off the living room, so my mom let us hang out in my room with the door open while the fam was in the living room. But if it’s upstairs or other side of the house from where you’ll be, then I’d say no. “
Lauren Holland White
“No reason to be in a bedroom. Hard no. I have five teenagers in the home. They can hang out in the bonus room, but know we can come and go while they are in there.”
Amanda Botts Humphrey
“Does your child drive? Because if so, they already have alone time with their boyfriend.
I work at a highschool and you’d be shocked how many kids (whose parents think they’re innocent) are far from innocent. So hanging out in her room, in your house, would probably be preferable.”
Kayla Culwell
“Boy mom here. When they have their own apartment. Not in my house.”
Jennifer Jones
“You’re asking how to judge character in a young person; that’s something you will have to do. Would I trust my son in a girl’s room? Absolutely! Would I trust a kid I hardly know in my daughter’s room? Absolutely not!”
Sean M. Cooley
“I allow my kids to have their friends in their rooms. I trust them and we communicate. I’m also not naive to think that temptation won’t cross their mind eventually. In the end, if they want to have sex, they will find a way. I prefer mine to be safe and educated. I’ve worked far too long with teens and know they will find a way.”
Sara Vailes
“Never. Ever. Not until they pay rent or mortgage and can vote. Boyfriends do not get husband privileges.”
Jessica McMillan Stevens
“When they get their own house.”
SV Kristy
“Nope, nope and nope.”
“OK with doors open at 17.”
Brandon Salmon
Chelsi Williamson
“Here is a thought: do you trust your daughter? What if she is at a friend’s house with the boyfriend or anywhere else because you wouldn’t allow them to be alone at yours?”
Tammy Allen McCullough
“I’ve been struggling with this! I’ve had to learn to let go a little and trust my daughter’s judgement. I let the boyfriend in the room, door open, off of the bed. We also have a one level home, so not sure I’d be as trusting if her room were away from the main house.
Debby Craker
“In her room? We don’t do that.”
Maria Corder
Free Family Activities at Centennial Park!
Every Saturday in July 10:30 AM
Join us each Saturday at the Parthenon for storytelling, arts & crafts, music, and special guests. Free Parthenon admission for families with kids 12 and under.
Come take a walk around Lake Watauga and read the pages of the book, You Are Part of the Wonder by Ruth Doyle and Britta Teckentrup. This book is a joyful celebration of the beauty and wonder of nature for all of us.
Got a baby on board or expecting one? Register now to attend Nashville and Middle Tennessee’s longest-running and FREE annual event for new and expectant parents — THE BABY FAIR! This year, Nashville Parent is throwing two di erent Fairs at two di erent locations to make it easier on expecting parents.
On Saturday, August 10, head to Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital Midtown (Nashville) from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Then, on Saturday, September 21, The Baby Fair will be at Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital Rutherford from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
The Baby Fairs aim to inform parents and empower them for the all-important journey ahead and along the way, there’s lots of fun, too in the way of giveaways and games.
“These are great events where moms get to go directly to see what the experience of having a baby at the hospital is like — it’s
invaluable!” says Stewart Day, publisher of Nashville, Rutherford and Williamson Parent magazines. Day has been producing Baby Fairs in Middle Tennessee for 25 years and counting.
Both events feature giveaways, vendors & booths with resources for new parents, networking opportunities, a variety of activities and more. Plus, attendees can tour birthing facilities, meet OB/GYNs and certified nurse midwives and gain valuable insight from experts presenting informational sessions.
Admission is free, but scan the QR Code and REGISTER for the event you’d like to attend so you can get up-to-date information on prizes, speakers and more! We’ll see you at one — or both! — of The Baby Fairs.
The display and exhibit are included with museum admission and run through summer 2025.
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum recently unveiled a Tom Petty display highlighting how his southern roots shaped his music and his continued influence on new generations of country music artists.
Tom Petty: Where I Come From features several westernthemed artifacts from Petty’s wide-ranging and generationdefining career. Over his career, Petty collaborated with several Country Music Hall of Fame members, including Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton, George Strait and Marty Stuart.
In addition, the museum will open Luke Combs: The Man I Am, a new exhibit highlighting the life and career of Luke Combs beginning July 11. The exhibit will trace Combs’ story from singing with his school choirs in North Carolina to headlining stadiums around the world.
Find more information at countrymusichalloffame.org.
• The 2nd annual FRANKLIN SUMMER BASH will return to Liberty Hall at the Factory at Franklin on Saturday, July 20. This summer concert event will feature performances by this season’s favorites from American Idol and The Voice, with confirmed performances by Maddi Jane, Kaibrienne, Mia Matthews, Kayko and Quintavious Johnson. General admission tickets are $29 in advance at FranklinSummerBash.com.
• Major League Baseball has announced that HOME RUN DERBY X — an exciting new baseball format built around power hitting and defensive hustle — will come to First Horizon Park on Saturday, August 31, 2024. MLB Home Run Derby X will be a 3-on-3 format between four teams made up of former MLB legends, stars from the women’s baseball and softball world and baseball talent from the Middle Tennessee area. Andrew Jones
and Nick Swisher will headline two of the four squads. Joining them are former University of Oklahoma softball star Jocelyn Alo and fourtime member of the USA Women’s Baseball National Team, Alex Hugo. Tickets start at $10. Home run zone admission is $40. Tickets and more info at milb.com/nashville/events/home-run-derby-x.
• Nominations for Nashville Parent magazine’s 2024 BEST OF PARENT-
ING AWARDS begin July 1st and continue through July 26! We want to hear from YOU, our readers, the local parents who know their city best and which businesses and services you believe are the BEST options for families in the area. Voting begins August 1 and continues through August 31. Winners will be announced in November, 2024
issue. To nominate or for more information, visit nashvilleparent. com/best-of-parenting-2024.
• UNICORN WORLD, the traveling event that bills itself as “magical,” is coming to The Fairgrounds Nashville September 21 & 22. The family friendly experience includes unicorns, rides and games and early access tickets are currently available for $36.10 until July 17 when the sale ends. The show is best suited to kids ages 2 and older. Expect to see an enchanted forest, unicorn stables, enjoy arts & crafts, photo ops and fairies and lots more. Tickets are sold in advance only. Head to theunicornworld.com/events and click on “Nashville.”
• THE STAR BRIGHT PLAYERS are holding auditions for Urinetown the Musical on Sunday, July 28 from 1:30 - 4:30 p.m. at the Williamson County Enrichment Center, 110 Everbright Ave., in Franklin. The
show is casting kids ages 13 - 18. Urinetown is a musical that explores a city with a water shortage caused by a 20-year drought and what the citizens must go through to get their dignity back. Performances will be Oct. 18 - 20. For more information, go to wcparksandrec. com and enter “auditions” in the Search field.
• RAIL EXPLORERS, located in Bluegrass, KY, offers scenic tours on Rail Bikes for two or four riders. The nation’s premier railbike company, Rail Explorers has hosted upwards of 500,000 riders across several states where they offer the experience. Tickets for a two-person Tandem Rail Explorer are $99 per person. A four-person Quad Rail is $175 per person. The Kentucky rail experience is a 10-mile round trip. Tours take place three-and-a-half hours north of Nashville. Learn more at railexplorers.net or call 877-833-8588.
by Tiffany Guerzon
In the dog days of summer, kids love to cool off by playing in water, but they get tired of the same old sprinkler or kiddie pool. Here are eight easy and inexpensive DIY outdoor activities to keep kids of all ages both occupied and cool!
Freeze plastic toys into a a block of ice for kids to excavate! To prepare for this activity, fill plastic cups or small food storage containers about two-thirds full with water, and then drop one or two small toys into each container. Freeze each filled container until the water is a solid block of ice, then remove the ice block and place outside in a large plastic bowl or metal baking dish. Now, let
the kids figure out how to get the toys out of the ice. Offer options such as squirt guns filled with warm water, salt, or cups of warm water. Older kids can chip away at the ice with metal forks or butter knives. For a fun twist, try tinting the water blue with food color and using ocean-themed toys, or pair green water with tiny dinosaur toys.
Turn a two-liter soda bottle into a sprinkler! Take a clean, two-liter plastic bottle and drill holes all over the sides of the bottle using a handheld drill. You can use a smaller bit and drill lots of tiny holes, or use a larger bit and drill fewer holes. Next, attach a hose connector to the end of a garden hose. Attach the bottle to the hose by screwing it into the connector. Turn on the hose and let the kids play! This sprinkler is fun on its side on the grass, or toss the hose with the attached sprinkler over the swingset or a tree branch to make a “shower.”
For outdoor art that is a step above sidewalk chalk, try making your own liquid chalk paint.
• Purchase jumbo-sized washable chalk from your local dollar store and break up the chalk into a powder. (Seal in a plastic bag and pulverize with a hammer or use a cheese grater to grate the chalk).
• Add the powdered chalk to a food storage container, and mix in water. (About one-half cup of water per jumbo size piece of chalk). You will have a few chunks, but the mixture should be mostly liquified.
• Repeat the process with different colored chalk until you have several different colors of chalk paint, each in it’s own container. Give the kids paint brushes and let them paint the driveway, fence, concrete porch, or sidewalk. Hose water will wash it away!
When the kids get tired of squirting each other, set up targets for them to aim at! One way is to simply draw targets with washable sidewalk chalk onto a fence. Draw several circles, starting with a small “bullseye” in the center, then add three or four more circles around the bullseye, each
one bigger than the last. Assign each circle a point value and let the kids compete to see who can hit the most points! Plastic disposable drinking cups also make great targets. Line up plastic cups side-by-side onto a deck railing or stack upside down into a pyramid shape and shoot away!
Let the kids release some pent-up energy and cool off with a pinata filled with water! Take a plastic sack and fill about halfway with water. Using the handles of the bag, tie the water-filled bag over a tree branch. The bag doesn’t need to be sealed. Let the kids hit the water bag with tennis rackets, plastic bats or a cardboard wrapping paper tube. What a great way to recycle those plastic grocery bags (though you may need to double them). These water pinatas won’t last long, but getting wet is the point of this activity, so who cares?
Make fun “sponge bobs” from dollar store sponges. Cut two rectangular sponges lengthwise into four pieces each, then stack the strips into two layers of four pieces each. Wrap a rubber band tightly around the midpoint of the stacked sponges. “Fluff” and pull the sponge strips until you have a ball shape. To play, give kids a bowl or bucket of water to dip the sponge balls into. Wet sponge balls are great for tag, target practice, or just tossing back and forth between kids!
Make a lazy river by shaping aluminum foil into a gutter shape and put directly on the grass in a place where the ground gently slopes. Use a hose to create the waterway, or let the kids pour water down the “river” with a cup or bucket. Then they can “float” items down the river like dandelions, leaves, etc.
Tiffany Guerzon is a mom and a freelance writer..
by Gina Rich
Your children WILL get bruises and scrapes when they play — it’s all a rite of passage that you experienced, too. The truth is, many important lessons as well as success come with risk!
When my youngest daughter learned to ride her bike last summer, my husband and I promptly snapped a photo to document the milestone.
In the picture, our daughter looks triumphant, her feet resting comfortably on the pedals as she flashes us a sunny smile. Of course, there were plenty of frustrating moments leading up to this that we didn’t capture on camera. Like anyone learning a new skill, our daughter sometimes got impatient with the process. Many times, after losing her balance and toppling over, she’d give up, leaving her bike in a sad heap in our driveway.
As I nursed my aching back — sore from holding my daughter’s bike as I ran alongside her — I comforted myself with the knowledge that at least she was safe. In addition to a bike helmet, we’d outfitted her with elbow guards, knee pads and sturdy gloves.
The gear was bulky. It was stiff. And it was itchy, our daughter complained. But she needed it all. Didn’t she?
One afternoon, midway through another round of practicing, our daughter got off her bike and began yanking at the gear that had, until now, protected her tender skin from injury.
“I don’t want to wear all this stuff,” she said.
The helmet was non-negotiable. But as for the rest of the gear? We let her take it off.
For the remainder of the summer, the collection sat in a pile in our closet, gathering dust.
Our daughter did endure a few bruises and scrapes after that. But without the extra gear restricting her, she was able to move her body freely, and soon improved her balance and coordination on the bike. And I realized that all of our efforts to keep her shielded, padded and insulated hadn’t made her better off – they ultimately made her learning process more cumbersome.
When my kids were little, I always tried to keep them out of harm’s way — and they worked just as hard to neutralize my efforts! They climbed counters, investigated electrical outlets and put every tiny object possible into their mouths and noses.
Though my kids tested my sanity, evolution-wise they were behaving as expected. Young mammals are drawn to risky play because it creates an exhilarating blend of freedom and fear, according to Peter Gray, a research professor and the author of Free to Learn (Basic Books; 2013). In a 2014 article, “Risky Play: Why Children Love It and Need It,” published in Psychology
(please turn the page)
Today, Gray explains that this exposure to natural risks has an important benefit for animals and humans alike: It enables us to practice managing negative emotions, particularly anger and fear.
Roughhousing is a popular form of risky play among kids that sometimes results in accidental injuries, which can anger the person who was hit — understandably. But that person quickly learns to overcome the momentary anger so that the fun game can continue, according to Gray.
Similarly, when kids play hide and seek, climb trees or rocket down a steep hill on skates, they experience a measure of fear that they learn instinctively to control. “They learn that they can manage their fear, overcome it, and come out alive,” Gray writes.
When I was in middle school, I used to bike around town with a neighborhood friend. My friend’s mother — who I considered very strict at the time — asked only that my friend check in with her once every four hours. Otherwise, we were free to explore whatever struck our fancy.
Without question, unstructured play comes with risks. But when it comes to our children’s long-term development, independence and mental health, it’s becoming clear that the lack of risky play poses a far greater danger.
Over the past few decades, this type of unstructured, adventurous play has decreased dramatically, due largely to the rise of adult-directed extracurricular activities and increased anxiety about safety. Today, parents are much less likely to allow kids to roam the neighborhood unsupervised, or to walk or bike to a friend’s house by themselves. By removing the natural risks inherent in play, we’ve created other problems. According to an American Academy of Pediatrics report, “when play is controlled by adults, children acquiesce to adult rules and concerns and lose some of the benefits play offers them, particularly in developing creativity, leadership and group skills.” Kids who grow up highly sheltered wind up less resilient and less equipped to manage the challenges of adulthood. As a result, their mental health often suffers.
Concerned educators and other child development advocates are trying to bring back risky play in different ways. Adventure playgrounds, which often include discarded items like car tires, old mattresses, and broken bikes, are popping up in parks and playgrounds. In these spaces, kids are free to run, jump, hide and even work with tools like hammers and saws — and parents aren’t allowed.
In Quebec, Canada, some elementary schools are promoting rough play in designated “play-fighting zones,” where students are permitted to wrestle and grab each other, but not kick, hit, bite or throw objects.
Beyond junkyard playgrounds and play-fighting at recess, rest assured that there are many other ways to reap the benefits of risky play, and they will look different for each child. For some kids, it might be climbing a tall tree or skating solo around the block. For others, it might be constructing a fort using real hammers and nails or cooking a meal on the stove.
When considering what types of risky play can benefit your child, pay attention to what they seem to gravitate toward most. Your child has likely hinted at or even stated outright some ideas. Is it more freedom to roam the neighborhood? Is it staying home alone on
occasion? Is it getting acquainted with a new kitchen tool?
Think about activities that will expand your child’s world and offer opportunities to learn new skills. Encourage your child to make a list of ideas that you can revisit together from time to time.
Parents seem to be far more uneasy about risky play than kids are, and for good reason: We’ve been exposed to more messaging about life’s dangers — real or imagined — that lurk around every corner.
Chances are good that allowing your child to participate in risky or unstructured play will make you feel uncomfortable. The challenge is to embrace this discomfort as long as it benefits your child’s development.
In the television show Annedroids, a trio of middle school kids build robots in a secret junkyard. They use all kinds of tools, create science experiments and explore their rugged surroundings, all without adult supervision. Without giving away any spoilers, one of the kids’ moms becomes increasingly wary of the junkyard, explaining it’s not safe.
I empathize with the mom character. When my youngest climbs trees or my oldest cuts vegetables with real knives, my natural inclination is to rush in and help — to protect, insulate and safeguard. I’ll admit, I often succumb to that tendency.
Even so, I’m starting to recognize that the more I do this, the more I’m depriving my kids of the chance to develop critical skills through experience. I could say, “Be careful!” until I sound like a broken record, but letting my kids encounter natural risks — and cope with whatever challenges might arise — is a far more effective lesson.
At the martial arts studio where my oldest daughter practices, there’s a large glass window for parents to observe the class. Each time the students engage in sparring — or controlled fighting exercises with their classmates — all of the adults hold their collective breath. I know we’re all thinking the same thing: Please don’t let my kid get hurt. Although the students wear protective gear, there’s a good chance of getting kicked or knocked down.
During one session, my daughter sustained a decent wallop to her face. Although she wasn’t seriously injured, as I watched her eyes well up with tears, I felt awful. At first, I worried that I’d done her a disservice by allowing her to participate in an activity where she could get hurt. But the experience ultimately made a positive impact on her: It taught her the importance of always keeping her hands up to protect her face — a lesson that has stuck with her. If she’d never been hurt, she wouldn’t be as diligent today about that aspect of her form. This realization helped me cope with the initial discomfort and guilt I felt about her getting injured.
Without question, unstructured play comes with risks. But when it comes to our children’s long-term development, independence and mental health, it’s becoming clear that the lack of risky play poses a far greater danger.
Gina
Rich is
a
mom and freelance writer.
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by Katy Clark
All around us are highfalutin’ pressures to be perfect in our parenting. But what if being a “better” parent actually means trying a bit less?
Iwas reading my Kindle when I caught the blur out of the corner of my eye. It was my 9-year-old girl running through the front lawn with her friends. I smiled as I realized I had just practiced a lazy way to be a better mom: I did nothing. That’s right. When my daughter claimed she was bored five minutes ago, I refused to entertain her. She could do something about it, after all. And so she did.
I know other lazy ways to be a better parent, too. Because who has time to read countless articles and books on being a better mom and incorporate their action items amidst laundry, sports, activities, work, passion projects, birthday parties and more?
(please turn the page)
Enjoying your parenting more comes from relaxing into it and ditching the stress. Lazy is not negligent; lazy is an approach that will bring more joy and happiness.
Herewith: ideas for a more relaxed approach to kids.
