Williamson Parent magazine August 2024 by Day Communications/DayCom Media

Editor’s Note A message to my firstborn (and myself) on his first day of kindergarten.

12 READER FEEDBACK:

sleepovers a thing of

Bring friends together to celebrate the new school year! Win a clean and refreshing Foamboree party on WINSday, Aug. 17.

WIN on #WINSdays!

Every Wednesday (WINSday) — on our Facebook page — we give away a prize. Get in on the fun by subscribing to our Thursday newsletter and using the #WINSday clue.

HOW IT WORKS

Subscribe to our Thursday enewsletter to get in on our #WINSday prize drawings!

UPCOMING GIVEAWAYS

WED., AUG 7

A Family Subscription to Nashville Children's Theatre (NCT), valued at $240.

PUBLISHER

Stewart Day stewart@daycommedia.com

EDITOR IN CHIEF Susan Swindell Day susan@daycommedia.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Michael W. Aldrich michael@daycommedia.com

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR

Tim Henard timhenard@daycommedia.com

ADVERTISING:

ACCOUNT MANAGERS

Robynn Butler, Alexandra Day, Noah Day, Christina Moody

MARKETPLACE

Noah Day noah@daycommedia.com

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER

Kevin Mutz distribution@daycommedia.com

Fall consignment sales are here! Plus, Father Ryan celebrates 100 years and local parent briefs.

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., AUG 17

A Foamboree party valued at $320.

WED., AUG 21

A Family Four-Pack to Nashville Zoo at Grassmere.

WED., AUG 28

Four tickets to My Best School Year Ever at NCT.

ACCOUNTING

Jill Riffel accounting@daycommedia.com

MISSION STATEMENT

Nashville, Rutherford and Williamson Parent Magazines provide the community connection parents need.. We help moms, dads and families navigate the uncharted waters of family life, and we weave bright threads of joy and opportunity into the daily lives of families.

A Musing

“As a mom, you have to look at how much time you're spending with your kids. There is nothing you will regret more in your life — nothing — than not being present for your children."

— Jamie Lee Curtis American actress and film producer

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.

A. Brian Anderson, DDS, MDS Yeganeh Jewell, DDS, MS Board Certiﬁed Orthodontist

Vincent T. Chiappone, DDS, MSD Chadwick Layne Augusty, DMD

DAD BEAT

by Michael W. Aldrich

To My Firstborn, on Your First Day of Kindergarten

Welp, we did it … five whole years … and now, your big day is here — your first day of kindergarten.

We’ve been prepping you for a while now. We’ve talked about all the cool things you’ll get to do and the new friends you’ll make. We’ve talked about how to wear your backpack, how to unpack your lunch and how to be kind to your classmates.

We’ve talked about how you’re going to love it there, and how you probably aren’t going to miss us at all ... and that’s OK.

But, here’s what Daddy hasn’t talked to you about.

I’m not ready. This papa is not ready to let you go. Because that’s what it feels like ... like I’m letting you go

Anybody else relate?

You needed us so much those first few years. It was just you, me and Mommy for so long. For four years, you were it.

Soon, you’ll leave us and baby sister at home for seven hours a day, five days a week. Our days together will consist of afternoon and evenings — and that scares me.

There is something about kindergarten that feels like a giant leap forward. You’re going to change even more this year and I’m excited for you, but also scared of what this might mean for me.

I’m scared you’ll need me less.

I’m scared you’re growing up and I’m growing old too fast.

I’m scared I didn’t hug you enough and rushed bedtimes too many nights.

I’m scared I worked too much and you caught me looking at my phone too often.

I see all my mistakes now and I want to fix them all, but there isn’t time. When I say goodbye to you and watch as you walk down the hallway, I’ll think of you for the next seven hours. I’ll wonder: Is he eating? Is he making friends? Will he cry? Is he being polite? Will the teacher know how smart he is? Will they know how to handle his tantrums?

Deep breath, papa. It’s all going to be OK.

As hard as it is, letting go is part of a parent’s growth.

Besides, if you’re going to fantasize, just think about everything that can go right. Imagine him getting off the bus and running into your arms. Imagine him telling you that he had an amazing day learning new things and making new friends.

So, my sweet 5-year-old boy, we wish you the most incredible first day of kindergarten. You’re ready, little dude — even if Daddy may not be.

FEED BACK

“A mom blog I read said sleepovers are over. Are they no longer a thing?”

Are Sleepovers No Longer a Thing?

READERS SHARE OPINIONS

“Only if the mom reaches out to me and I can meet her and text anytime. Kids have phones now so we can contact them a lot easier.”

Anna Lindsay Sellers

“I am eliminating it with friends. Just family or friends we consider family. I am thinking of picking up around 8:30 or 9. That’s late for my kids.”

Chastity Curtis

“We don’t do sleepovers.”

Nikki Michelle

“I think it depends on how you feel about it. We’ve had some friends stay over and we’ve allowed ours to stay over. However, it involves lots of conversations about what is appropriate behavior from any adults or older siblings in the house and knowing the family.”

Kelly Peterson

“We have them and my children are allowed to go to them. We are diligent about knowing the parents of our kids’ friends. However, if that is not another family’s thing then we do “late night friend time” and we let the child stay over “late” (whatever the other parent deems as late) and then we drop them home. They still get in PJs and watch movies with a

ton of pillows and snacks. They just don’t stay all night. It seems to be a good compromise.”

Meredith Cleaves Wogan

“I love having all the sleepovers at our house.”

Hallie Coxton

“We don’t do them.”

“We don’t do sleepovers.”

Alison Hackney

Jennifer Cullimore

“My kids are asked, but they choose not to stay over. They prefer to sleep in their own beds. We do late-night pickups. But when they go, I have to know the family really well. And many times if the family has older brothers, the family sends the boys to grandmas. I respect them for that.”

Sarah Beth Hale

“We’ve made our house the place kids like to be. Sleepovers can happen in our home. There are strong requirements for my kids to sleep at someone else’s home. They have only slept at Grandma’s and she lives on my property.”

Veronica Moore

“Absolutely sleepovers are still a thing!”

Anthony Cesario

“It depends. We’re the house that has all the kids over all the time (about eight -10 kids) but we have for years, I’ve been room mom for years, so all the parents and kids know us super well from school. On the contrary, my son has only slept over at two of his friends’ houses and both are families we’ve known for a long time.”

Magda Dutkiewicz Vaughan

“I don’t allow my kids to have sleepovers. They are allowed to go over to friend’s homes of parents we know but only during the day. There is something about the nighttime and sleeping where I think it’s easier for bad things to happen to a child. But that’s me, of course.”

Becky Hayes

“Trust is over. I don’t trust my granddaughter staying after school for an extracurricular if the teacher is male, let alone being in someone’s home overnight.”

Pamela Maitland

“They’re unsafe and never should have been a thing.”

Emmie Marigold

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?

Voting in August

We have posted the top 10 nominations in each category and opened the voting. If there are fewer than 10 nominations, we posted the top 5.

Voting will remain open through August 31.

Nominations in July

From July 1 through July 26, we accepted nominations. The top 10 nominations in each category (fewer if we did not received 10 nominations) were carried over to the voting ballot.

Winners

We will announce the winners in our November issue. Winners will also appear on our website November 1.

Shop Consignment Sales Near You!

Don’t spend a lot on kid clothes, especially while your kids are growing. Find the items they need at fall consignment sales happening near you.

Stock up on children’s clothing in all sizes as well as home furnishings and more at area consignment sales. Here’s what’s going on:

FLOODS OF DUDS

CHILDREN’S CONSIGNMENT SALE

First United Methodist Church 217 East Main St., Hendersonville Floodsofduds.com

Aug. 21: 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Aug. 22: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Aug. 23: (50% off) 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.

SCOUT’S CONSIGNMENT

Studio615 in East Nashville 272 Broadmoor Dr., Nashville Scoutsconsignment.com

Aug. 22: presale ($15) 5 – 9 p.m.

Aug. 23: 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.

Aug. 24: (50% off) 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.

BUMC KIDSALE

Brentwood United Methodist Church

309 Franklin Road, Brentwood

Aug. 23: ($3) 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Aug. 24: (50% off) 8 – 11 a.m.

ENCORES CONSIGNMENT

SOUTH

Mid TN Expo Center 1660 Middle Tennessee Blvd., Murfreesboro encoresconsignmentsouth.com

Aug. 27: 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Aug. 28: 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Aug. 29: (50% off) 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Aug. 30: (75% off) 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Aug. 31: (dollar dash) 3:30 – 4:30 p.m.