It’s easy, free and enjoyable. Even if you just laugh at stupid bodily function jokes, like my family does, laughing releases endorphins and gives you a subtle rush.
With apologies to anyone in the newborn phase, moms of older kids can go to bed earlier, get up later, or take a short nap on the couch for 15 minutes while the kids watch YouTube. (I tried that last suggestion myself. Thumbs up!) You’ll feel recharged and happier with a bit more shut-eye.
You’ll feel more content if you’ve been drinking enough. Of course I mean water. Mostly. But that’s not to say that my teenager and I don’t swing by the drive-thru every so often to indulge in a large soda pop. Sure, there’s no nutritional value, blah blah blah. However, it makes me happy, my teenager loves it, and my thirst is quenched.
Never mind if your daughter replies with “Great”. (True story.) No matter how often you say this phrase, just say it. Your kids, and their hearts, will blossom when they hear those three little words.
I like to grab my teenager and give him a squeeze. He protests, but I think he likes it. Physical touch prevents illness and creates a tangible bond. Chances are, your kids will hug you back.
Let them be bored and figure out for themselves how to live with that or change that. Absolutely resist the urge to swoop in.
Show them that you are not perfect and that everyone has flaws as well as awesomeness. I like to think I’m celebrating my imperfections when I sing the wrong lyrics to pretty much every song on the radio, with my kids in the car of course.
Once my daughter spent 20 minutes replaying every mundane moment of the dream she had the night before. I spent 20 minutes nodding and saying, “Uh huh” while drinking coffee and watching the news. It worked for both of us.
To each other, to their friends, or to you. When my husband tells our son that he used to do X, Y, and Z to be a better hockey player in high school, I can see my son’s eyes glazing over. There will always be someone who is faster, stronger, tougher, cuter (thanks, Heidi Klum), smarter, etc.
It takes effort to intervene and fix things for them. When my daughter tried to build a sidecar for her stuffed animals on her scooter, I knew it wouldn’t work. However, she needed to see for herself that 23 stuffed animals in a shoebox taped to her handlebars wouldn’t cut it. She reaped the benefits of resilience and perseverance from her failure and redesigned a working sidecar. So what if it held one stuffed animal, not 23.
Katy Clark is a mom and an award-winning writer.
When choosing health care, after-school programs, daycares, pediatric care and other support for your family, it’s important to find professionals you trust. As parents, you strive to form relationships with outstanding local businesses who will better your family experiences. Nashville Parent’s Biz for Families
special advertising section, offers a glimpse into businesses who care. We are proud to showcase some of the companies dedicated to making a difference, and we hope this special section will open the door to new opportunities and greater possibilities for you and your kids. Flip through the pages to explore the section.
There’s a new Bach to Rock coming to Franklin, and as its July 20th Grand Opening quickly approaches, excitement is building! Bach to Rock isn’t your typical music school; it’s a musical community, a place where students of all ages come together to learn, create, and perform music. Founded on the belief that music should be fun, exciting, accessible to everyone, Bach to Rock offers a wide range of music programs tailored to varying skill levels and interests. From individual lessons in guitar, piano, band/orchestra, drums, and voice to group classes like Rock Band, DJ, Beatmaking, mixing, and music production, there is something for everyone at Bach to Rock.
Have a birthday party coming up? Celebrate at B2R with our Grand Opening $1 Party Deal! This is a chance for your child and guests to experience a fun and dynamic Bach to Rock music party for just one dollar! From karaoke, to Rock Band, to DJ and more, there’s no shortage of party activities to explore.
Also, Bach to Rock Franklin is giving the first 100 new members to enroll in monthly lessons a free guitar! Bach to Rock of Franklin, Tennessee offers Early Childhood “Mommy and Me” style classes, group classes, private and semi-private lessons, recording arts instruction, band,
FRANKLIN
1113 Murfreesboro Road, #202 615-468-9123
NASHVILLE WEST
6702 Charlotte Pike, #105 615-637-7242
camps, DJ training, workshops, and other programing for students of all ages. Bach to Rock helps students and families develop a life-long love of music, instilling confidence, encouraging growth, and building lifelong friendships with others who share the same passion!
We know that students learn best when they play music they enjoy. That’s why we encourage our students to choose the songs they want to play in music lessons. Our students follow their own musical interests, learn songs by their favorite artists, and develop their personal sound!
We believe that learning music is easier and more enjoyable through one-on-one teaching. Our private music lessons include weekly, one-on-one lessons with dedicated music teachers. This way, every student can learn at their own pace and benefit from personalized instruction. We also offer semi-private lessons for students who want to learn with a friend!
Cheekwood is a 55-acre botanical garden and art museum located on the historic Cheek estate. Since opening to the public in 1960, Cheekwood has presented world-class art exhibitions, spectacular gardens and an historic estate unlike anything else. Visitors enjoy family activities, programming for all ages and year-round festivals celebrating the four seasons. From 250,000 blooming bulbs in the spring to one mile of holiday lights in the winter, there’s always something to see at Cheekwood.
Meet the TROLLS This Summer Giant trolls have taken up residence at Cheekwood for the summer! Come meet the trolls, and learn their names, stories, and their messages on how to take better care of our planet.
TROLLS: Save the Humans by prominent recycle artist Thomas Dambo, features six young trolls who have noticed that the “small people” – which is what the trolls call humans – are disconnected from nature and have started harming the planet. The goal of the tribe is to help the humans rediscover nature and inspire them to be good stewards of earth.
TRAINS! and The Little Engine That Could Storybook Trail Venture down The Little Engine That Could Storybook Trail in the Turner Seasons Garden to experience the TRAINS! exhibit. With a total of 1,035 linear feet of track for Thomas and other engines and train cars to chug along, this magical playground is for the young and young at heart. Through tunnels and observation domes, little train enthusiasts are transported to a secret garden and charming forest scene, greeted by familiar animal and insect creatures.
Bracken Foundation Children’s Garden
The two-acre Bracken Foundation Children’s Garden, inspired
by Cheekwood’s historic landscape and architecture, offers an interactive, imaginative experience to inspire interest in art and nature. Stop by the Living Library to find baskets filled with fun interactive items that spark learning about themes including Things with Wings, Elements of Art, Our Sky and Weather, and so much more.
TOTS!
Summer schedule: June, July & August, Tuesdays and Saturdays, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
TOTS! offers hands-on activities, storytime and turtle talks in the Bracken Foundation Children’s Garden. Little ones accompanied by an adult learn about the plants in our garden and the art on our walls.
This weekly event is an adventure through food, drink, art and song, every Thursday through October from 5:30 – 9 p.m. The evening invites guests to sample seasonal libations, irresistible bites from the city’s favorite food trucks, and Café 29 while the always diverse music lineup provides the eclectic soundtrack. Bring the whole family to enjoy the perfect evening.
Cheekwood is located eight miles southwest of downtown Nashville. It is open Tuesday through Sunday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., with extended days and hours of operation depending on the season. Visit cheekwood.org for the current schedule of events, information on becoming a member, and to purchase tickets.
6544 Murray Lane Brentwood
615-507-3242
The mission of Currey Ingram Academy is to provide an exemplary JK-12 day and boarding school program that empowers students with learning differences to achieve their fullest potential.
For over 50 years, students have benefited from learning in an environment that promotes their strengths and supports their differences.
Currey Ingram settles for nothing less than being a global leader for students with language-based learning challenges, dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, ADHD, executive functioning and processing deficits, mild anxiety disorders, high-functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and more.
Currey Ingram’s focus on individualized attention sets students up to thrive. In fact, the average student-teacher ratio is 5:1 school-wide. With evidence-based instruction, Individualized Learning Plans (ILP), and on-staff occupational therapists and speech-language pathologists, they provide the tools and support that every student needs and deserves.
Students can also enjoy no-cut athletics and a wide range of extracurricular activities. With a theater stage, art studio, professional recording studio, track field,
tennis courts, and forest trails, every student has the opportunity to pursue their passion at Currey Ingram.
The 83-acre campus is located in an idyllic, pastoral area of Brentwood — just 11 miles from downtown Nashville. Over the years, families from 33 states and nine countries have cited the school as a major factor in moving to the Nashville area.
Currey Ingram also has a Junior Kindergarten program, a childcare program for infants through Pre-K, a college counseling center, and a Residential Life boarding program. A special feature is their Diagnostic Center, which is open to Currey Ingram students and the public for psychoeducational evaluations and consultations. The center helps produce a report that fully explores the child’s learning challenges and strengths to point a clear path toward effective interventions and strategies for each unique child.
With rolling admissions and tuition assistance available, it’s never too late to start learning at Currey Ingram Academy.
Dive into food and fun at the Aquarium Restaurant – an underwater adventure! Home to hundreds of species of colorful marine life, guests will enjoy a delicious menu of seafood, steaks, chicken and pasta as they dine around an impressive aquarium in the center of the restaurant. During special dinner reservations, watch our Mystic Mermaids swim amongst their sea life friends while teaching the importance of taking care of our environment (see schedule for mermaids online). Plan a trip to the Aquarium Restaurant today - it’s fun for the whole family!
The Aquarium Restaurant is the perfect place for Kids Birthday Parties! Our Bottom of the Sea parties make lifelong memories.
• Package offered for children 12 or younger
• Choice of Aquarium Kid’s Meal (Choice of chicken tenders or cheese pizza for group)
• Balloon bouquet for birthday child
• Includes Cherry Icee beverages in Sharkey character souvenir cup for each child
• Make your own sundae
• Reserved dining area for 1½ hours
• Animal Plush Party Favor for each child
• Appearance by our mascot, Sharkey upon request. Party Add-Ons:
• Behind the Scenes Tour: a 20-minute guided Aquarium tour with a Biologist
• Exclusive Behind the Scenes Tour: a 60-minute guided Aquarium tour with a Biologist
• Private Mermaid Meet & Greet
• Private Mermaid Meet & Greet AND Swim
• Marine Biologies for a Day Call Susie Shark at 615-514-FISH for availability and rates.
Your adventure starts here. For dining reservations, please visit our dining page on our website.
95 Seaboard Lane, Ste. 102 Brentwood – 615-377-3080
115 Penn Warren Drive, Ste. 300 Brentwood – 615-661-0303
7216 Nolensville Road, Ste. 120 Nolensville – 615-283-7397
Brentwood Pediatric Dentistry, Nolensville Pediatric Dentistry, and Doyle Orthodontics are Middle Tennessee’s premier pediatric dental and orthodontic care providers, offering comprehensive and conservative treatment plans in fun, safe, and family-friendly environments.
Brentwood Pediatric Dentistry boasts a skilled team of Pediatric Dentists Dr. Cregger and Dr. McGowan, Orthodontist Dr. Bursian, and General Dentist Dr. Shah. They emphasize a collaborative approach to ensure the comprehensive oral health of their young patients. Their commitment to high-quality dental care is evident in their use of the latest techniques and technologies. They offer a wide range of services, including preventative care, restorative treatments, and emergency services. The team at Brentwood Pediatric Dentistry strives to create a positive dental experience, ensuring that children feel comfortable and at ease in a friendly and welcoming environment.
Nolensville Pediatric Dentistry, led by Dr. William Keeton, operates on a simple yet profound philosophy: treating patients like family. They prioritize creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere where children feel at home. With a unique blend of education and the joy of entertainment, every dental visit feels like a fun adventure. The Nolensville Pediatric Dentistry team believes
learning about oral health can be as fun as it is important. By working closely with parents, Nolensville Pediatric Dentistry develops personalized treatment plans that emphasize preventive care and education. This patient-centric approach ensures that children receive the best possible care while feeling comfortable and well cared for.
Doyle Orthodontics, led by Dr. Sean Doyle, is committed to providing high-quality orthodontic care with a personal touch for patients of all ages. They utilize the latest advancements in braces technology, including Invisalign® clear aligners, to help patients achieve the smiles of their dreams. Dr. Doyle and his team prioritize a comfortable and engaging environment, ensuring that each patient’s orthodontic journey is a positive experience.
Whether you’re looking for your child’s first dental home or a family-friendly orthodontic practice to begin the journey to a beautiful, healthy new smile, we are here to help. With conservative treatment plans, welcoming environments, and top-notch dental and orthodontic care tailored to each patient’s individual needs, you can trust that your family will receive care worth smiling about.
5819 Old Harding Pike, Nashville 7640 Hwy 70 S., Nashville 615-352-2990
Old Harding Pediatrics has been serving the Nashville pediatric medical community for over 80 years! We pride ourselves on providing only the best patient care possible. Every physician at OHPA is hospital-trained and board-certified. Through continuing medical education, our practice stays abreast of the latest research and medical advancements, allowing us to provide the most relevant patient care.
Our doctors believe strongly in the patient medical home which allows your child’s primary care physician to get to know you and your family, as well as manage your child’s overall health picture. We see patients by appointment for well-child visits, office visits for your specific needs or illnesses, follow-up care on specific illnesses or conditions, consultations for issues requiring further discussion and prenatal needs for expecting parents. Our in-house lab allows us to perform many tests onsite, thus removing the waiting period for some
results. Old Harding Pediatrics has been serving the Nashville community since the 1930s and for your convenience, we have two locations: 5819 Old Harding Pike and our Bellevue office at 7640 Hwy 70 South. We know that life doesn’t stop at 5 p.m., and it is because of this that we offer night and weekend clinic hours for sick or injured patients. We are also available by phone 24/7 for any questions that arise.
It is never lost on us what an honor it is to be trusted with the care of your children. To all of our past, current and future patients, thank you for allowing us to be a part of your child’s story. It is the highest of compliments.
Voted Best Pediatrician in the Best of Parenting 19 years in a row by Nashville Parent readers.
For parents, few things are more important than keeping our children safe. And when it comes to water safety, drowning is the leading cause of accidental death for children ages 1-4. It’s absolutely vital that all children learn essential swimming and survival skills from an early age.
That’s where British Swim School comes in. With a focus on teaching children vital water survival skills through a gentle and fun curriculum, British Swim School is more than “just” swimming lessons- it’s an approach designed to instill knowledge and abilities that could one day save a child’s life.
The core of British Swim School’s methodology is the “survival first” philosophy. Rather than prioritizing specific strokes or competitive skills from the beginning, British Swim School starts with water acclimation, then moving on to teach\children critical self-rescue skills like being able to roll onto their backs to breathe, swim to the surface from underwater, and navigate to the nearest wall or exit. Only once these foundational survival skills are mastered do children move ontomoreadvanced stroke development.
While many think of swimming as a summertime activity, British Swim School operates year-round, rain or shine.
3 Locations in Nashville
615-814-8154
That’s because the risk of childhood drowning remains constant every day, in any season.
And the results speak for themselves. British Swim School’s low student-to-instructor ratios (never more than 4-to-1), combined with careful progression through the survival-based curriculum, create an unparalleled layer of security and confidence. Parents can rest easy knowing their children are not just learning to swim, but mastering aquatic abilities that could mean the difference between life and death.
With convenient locations across Nashville and passionate instructors dedicated to individualized progress, British Swim School provides a safe, nurturing environment for children to gain those irreplaceable survival skills.
The best way to keep your child safe in and around water is by enrolling them in British Swim School’s awardwinning program today. Because when it comes to preventing drowning, knowledge and skills can make all the difference.
Every day this summer, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is offering engaging and culturally enriching activities, giving local families the perfect opportunity to explore a museum in their own backyard at a discounted rate.
Local youth 18 and under who are residents of Davidson and bordering counties, including Cheatham, Robertson, Rutherford, Sumner, Williamson, and Wilson are always free, plus 25% off admission is offered for up to two accompanying adults.
From Memorial Day to Labor Day, the Museum is also providing a range of family-friendly activities, including hands-on music workshops, art-making, and more. Designed for various age groups and skill levels, these workshops make for a unique opportunity in which locals can learn new skills and express their creativity in a supportive environment. Programs and activities include:
Mondays and Tuesdays, all day: Grab a take-and-make kit to create instruments out of repurposed materials like spoons, rubber bands, and more. Find inspiration in the galleries and get creative at home!
Wednesdays, 10 a.m. – noon: Bow a fiddle, pluck a banjo, and strum a ukulele! The Musical Instrument Petting Zoo offers budding musicians a chance to try new and familiar instruments in a drop-in setting.
Thursdays through Sundays, 10 a.m. – noon: Get into a Creative Zone by creating arts and crafts related to Museum artifacts and exhibitions.
222 Rep. John Lewis Way S Nashville 615-416-2001
Saturdays, 1 – 2 p.m.: Express yourself through music, dance, or art in drop-in and workshop-based programs. Explore line dancing, create a friendship bracelet, learn to play a ukulele, and more during Saturday afternoon programs.
Along with the Museum’s drop-in programming and workshops, young explorer and sensory kits, scavenger hunts, coloring pages, and gallery interactives are always available—for a summer full of discovery and creativity while exploring the Museum’s 2024 exhibits:
• American Currents: State of the Music
• An American Masterwork: Thomas Hart Benton’s “Sources of Country Music” at 50
• Luke Combs: The Man I Am, Open July 11
• Patty Loveless: No Trouble with the Truth
• Night Train to Nashville: Music City Rhythm & Blues Revisited
• Western Edge: The Roots and Reverberations of Los Angeles Country-Rock, presented by City National Bank
For a full list of programs, as well as other offerings for locals this summer, visit the Museum’s website: countrymusichalloffame.org/summer-locals
Welcome to Snodgrass-King Dental Associates!
It is our belief that a healthy and beautiful smile will be the foundation of a child’s future. Our pediatric dental specialists are committed to delivering the optimum in dental care.
Pediatric Dental Care that Build Smiles for Life
You choose us because you want the best for your children, and so do we. It is our goal to provide this in a relaxing and fun-filled environment. At Snodgrass-King, we know the impact that your smile has on your health, self-esteem, and the way others view you. It is our mission to insure every patient has a smile to build a bright future on.
Did you know it’s recommended that children have their first dental examination when they begin to teethe and their first tooth erupts? The first dental visit should occur shortly after the first tooth erupts and no later than the child’s first birthday.
Our pediatric dentists have many years under their belts of giving children and families quality dental care. Every day, we’re happy to provide the best dental care for our pediatric patients here in Tennessee.
Orthodontics – For Kids, Teens, and Adults in Tennessee! Is your child over seven? If so, it’s time to schedule your first evaluation with our orthodontists! Set up an appointment with
4 Middle Tennessee Locations 615-656-8224
any of our child friendly orthodontists both in our Cool Springs or Murfreesboro offices.
We encourage your desire to seek the best possible orthodontic care for yourself and your loved ones. Our Orthodontists are uniquely educated experts in dentistry specializing in straightening teeth and aligning jaws. They prevent and treat dental and facial irregularities. Our dentists have experience with pediatric and adult orthodontics. Orthodontic treatment is a long-term relationship between your family, the doctor, and the entire orthodontic team. Learn what you can expect on your first orthodontic evaluation. Don’t forget, braces are for adults too.
At Snodgrass-King, we pride ourselves on our patient respect, assuring you the best possible results. We invite you to take a look for yourself. Head over to the before and after gallery to see some of our work in action. Don’t like traditional orthodontic appliances? Explore your options with Invisalign and clear braces.
Now in four convenient locations to keep you smiling for life.
Now accepting TennCare.
At New Visions Dojo, we study Wado-ryu karate-do, a traditional Japanese martial art based on a masterful blend of martial principles, movement concepts, and mind-body connection. Wado translates as “Way of Harmony”, a meaning that resonates in every aspect of training.
Our instructors, Ryan and Chelsie Guillemet have a combined 50 years of teaching experience and a genuine desire to share martial arts and propel students toward their very best. As a result, New Visions Dojo has grown a tremendous reputation for traditional training with modern insights, high standards, and camaraderie that allows our students to excel on the mat, in their communities and beyond.
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. We carefully construct classes according to skill, age, and rank, while working with parents to build an individualized program that produces lifelong benefits.
We train our students to use their skills of awareness, redirection, and avoidance before resorting to physical combat. Our curriculum covers defensive strategies for all forms of confrontation: verbal, single/multiple attackers, and ground defense. The dojo (classroom) represents life on a smaller scale, cultivating each student’s best effort
6601 Sugar Valley Drive #111
Nashville
615-972-0989
and attitude as they set their bar high and build confidence to handle themselves in any situation.
Additionally, New Visions Dojo offers competition training through Nashville Sport Karate -- a nationally-recognized karate team open to students of all ages and ranks. Sport karate training compliments traditional class work by refining technique, precision, and athletic performance so that karate athletes can test their skills against high standards.
Karate training can have a profound impact on the lives of students and families, and we at New Visions Dojo are committed to our mission of helping our students realize their inner strength and pursue their true potential with confidence.
In celebration of 15 GREAT years of New Visions Dojo, we’re offering new students a $15 anniversary trial – 5 karate classes and uniform for only $15! Sign up for your evaluation lesson today and come see what sets us apart!
353 Orpy Mills Drive
Nashville 615-514-3000
Step into our world and let the untamed wonder of the rainforest captivate you. It all began 30 years ago with our very first location, nestled in the iconic Mall of America. It’s time to celebrate the magical journey that started it all.
From the moment you enter our restaurant, the air comes alive with the symphony of chirping birds, trickling waterfalls, and distant thunder, transporting you to a world untouched by time. But Rainforest Cafe offers more than mesmerizing surroundings. Lifelike animatronics breathe life into this mystical realm. Towering trees become the stage for gigantic gorillas, playful monkeys leap from branch to branch, filling the air with echoes of laughter.
Our menu draws inspiration from the diverse flavors of the rainforest, meticulously crafting fusion dishes that capture the essence of cuisines from far-flung corners of this vibrant ecosystem. By igniting awe and wonder, we aim to awaken a passion within each guest to protect these precious environments for generations to come. With every bite, you embark on a culinary exploration through uncharted
territories, savoring the taste of adventure. At Rainforest Cafe, we stand as a sanctuary of conservation, going beyond being just a place to dine. Through dedicated efforts and partnerships with organizations, we passionately champion the preservation of delicate ecosystems and the remarkable creatures that call them home. We understand that by inspiring awe and wonder, we can ignite a fire within each guest, fostering a commitment to protect these precious environments for generations to come. All wishing pond proceeds are donated to organizations supporting rainforest and wildlife causes.
Allow the magic of the wild to ignite your imagination as you celebrate three decades of adventure, conservation, and culinary delights at Rainforest Cafe. Each moment invites you to share in a story waiting to be told.
Pogo Pass is an annual pass, for all ages, that allows members FREE admission to a variety of attractions. Pogo Pass started in Phoenix, Arizona where owners, Shane Balliston, Mitch Jones, and Scott Hyatt came together with an idea. They wanted to give families the ability to explore their city in an affordable way. “We started out with 7 venues and we thought, if we put this together right, we could put together a good pass that benefits everyone”. Pogo Pass was born.
The company has since grown and is now in nine different markets. Including Houston Texas, Cincinnati Ohio, and the Emerald Coast in Florida. The pass aims to offer a variety of attractions that can be enjoyed by the whole family. The pass is valid for an entire year, and attractions are continually added. Current pass holders receive access to all new attractions at no extra charge.
The Pogo Pass team also loves to support local schools, they offer a give back to education program.“We partner with schools in every state, allowing their students and families to purchase the passes at a discounted price and in return, the
schools get a percentage back on every pass sold. It is a great way to give back to the communities we are in,” says Staci Allen, Sales Director of Pogo Pass.
We want families to be able to visit a variety of attractions and a lot of thought is put into the selection process. ``We’re very selective on what businesses we partner with. We want to make sure when we send families to places, we’re sending them to a good, clean, positive environment.
The pass is simple to use, and is completely digital. Each city has different attractions that showcase what the cities have to offer. The Pogo team is so passionate about providing families affordable ways to explore together that they are currently offering 50% off any of their passes, with promo code: NASHPARENT.
Explore your city affordably by visiting www.pogopass.com.
1635 Lascassas Pike
Murfreesboro
615-890-3732
Imagine, you turn into a parking lot, and you look in the rearview mirror at your dog in the backseat. What an anxious girl she used to be, trembling whenever she thought about getting a bath or how she growled at every dog you passed on the sidewalk during your evening walks. But now? . . . Look at her! You smile. Tongue hanging out of her mouth, tail wagging! She knows where she is—Safari Pet Resort! You pull into a parking spot, and you can barely clip on her leash before she’s out the door, ready for her next adventure.
Located in Murfreesboro—in the heart of Middle Tennessee near MTSU—Safari Pet Resort is a family-owned and operated business that has been providing superior pet care for over 40 years. At Safari Pet Resort, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your furry friend is receiving the highest level of care and having so much fun, too! Our many services include:
• Premium Overnight Lodging for dogs & cats
• Luxury Private Garden Suites with tropical views
• Grooming Salon & Spa
• Fun Doggie Daycare Open 7 days a week
• Saltwater Swimming Pool
• Free, live webcam access
• Pet pick-up & delivery Adventure Bus
The “why” behind what we do at Safari Pet Resort is our mission: To satisfy the needs, wants, and whims of our real customers—the pets. To provide a fun, healthy, and safe environment for pets through exceptional care. And to convey a home away from home for every pet, every visit.
The work we do is a privilege, and it’s our passion!
Executive Artistic Director of Nashville Children’s theatre Ernie Nolan is proud to announce the 2024/25 season lineup of 6 productions, including four original world-premiere productions for guests of all ages.
This upcoming season embraces the theme of “Playing My Part With Heart,” and seeks to ignite creativity and empathy in young audiences. Two of the season’s productions – “The Wheels on the Bus” and “Dino Time!” – are part of NCT’s Snuggery program, which offers immersive and interactive programming for young children from birth to age 5.“We take great pride in the diverse range of productions featured in this year’s lineup and extend a warm invitation to audiences of all ages to come and experience them,” said Ernie Nolan, NCT’s executive artistic director.”
“The Best Worst School Year Ever” – World Premiere
Based on the book by Barbara Robinson
Adapted by Jahnna Beecham and Malcolm Hillgartner
In Hill Auditorium from Sept. 7–29, 2024
Buckle up – The Herdmans are back!
The second in a series of stories featuring characters from “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever,” Beth and Charlie Bradley fear starting another school year with their notorious classmates Imogene, Leroy and Gladys Herdman. An unforgettably hilarious school year commences complete with a tattooed baby, a mysterious teachers’ lounge and a compassionate discovery that might prove there’s something good about this crazy clan after all.
“The Wheels on the Bus” – World Premiere
Based on the traditional song, production written by Ernie Nolan
In the NCT Snuggery from Oct. 5–Dec. 1, 2024
Get ready to go “up and down” on a remarkable ride!
All aboard, trainees! Bert the Bus Driver is ready to take you all through a town full of colorful characters and comic conundrums in this interactive, immersive play for ages 0 to 5 years old. Get ready to help navigate his route and sing along, of course, as the wipers swish, the horn beeps and passengers move on back.
“Pippi Longstocking”
Music and Lyrics by Sebastian
Adapted for the stage by Sebastian and Steffan Gotestam
Based on the novel by Astrid Lindgren
In Hill Auditorium from Nov. 2–29, 2024
On the NCT stage for the first time in 93 years!
No school, no parents, no bedtime or rules. Newcomer Pippi’s on her own to live as she pleases at Villekulla Cottage. Befriending Tommy and Annika, brother and sister neighbors, the everyday becomes amazing as the trio visits the circus, spends the day at school and even attends a remarkable tea party. Will Pippi be forced to conform to the rules, or can she buck the system while waiting for her pirate king father to return? Find out as this timeless
classic explodes from the page to the NCT stage.
“ELIJAH ROCK! A Jubilee Battle” – World Premiere
Created by Gloria Bond Clunie
Feb. 1–March 2, 2025
When middle school history champion Elijah Rock wants to compete again with a spiced-up version of past events, he suddenly has to do battle with everybody – including a mysterious band of spirits who call themselves the Fisk Jubilee Singers. Will he win the competition this year – or even survive to compete? Music, rap, rhyme and the mysteries of time will determine triumph or defeat.
“Dino Time!” – World Premiere
Created by Ernie Nolan
In the NCT Snuggery from March 1–May 18, 2025
You’re invited to a dinosaur dance party!
Dino and Dina Dinosaur are ready to celebrate – their egg is about to hatch! But before their delightful, dainty dinosaur hatches, there’s a lot to do. Help prehistoric parents prepare and welcome their new little one in this interactive, immersive play for ages 0 to 5 years old.
“Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Musical”
Book by Kevin Del Aguila
Music and Lyrics Michael Mahler and Alan Shmuckler
Based on the “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” book series by Jeff Kinney and the 20th Century Fox Films
April 5–May 18, 2025
Jeff Kinney’s popular character takes center stage in this hilarious and heartfelt musical. Middle school, ugh. It’s the worst. But Greg is determined not to be at the bottom of the popularity chart. He’ll leave that to his weird neighbor, Fregley. Or maybe Greg’s best friend, Rowley Jefferson. But it’s not going to be Greg … no way. Will Greg’s plans to become popular lead him to sacrifice his one true friend? Grab a hall pass and don’t be late for an adventure familiar to anyone who actually survived middle school.
About Nashville Children’s Theatre
Nashville Children’s Theatre is the country’s oldest youth-centered professional theatre, providing nationally recognized family-friendly programming with professional, high-quality production by trained actors. Creating artistic experiences for everyone, Nashville Children’s Theatre believes theatre can change the world, one audience at a time. We also offer acting workshops for kids, and camps for children to ex-lore the imaginative world of theatre.
Explore with Wonders of the Universe!
Journey deeper into space exploration as we uncover the technology scientists use to explore outer space. Immerse yourself in a Mars diorama and get up close and personal with a model from NASA of the Curiosity rover and a life-sized comparison of NASA’s Hubble and James Webb telescopes.
Discover a diorama featuring a model of the Curiosity rover, on loan from NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). This full-scale model showcases the incredible technology scientists use to gather data on the Red Planet. Step up to take a selfie with Curiosity in front of a background image taken by Curiosity itself! In addition to the amazing model of the Curiosity rover, JPL has loaned us several artifacts related to NASA’s past, current, and future work on Mars. Examine a prototype showcasing the wiring of the Perseverance rover’s mast (or head), get up close to one of the rover’s wheels, and notice the odometry marker holes drilled into the tires which allows the rover to photograph its tracks and measure driving process across soft surfaces.
800 Fort Negley Blvd.
Nashville
615-862-5160
Here’s your chance to touch a real meteorite from the Red Planet. The meteorite on display is a small portion of the meteorite NWA 14714, which was found in 2021 in Northwest Africa.
There’s a whole universe of discoveries out there. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of your visit to get up to speed with the latest astronomy research. You’ll reveal the latest planets, farthest-flung galaxies, brightest stars, and so much more.
Adventure Science Center is a non-profit science museum for children located in Nashville, Tennessee. The museum features over 175 hands-on interactive exhibits with themes including biology, physics, visual perception, listening, mind, air and space, energy and earth science.
The Academy is much more than a child care center. Exceptional care and outstanding education are among many reasons parents choose The Academy. In addition to state of the art facilities, continental style breakfast, and highly qualified teachers and staff, you will find The Academy provides the valuable service and professionalism you should expect when finding the right place for your family’s growing and demanding needs. The Academy also offers enrichment classes that are INCLUDED in tuition. Visit any of our centers today, and we are certain you will see The Academy difference. The Academy Program
The Academy program utilizes a nationally recognized, research based curriculum as its foundation. Our experienced and/or degreed lead teachers then expand upon this curriculum with unique activities, games, and projects designed to enhance your child’s educational experience. Our program is designed to prepare children for school while they learn that education is great fun!
17 Locations in Middle Tennessee Brentwood, Franklin, Hendersonville, Mt. Juliet, Murfreesboro, Nashville, Nolensville, Spring Hill
• Nationally recognized curriculum
• Degreed and experienced teachers and staff
• Nutritious meals and snacks, including a continental style breakfast that parents can enjoy with their children if they desire
• Three separate, gated, and age-appropriate playgrounds
• On-site classroom surveillance
• Secure, coded entry system with individual codes for each family
• Enrichment classes INCLUDED in tuition
At LearningRx, we strive to create a welcoming, gym-like atmosphere where people of all ages and abilities are welcome to show up as themselves and work toward their individualized goals. Much like working with a personal trainer to strengthen our muscles, we work with students oneon-one to strengthen core cognitive skills through rigorous, game-like exercises. Brain training is fun; it’s vibrant; and it’s focused on results.
On average, we see a 14-point increase in IQ and 4-year reading gains in as little as 24 weeks.
LearningRx has helped people with ADHD and attention struggles, dyslexia and reading struggles, TBIs and concussions, and other learning differences.
While our most common clients are students not seeing their effort reflected in their grades or test scores, we work with anyone over the age of 5, including high-achieving career professionals and seniors looking to stay sharp.
1. Cognitive Skills Assessment: Each individual completes a 45-minute assessment to determine cognitive strengths and weaknesses. This assessment reveals why certain tasks are more difficult than others.
2. Personalized Training Program: Driven by 35 years of clinical research and a long-standing partnership with Louisiana State’s Neuroscience Department, LearningRx delivers personalized training programs based on assessment results. Programs target each student’s specific areas of need.
3. One-on-One Training: Training is conducted one-on-one with a cognitive trainer. The sessions involve engaging mental exercises designed to challenge and improve specific cognitive skills, such as working and long-term memory, processing speed, attention, auditory and visual processing and logic and reasoning.
4. Regular Progress Monitoring: Progress is regularly monitored through parent and trainer observations and follow-up assessments.
100 Cool Springs Blvd., Ste. 200 Franklin 615-601-3254
1. Improved Academic Performance: By enhancing cognitive skills such as memory, attention, and processing speed, children see improvements in their academic performance.
2. Better Attention and Focus: Programs designed to improve attention can help children who struggle with focus and concentration in school and other activities. Athletes often rave about their improved cognitive performance on the field and court.
3. Enhanced Problem-Solving Skills: Strengthening problem-solving and critical thinking skills can help children in both academic and real-life situations.
4. Boosted Confidence and Self-Esteem: As children improve their cognitive abilities and see the results in their schoolwork and daily life, their confidence and self-esteem increase. Often times, the first improvements parents notice is a willingness to try new and hard things.
5. Support for Neurodivergent Learners: LearningRx programs can be particularly beneficial for children with learning differences such as dyslexia, ADHD, and other cognitive challenges. Reach out for access to our Client Outcomes and Research to learn more on a particular learning difference.
LearningRx stands out in the educational landscape by focusing on cognitive training rather than traditional tutoring. By targeting the underlying cognitive skills essential for effective learning and thinking, LearningRx offers a unique and valuable service that can complement and enhance traditional educational methods.
The Nashville Symphony provides a wide array of community education opportunities both at the Schermerhorn and out in the community. They align many of their programs with state academic standards and provide lesson plans and other resources to participating educators. Check out just a few of our popular programs available for your children to discover and explore.
Each year, thousands of students attend Young People’s Concerts at the Nashville Symphony. Free for students grades K-12 and $10 for chaperones and teachers. These concerts are open to public, private, and home schools, and offer a comprehensive educational experience that enriches in-school learning. The content of each concert is geared toward specific grade levels (K-2, 3-5, and 6-12), and meets both fine arts and academic Tennessee state standards.
Take a look at what goes on behind the scenes at Nashville Symphony’s Classical Series concerts. Through this program, students (ages 10 and older, including undergraduate college students) can experience an entire dress rehearsal or attend the first half of the rehearsal. This is a great way to learn about rehearsal etiquette and expectations.
Join members of the Nashville Symphony for an interactive ensemble performance designed for middle school students, accompanying a STEAM-inspired curriculum (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math). Learn the science of how both traditional orchestral instruments and electronic instruments (including a loop pedal and
One Symphony Place
Nashville 615-687-6500
sequencer) create sound and unique compositions. STEAM Expeditions combine arts and sciences through interactive, educational presentations.
The Nashville Symphony’s Accelerando initiative is an intensive music education program designed to prepare gifted young students of diverse ethnic backgrounds for pursuing music at the collegiate level and beyond. Accelerando Masterclasses provided students with the opportunity to work with top musicians and educators in the field. Each Masterclass will be followed by an informal Q&A session for students attending the event.
Hosted by the Nashville Symphony at Schermerhorn Symphony Center, this instrumental competition is held to promote, encourage, and support young musicians.
ELIGIBILITY: Open to instrumental students ages 1418 (students must fall between these ages at the time of the competition) who have not yet graduated from high school. There are no restrictions on past winners competing in consecutive years.