HUM SCHOOL CONSIGNMENT SALE

Hermitage United Methodist 205 Belinda Dr., Hermitage facebook.com/HUMSchool

Sept. 5: ($3) 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Sept. 6: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Sept. 7: (50% off) 9 a.m. – 1

SOUTHPOINTE

CONSIGNMENT SALE

Southpointe Community Church 7227 Haley Industrial Dr. Nolensville

Sept. 6: 8 a.m. 12 p.m., 3 – 7 p.m.

Sept. 7: (50% off) 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.

THE CONSIGNMENT CONNECTION ADULT CLOTHING EXCHANGE

Gladeville Community Center 95 McCrary Road, Lebanon theconsignmentconnection.com

Sept. 9: 5 – 7 p.m.

Sept. 10 – 13: 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Sept. 14: (50% off) 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Sept. 15: (dollar dash) 1 – 3 p.m.

LOLLITOTS

CONSIGNMENT

Made in Tennessee Building 1033 Sparta Pike, Lebanon Lollitotsconsignment.com

Sept. 14: 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Sept. 15: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Sept. 16: (50% off) 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. (dollar dash) 4 – 7 p.m.

WIGGLES GIGGLES KIDS CONSIGNMENT SALE

Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church 729 Stop Thirty Road Hendersonville Wigglesgiggles.org

Sept. 25: presale ($5) 7 – 8:30 p.m.

Sept. 26: 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Sept. 27: (50% off) 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.

OAK HILL SCHOOL CONSIGNMENT SALE

The Oak Hill School-Enrichment Center

4815 Franklin Pike, Nashville oakhillschool.org/consignment

Sept. 25: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Sept. 26: 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Sept 27: 8 – 10 a.m., (50% off) 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Sept. 30: (50% off) 8 a.m. – 11 p.m.

local news

Father Ryan High School to Celebrate 100 Years!

Founded in 1925, the college preparatory school is grounded in strong, evolving ideas, living out its mission of faith, knowledge and service.

Father Ryan High School, the co-educational Catholic high school located at 700 Norwood Drive in Nashville, turns 100 next month and a two- year-long celebration is in the works. The revelry kicks o on the school’s campus with a “100 Years of Father Ryan Community Celebration” on Saturday, Sept. 14 for alumni, students, parents, grandparents, former and current faculty and sta and friends.

From its beginnings as a Catholic school for boys to the present day, Father Ryan has shown unwavering commitment to its mission of service. Alumni served the community at large during World War II by purchasing enough War Bonds to procure a B-17. In 1954, Father Ryan was the ﬁrst school in the South to integrate classrooms following the Supreme Court decision in Brown vs. Board of Education and it was also the ﬁrst private school to integrate sports in Tennessee. Since the year 2000, 35 graduates have received appointments and attended military academies.

The school combines academics, arts and athletics with faith and service for all of its students. Notable graduates include Father Charles

Strobel (Founder of The Room in the Inn, etc.); John Siegenthaler (journalist, political ﬁgure and former publisher of The Tennessean), Russ Wigington (president of the Civil Rights Museum in Memphis) and countless others.

The impact of the school in the Middle Tennessee community has been signiﬁcant from the beginning and shows no sign of stopping. Happy 100, Father Ryan!

Learn more about the school by visiting fatherryan.org.

Quick Bits

• FREE MATERNITY PHOTOS WILL BE OFFERED BY IMPRESSIONS PHOTOGRAPHY to expecting mamas who attend The Baby Fair on August 10 at Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital Midtown. Impressions Photography is the exclusive provider of baby photography for Ascension Saint Thomas and will be on hand at the fair taking place from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. in the Educational Conference Area at Ascension, St. Thomas, located at 300 21st Ave. N. at the 21st Avenue entrance.

NASHVILLE BALLET’S NASHVILLE’S NUTCRACKER will again feature School of Nashville Ballet students and, for the ﬁrst time since 2019, the community at large. Those interested can audition on Sunday, Aug. 25 or Sunday, Sept. 8 at the Martin Center for Nashville Ballet. Auditions are held in a light and easy environment, and no prior dance experience is required. The curtain will rise on the ﬁrst production on Friday, Dec. 6 and will run through Thursday, Dec. 26.