Best of all, the Nashville Symphony offers student discount tickets and even more wonderful programs for aspiring musicians. Make sure to check out their full educational programs online, and they invite you to their family events throughout the year to enjoy the wonderful world of music with the Nashville Symphony.
by Michael W. Aldrich
WINNER!
You're viewing the #1 events calendar in the nation for 2023 per judges at the Parenting Media Association.
SUNFLOWER FESTIVAL
Saturday, July 6 & Sunday, July 7
Lucky Ladd Farms, Eagleville
Page 50
46 DAILY EVENTS
Make selfies and cut flowers to take home as your kids frolic around in blooming fields of more than 200,000 sunflowers! Afterwards, enjoy the petting zoo, wagon rides and a mega slide!
Events in day-by-day order, plus, find fireworks for July 4th!
49
DINO DIG PARTY
Attention, dinosaur lovers! Drop by the Goodlettsville Library for a roaring good time on Friday, July 5 or Saturday, July 6.
50 TALES AT TWILIGHT
Family entertainer performances every Friday in July at the Centennial Park bandshell.
PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: DEAD MAN'S CHEST IN CONCERT
Friday, July 5 & Saturday, July 6
Schermerhorn Symphony Center, Nashville
Page 49
Enjoy Jack Sparrow's adventures as the Nashville Symphony performs Hans Zimmer’s score live-to-film.
LIBRARY PETE & THE STORYTIME BAND'S ROCK 'N' ROLL PUPPET SHOW
Fridays and Saturdays, July 12 – 27
Nashville Public Library Main Branch
Page 57
Bring the little ones out for this musical romp of sights and sounds with puppets, guitars, the stars and more!
57 DIVE-IN MOVIES
Movies are better in a wave pool! See your favorite flicks at Nashville Shores every Friday in July.
60 COMMUNITY DAY AT GLEN LEVEN FARM
Explore all 64 acres of this unique Nashville farm on Saturday, July 13.
63
NASHVILLE ZOO-VENTURES
Ambassadors from Nashville Zoo will bring a variety of animals to various libraries in July.
July 2 through July 30
Tennessee Performing Arts Center, Nashville
Page 46
See this theatrical production by Cirque du Soleil that celebrates country music and its trailblazers.
Friday, July 26 & Saturday, July 27
Downtown Franklin Square
Page 68
On Friday night, hear some of the best bluegrass bands around. On Saturday, the music continues with instrument and band contests, food, craft vendors and more.
Thursday, July 11
Barfield Crescent Park, Murfreesboro Page 54
Play in the spray of Murfreesboro fire truck hoses. LOTS of water and so much fun!
Saturday, July 13 – Sunday, June 14
The Fairgrounds Nashville Page 60
See amazing LEGO® creations, large displays, STEM building zones, games, contests, speakers and more.
Wednesday, July 31
Pinkerton Park, Franklin Page 71
Water relays, water balloons, sprinklers, beachballs and popsicles! Bring a towel and sunscreen, and they’ll provide the rest, because summer's not over yet!
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Play in a mountain of foam at the Bellevue Library on July 20 or at Church Street Park on July 31.
67
See this marionette puppet show adapting some of your favorite fables at various venues.
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See Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone while the Nashville Symphony performs the score.
Cuddle with the baby goats in the beer garden at East Nashville Beer Works on Tuesday, July 30.
Mark your calendars for next month’s select outings. SCAN HERE TO VIEW "THINGS TO DO" ON YOUR PHONE!
FREE NASHVILLE ZOOVENTURES: MADISON library.nashville.org
In this interactive program at Nashville Public Library's Madison branch (610 Gallatin Pike S, Madison), animal ambassadors from the Nashville Zoo will have a variety of animals to teach kids about at 10:30 a.m.
FREE ITTY BITTY STORYTIME AT LINEBAUGH LIBRARY rclstn.org
A special storytime for ages 0 - 23 months at Linebaugh Public Library (105 W Vine St., Murfreesboro) from 10:30 – 11 a.m. These storytimes include fingerplays, lap bounces, tickles, scarves and songs.
EXPLORE EQUESTRIAN SPORTS WITH HARRIS RIDING ACADEMY explorethedc.org
Harris Riding Academy joins The Discovery Center's (502 SE Broad St., Murfreesboro) countdown to the Summer Olympics celebration with an afternoon exploring equestrian sports from 1 – 3 p.m. Included with admission ($8).
FREE MURFREESBORO MOVIE UNDER THE STARS: PAW PATROL murfreesborotn.gov
Bring your blankets and lawn chairs to a movie under the stars in Murfreesboro! The movie shows at Barfield Crescent Park (697 Veterans Pkwy.) on Mondays; at Richard Siegel Park (515 Cherry Lane) on Thursdays; and Fountains at Gateway (1500 Medical Center Pkwy.) on Saturdays. Concessions will be available. Show starts at dark.
TOTS! AT CHEEKWOOD cheekwood.org
Cheekwood's toddler program runs Tuesday through Saturday mornings through August in the Bracken Foundation Children’s Garden at Cheekwood (1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville). Tots and a guardian can enjoy drop-in style hands-on activities and storytimes from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Join a member of the garden staff for Turtle Talks as they feed the turtles and answer questions about the Garden’s shelled residents. Each week’s theme is inspired by current exhibits or seasonal festivals, encouraging exploration of art and the natural world.
FREE ADVENTURE STORYTIME AT LINEBAUGH LIBRARY rclstn.org
Join Linebaugh Library (105 W. Vine St., Murfreesboro) for a storytime adventure, complete with songs and puppets at 10 a.m.
FREE ART POP-UP AT OLD FORT PARK murfreesborotn.
gov
Add a little creativity to your day at the park and stop by the art pop-up tent to do a take home craft with Cultural Arts Murfreesboro every Tuesday in July at Old Fort Park (275 Golf Lane, Murfreesboro) from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Enjoy live demonstrations and even children performers from Cultural Arts Murfreesboro.
FREE TODDLER STORYTIME AT THE BRENTWOOD LIBRARY brentwoodtn.gov
Goodlettsville Independence Day Celebration: Celebrate Independence Day on July 3rd in Moss-Wright Park with a Kids Zone featuring inflatables, games and fireman’s foam.
Toddlers ages 18 months – 3 years are invited to the Brentwood Library (8109 Concord Road, Brentwood) for stories, songs and toddler fun. Happens on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 10 a.m.
FREE TODDLER TIME AT THE FRANKLIN LIBRARY
wcpltn.org
Tuesdays are for toddlers! 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.
FREE KIDS YOGA library.nashville.org
Join in the meeting room at Nashville Public Library's Inglewood Branch (4312 Gallatin Pike, Nashville) for mindful movement combined with a story on Tuesdays in July from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. This yoga class, led by licensed instructor Alison Rager, is perfect for ages 3 – 8. No mats or other equipment required.
BUSY BEE CLASS FOR KIDS murfreesborotn.gov
A children's class (ages 3 – 5) including physically active games on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12 – 12:45 p.m. at Patterson Park Community Center (521 Dr Martin Luther King Jr Blvd., Murfreesboro). Cost is a facility pass ($3 for kids; $4 for adults).
FREE EAST NASHVILLE FARMERS MARKET
eastnashvillemarket.com
A community farmers' market every Tuesday from 3:30 – 6:30 p.m. at the corner of 5th & Woodland in East Nashville. Park for free in the lot at the corner of 6th & Main St. or across the street at the First Church of the Nazarene.
FREE MUSICAL INSTRUMENT PETTING ZOO AT THE LIBRARY library.nashville.org
Bow a fiddle, pluck a banjo and strum a ukulele at this music program for kids at the Nashville Public Library's East branch (610 Gallatin Pike S, Madison)from 2 – 3 p.m. The Country Music Hall of Fame will begin with a demonstration of the instruments, then instructors will offer guidance as kids try their hand at all the instruments at the zoo.
For ages 6 – 17.
FREEBEAT THE HEAT INDOOR GAMES AT LINEBAUGH rclstn.org
Large-scale board games and Nintendo Switch tournaments are the best way to beat the afternoon heat on Tuesdays at Linebaugh Public Library (105 W. Vine St., Murfreesboro) at 3 p.m. Games vary weekly.
FREE MIME & THEATRE BASICS library.nashville.org
Kids ages 6 – 11 can explore their creative sides through theatre games, mime and improvisation at Nashville Public Library's Southeast Branch (5260 Hickory Hollow Pkwy. #201, Antioch) every Tuesday at 4:15 p.m.
FREE R.E.A.DING WITH LUCAS rclstn.org
Come visit the MGL Public Library inside Patterson Park Community Center (521 Dr Martin Luther King Jr Blvd., Murfreesboro) and register to read to Lucas, a trained Reading Education Assistance Dog, from 2:30 – 3:30 p.m.
NATALIE MERCHANT W/ THE NASHVILLE SYMPHONY nashvillesymphony.org
The award-winning singer-songwriter returns to the Schermerhorn (1 Symphony Pl., Nashville) to perform lush, orchestrated versions of her hits. Tickets start at $56.
CIRQUE DU SOLEIL SONGBLAZERS tpac.org
An acrobatic and live musical performance showcasing the physical artistry of Cirque du Soleil combined with country music inside TPAC's Jackson Hall (505 Deaderick St., Nashville) July 2 – 30. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays – Saturdays, plus matinee shows at 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. on Saturdays and 1:30 and 5 p.m. on Sundays. Tickets start at at $49.
FREE NATURE STORY & SONG AT SHELBY BOTTMS nashville.gov
Join in 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 WEDNESDAYS AT NMAAM nmaam.org/calendar
Enjoy a day at the National Museum of African American Music (510 Broadway, Nashville) every first Wednesday of each month from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
FREE BABIES & BOOKS STORYTIME AT FRANKLIN LIBRARY wcpltn.org
Drop by the Franklin Library (1314 Columbia Ave., Franklin) for this special interactive storytime for parents, caregivers and babies (0 to 18 months) on Wednesdays from 10 – 10:25 or 10:30 – 10:55 a.m.
FREE TODDLER STORYTIME AT THE BRENTWOOD LIBRARY
See Tuesday, July 2.
MUSICAL INSTRUMENT
PETTING ZOO
countrymusichalloffame.org
Come bang a drum, pluck a guitar and strum a ukulele at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum (222 Rep. John Lewis Way S, Nashville). The Mini Musical Instrument Petting Zoo is the perfect opportunity for adults, families and kids of all ages to try new and familiar instruments. Happens Wednesdays from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. and select Saturdays from 1 – 3 p.m. Included with admission; free to members.
FREE RUNAWAY PUPPET THEATER AT BRENTWOOD LIBRARY
brentwoodtn.gov
Runaway Puppet Theater presents a rollicking adventure with puppets and fun! For families and children, ages 3 and older, the show happens in the Meeting Rooms at the Brentwood Library (8109 Concord Road, Brentwood) from 1 – 2 p.m.
FREE AFTERNOON STORYTIME AT LINEBAUGH LIBRARY
rclstn.org
Join Linebaugh Public Library (105 W Vine St, Murfreesboro) for a storytime adventure complete with stories, songs and puppets on select Wednesday afternoons at 4 p.m.
FREE FAIRVIEW JULY 3RD CELEBRATION fairview-tn.org
The City of Fairview's 13th annual July 3 Celebration returns to City Hall (7100 City Center Way, Fairview) with live performances from Rubiks Groove, Kolby Oakley and Resurrection – A Journey Tribute. Food trucks and kids' activities begin at 3 p.m. Fireworks start at 9 p.m.
FREE GOODLETTSVILLE INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION goodlettsville.gov
The City of Goodlettsville will celebrate Independence Day from 4 – 9:30 p.m. in Moss-Wright Park (745 Caldwell Ln., Goodlettsville). The Kid's Zone includes inflatables, games and fireman’s foam. Wristbands can be purchased for the Kid's Zone the day of the event for $10 (fireman's foam is free). Food vendors will be available. The fireworks display will be set to music and begins at 9 p.m.
springfieldtn.gov
Come out to the Robertson County Fairgrounds (4635 Tennessee Highway 41 N, Springfield) to enjoy carnival rides, inflatables, games and activities, vendors, food trucks and more starting at 4:30 p.m. American Idol runner-up HunterGirl will headline after The Band Entice and Fortunate Sons at 5 p.m. Fireworks around 9:15 p.m.
FREEDOM FESTIVAL
freedomfestivaltn.com
Freedom Festival is Sumner County’s largest Independence Day celebration from 5 – 10 p.m. at Drakes Creek Park and Athletic Complex (131 Conway Twitty Lane, Hendersonville). Hendersonville Has Talent starts at 5 p.m. Live music starts at 6 p.m. Fireworks show starts at 9 p.m.
clarksvilletn.gov
Celebrate America’s independence at Liberty Park (1188 Cumberland Drive, Clarksville) with food, live music and family-friendly activities followed by Clarksville’s largest fireworks display at 9:10 p.m. The downtown parade will take place on July 4th.
CELEBRATION
Come out for music, food and activities from 5 – 9 p.m. at Lee Victory Recreation Park (110 Sam Ridley Pkwy., Smyrna) for the annual Smyrna Independence Day Celebration. Attendees are encouraged to park at the SOAC, where there will be outdoor activities. The annual fireworks show begins at dark.
CIRQUE DU SOLEIL
SONGBLAZERS
See Tuesday, July 2.
nashvilleshores.com
Celebrate at Nashville Shores (4001 Bell Road, Nashville) with a fireworks display. Nashville Shores will be open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. with fireworks beginning at dusk (approximately 8:45 p.m.). Fireworks at Nashville Shores are like two shows in one with the beautiful colors in the sky reflecting on the lake below. The waterpark attractions will close at 8 p.m. on fireworks nights, but the park and concessions will remain open until the fireworks. Twilight tickets (after 4 p.m.) are $29.99 at the gate.
The Music City Hot Chicken Festival returns to spice up Middle Tennesseans Fourth of July festivities for its 18th year celebrating tastebud-titillating poultry and the people who love it. The festival takes place 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in East Park (700 Woodland St., Nashville). It all kicks off at noon with the Fire Truck parade. Visitors can enjoy Hot Chicken from Nashville’s best Hot Chicken establishments, cold beer from Yazoo, and other edibles from local vendors. Live music from local bands keeps the vibe going all day long and visitors can look on while five teams compete in a cooking competition.
franklinlionsclub.com
Check out this patriotic festival in Downtown Franklin with arts & crafts, food, entertainment and more. The day begins at 10 a.m. with food and craft vendors. The “Patriotic Pet Parade” begins at 10:30 a.m., followed by awards, musical acts throughout the day, and the headliner coming on at 3:30 p.m. The Children’s Parade begins at 5 p.m. Sign the kids up at the Lions Club booth the day of. Line up begins at 4:45 p.m.
friendsoffranklinparks.org
After Franklin on the Fourth earlier in the day, enjoy a fireworks display at The Tractor Supply Co. Arena at The Park at Harlinsdale Farm (239 Franklin Road, Franklin). There will be live music, kids games food trucks and concessions. The Park opens at 5 p.m. Live music will be provided from 6 – 9 p.m. Fireworks begin at approximately 9 p.m. Food trucks will be on site and the concession stand at the Tractor Supply Co. Arena will be open for beer and wine sales.
This event includes fireworks, live music featuring Zone Status, food vendors and other activities for families from 6 – 9 p.m. at Veterans Memorial Park (115 Floyd Mayfield Drive, La Vergne). Gates open at 5:30 p.m. Music starts at 6 p.m. Families are invited to bring blankets and lawn chairs, as well as their own picnic dinners. Visitors may also order from a selection of food vendors that will be onsite. The fireworks show will begin at dark.
BRENTWOOD’S RED, WHITE & BOOM brentwoodtn.gov
Bring your family out to the Eddy Arnold Amphitheater in Crockett Park (1500 Volunteer Pkwy., Brentwood) for live music featuring The Downtown Band performing from 7 – 10 p.m. with a break at 9 p.m. for the City of Brentwood’s annual fireworks show!
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2024/25 School field trip reservations and season memberships are available now!
Dino Dig Party: Drop by the Nashville Public Library's Goodlettsville Branch for a roaring good time on Friday, July 5 or Saturday, July 6. Play dinosaur-themed games, make crafts and see what you can dig up at the excavation station.
JULY 4TH
visitmusiccity.com/july4th
Nashville's Let Freedom Sing! Music City July 4th is a family-friendly event at the downtown riverfront that features one of the largest fireworks show in the country synchronized to the Nashville Symphony. NEW this year: A drone light show! Chris Young headlines, and YOLA, Girl Named Tom and Blessing Offor will be part of the concert lineup. CMT will nationally broadcast Let Freedom Sing! from 8:30 p.m. to 10 p.m., including a portion of the concert and the entirety of the fireworks show.
Enjoy fireworks and music for the July 4 holiday at the Fountains at Gateway (1500 Medical Center Pkwy., Murfreesboro). Bring lawn chairs and blankets for picnicking on the grass with a live DJ beginning at 4:30 p.m. Live music featuring Craig Campbell begins at 7:30 p.m. on the Fountains Stage. The fireworks display will light up the sky at 9 p.m.
adventuresci.org
Grab your friends and family and join Adventure Science Center (800 Fort Negley Blvd., Nashville) to celebrate the 4th of July! With a view of Nashville’s spectacular downtown fireworks show from the front lawn, this exclusive evening includes hands-on activities indoors, games outdoors and a DJ until 9 p.m. Tickets are $40 for adults; $30 for youth (2-12).
SOUNDS INDEPENDENCE DAY
CELEBRATION
milb.com/nashville
It's America's birthday and America's pastime. Grab a dog, a drink and celebrate accordingly at First Horizon Park (19 Jr Gilliam Way, Nashville). Postgame fireworks. Tickets start at $15.
HIP HATS countrymusichalloffame.org
Young designers can make and decorate their own paper hats 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.
FREE FAMILY FILM AT LINEBAUGH LIBRARY rclstn.org
Every Friday through July 12, Linebaugh Public Library (105 W. Vine St., Murfreesboro) plays a G or PG-rated film for families from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Snacks provided.
HIP HATS
See Thursday, July 4.
FREE SONG ADVENTURES WITH RACHEL SUMNER rachelsumner.com
Children of all ages are invited to join family entertainer
Rachel Sumner for a musical adventure at 10:30 a.m. at the Nashville Public Library's Madison branch (610 Gallatin Pike S, Madison).
FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT THE FRANKLIN LIBRARY wcpltn.org
Kids ages 3 – 5 and their parents can join Franklin Library (1314 Columbia Ave., Franklin) for stories, songs, rhymes and more. Happens on Thursdays and Fridays from 10 – 10:30 a.m. or 10:45 – 11 a.m.
FREE TODDLER TIME WITH THOMAS murfreesborotn.gov
Bring little ones 5 and younger to Sports*Com (2310 Memorial Blvd., Murfreesboro) for this class on Friday mornings from 10 – 11 a.m. The focus is on body part recognition and cognitive skill development. Cost is $3.
CHRISTMAS IN JULY AT NASHVILLE SHORES nashvilleshores.com
Come out to Nashville Shores (4001 Bell Road, Hermitage) for holiday cheer at its 7th annual Christmas in July from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Bring a new unwrapped toy at a value of $10 or more and receive admission for just $26.99 + tax.
NASHVILLE SPORTS CARD SHOW
Find your favorite sports (or Pokémon!) cards and memorabilia July 5 –7 at The Fairgrounds Nashville (625 Smith Ave, Nashville). Cost is $5 (plus parking); children 10 and younger are free. The hours are Friday from 12 to 6 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
FREE DINO DIG PARTY library.nashville.org
Attention, dinosaur lovers! Drop by the Nashville Public Library's Goodlettsville Branch (205 Rivergate Pkwy., Goodlettsville) for a roaring good time on Friday, July 5 from 2 – 5 p.m. or Saturday, July 6 from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Play dinosaur games, make crafts and see what you can dig up at the excavation station.
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 FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS AT ARRINGTON VINEYARDS arringtonvineyards.com
Bring your friends and family down to Arrington Vineyards (6211 Patton Road, Arrington) on Fridays from 4:30 – 8:30 p.m. to enjoy some tunes, food from local vendors and all around good vibes.
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 offer live music.
FREE FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE IN MURFREESBORO
mainstreetmurfreesboro.org
The first Friday night in July, August, and September are filled with music as Main Street Murfreesboro throws a musical party on the courthouse square 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.
NASHVILLE SOUNDS BASEBALL: FOX17 (FIREWORK) FRIDAYS
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.
PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: DEAD MAN’S CHEST IN CONCERT W/ NASHVILE SYMPHONY nashvillesymphony.org
Jack Sparrow continues his adventures in Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest (2006) with the Nashville Symphony performing Hans Zimmer's score live-to-film. Join as Jack races to recover the heart of Davy Jones to avoid enslaving his soul. Happens July 5 – 6 at Schermerhorn Symphony Center (1 Symphony Pl., Nashville,). Tickets start at $48.
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CIRQUE DU SOLEIL
SONGBLAZERS
See Tuesday, July 2.
FREE TALES AT TWILIGHT
conservancyonline.com
Bring the family for Metro Parks hour-long family performances offering interactive magic, stories, dance and music. Happens every Friday in July from 6 – 7 pm. at the Centennial Park bandshell (2500 West End Avenue, Nashville).
DIVE-IN MOVIES AT NASHVILLE SHORES: SHREK nashvilleshores.com
Enjoy some of your favorite movies on Fridays in July at Nashville Shores (4001 Bell Road, Hermitage).
Movies start at 7:15 p.m. at the wavepool, which remains open during the movie but the waves will not be operating. Twilight tickets are available after 4 p.m. at the discounted rate of $32.99 plus tax. Children age 2 and younger are free.
FREE DINO DIG PARTY
See Friday, July 5.
FREE MURFREESBORO
FARMERS MARKET
mainstreetmurfreesboro.org
Main Street Saturday Market in downtown Murfreesboro is a weekly farmers market on the square every Saturday through October 26, 2024 from 8 a.m. until noon.
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 NOLENSVILLE FARMERS MARKET
nolensvillefarmersmarket.com
Stop by the Nolensville Farmers 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. every Saturday at The Streets of Indian Lake (300 Indian Lake Blvd., Hendersonville) through September.
NASHVILLE SPORTS CARD
SHOW
See Friday, July 5.
Tales at Twilight: Bring the family for Metro Parks hour-long family performances offering interactive magic, stories, dance and music performances every Friday in July at the Centennial Park bandshell.
FREE EXPLORE WITH A NATURALIST
wpnc.nashville.gov
This outdoor exploration focuses on discovery, observation and connecting with nature at Warner Park Nature Center (7311 Highway 100, Nashville) from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
GOAT FARM EXPERIENCE
noble-springs.com
Head to Noble Springs Dairy Farm (3144 Blazer Road, Franklin) to spend time kid goat cuddling and meeting farm animals. Visitors can 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 $12 per person. Children 2 and younger, free.
lanemotormuseum.org
The Lane Motor Museum (702 Murfreesboro Pike, Nashville) has more than 580 cars in its collection, but only space to display about 150. While visitors can always explore upstairs, vault tours take place on Saturdays and Sundays at 11:30 a.m. and again at 2 p.m. Cost is $10 (in addition to museum admission, $3 for kids and $12 for adults); tour lasts 45 minutes.
TENNESSEE SUNFLOWER FESTIVAL
luckyladdfarms.com
Celebrate the joy and beauty of summer at Lucky Ladd Farms (4374 Rocky Glade Road in Eagleville) on July 6 – 7. Festival highlights include picking your own sunflowers, pups in the park, food and a sunflower photo contest. Explore the makers market and kids craft fairs, enjoy live musical performances, and discover more than 50 fun-filled activities for all ages.
FREE KIDSVILLE AT THE PARTHENON kidsvilleonline.org
Families with children ages 12 and younger can enter the Parthenon (2500 West End Ave., Nashville) for crafts and a story every Saturday. Register starting at 10:30 a.m. Programming begins at 11 a.m. in front of Athena.
FREE MUSIC IN THE VINES arringtonvineyards.com
Come out to Arrington Vineyards (6211 Patton Road, Arrington) for free live jazz and bluegrass bands Saturdays and Sundays on the Hillside stage from 3 – 7 p.m. Food will be available. No
PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: DEAD MAN’S CHEST IN CONCERT W/ NASHVILE SYMPHONY
See Friday, July 5.
NASHVILLE SOUNDS BASEBALL: HIT CITY SATURDAYS
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.
FREE AMERICANA CELEBRATION & FIREWORKS SHOW americanacelebration.com
Laughter and the smell of funnel cakes will fill the air from 5 – 11 p.m. at the WL Anderson Sports Complex (2760 Old Hwy 31, White House). Enjoy live music, face painting, balloon twisters, bubble artists and fireworks.
CIRQUE DU SOLEIL SONGBLAZERS
See Tuesday, July 2.
KIDS NIGHT OUT AT BOOST GYMNASTICS
boostgymnastics.com
Drop the kids off at Boost Gymnasticss (11 Vaughns Gap Road, Nashville) on the first Saturday of every month from 6:30 – 10 p.m. Cost is $25 (with registration), $20 per additional sibling.
GLOW IN THE PARK
myadventurepark.com
Zipline through trees lit up by colored LED lights at The Adventure Park at Nashville (801 Percy Warner Blvd., Nashville) beginning at 5 p.m. Your ticket includes 30 minutes for a safety briefing and self-harnessing session plus two hours of self-guided climbing in the trees. Cost is $45.
FREE MURFREESBORO MOVIE UNDER THE STARS: PAW PATROL
See Monday, July 1.
TENNESSEE SUNFLOWER FESTIVAL
See Saturday, July 6.
NASHVILLE SPORTS CARD SHOW
See Friday, July 5.
SENSORY-FRIENDLY JUMP
urbanair.com/tennessee-nashville
The sensory-friendly jump at Urban Air Adventure Park (4331 Old Hickory Boulevard, Old Hickory) happens the first Sunday of each month from 9 to 11 a.m. The park is transformed into a calm atmosphere for those with special needs and sensory processing difficulty, their siblings and caregivers. Cost is $8 for kids, parents are free.
(Continued on page 53)
The Ann & Monroe Carell Family Trust Family Series
DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS with the Nashville Symphony OCT 27, 2024
Pablo Zamora, conductor
Amazon Movie Series TIM BURTON’S THE NIGHTMARE BEFORE CHRISTMAS IN CONCERT with the Nashville Symphony
NOV 2 & 3, 2024
Jacob Joyce, conductor
The Ann & Monroe Carell Family Trust Family Series SLOPERA with the Nashville Symphony APR 6, 2025
Nathan Aspinall, conductor
The Ann & Monroe Carell Family Trust Family Series PETER AND THE WOLF with the Nashville Symphony JUN 1, 2025
Na’Zir McFadden, conductor
Amazon Movie Series HOME ALONE IN CONCERT with the Nashville Symphony DEC 6 TO 8, 2024
Jason Seber, conductor
Amazon Movie Series THE LION KING IN CONCERT with the Nashville Symphony MAR 22 & 23, 2025
Enrico Lopez-Yañez, conductor
Special Event BUGS BUNNY AT THE SYMPHONY with the Nashville Symphony JUN 12, 2025
George Daugherty, conductor
Amazon Movie Series THE PRINCESS BRIDE IN CONCERT with the Nashville Symphony JUN 21 & 22, 2025
Gonzalo Farias, conductor
HIP HATS
See Thursday, July 4.
HOUSE OF CARDS SUNDAY FAMILY BRUNCH
hocnashville.com/brunch
Come out to House of Cards (119 Third Ave. S, Nashville) for Sunday brunch and a family-friendly magic show each week, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. The menu includes traditional breakfast and lunch favorites, a seafood display, carving station and omelet station, plus Bloody Marys, assorted Mimosas, sparkling wines and more. Cost is $60/person and $40 each for kids 12 and younger.
COW AND PIG CUDDLING AT THE GENTLE BARN
gentlebarn.org/tennessee
Come hug the cows, give the pigs tummy rubs, spend time with the turkeys and enjoy a beautiful day 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.
JOHN LEGEND: A NIGHT OF SONGS AND STORIES
nashvillesymphony.org
Experience the music of John Legend in the Schermerhorn Symphony Center (1 Symphony Place, Nashville) July 7
– 8. This special solo performance will showcase intimate renditions of his greatest hits, including “All of Me,” “Ordinary People” and "Tonight", alongside captivating stories from his life and career. Tickets start at $189.
LANE MOTOR VAULT TOURS
See Saturday, July 6.
FREE MUSIC IN THE VINES
See Saturday, July 6.
TAYLOR NATION TRIBUTE SHOW IN THE CAVERNS
thecaverns.com
Step into a magical CAVE to sing and dance along to Taylor Nation — a live band tribute to all the eras of Taylor Swift! Don't miss this subterranean Swiftie party at The Caverns in nearby Grundy County, TN. Tickets are $49.50 ($64.50 with a cave tour).
CIRQUE DU SOLEIL SONGBLAZERS
See Tuesday, July 2.
FREE ITTY BITTY STORYTIME AT LINEBAUGH LIBRARY
See Monday, July 1.
FREE MURFREESBORO MOVIE UNDER THE STARS: KUNG FU PANDA
See Monday, July 1.
JOHN LEGEND: A NIGHT OF SONGS AND STORIES
See Sunday, July 7.
TOTS! AT CHEEKWOOD
See Tuesday, July 2.
Art Pop-Up at Old Fort Park: Add a little creativity to your day and do a free take home craft every Tuesday in July at Murfreesboro's Old Fort Park. Stop by and enjoy live demonstrations and child performers!
FREE TODDLER STORYTIME AT THE BRENTWOOD LIBRARY
See Tuesday, July 2.
FREE TODDLER TIME AT THE FRANKLIN LIBRARY
See Tuesday, July 2.
FREE ADVENTURE STORYTIME AT LINEBAUGH LIBRARY
See Tuesday, July 2.
FREE ART POP-UP AT OLD FORT PARK
See Tuesday, July 2.
FREE EAST NASHVILLE FARMERS MARKET
See Tuesday, July 2.
FREE KIDS YOGA
See Tuesday, July 2.
FREE MIME & THEATRE BASICS
See Tuesday, July 2.
FREE BEAT THE HEAT INDOOR GAMES AT LINEBAUGH
See Tuesday, July 2.
FREE ANIMAL TALES AT THE FRANKLIN LIBRARY wcpltn.org
FREE BABIES & BOOKS STORYTIME AT FRANKLIN LIBRARY
See Wednesday, July 3.
KNEE-HIGH NATURALISTS owlshill.org
Children ages 3 – 5 (with an adult) can explore the natural world at Owl's Hill Nature Sanctuary (545 Beech Creek Road, Brentwood) on Wednesdays, July 10 & 17, from 10 – 11:30 a.m. Each week has a different focus emphasizing working together through discovery, crafts and outdoor exploration.
MUSICAL INSTRUMENT PETTING ZOO
See Wednesday, July 3.
Families with children ages 3 and older can check out this live animal show in the Children’s Activity Room at the Franklin Library (1314 Columbia Ave., Franklin) from 2:30 – 5 p.m.
BUSY BEE CLASS FOR KIDS
See Tuesday, July 2.
FREE CAMPFIRE SONGS & STORIES AT LINEBAUGH rclstn.org
Join Linebaugh Public Library (105 W Vine St, Murfreesboro) for an evening of songs and stories around the (inflatable) campfire starting at 6:30 p.m.
NASHVILLE SOUNDS BASEBALL: TAIL WAGGIN' TUESDAYS nashville/tickets/soundstuesdays
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 to the ballpark to watch Sounds baseball with their owners (must present proof of the dog's up-to-date rabies vaccination).
FREE R.E.A.DING WITH LUCAS
See Tuesday, July 2.
SPHINX VIRTUOSI nashvillesymphony.org
See this self-conducted chamber orchestra comprised of 18 accomplished diverse artists performing live in the Schermerhorn Symphony Center (One Symphony Place, Nashville). Show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $26.
CIRQUE DU SOLEIL SONGBLAZERS
See Tuesday, July 2.
FREE NASHVILLE ZOO-VENTURES: CHURCH STREET PARK & EDGEHILL
This interactive animal program visits Church Street Park at 10:30 a.m. and then Nashville Public Library's Edgehill branch at 1 p.m. Ambassadors from the Nashville Zoo will bring a variety of animals to teach kids about animal friends.
FREE GIRLS STEAM AHEAD WITH NASA rclstn.org
Join at the Technology Engagement Center (306 Minerva Drive, Murfreesboro) for a journey through space and science with NASA. This program is designed to inspire and empower kids of all ages through engaging activities, interactive exhibits and exploration of cosmic mysteries. This event is open for incoming third to 12th graders and happens on Wednesdays, July 10 –Aug. 7, from 4 – 5 p.m.
FREE AFTERNOON STORYTIME AT LINEBAUGH LIBRARY
See Wednesday, July 3.
NASHVILLE SOUNDS BASEBALL: WINNING WEDNESDAYS
Grab your peanuts and crackerjacks and 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! Tickets start at $15.
FREE RETRO WEDNESDAYS AT STARDUST DRIVE-IN THEATRE
See your favorite throwback 80s movies at the Stardust Drive-In Theatre (310 Purple Tiger Drive, Watertown) on Wednesday nights all month. Cost is $9 for ages 12 & older, $7 for ages 6 – 11 and free for kids 5 and younger. Double showings happen at 8:50 and 10:55 p.m.
(please turn the page)
FREE SONG ADVENTURES WITH RACHEL SUMNER
rachelsumner.com
Join family entertainer Rachel Sumner for a musical adventure of songs that will have littles traveling in a time machine, talking and singing like pirates, dancing with an octopus in the sea and more. Happens at 10:30 a.m. at the Bethesda Branch Library (4905 Bethesda Road, Thompson's Station).
FREE STEM ADVENTURE WITH MR. BOND’S SCIENCE GUYS!
Enjoy this live science show featuring the powerful forces of physics, reactions of chemistry and more at the Linebaugh Public Library in Murfreeboro at 10 a.m.
FREE TODDLER STORYTIME AT THE BRENTWOOD LIBRARY
See Tuesday, July 2.
TURTLE TALKS AT THE DISCOVERY CENTER
See Wednesday, July 3.
FREE VENTRILOQUIST GENE CORDOVA AT THE BRENTWOOD LIBRARY
brentwoodtn.gov
Join Gene and his band at the Brentwood Library (8109 Concord Road, Brentwood) at 1 p.m. as they open your imagination! Meet Tater the Gator and other new friends. Ventriloquism, comedy, magic, storytelling and more! For children ages 3 and older.
SUMMER CRAFT SERIES AT MORNING GLORY ORCHARD
morninggloryorchard.as.me
Bring the kiddos and join Morning Glory Orchard (7690 Nolensville Pike, Nolensville) for its Summer Craft Series at 10 a.m. Begin with an arts & craft project in the orchard. Next, enjoy storytime under a big shade tree! Finally, head inside for a cider slush of your choice. Cost is $12.
FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT THE FRANKLIN LIBRARY
See Friday, July 5.
FREE SONG ADVENTURES WITH RACHEL SUMNER rachelsumner.com
countrymusichalloffame.org
Bring the kids out to Country Music Hall of Fame (222 Rep. John Lewis Way S, Nashville) and explore the fashions presented in the exhibition, Western Edge: The Roots and Reverberations of Los Angeles CountryRock. Participants can make their own belt buckle or bolo tie to show off their style and personality from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Included with museum admission; Free to museum members.
BUSY BEE CLASS FOR KIDS
See Tuesday, July 2.
Join family entertainer Rachel Sumner for a musical adventure of songs that will have littles traveling in a time machine, talking and singing like pirates, dancing with an octopus in the sea and more. Happens at 10:30 a.m. at the College Grove Community Library (8607 Horton Highway, College Grove).
CAMPFIRE STORYTIME AT THE DISCOVERY CENTER 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 SPLASH OUT!
Play under the spray of the Murfreesboro Fire and Rescue Department's fire trucks at Barfield Crescent Park (697 Veterans Pkwy., Murfreesboro) from 1:30 – 3 p.m. This summery event lets kids "splash, dance and play" in the water. Wear clothes and shoes to get wet in, and don’t forget your sunscreen and towel.
FREE STEM ADVENTURE WITH MR. BOND’S SCIENCE GUYS
Enjoy this live science show featuring the forces of physics, reactions of chemistry and more at 2 p.m. at the Nashville Public Library Hadley Park branch (1039 28th Ave N, Nashville).