For questions regarding auditions, email youthcast@nashvilleballet.com. Find tickets at nashvilleballet.com

• The Monthaven gallery at the Monthaven Arts & Cultural Center (MACC) in Hendersonville, presents local, regional and international exhibitions every year. It’s always fun to check out — and FREE. Beginning August 24 and running through

October 13, enter the captivating world of SALVADOR DALI’S “DIVINE COMEDY,” featuring engravings bringing Dante’s epic poem The Divine Comedy to life. In the exhibit, “the surreal meets the sacred and the ordinary is transformed into the extraordinary.” Dali created more than 100 watercolor studies and personally approved more than 3,000 woodblocks used in engravings.

For more information, call 615822-0789 or visit monthavenarts. org.

• TENNESSEE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER (TPAC) has a new lineup of fun and silly family shows this fall. In October, get ready for Sugar Skull!, a celebration of the Día de Muertos traditions through music, dance and puppetry. In November, Littles can enjoy Sesame Street Live with Elmo and friends. For the holidays, enjoy Ru-

dolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: the Musical. And in early March, kids can enjoy the antics of Dog Man: the Musical, based on the worldwide bestselling series. Tickets are available at tpac. org or by phone at 615-782-4040. For groups of 10 or more, call 615782-4060.

• MURFREESBORO PARKS AND RECREATION has a new state-of-the-art Skate Park and Pump Track at Old Fort Park, located at 806 Old Fort Parkway. The facility features a street-scape concrete park plus a track for bikes, skateboarders and scooters. It’s open daily from daylight to dusk.

The new Skate Park and Pump Track in Murfreesboro.

Father Ryan opened in 1925 as an all-boys Catholic high school.

Today’s co-ed school located in Nashville at 700 Norwood Drive.

Help Your Kindergartener Experience Success

As school days begin, provide your young learners with the tools they need for happy days in the classroom.

by Pam Molnar

There are so many milestones in a child’s life and the first day of kindergarten is one of them. Like any good parent, you want to make sure they are well prepared.

“Kindergarten is the first year that children are given that larger opportunity to be independent, especially in full-day programs,” says Michaela Schuzer, a kindergarten teacher in Tennessee. “The beginning of kindergarten focuses on letters and letter sounds, but also on concepts like sharing and how to behave in a school,” she adds.

A February 2024 study in JAMA Pediatrics reveals an association between the COVID-19 pandemic and kindergarten readiness which we are still recovering from today. Kindergarten teacher Paula Johnson weighs in.

“Many, but not all young students were lacking in readiness skills due to not attending a preschool

program from March of 2020 and beyond,” she says. “Some may have been academically prepared, but many of them were not ready socially or emotionally and lacked self-care skills,” she says.

Encouraging independence by giving your child the basic tools to succeed is key.

“Basic life skills are often those we don’t always think we need to teach someone because it’s so second nature to us,” explains Schuzer. “Supporting your child’s learning journey at home will take them far.”

Schuzer and Johnson suggest applying these practices at home prior to starting kindergarten and throughout the kindergarten year.

Self-Help Skills

“Five and 6-year-olds are extremely capable of basic personal care skills necessary for school,” says Johnson. “When parents do not allow for time to build these skills, their child is already at a disadvantage compared to their [prepared] peers,” she adds.

When your child enters kindergarten, they should know how to blow their nose, how to button their pants, how to right-side out jackets, how to open their snacks.

“Shoe tying is developmental and may not happen until later in the school year,” says Johnson. Until then, select shoes that your child can put on independently.

Use Teaching Moments

at Home

“Any activity at home can be turned into something that will help your child,” says Schuzer. She suggests dinner time prep as the perfect time for this.

“You can ask about the colors of the food you are preparing, what letter the color words start with and the sounds they make,” she suggests.

Playing age-appropriate games at home also offers teaching moments including turn-taking, winning and losing gracefully, problem solving and strategic thinking. Consider the board game “Sequence” (for kids) or the card game “Uno.”

A note of caution: Kids don’t like to be non-stop prompted and grilled. Be creative and employ a light-handed touch when working with your child so they don’t shut down.

Enjoy & Encourage Reading

It is important to incorporate reading as part of your child’s nighttime routine.

“Reading aloud is so beneficial for kindergarteners, especially as they identify new letters and sounds each week,” says Schuzer.

Johnson adds that parents should also be caught reading. “Young children need to see adults reading books, magazines or newspapers versus seeing them scrolling on devices (even if you are technically reading).”

Brush Up Social Skills

With devices all around, social skills are are more vital for kids than ever. Give your child plenty of opportunities to speak to adults (other than family) when ordering at a restaurant or getting a new library card. Avoid jumping in and speaking for your child. Talk about respectfulness for other’s belongings and how to include other children in play who might be less adept at joining in. Offer plenty of encouragement when your kids take social strides!