FREE ADVENTURE SCIENCE CENTER AT THE LIBRARY: AMUSEMENT PARK PHYSICS library.nashville.org
Push Newton's laws to their limits with hands-on coaster challenges at the Nashville Public Library's Looby branch (2301 Rosa L Parks Blvd, Nashville) from 2 – 3 p.m. Along the way, explore potential and kinetic energy, Newton's second law of motion, and more! Recommended for ages 7 – 14, but all are welcome.
FREE GOODLETTSVILLE FARMERS MARKET
Shop fresh produce each Thursday 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).
FREE GIRLS WHO CODE CLUB rclstn.org
Girls Who Code Club is a computer science program for all third through fifth-grade kids (not just for girls)! Program happens from 4 – 4:45 p.m. at Linebaugh Library (105 W Vine St., Murfreesboro).
FREE ALL ACCESS NIGHT AT THE DISCOVERY CENTER explorethedc.org
Enjoy this time when special-needs families can experience the exhibits in a sensory-friendly environment at the Discovery Center (502 Southeast Broad Street, Murfreesboro). Happens from 5 – 7:30 p.m. Reservations are suggested. Email curias@explorethedc. org for more information.
THURSDAY NIGHT OUT cheekwood.org
Kick off the weekend at Cheekwood's Thursday Night Out, happening every Thursday evening from 5:30 – 9 p.m. through October. Enjoy TROLLS: Save the Humans while 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.
NASHVILLE SOUNDS: THROWBACK THURSDAYS
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 HENDERSONVILLE SUMMER CONCERT SERIES streetsofindianlake.com
Bring lawn chairs, blankets or enjoy ample seating throughout the plaza for this summer concert series live under the stars at the Streets of Indian Lake (300 Indian Lake Blvd., Hendersonville) every Thursday at 6:30 p.m. through September 5, 2024.
FREE MURFREESBORO MOVIE UNDER THE STARS: KUNG FU PANDA
See Monday, July 1.
CIRQUE DU SOLEIL SONGBLAZERS
See Tuesday, July 2.
HERMITAGE AFTER DARK thehermitage.com
Have you ever wanted to see The Hermitage Mansion (4580 Rachels Lane, Hermitage) in the evening? Join for extended hours on select Thursdays for your chance to see the grounds, garden, mansion and more until 9 p.m.
FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT THE FRANKLIN LIBRARY
See Friday, July 5.
FREE TODDLER TIME WITH THOMAS
See Friday, July 5.
BELT BUCKLES AND BOLO TIES
See Thursday, July 11.
(Continued on page 57)
FREE NASHVILLE BALLET’S SLEEPING BEAUTY STORYTIME library.nashville.org
Join a Nashville Ballet Teaching Artist for this fairytale classic at the Nashville Public Library East branch (206 Gallatin Ave., Nashville). Children will dance their way through this fun tale and learn how the ballet has become a cherished performance through its enchanting music and movement. Starts at 10:30 a.m.
FREE LIBRARY PETE & THE STORYTIME BAND ROCK 'N' ROLL PUPPET SHOW! library.nashville.org
Bring the little ones out for this musical romp of sights and sounds at the Nashville Public Library Main Branch (615 Church St., Nashville). It's a celebration of reading, plus puppets, guitars, the stars and more! Happens on Fridays and Saturdays at 10:30 a.m., through July 27.
FREE STEAM PLAY: WATER PLAY AT GREEN HILS LIBRARY library.nashville.org
Visit the Nashville Public Library's Green Hills Branch (3701 Benham Ave, Nashville) and explore the world of STEAM from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. This week, they'll be playing with water out on the patio! Wear clothes you don't mind getting messy! For ages 3 and older.
FREE FAMILY FILM AT LINEBAUGH LIBRARY
See Friday, July 5.
FREE FIREFLY FRIDAY nashville.gov
Flitter on in to Shelby Bottoms Nature Center (1900 Davidson St., Nashville) for a magical firefly-themed craft and story-station area to celebrate one of summer's most iconic insects from 2 –3 p.m. Email to register.
FAMILY FIREFLY HIKES AT OWL’S HILL owlshill.org
Find out what makes owls such good hunters and why a firefly lights up in the dark at Owl's Hill Nature Sanctuary (545 Beech Creek Road, Brentwood). Meet owl ambassadors, listen for night sounds and keep an eye out for nocturnal creatures during a kid-friendly hike from 6:30 – 8 p.m. Cost is $25 per adult/child pair, $15 additional adult, $10 additional child. Must register
DIVE-IN MOVIES AT NASHVILLE SHORES: ELEMENTAL nashvilleshores.com
Come enjoy some of your favorite movies on Fridays in July at Nashville Shores (4001 Bell Road, Hermitage). Movies start at 7:15 p.m. at the wavepool, which will remain open during the movie, but the waves will not be operating. Twilight tickets (after 4 p.m.) are available at the discounted rate of $32.99 plus tax.
SONGBLAZERS
See Tuesday, July 2.
TICK, TICK… BOOM! boroarts.org
An aspiring composer questions his life choices on the eve of his 30th birthday in Jonathan Larson's autobiographical musical. Performances are at the Center for the Arts (110 W College St., Murfreesboro), July 12 – 21, on Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Adults are $22; children are $20. Rated PG-13.
FREE FRANKLIN MOVIE IN THE PARK: SECONDHAND LIONS
franklintn.gov
Bring a chair or blanket and come to the parks for an outdoor movie on Friday nights through July 19 starting at 8 p.m. (or sunset). Tonight, the event continues at The Park at Harlinsdale Farm (239 Franklin Road, Franklin). Food trucks will be available.
FREE MT. JULIET FOOD & FLICK mtjuliet-tn.gov
Bring your blanket or chairs for a free family-friendly movie at the Charlie Daniels Park Amphitheater (1075 Charlie Daniels Pkwy., Mt. Juliet) on the first Friday of each month, June through October. Film starts around 8:40 p.m. Concessions are available.
NASHVILLE SOUNDS BASEBALL: FOX17 (FIREWORK) FRIDAYS
See Friday, July 5.
Dive-In Movies at Nashville Shores: Come enjoy some of your favorite movies on Fridays in July at Nashville Shores! Movies start at 7:15 p.m. at the wavepool, which will remain open during the movie but the waves will not be operating.
STYX & FOREIGNER WITH JOHN WAITE
livenation.com
See Styx & Foreigner perform live with John Waite at Ascend Amphitheater (310 1st Avenue South, Nashville), as part of the "Renegades and Juke Box Heroes Tour." Starts at 6:30 p.m. and tickets start at $54.35.
FREE TALES AT TWILIGHT
See Friday, July 5.
TAYLOR SWIFT LASER DANCE PARTY ON SKYDECK assemblyfoodhall.com
Join on the Skydeck of Assembly Food Hall (5055 Broadway Place, Nashville) for hours of nonstop Taylor music featuring a national touring light show hosted by DJ Swiftie! It’s going to be a love story, baby, just say yes! Doors at 8 p.m. Starts at 9 p.m. Cost is $20.
THE SWEET CAROLINE TOUR: A NEIL DIAMOND CONCERT CELEBRATION
nashvillesymphony.org
Be at Schermerhorn Symphony Center (1 Symphony Place, Nashville) for a Neil Diamond tribute concert experience featuring Jay White and key members of Neil Diamond's touring band. Enjoy spot-on renditions of blockbusters including “America,” “Play Me,” “Girl, You’ll Be A Woman Soon,” “Love on the Rocks,” Cracklin’ Rosie,” “Forever in Blue Jeans,” “I’m A Believer,” “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers" and “Sweet Caroline.” Tickets start at at $40.
TOTS! AT CHEEKWOOD
See Tuesday, July 2.
FREE MURFREESBORO FARMERS MARKET
See Saturday, July 6.
FREE FRANKLIN FARMERS MARKET
See Saturday, July 6.
FREE NOLENSVILLE FARMERS MARKET
See Saturday, July 6.
FREE HENDERSONVILLE FARMERS MARKET
See Saturday, July 6.
EXOTIC PET EXPO
This family-friendly event is geared to educate and introduce people to exotic pets at the Mid TN Expo Center (1660 Middle Tennessee Blvd., Murfreesboro). It's a good place to purchase and learn with industry leading breeders bringing their knowledge, quality and passion to the show. Happens Saturday from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Cost is $10 – $15.
(Continued on page 60)
FREE SUMMER BIRD HIKE
wpnc.nashville.gov
Head to Warner Park Nature Center (7311 Highway 100, Nashville) to hike with a naturalist and look for Tennessee's summertime birds and signs of their nests from 8 – 10 a.m. For ages 8 and older. Email to register.
COMMUNITY DAYS AT GLEN LEVEN FARM
landtrusttn.org
Hike the 1.4-mile Nature Trail at Glen Leven Farm (4000 Franklin Pike, Nashville), say hi to the donkeys and hang out on the lawn with a frisbee or a picnic from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
BRICK FAN EXPO
brickfanexpo.com/nashville
Come see amazing LEGO® creations, large displays, fan creations, STEM building zones, games, contests, speakers and more at the Fairgrounds Nashville (625 Smith Ave., Nashville) on July 13 – 14. Plus, shop those hardto-find LEGO® sets or pieces at various vendors. Show hours are 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets start at $27.57. Children 3 and younger are free when accompanied by a paying adult.
LANE MOTOR
MUSEUM FUN
lanemotormuseum.org
With regular paid admission, this special event day includes free vault tours, rides in select museum vehicles and in-museum vehicle demos at the Lane Motor Museum (702 Murfreesboro Pike, Nashville). The rides and vault tours are offered on a first-come, firstserved basis. Happens from 10 a.m. –5 p.m. Cost is $12 adults; $3 for youths aged 6-17; children under 5 free.
FREE HUMMINGBIRD & CHILL murfreesborotn.gov
Want to relax in the A/C and watch hummingbirds zip around the hummingbird feeders at the Wilderness Station (401 Volunteer Road, Murfreesboro)?
Join for a relaxing morning of hummingbird viewing in the retreat room from 10 – 11 a.m. Enjoy light refreshments while watching the charming birds. Perfect for bird enthusiasts of all ages and abilities. An optional bird hike to follow.
FREE TOMAT-O-RAMA FESTIVAL nashvillefarmersmarket.org
Join at the Nashville Farmers Market (900 Rosa L Parks Blvd., Nashville) for the Tomat-O-Rama Festival from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Celebrate all the colorful varieties of tomatoes you can imagine with Bloody Marys, a salsa / pico de gallo contest, tomato-themed crafts and specialty foods, live music, food trucks, a kids’ zone and more!
FREE KIDSVILLE AT THE PARTHENON
See Saturday, July 6.
FREE LIBRARY PETE & THE STORYTIME BAND ROCK 'N' ROLL PUPPET SHOW!
See Friday, July 12.
FAMILY FIELD DAY AND PICNIC AT HISTORIC COLLINSVILLE
historiccollinsville.com
Let the games begin! Experience 19th Century fun and fellowship with a good ol’ fashioned field day and picnic on the grounds of Historic Collinsville (4711 Weakley Road, Southside). Bring a lunch or purchase refreshments at the site. Compete in friendly outdoor games of Tug-o-War, horseshoe pitching, sack races, foot races and more. Also enjoy checkers and dominoes!
FREE MAKERSPACE: BIOMIMICRY
nashville.gov
Stop by Shelby Bottoms Nature Center (900 Shelby Bottoms Greenway, Nashville) from 1 – 3 p.m. to take on some engineering challenges. For ages 6 and older.
FREE CSI FINGERPRINTING AT THE FRANKLIN LIBRARY wcpltn.org
Presented by Jennifer Stockdale of Williamson County 4-H, learn how attorneys use science in the courtroom from one practicing in the federal court system at the Franklin Library (1314 Columbia Ave., Franklin) from 2 – 3:30 p.m. For ages 8 – 12. Registration required.
FREE DIY CONSTELLATION JARS AT LINEBAUGH LIBRARY rclstn.org
Join Linebaugh Library (105 W. Vine St., Murfreesboro) from 2 – 3 p.m. for this hands-on workshop and bring the stars into your room! Craft your own constellation-themed decorations, with all supplies provided. For ages 10 – 18. Registration required.
MUSICAL INSTRUMENT
PETTING ZOO
See Wednesday, July 3.
FREE MUSICAL INSTRUMENT PETTING ZOO AT THE LIBRARY
Bow a fiddle, pluck a banjo and strum a ukulele at this music program for kids at the Nashville Public Library Edgehill branch from 1 – 2 p.m. The Country Music Hall of Fame will begin with a demonstration of the instruments, then instructors will offer guidance as participants try their hand at all the instruments. For ages 6 – 17.
GLOW IN THE PARK
See Saturday, July 6.
CIRQUE DU SOLEIL SONGBLAZERS
See Tuesday, July 2.
NASHVILLE SOUNDS BASEBALL: HIT CITY SATURDAYS
See Saturday, July 6.
FREE PUPPET TRUCK: AESOP’S FABLES library.nashville.org
See this marionette puppet show at the Nashville Public Library East branch (206 Gallatin Ave., Nashville) from 2 – 3 p.m. Complete with humor and wisdom, this adaptation of some of your favorite fables will delight young and old. Run time is 30 minutes.
SUMMER SONGWRITER SERIES AT ROCK CASTLE historicrockcastle.com
The Summer Songwriter Series at Rock Castle (39 Rockcastle Lane, Hendersonville) features food trucks, inflatables, yard games and original music from Nashville rising performers. The series features four single-day mini-festivals from 5 – 9 p.m,. spread out over the summer through August. Adults are $10; children are free.
NERF WARS mpactsports.com/nerfwars
Come out for community Nerf Wars at Mpact Sports (121 Seaboard Lane, Suite 1, Franklin) twice a month from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. This special event is open to members and non-members. Price is $10 per warrior. Pizza package options available to purchase. Make sure to bring your Nerf Gun (there's extra available to purchase if you don't) and protective eyewear/ goggles.
BRIT FLOYD thefishercenter.com
This live show at Belmont's Fisher Center (2020 Belmont Blvd., Nashville) features "the world’s premier Pink Floyd tribute experience" with a stateof-the-art light show, immersive visuals and ethereal sounds. Tickets start at $57 and show starts at 7:30 p.m.
FREE MURFREESBORO MOVIE UNDER THE STARS: KUNG FU PANDA
See Monday, July 1.
FREE WESTHAVEN LAKESIDE MOVIES
Bring your blankets or lawn chairs and come enjoy an outdoor family movie at Westhaven's front lake (191 Front Street, Franklin). The event, hosted by Agent615 & Evin Photography, includes on-site food and vendors. Movie starts at sunset.
FREE BIG BAND DANCES conservancyonline.com
Big Band Dances take place every Saturday through August, at Centennial Park’s Event Shelter (2500 West End Ave., Nashville). A live big band provides the music while you and your kids learn a different dance style. Food trucks are on site, or you can bring a cooler. If you’re new to the swing-era dance steps, there’s always a free lesson for everyone at 7 p.m. and the evening’s big band takes over at 7:30.
A CABARET EXPERIENCE tpac.org
Studio Tenn Theatre Company and Tennessee Performing Arts Center present this three-show series of cabaret performances featuring Broadway talents with unique perspectives. Performances are inside TPAC's Johnson Theater at 7:30 p.m. First up: Kate Baldwin. Tickets start at $49.
LAKE STREET DIVE livenation.com
See indie band Lake Street Dive perform live at Ascend Amphitheater (310 1st Ave. S, Nashville). Show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $48.65.
Kayak Float in Smyrna: Get your float on and learn all about kayaks at Smyrna's Volunteer Park on Sunday, July 14! Boats, PFD’s and paddles provided; sunscreen and bug spray recommended.
TICK, TICK… BOOM!
See Friday, July 12.
FREE SUMMER STAR PARTY nashville.gov Members of the BarnardSeyfert Astronomical Society will set up telescopes so all can enjoy views of the night sky at Cornelia Fort Airpark Trailhead in Shelby Bottoms (1199 Shadow Lane, Nashville). You don't need to be a member or own a telescope, just come out and enjoy from 9 – 11 p.m.
COW AND PIG CUDDLING AT THE GENTLE BARN
See Sunday, July 7.
BELT BUCKLES AND BOLO TIES
See Thursday, July 11.
NASHVILLE SOUNDS BASEBALL: FAMILY FUN SUNDAY
Grab your peanuts and cracker jacks and 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 and kids can run the bases after the game. Tickets start at $15.
CIRQUE DU SOLEIL SONGBLAZERS
HOUSE OF CARDS SUNDAY FAMILY BRUNCH
See Sunday, July 7.
BRICK FAN EXPO
See Saturday, July 13.
EXOTIC PET EXPO
See Saturday, July 13.
KAYAK FLOAT IN SMYRNA townofsmyrna.org
Learn all about kayaks at Volunteer Park (850 8th Ave., Smyrna). 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 older.
LANE MOTOR VAULT TOURS
See Saturday, July 6.
FREE MUSIC IN THE VINES
See Saturday, July 6.
See Tuesday, July 2.
TICK, TICK… BOOM!
See Friday, July 12.
FREE ITTY BITTY STORYTIME AT LINEBAUGH LIBRARY
See Monday, July 1.
FREE NASHVILLE ZOOVENTURES: OLD HICKORY library.nashville.org
This free and interactive animal program visits the Nashville Public Library Old Hickory branch at 10:30 a.m. Ambassadors from the Nashville Zoo will have a variety of animals to teach kids about our animal friends.
FREE ANIMAL TRACKS WITH MICHAEL CULBRETH AT THE FRANKLIN LIBRARY wcpltn.org
Families with kids ages 6 and older can join in the Children’s Activity Room at the Franklin Library (1314 Columbia
FREE BEAT THE HEAT INDOOR GAMES AT LINEBAUGH
See Tuesday, July 2.
NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK firstbankamphitheater.com
See New Kids On The Block perform live at FirstBank Amphitheater (4525 Graystone Quarry Lane, Franklin) with special guests Paula Abdul and DJ Jazzy Jeff. Shows are July 16 – 17 at 7 p.m. and tickets start at $56.35.
FREE BABIES & BOOKS STORYTIME AT FRANKLIN LIBRARY
See Wednesday, July 3.
FREE SUMMER READING FINALE PARTY AT LINEBAUGH rclstn.org
Join for the annual Grand Finale Party with music and games by Dandy DJ from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. at Linebaugh Library (105 W Vine St, Murfreesboro). Enjoy snacks, raffle prizes and crafts, and pick up your completed summer reading program prizes!