Being Responsible for You

“Children are capable of following rules and routines at school so it shouldn’t be different at home,” says Johnson.

So don’t empty your child’s backpack. Teach your child to remove papers from their folder and place them in the same drop spot every day. It is also their responsibility to make sure everything is in their backpacks before they leave in the morning.

“My least favorite statement from students is that my mom forgot to put it in my backpack,” says Johnson. Keep it positive and can-do at home as you work to transfer what you used to do to what they need to be doing now.

Teach Your Child to Self Calm

Self-calming is a skill everyone needs, but especially in a room of 20 children. By the of age 5, children are capable of not having a tantrum when they are frustrated.

“Big feelings are OK, but not if that transfers to hurting or impeding others from learning,” says Johnson.

Schuzer offers a feelings chart that her students complete each morning.

“Students start the day by moving their assigned number to the color that matches their mood,” she says.

Schuzer also offers coping buckets based on mood color that contain snacks, stuffed animals and fidget toys. “Throughout the day, a student can hang out by the Feelings Chart for five minutes before returning to work. We all need a break sometimes and this area offers just that!

Pam Molnar is a freelance writer. She lives with her family in Nolensville.

READ FUN BOOKS TOGETHER

On the First Day of Kindergarten: A Kindergarten Readiness Book for Kids by Tish Rabe and Laura Hughes

How to Be Confident in Kindergarten: A Book for Your Backpack by D.J. Steinberg and Ruth Hammond

KINDergarten: Where Kindness Matters Every Day by Vera Ahiyya

Kindergarten Rocks!: A Kindergarten Readiness Book for Kids by Katie Davis

Clifford Goes to Kindergarten by Norman Bridwell

The 12 Days of Kindergarten: A Book for Kindergarteners by Jenna Lettice

I’m Going to Crush Kindergarten: A Going to Kindergarten Book for Kids by Sonica Ellis

The Night Before Kindergarten by Natasha Wing

Butterflies on the First Day of School by Annie Silvestro

by Rebecca Hastings

Easy Ways to Bring Arts Into Learning

With so much focus on academics and sports, the arts tend to get pushed aside. But research shows the arts benefit kids with reasoning, self-expression, confidence and more.

Iwatched my daughter more than the display. We were there to look at the art installation, and to see the famous paintings of Vincent van Gogh come to life in new ways. But I was captivated by her. She looked at the colors, the shapes and the images, pointing out details I hadn’t seen before. She was connecting with art painted more than 100 years ago.

In our busy world with increasing academic and athletic standards for our kids, the arts tend to get pushed aside. But research shows that the arts help kids with everything from reasoning and development to self-expression and

confidence. This includes more than just the visual arts. Exposure to music and the performing arts produce the same benefits and provide opportunities for your children to grow and learn.

Knowing the benefits of the arts and understanding how to incorporate them into your already busy life with kids are two different things. Here are a few easy ways to make art a part of your child’s upbringing:

Let Them See Art

Perhaps the most obvious way to encounter art is by seeing art. This can look like going to a museum, but it’s also about being observant of the world around you.

(please turn the page)

THE ARTS

Visit Museums

Even at young ages, children can learn to appreciate art in a museum. Try keeping visits shorter for little ones. You can even keep them in a stroller in many locations. This allows you to expose them to art as well as teach them how to behave out in public. For older kids, try to find exhibits that spark their interests. Maybe modern art or a photography exhibit will provide more connection.

See Performances

Go to live concerts and shows. Casual outdoor venues are great with little kids so they have space to move around and even dance when appropriate. For inexpensive options (great for kids) try catching local high school theater productions and library events. This fall, plenty of theater productions will be in Middle Tennessee just right for families.

Listen to Music

Music provides entertainment, learning, and connection for kids as young as babies. Exposing them to different types of music helps them with language skills, provides comfort, gives physical outlet, and more. From lullabies to rock music, and classical to top hits, listening to different types of music is a great way to teach kids to appreciate the arts.

Experience Art With Them

Let Them Create Art

Creating art comes in many forms, but often we limit our ideas to things like painting and playing music. Give your child the chance to explore creating all types of art.

Drawing, clay, puppetry, fashion, singing, knitting, dancing, acting, sidewalk chalk and color mixing are just a few brainstormed ideas. All of these are ways to create art. And the possibilities are endless. Art comes from imagination, there is no “right” or “wrong,” and often that’s why children love it.

Make Supplies Available

Sometimes there are opportunities for art to be more interactive. This is great for children as they are given the freedom to explore art hands-on ways. Be sure to use the Things to Do event calender in this publication for artistic opportunities that you can share with your kids.

Go Outside

Look for outdoor art exhibits that allow you to see the art and even touch it in many cases. Taking a tour of the murals in Nashville (visitmusiccity.com/trip-ideas/nashville-murals) invites a less restrictive experience for kids. Experiences like this inspire kids and foster creativity. But don’t stop there. After experiencing art, give your kids the chance to make some of their own.

Have a variety of art supplies available for your children to explore and provide ample opportunities that are purposeful and structured to make something specific. But also give them the freedom to imagine and create whatever they want to create. Some basic supplies to start with are paper in various sizes and colors, crayons, markers, colored pencils, paint, yarn, glue, chalk, buttons and ribbons.

Sign up for Classes

Consider what classes are available in our area. Whether it’s a painting class, music lessons, cooking class, dance class, or a local theater opportunity, there are a variety of options for kids to try. Giving them a chance to explore and try new things allows them to learn what they enjoy.

Encourage Creative Expression

Perhaps the most important part of the arts in your child’s life is your encouragement. When you talk about the arts as well as assist in your child’s creative endeavors, you show them that the arts are an important part of life and who we are.

It’s never too soon to introduce kids to the possibilities of creative expression since imaginative activities lead to better skills in social interactions and emotional regulation. Go for it!

Rebecca Hastings is a mom and freelance writer.

Local kids acting with Act Too Players, a performing arts school in Franklin, that offers classes, camps and workshops in acting, dance and voice. Our area is loaded with these types of opportunities!

Adventures in

No two minds are alike and we all your child learns to best

School should be an adventure in learning and so should life. But if you have not taken the time to observe how your child learns best, they may struggle unnecessarily in school.

Identifying prominent learning styles in children is crucial in helping them to know their strengths and overcome their weaknesses as they progress grade after grade. We often needlessly separate creativity from learning. But when you help your child understand their dominant learning styles, they can creatively use this knowledge to improve their experiences in school and life.

Most people use a combination of learning styles. Do you know yours? Generally speaking, there are many types of learning styles to explore, among them: visual, auditory, verbal, kinesthetic, tactile and logical.

Each person’s learning style is uniquely their own. For example, my daughter is more visual and auditory than me. We are equally kinesthetic, but maybe not equally verbal.

You don’t have to be tested to find out what kind of learners are living in your home, but if you’d like to test family members for learning styles, a free questionnaire is available at vark-learn.com.

VARK is the acronym for visual, aural, read/write and kinesthetic — sensory modalities used for learning which first became prominent in 1992.

But the idea of learning styles is not without controversy. In fact, the Center for Teaching at Vanderbilt University says there are more than 70 different learning style schemes and zero evidence to support the idea that “matching activities to one’s learning style improves learning.” However, no research ever measures a parent’s learning experiences with their kids, yet moms and dads know their kids best. You simply have to be willing to reflect on what makes your child tick. With observation, you can gather enough information on each of your children to help you experiment with their learning styles to their benefit.

Beneath the categories below are simple approaches for testdriving learning styles. As you work with your kids on homework and more this school year, knowing what works best for them can make their learning adventures more enjoyable. Learning should be fun. Try using the below tools to support your child’s education, in the awareness that most teachers present information in several formats to accommodate all students’ learning styles.

Visual Learners

• Draw pictures, doodle or color.

• List both sides of an argument.

• Make a mind-map on paper with associated words or ideas.

• Draw the shape of your idea or consult a chart or a graph.

• Use flashcards for memorizing.

• Make a lesson into a comic strip.

• Search for and read fun, visual blogs.

• Research topics with an eye for colorful infographics.

• Watch videos with a steady stream of images or drawings.

• Play a video game or flip through a magazine as a break.

Auditory Learners

• Use music in the background while learning.

• Read work out loud into a recorder or to the dog.

• Listen to lectures or stories in audio format.

• Write down what you notice as you listen or after you listen.

• Listen to yourself read out loud.

• Listen to the opinions of others to help sharpen your point of view.

• Enjoy discussion, dialogue and debating.

• Turn what you are learning into a rhyming poem or song lyrics.

• Listen to some upbeat music while taking a break from learning.