Ave., Franklin) to explore the world of animal tracks with Michael Culbreth, a Nature and Trails Coordinator. Registration is required. Happens at 2:30 and again at 4 p.m.
FREE MURFREESBORO MOVIE UNDER THE STARS: THE LITTLE MERMAID
See Monday, July 1.
FREE TODDLER STORYTIME AT THE BRENTWOOD LIBRARY
See Tuesday, July 2.
FREE TODDLER TIME AT THE FRANKLIN LIBRARY
See Tuesday, July 2.
TOTS! AT CHEEKWOOD
See Tuesday, July 2.
FREE ADVENTURE STORYTIME AT LINEBAUGH LIBRARY
See Tuesday, July 2.
FREE ART POP-UP AT OLD FORT PARK
See Tuesday, July 2.
WORLD SNAKE DAY ownofsmyrna.org
Celebrate scaly reptiles through a meet-and-greet animal show followed by snake-themed crafts and activities at the Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center (110 Sam Ridley Pkwy., Smyrna) at 1 p.m. Cost is free with paid admission ($5 – $6).
FREE KIDS YOGA
See Tuesday, July 2.
FREE EAST NASHVILLE FARMERS MARKET
See Tuesday, July 2.
KNEE-HIGH NATURALISTS
See Wednesday, July 3.
FREE TODDLER STORYTIME AT THE BRENTWOOD LIBRARY
See Tuesday, July 2.
FREE FARMER JASON AT BRENTWOOD LIBRARY brentwoodtn.gov
Everyone is invited to get involved with sing-alongs, dancing and discussions about nature appreciation, ecology and farm animals at the Brentwood Library (8109 Concord Road, Brentwood) from 1 – 2 p.m. For families and ages 3 and older, in the Meeting Rooms.
FREE PUPPET TRUCK: AESOP’S FABLES library.nashville.org
See this marionette puppet show at the Nashville Public Library Watkins Park Branch (612 17th Ave. N, Nashville) at 2:30 p.m. This adaptation of some of your favorite fables will delight young and old. Run time is 30 minutes.
MUSICAL INSTRUMENT PETTING ZOO
See Wednesday, July 3.
FREE GIRLS STEAM AHEAD WITH NASA
See Wednesday, July 3.
FREE RETRO WEDNESDAYS AT STARDUST DRIVE-IN THEATRE
See Wednesday, July 3.
TURTLE TALKS AT THE DISCOVERY CENTER
See Wednesday, July 3.
CIRQUE DU SOLEIL SONGBLAZERS
See Tuesday, July 2.
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NASHVILLE SC nashvillesc.com
See the "Boys in Gold" face off at GEODIS Park (501 Benton Ave., Nashville) as Nashville SC continues its fifth year in Major League Soc cer. Game starts at 7:30 p.m. Children 3 years or older require a ticket to attend matches.
BOOT SCOOTIN’ COWBOY BOOTS
countrymusichalloffame.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.
FREE NASHVILLE ZOOVENTURES: INGLEWOOD library.nashville.org
FREE FRANKLIN KIDS DAY: HOLIDAY IN JULY
Join for Reindeer games, dashing snowman rely races, snowball fights and more at Pinkerton Park (405 Murfreesboro Road, Franklin) from 9 – 11 a.m.
FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT THE FRANKLIN LIBRARY
See Friday, July 5.
SUMMER CRAFT SERIES AT MORNING GLORY ORCHARD
See Thursday, July 11.
CAMPFIRE STORYTIME ATTHE DISCOVERY CENTER
See Thursday, July 11.
BUSY BEE CLASS FOR KIDS
See Tuesday, July 2.
This interactive animal program visits the Nashville Public Library's Inglewood branch at 10:30 a.m. Ambassadors from the Nashville Zoo will have a variety of animals to teach kids about.
FREE SUPER SCIENCE WITH MR. RICH
From explosions to bubbling potions, Super Scientist Mr. Rich offers interactive experiments that will delight everyone! The science-focused program visits the John P. Holt Brentwood Library (8109 Concord Road, Brentwood) from 1 – 2 p.m.
FREE GIRLS WHO CODE CLUB
See Thursday, July 11.
THURSDAY NIGHT OUT
See Thursday, July 11.
FREE HENDERSONVILLE SUMMER CONCERT SERIES
See Thursday, July 11.
FREE MURFREESBORO MOVIE UNDER THE STARS: THE LITTLE MERMAID
See Monday, July 1.
FREE SONG ADVENTURES WITH RACHEL SUMNER rachelsumner.com
Join family entertainer Rachel Sumner for a musical adventure of songs that will have littles traveling in a time machine, talking and singing like pirates, dancing with an octopus in the sea and more. Happens at 6 p.m. at the Nashville Public Library Bellevue branch (720 Baugh Road, Nashville).
CIRQUE DU SOLEIL SONGBLAZERS
See Tuesday, July 2.
FREE SONG ADVENTURES WITH RACHEL SUMNER rachelsumner.com
Join family entertainer Rachel Sumner for a musical adventure of songs that will have littles traveling in a time machine, talking and singing like pirates, dancing with an octopus in the sea and more. Happens at 10 a.m. at the Nolensville Branch Library (915 Oldham Drive, Nolensville).
BOOT SCOOTIN’ COWBOY BOOTS
See Thursday, July 18.
FREE LIBRARY PETE & THE STORYTIME BAND ROCK 'N' ROLL PUPPET SHOW!
See Friday, July 12.
FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT THE FRANKLIN LIBRARY
See Friday, July 5.
FREE TODDLER TIME WITH THOMAS
See Friday, July 5.
TURTLE TALKS AT THE DISCOVERY CENTER
See Wednesday, July 3.
FREE FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS AT ARRINGTON VINEYARDS
See Friday, July 5.
CANDLELIGHT: FEATURING VIVALDI’S FOUR SEASONS 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.
FULL MOON PICKIN’ PARTY warnerparks.org
This bluegrass music series allows families, friends and dog-lovers to hear local musicians play together under the full moon at Percy Warner Park's Steeplechase Infield (2500 Old Hickory Blvd., Nashville). Feel free to bring your own instrument and join in one of the many pickin’ circles throughout the night. Make sure to bring lawn chairs and blankets, too. Food trucks will be available in addition to craft beer. Happens from 6 – 10 p.m. Adults are $25, youth ages 7 – 17 are $10, children 6 and younger are free.
JAZZ UNDER THE STARS AT CHEEKWOOD cheekwood.org
Enjoy some smooth jazz under the stars at Cheekwood (1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville). Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy a slow-down session in the summer breeze, while immersing yourself in the soundtrack of the season. Concerts start at 7 p.m. and tickets start at $65.
Always keeping Nashville on its toes, Nashville Ballet performs at Belmont University’s Fisher Center for the Performing Arts (2020 Belmont Blvd., Nashville) at 7:30 p.m. The event features special performances by company dancers, members of NB2 and esteemed guests from Lines Ballet and Collage Dance Collective.
See Friday, July 5.
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ALABAMA
bridgestonearena.com
See Alabama perform live at Bridgestone Arena (501 Broadway, Nashville) as part of their "Roll On North American Tour" with special guests Gary Allen & comedian Dusty Slay. Show starts at 7 p.m. and tickets start at $42.
FREE MOVIE FRIDAYS IN SPRINGFIELD springfieldtn.gov
Springfield Parks & Recreation is bringing family-friendly movies to the Martin Luther King, Jr. Park (2623 South Main St., Springfield) on the third Friday of each month through September. Movies start between 7:30 – 8 p.m.
FULL MOON HIKES AT OWL’S HILL owlshill.org
Pack dinner and arrive early to picnic on the grounds, then explore Owl's Hill (545 Beech Creek Road, Brentwood) at sunset and enjoy the sights and sounds of day turning to night, listening for owls, coyotes, and night-singing insects. When the stars come out, look for constellations, planets and even meteors. No flashlights. Ages 12 and older (minors must be accompanied by an adult). Program begins promptly at 7:30 p.m.
TARZAN boroarts.org
Based on Disney's epic animated musical adventure and Edgar Rice Burrough's "Tarzan of the Apes", Tarzan features heart-pumping music by rock legend, Phil Collins, and a book by Tony Award-winning playwright, David Henry Hwang. The show runs July 19 – 21 at the Center for the Arts (110 West College Street, Murfreesboro) on Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Adults are $22. Rated PG.
DIVE-IN MOVIES AT NASHVILLE SHORES: WONKA
See Friday, July 5.
CIRQUE DU SOLEIL SONGBLAZERS
See Tuesday, July 2.
TICK, TICK… BOOM!
See Friday, July 12.
CANDLELIGHT: A TRIBUTE TO QUEEN feverup.com
The music of Queen played by a string quartet amid candlelight inside The Parthenon at Centennial Park (2500 West End Ave., Nashville). Performance starts at 9 p.m. Tickets start at $33. For ages 8 and older.
TOTS! AT CHEEKWOOD
See Tuesday, July 2.
FREE EXPLORE WITH A NATURALIST
See Saturday, July 6.
FREE MURFREESBORO FARMERS MARKET
See Saturday, July 6.
FREE FRANKLIN FARMERS MARKET
See Saturday, July 6.
FREE NOLENSVILLE FARMERS MARKET
See Saturday, July 6.
FREE KIDSVILLE AT THE PARTHENON
See Saturday, July 6.
ROBOTICS CLASS: MARS EXPLORATION townofsmyrna.org
Use dc motors, gears, axles, switches and mainboards to build robots ready to explore Mars at the Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center (100 Sam Ridley E Pkwy., Smyrna)! The robotic designs include a Crater Crawler, Ecks Wing, and the Curiosity Mars Rover. Happens from 10 – 11:30 a.m. Cost is $30. For ages 8 and up. Must register.
FREE SONG ADVENTURES WITH RACHEL SUMNER rachelsumner.com
Join family entertainer Rachel Sumner for a musical adventure of songs. Happens at 10:30 a.m. at the Nashville Public Library Inglewood branch.
BOOT SCOOTIN’ COWBOY BOOTS
See Thursday, July 18.
FREE JR. NATURALIST: ORIENTEERING nashville.gov
A compass is an important tool for an outdoor scientist or explorer to navigate and create maps. Learn how to read a compass and then use it on a treasure hunt around Shelby Bottoms Nature Center (1900 Davidson St., Nashville) from 9:30 – 11 a.m. For ages 8 and older. Registration Required.
NASHVILLE BONSAI SOCIETY ANNUAL CLUB SHOW cheekwood.org
Five separate bonsai clubs will participate this year with 60 displays of trees at Cheekwood (1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville) July 20 – 21. There will be an exhibit of Kusamono (accent plants) and Suiseki (viewing stones) as well. Numerous vendors will be selling a variety of trees, plants and pots. Cost is included with admission.
FREE LIBRARY PETE & THE STORYTIME BAND ROCK 'N' ROLL PUPPET SHOW!
See Friday, July 12.
NASHVILLE HORROR CON nashvillehorror.com
Nashville's scariest convention comes to the Nashville Fairgrounds Expo 3 building (625 Smith Ave., Nashville) on July 20 – 21. Special guests include a Hocus Pocus characters; hall of fame wrestler Nick Foley; skateboarder Bam Margera; and actress Heather Matarazzo. Happens from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets start at $26 ($10 for parking). Kids under 12 are free with an adult ticket purchase.
MUSIC CITY DRUM SHOW musiccitydrumshow. com
Feel the beat at the 4th annual event celebrating all things drums! Show percussion products from industry authorities, plus see live clinics and more July 20 – 21 at the Fairgrounds Nashville (625 Smith Ave., Nashville) from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. General admission is $20; kids ages 5 – 12 are $10.
FREE NASHVILLE ZOOVENTURES: EAST NASHVILLE library.nashville.org
This interactive animal program visits the Nashville Public Library's East branch at 10:30 a.m. Ambassadors from the Nashville Zoo will have a variety of animals to teach kids about.
FREE BIG BAND DANCES
See Saturday, July 13.
FREE BUBBLE BLAST FOAM PARTY: BELLEVUE library.nashville.org
Play in a mountain of clean, refreshing foam with beach balls, pool noodles and more at 10:30 a.m. at the Nashville Public Library's Bellevue branch (720 Baugh Road, Nashville). Bring towels and wear clothes that can get wet.
DIY FRIENDSHIP BRACELETS countrymusichalloffame.org
Come make custom friendship bracelets at the Country Music Hall of Fame in the Taylor Swift Education Center! Happens from or 1 – 2 p.m. Included with Museum admission free to members.
FREE PICKIN’ IN THE PARK
The 12th annual Pickin’ in the Park concert series returns to Harvey Park (4001 Miles Johnson Parkway, Spring Hill). The family-friendly event features local musicians and songwriters. Bring chairs and blankets, and enjoy an evening of music from 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. Food trucks will be on site.
(Continued on page 67)
We want to know who you think is the best in Middle Tennessee. What businesses and services do you feel provide the best-of-the-best?
From July 1 through July 26, we will be accepting nominations for your favorite business or service.
On August 1, we will post the top 10 nominations in each category and open the voting. If there are fewer than 10 nominations, we will post the top 5. Voting will remain open through August 31.
We will announce the winners in our November issue. Winners will also appear on our website November 1.
Thriving
CORNELIA AIRPARK CONCERTS
corneliaairparkconcerts.com
This concert experience features live music, craft beers, wine, food trucks and "Insta-worthy" moments (photos with a vintage plane) at Cornelia Fort Airpark at Shelby Bottoms. Bring blankets and lawn chairs to enjoy an evening of local live music. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. for each event with music starting at 5:45 p.m. Cost is $20 and includes beer/wine ticket for ages 21 and older. Ages 15 and younger are admitted free.
DEF LEPPARD, JOURNEY & STEVE MILLER BAND nissanstadium.com
See three classic bands — Def Leppard, Journey and Steve Miller Band — perform live outdoors at Nissan Stadium (1 Titans Way, Nashville) starting at 6 p.m. Tickets start at $45.
FREE MURFREESBORO MOVIE UNDER THE STARS: THE LITTLE MERMAID
See Monday, July 1.
GLOW IN THE PARK
See Saturday, July 6.
CIRQUE DU SOLEIL SONGBLAZERS
See Tuesday, July 2.
TARZAN
See Friday, July 19.
TICK, TICK… BOOM!
See Friday, July 12.
BOOT SCOOTIN’ COWBOY BOOTS
See Thursday, July 18.
COW AND PIG CUDDLING AT THE GENTLE BARN
See Sunday, July 7.
FREE MUSIC IN THE VINES
See Saturday, July 6.
HOUSE OF CARDS SUNDAY FAMILY BRUNCH
See Sunday, July 7.
The Puppet Truck: See "Aesop's Fables," a marionette puppet show, adapting some of your favorite childhood stories at various Nashville Public Library branches, including the East branch on Saturday, July 13; the Watkins Park branch on Wednesday, July 17; the Main Library on Wednesday, July 24; or the Looby brnch on Monday, July 29.
MUSIC CITY DRUM SHOW
See Saturday, July 20.
NASHVILLE HORROR CON
See Saturday, July 20.
FREE JAZZ ON THE CUMBERLAND victorchatman.com
LANE MOTOR VAULT TOURS
See Saturday, July 6.
NASHVILLE BONSAI SOCIETY ANNUAL CLUB SHOW
See Saturday, July 20.
FREE JR. CHESS TOURNAMENT AT FRANKLIN LIBRARY wcpltn.org
Put your chess skills to the test in a friendly competition at the Franklin Library (1314 Columbia Ave., Franklin) from 1:30 – 4:30 p.m. Each participant will play four games, win or lose. Ages 6 -12, registration required.
The popular concert series is held on the third Sunday of the month through October at Cumberland Park (592 S. First St., Nashville) from 5:30 – 8 p.m. Bring your favorite blanket or lawn chair to enjoy some of the best local, regional and national jazz artists performing live at this family- and pet-friendly event. Enjoy a variety of food trucks, concessions, vendors and even a "Kid’s Fun Play Zone."
SEBASTIAN MANISCALCO
bridgestonearena.com
See comedian Sebastian Maniscalco perform live at Bridgestone Arena (501 Broadway, Nashville). Show starts at 7 p.m. and tickets start at $82.
TARZAN
See Friday, July 19.
TICK, TICK… BOOM!
See Friday, July 12.
FREE BABY DANCE PARTY AT THE FRANKLIN LIBRARY wcpltn.org
Parents with kids ages 0 to 2 years old can join Miss Jessica and Miss Hannah in the Activity Room at the Franklin Library (1314 Columbia Ave., Franklin) for a special Baby Dance Party from 10 – 10:30 a.m.
FREE MURFREESBORO MOVIE UNDER THE STARS: BRAVE
See Monday, July 1.
FREE TODDLER STORYTIME AT THE BRENTWOOD LIBRARY
See Tuesday, July 2.
FREE TODDLER TIME AT THE FRANKLIN LIBRARY
See Tuesday, July 2.
TOTS! AT CHEEKWOOD
See Tuesday, July 2.
FREE ART POP-UP AT OLD FORT PARK
See Tuesday, July 2.
BUSY BEE CLASS FOR KIDS
See Tuesday, July 2.
FREE EAST NASHVILLE FARMERS MARKET
See Tuesday, July 2.
FREE KIDS YOGA
See Tuesday, July 2.
FREE MIME & THEATRE BASICS
See Tuesday, July 2.
NASHVILLE SOUNDS BASEBALL: TAIL WAGGIN' TUESDAYS
See Tuesday, July 9.
FREE RIVER SECRETS wpnc.nashville.gov
What secrets can be discovered while exploring the river at Warner Park Nature Center (7311 Highway 100, Nashville)? Prepare to get wet while hunting for tiny 'water pennies,' water snakes and other surprising creatures. Happens from 10 – 11:30 a.m. For all ages. Email to register.
FREE BABIES & BOOKS STORYTIME AT FRANKLIN LIBRARY
See Wednesday, July 3.
FREE PUPPET TRUCK: AESOP’S FABLES library.nashville.org
See this marionette puppet show at the Nashville Public Library Main Branch (615 Church St., Nashville) at 10:30 a.m. Complete with humor and wisdom, this adaptation of some of your favorite fables will delight young and old. Run time is 30 minutes.
FREE GIRLS STEAM AHEAD WITH NASA
See Wednesday, July 3.
KNEE-HIGH NATURALISTS
See Wednesday, July 3.
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MUSICAL INSTRUMENT
PETTING ZOO
See Wednesday, July 3.
FREE TODDLER STORYTIME AT THE BRENTWOOD LIBRARY
See Tuesday, July 2.
FREE NASHVILLE ZOOVENTURES: BRENTWOOD brentwoodtn.gov
This interactive animal program visits the John P. Holt Brentwood library from 1 – 2 p.m. Ambassadors from the Nashville Zoo will have a variety of animals to teach kids about.
TURTLE TALKS AT THE DISCOVERY CENTER
See Wednesday, July 3.
NASHVILLE SOUNDS BASEBALL: WINNING WEDNESDAYS
See Wednesday, July 10.
FREE RETRO WEDNESDAYS AT STARDUST DRIVE-IN THEATRE
See Wednesday, July 3.
CIRQUE DU SOLEIL SONGBLAZERS
See Tuesday, July 2.
HARRY POTTER AND THE SORCERER’S STONE IN CONCERT nashvillesymphony.org
Watch the wand choose the wizard, a troll run amok and magic mirrors in high-definition while members of the Nashville Symphony orchestra perform John Williams’ iconic score in the Schermerhorn Symphony Center (1 Symphony Place, Nashville) on July 24 – 25. Don’t miss this special event as Harry, Ron, Hermione and all your favorite characters return to the screen to enchant the world all over again.
FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT THE FRANKLIN LIBRARY
See Friday, July 5.
SUMMER CRAFT SERIES AT MORNING GLORY ORCHARD
See Thursday, July 11.
CAMPFIRE STORYTIME ATTHE DISCOVERY CENTER
See Thursday, July 11.
BUSY BEE CLASS FOR KIDS
See Tuesday, July 2.
FREE LIBRARY OLYMPIC GAMES AT LINEBAUGH rclstn.org
In celebration of the start of the Summer 2024 Olympic games, all ages can enjoy library-themed events at Linebaugh Public Library (105 W Vine St., Murfreesboro) from 11:30 – 12:30 p.m.
HIP HATS
countrymusichalloffame.org
Using hats on view throughout the museum as inspiration, aspiring young designers can make and decorate their own paper hats 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.
THURSDAY NIGHT OUT
See Thursday, July 11.
FREE LIBRARY PETE & THE STORYTIME BAND ROCK 'N' ROLL PUPPET SHOW!
See Friday, July 12.
FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT THE FRANKLIN LIBRARY
See Friday, July 5.
FREE GIRLS WHO CODE CLUB
See Thursday, July 11.
FREE GOODLETTSVILLE FARMERS MARKET
See Thursday, July 11.
FREE HENDERSONVILLE SUMMER CONCERT SERIES
See Thursday, July 11.
FREE MURFREESBORO MOVIE UNDER THE STARS: BRAVE
See Monday, July 1.
NASHVILLE SOUNDS: THROWBACK THURSDAYS
See Thursday, July 11.
HARRY POTTER AND THE SORCERER’S STONE IN CONCERT
See Wednesday, July 24.
CIRQUE DU SOLEIL SONGBLAZERS
See Tuesday, July 2.
FREE TODDLER TIME WITH THOMAS
See Friday, July 5.
FREE STEAM PLAY: WATER PLAY AT GREEN HILS LIBRARY
See Friday, July 12.
FREE FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS AT ARRINGTON VINEYARDS
See Friday, July 5.
FREE BLUEGRASS ALONG THE HARPETH bluegrassalongtheharpeth.com
Enjoy this special bluegrass festival on the downtown Franklin square July 26 – 27. On Friday night, hear some of the best bluegrass bands around for a relaxing end to the work week. On Saturday from 10 a.m. – 10 p.m., the music continues with individual instrument and band contests. In addition there will be food, craft vendors and more. See a schedule of performers here.
HIP HATS
See Thursday, July 25.
TURTLE TALKS AT THE DISCOVERY CENTER
See Wednesday, July 3.
FREE TALES AT TWILIGHT
See Friday, July 5.
CANDLELIGHT: A TRIBUTE TO PINK FLOYD feverup.com
Enjoy the music of Pink Floyd played by a string quartet under candlelight inside The Parthenon (2500 West End Ave., Nashville) at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $33. For ages 8 and older.
CANDLELIGHT: A TRIBUTE TO TAYLOR SWIFT feverup.com
Discover the music of Taylor Swift played by a string quartet under candlelight inside The Parthenon (2500 West End Ave., Nashville) at 9 p.m. Tickets start at $34. For ages 8 and older.
DIVE-IN MOVIES AT NASHVILLE SHORES: KUNG FU PANDA 4
See Friday, July 5.
FREE NASHVILLE FLEA MARKET nashvilleflea.com
Nashville's monthly flea market weekend returns with more than 800 hundred vendors from 30 states to shop from at the Nashville Fairgrounds (625 Smith Ave., Nashville). Parking is $5.
Summer Splash at Nashville Zoo: On Saturday, July 27, the Zoo transforms into a water wonderland with slides, bubbles, splashy attractions and more! Plus, be on the lookout for special ice-themed enrichment throughout the day.
NASHVILLE SOUNDS BASEBALL: FOX17 (FIREWORK) FRIDAYS
See Friday, July 5.
CIRQUE DU SOLEIL SONGBLAZERS
See Tuesday, July 2.
FREE MURFREESBORO FARMERS MARKET
See Saturday, July 6.
FREE FRANKLIN FARMERS MARKET
See Saturday, July 6.
FREE NOLENSVILLE FARMERS MARKET
See Saturday, July 6.
FREE KIDSVILLE AT THE PARTHENON
See Saturday, July 6.
FREE EXPLORE WITH A NATURALIST
See Saturday, July 6.
FREE BLUEGRASS ALONG THE HARPETH
See Friday, July 26.
MADE MARKET
mademkt.com/markets/franklin Come shop amazing makers, grab some eats and enjoy this community market at The Factory in Franklin (230 Franklin Road, Franklin) from 10 a.m. –5 p.m. Cost is $5 (kids 15 and younger can tag along for free).
SUMMER SPLASH AT NASHVILLE ZOO nashvillezoo.org
The Zoo transforms into a water wonderland complete with slides, bubbles, splashy attractions and more on Festival Field! Check out the keeper talk schedule to hear about how our animals handle the hot weather and be on the lookout for special ice-themed enrichment throughout the day. Included with Zoo admission.
FREE LIBRARY PETE & THE STORYTIME BAND ROCK 'N' ROLL PUPPET SHOW!
See Friday, July 12.
FREE MURFREESBORO MOVIE UNDER THE STARS: BRAVE
See Monday, July 1.
FREE CATERPILLAR CRAWL
warnerparks.org
Summer is a great time to look for caterpillars. Explore at Warner Park Nature Center (7311 Highway 100, Nashville) to see who's out crawling about from 1 – 2 p.m. email to register starting July 12.
KITTEN YOGA
wcparksandrec.com
Do you have a passing interest in yoga and a BIG interest in kittens? Come out for Kitten Yoga at Williamson County Animal Center (1006 Grigsby Hayes Ct., Franklin). Classes include one hour of yoga instruction while a litter of friendly, purring kittens roam around you. There are two times at 1:30 and 3 p.m. For ages 16 and older. Cost is $25.
TOTS! AT CHEEKWOOD
See Tuesday, July 2.
FREE NASHVILLE FLEA MARKET
See Friday, July 26.
HIP HATS
See Thursday, July 25.
NASHVILLE SOUNDS BASEBALL: HIT CITY SATURDAYS
See Saturday, July 6.
NERF WARS
See Saturday, July 13.
GLOW IN THE PARK
See Saturday, July 6.
SUMMER TRIBUTE SERIES AT ACADEMY PARK
wcpactn.com
Come out to the Williamson County Performing Arts Center at Academy Park (112 Everbright Ave., Franklin) to see World Turning: A Tribute to Fleetwood Mac. Tickets are $27.50 for adults and $25 for seniors 55 and over. Concerts start at 7 p.m.
FREE BIG BAND DANCES
See Saturday, July 13.
HOOTIE & THE BLOWFISH bridgestonearena.com
See Hootie & The Blowfish perform live at Bridgestone Arena (501 Broadway, Nashville) as part of their "Summer Camp with Trucks Tour 2024" with special guests Collective Soul and Edwin McCain. Show starts at 7 p.m. and tickets start at $39.
HEARTSHAKERS:
A TOM PETTY TRIBUTE
franklintheatre.com
Take a walk back in time with tribute band, Heartshakers, at the downtown Franklin Theatre (419 Main Street, Franklin). Show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $45.
CIRQUE DU SOLEIL SONGBLAZERS
See Tuesday, July 2.
NASHVILLE SC DASH AT THE CASTLE 5K NIGHT RUN nashvillesc.com
Join Nashville SC for a certified 5K night run around GEODIS Park (501 Benton Ave., Nashville) and the Wedgewood-Houston neighborhood. Every registration includes a race t-shirt, a complimentary ticket to the NSC game on Sept. 18th, 2024 and a Finishers Medal! Run or walk and enjoy the exciting atmosphere starting at 8 p.m. Finish and hang around for all the fun with a DJ, food, drinks and fun!
COW AND PIG CUDDLING AT THE GENTLE BARN
See Sunday, July 7.
HIP HATS
See Thursday, July 25.
FREE MUSIC IN THE VINES
See Saturday, July 6.
FREE NASHVILLE FLEA MARKET
See Friday, July 26.
NASHVILLE SOUNDS BASEBALL: FAMILY FUN SUNDAY
See Sunday, July 14.
SILENT MOVIE CLASSICS: THE RED BALLOON & THE CAMERAMAN FEATURING ORGANIST PETER KRASINSKI nashvillesymphony.org Marvel at legendary organist Peter Krasinski, who accompanies silent films like none other. This double-feature inside the Schermerhorn (1 Symphony Pl., Nashville) is anchored by the 1928 classic, The Cameraman. A hopelessly in love, clumsy man takes work as a motion-picture cameraman at MGM Studios in attempt to be close to the woman he desires. Also featuring the 1956 French film, The Red Balloon. A red balloo — with a mind of its own — follows a little boy around the streets of Paris. Concert starts at 2 p.m. Tickets start at $21.
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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.
FREE PUPPET TRUCK: AESOP’S FABLES library.nashville.org
See this marionette puppet show at the Nashville Public Library Looby branch (2301 Rosa L Parks Blvd, Nashville) at 10:30 a.m. This adaptation of some of your favorite fables will delight young and old. Run time is 30 minutes.
DANNY GO! LIVE! tpac.org
Littles can enjoy this live-action, educational children’s show filled with music, movement and silliness at TPAC's Polk Theater (505 Deaderick St., Nashville). Created in 2019 by three childhood friends, the show inspires learning and o -the-couch exercise for kids ages 3 to 7. Show starts at 5 p.m. and tickets start at $39.
FREE TODDLER STORYTIME AT THE BRENTWOOD LIBRARY
See Tuesday, July 2.
FREE TODDLER TIME AT THE FRANKLIN LIBRARY
See Tuesday, July 2.
TOTS! AT CHEEKWOOD
See Tuesday, July 2.
FREE ART POP-UP AT OLD FORT PARK
See Tuesday, July 2.
TODDLER TUESDAY AT SAM DAVIS HOME 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 moth's theme is the Olympics. Cost is $8 for toddlers and siblings, free for parents.
BUSY BEE CLASS FOR KIDS
See Tuesday, July 2.
FREE EAST NASHVILLE FARMERS MARKET
See Tuesday, July 2.
FREE KIDS YOGA
See Tuesday, July 2.
FREE MIME & THEATRE BASICS
See Tuesday, July 2.
FREE STEM ADVENTURE WITH MR. BOND’S SCIENCE GUYS!
Enjoy this live science show featuring the forces of physics, reactions of chemistry and more at 1 p.m. at the John P. Holt Brentwood Library (8109 Concord Road, Brentwood).
FREE GOAT CUDDLING AT ENBW eastnashbeerworks.com
Baby goats are in the beer garden at East Nashville Beer Works (320 E Trinity Lane Nashville), and you can catch them the last Tuesday each month through September from 4 – 7 p.m.
FREE TODDLER STORYTIME AT THE BRENTWOOD LIBRARY
See Tuesday, July 2.
FREE BUBBLE BLAST FOAM PARTY: CHURCH STREET PARK library.nashville.org
Play in a mountain of clean refreshing foam at 10:30 a.m. at Church Street Park (600 Church St., Nashville). Bring towels and wear water shoes.
FREE BABIES & BOOKS STORYTIME AT FRANKLIN LIBRARY
See Wednesday, July 3.
FREE KIDS WATER DAY
End summer with a splash at Pinkerton Park (405 Murfreesboro Road, Franklin) with water relays, water balloons, sprinklers, beachballs and popsicles from 9 – 11 a.m. Bring a towel and sunscreen.
FIND WALDO CELEBRATION parnassusbooks. net
Join the Parnassus Books' (3900 Hillsboro Pike Suite 14, Nashville) Waldo Party, including prizes and posing for photos with a real Waldo from 4 – 5 p.m.
FREE GIRLS STEAM AHEAD WITH NASA
See Wednesday, July 3.
MUSICAL INSTRUMENT PETTING ZOO
See Wednesday, July 3.
FREE RETRO WEDNESDAYS AT STARDUST DRIVE-IN THEATRE
See Wednesday, July 3.
NASHVILLE SC LEAGUES CUP nashvillesc.com
See the "Boys in Gold" face o at GEODIS Park (501 Benton Ave., Nashville) for the 2024 Leagues Cup. Children 3 years or older require a ticket to attend matches. Tickets vary for each game.
WILLIAMSON COUNTY FAIR Aug. 2 – 10
Williamson CountyAG Expo Park, Franklin williamsoncountyfair.org
HOT WHEELS MONSTER TRUCKS LIVE GLOW PARTY Aug. 3 – 4
Bridgestone Arena, Nashville bridgestonearena.com
TOMATO ART FEST Aug. 9 – 10
Five Points, East Nashville tomatoartfest.com
TENNESSEE TITANS PRESEASON HOME GAMES Aug. 10 & 17 Nissan Stadium, Nashville tennesseetitans.com
WILSON COUNTY FAIRTENNESSEE STATE FAIR Aug. 15 – 24
Wilson County Fairgrounds, Lebanon wilsoncountytnstatefair.com
PBR STAMPEDE DAYS Aug. 16 – 18
Bridgestone Arena, Nashville bridgestonearena.com
SUMMER SHAKESPEARE
Aug. 29 – Sept. 27 ONE C1TY, Nashville nashvilleshakes.org
Adventure Science Center
Journey deeper into space exploration as we discover the technology used by scientists to explore outer space. Immerse yourself in a Mars diorama and get up close and personal with a model from NASA of the Curiosity rover and a life-sized comparison of NASA’s Hubble and James Webb telescopes. You’ll even have the opportunity to touch a real Mars meteorite!
615-862-5160 | adventuresci.org 800 Ft. Negley Blvd., Nashville
Bill Taylor Bushido School of Karate
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.
Bach to Rock Nashville West Bach to Rock Franklin
Let martial arts take your kids to new heights! Bill Taylor’s Bushido School of Karate offers programs in traditional karate for ages 3 - adult. Call now to get one month free plus a uniform.
615-890-6755 | bskonline.com
1911 Business Campus Drive, Murfreesboro
615-893-6003 | bskonline.com
1820 NW Broad St., Murfreesboro
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
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
Nashville Children’s Theatre Drama School
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.
615-297-2966 | nashvillechildrenstheatre.org 25 Middleton St., Nashville
Country Music Hall of fame and Museum
Dig into the story of country music in hands-on art and music workshops for kids. Instructor-led programs are offered every Saturday. We also offer camps and workshops for families to attend throughout the year. Visit us online for more information.
615-416-2001 | countrymusichallo ame.org 222 Rep. John Lewis Way S, Nashville
listings continue on page 74...
Creekside Riding Academy & Cheval Stables
Come experience over 55 acres of beautiful trail rides across the beautiful acres of Cheval Stables. We also offer pony parties, riding lessons for all ages and abilities. Both facilities owned and operated by Best of Parenting award-winning Creekside Riding Academy.
615-595-7547 | creeksideridingstables.com
2359 Lewisburg Pike, Franklin
615-829-1105 | chevalstables.com 3531 Tobe Robertson Road, Columbia
Discovery Center at Murfree Spring
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
FRANKLIN SUZUKI
Top-rated instructors specializing in violin, viola, and cello instruction to children ages 3 - 18, using the Suzuki Method of music education. Students participate in weekly group classes and private lessons, and regularly perform in recitals and outreach concerts. Classes meet in Brentwood and Franklin. All instructors have advanced Suzuki teacher training.
615-567-3723 | franklinsuzukiacademy.com 9000 Concord Road, Brentwood
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
School of Nashville Ballet
School of Nashville Ballet offers exemplary dance instruction to ages 2 - 102 of every experience level. Students can stretch their imaginations, learn self-expression, nurture their skill and artistry, and reach their fitness goals through our varied programs. We offer professional instruction for children, youth and adults.
615-297-2966 | nashvilleballet.com 3630 Redmon St., Nashville
Dedicated to bringing a new standard of excellence in gymnastics through Him. We offer classes for boys and girls ages 2 - 18 yrs and all ability levels. We offer cheerleading and tumbling, as well as competitive teams. Ask about our free trial class. We also do parties, field trips and parents’ nights out.
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!
615-601-3254 | learningrx.com/franklin 100 Cool Springs Blvd., Ste. 200, Franklin
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
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..
615-509-9423 | southernstarsmontessori.net 910 Wedgewood Ave., Nashville
615-867-6900 | 615-617-7644 | etcgymnastics.com 1137 Haley Road, Murfreesboro 11301 Old Nashville Hwy, Smyrna
Creating Moments That Matter! From first steps to handstands My Gym grows with your child. My Gym was born out of our passion to teach children in a fun, physically engaging environment. We delight in seeing children’s eyes light up for all those incredible milestones, from the tentative first steps to tumbling down soft mats. Sharing the parents’ excitement for their children’s accomplishments. 615-371-5437 | mygym.com/brentwood 330 Franklin Road, Brentwood
Providence Christian Academy
We are an inter-denominational pre-K - grade 12 independent school located in Murfreesboro. 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.
615-904-0902 | providencechristian.com 410 Dejarnette Lane, 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.
615-796-4632 | tennesseeroboticscenter.com 2231 NW Broad St., Ste. D, Murfreesboro
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