Plenty of parents work with their kids at home on homework from school.

by Christina Katz

Education

learn differently. Understand how suppor t them this school year.

Understanding how your child learns is the key to unlocking their full potential.

Verbal Learners

• Read up on topics of interest, highlighting any points to remember.

• Look up word definitions to spark ideas.

• Write out thoughts and rewrite thoughts to clarify what you think.

• Talk through your thoughts with another person.

• Build an argument on an opinion you feel strongly about.

• Play with acronyms (make up a story using every letter in one word as the first letter in a part of the story).

• Turn written words into spoken words to increase memorization.

• Play with verbal forms such as stories, poetry, articles, lists, etc.

• Immerse yourself in reading as a break from learning.

Kinesthetic Learners

• Physically act out ideas you are trying to understand.

• Draw ideas out on large sheets of paper or on a whiteboard.

• Memorize information while you are in motion.

• Use storyboarding techniques.

• Get outside and get your hands dirty to integrate thinking.

• Engage in pantomime or improv.

• Teach others what you’ve learned.

• Use your body for learning as with dance or theater.

• Take frequent breaks when sitting to stretch or move.

• Clear your mind by going for a walk or a run.

Tactile Learners

• Incorporate art projects into assignments.

• Pull together separate parts into a collage or sculpture.

• Build an argument the way you would build a log cabin.

• Create a 3-D visual representation of lessons.

• Hold flashcards for memorizing.

• Keep your hands and fingers moving while learning.

• Trace words or images to help you study.

• Watch video demonstrations for greater understanding.

• Work with clay, putty, or dough when stuck on integrating ideas.

• Take frequent breaks when sitting for long periods.

• Build a model or bake some cookies as a break from learning.

Logical Learners

• Notice patterns in whatever you are studying.

• Classify or categorize things.

• Break information out into small chunks.

• Use if/then or if/when statements.

• Set goals and track your progress.

• Make a to-do list.

• Use examples, stats and research.

• Pose a word problem and solve it.

• Use a spreadsheet to track progress.

• Work with timelines, diagrams and flowcharts.

• Tidy or organize things as a break from learning.

• Play word games or word search puzzles.

• Keep a jigsaw puzzle going for relaxation.

Christina Katz is a freelance writer and educational coach. She increases her productivity by paying attention to her dominant learning styles.

by Michael W. Aldrich

August

WINNER!

You're viewing the #1 events calendar in the nation for 2023 per judges at the Parenting Media Association.

THINGS TO DO

WILSON COUNTY FAIR + TENNESSEE STATE FAIR

Friday, Aug. 15 – Saturday, Aug. 24

James E. Ward Agricultural Center, Lebanon

Page 37

Livestock shows, motorsports events, music on six stages, all kinds of exhibits, demonstrations plus more than 60 rides for kids and adults.

WILLIAMSON COUNTY FAIR

Friday, Aug. 2 – Saturday, Aug. 10

AgExpo Park, Franklin

Page 29

Enjoy the return of kids' favorites like the Children’s Barnyard, the Kardenni Magic Show, Robocars, the Butterfly Garden, Sea Lion Splash and more.

HOT WHEELS MONSTER TRUCKS GLOW PARTY

Saturday, Aug. 3 – Sunday, Aug. 4

Bridgestone Arena, Nashville

Page 31

See 12,000-pound glowing monster trucks tear up the dirt in wide-open competitions of speed and skill.

28 DAILY EVENTS Events in day-by-day order.

DOG NIGHTS OF SUMMER

Bring furry friends to Cheekwood's Thursday Night Out series every Thursday in August.

BUBBLE BLAST FOAM PARTY

Play in a mountain of clean, refreshing foam and more at the Donelson Library on Aug. 3.

WAY LATE PLAY DATE: CSI

Put on your favorite true crime podcast for this special night at Adventure Science Center on Aug. 9.

FRIENDS TAKE FLIGHT

Enjoy this ADA-compliant tethered hot air balloon experience on Aug. 10 – 11 at Triple Creek Park in Gallatin.

2024 BIG3 PLAYOFFS

The 2024 playoffs for this professional 3-on3 basketball league kick off Aug. 11 at Bridgestone Arena.

TOMATO ART FEST

Friday, Aug. 9 – Saturday, Aug. 10

Five Points, East Nashville

Page 33

So many juicy events to sink your teeth into — the parade, kid's art show, tomato storytime, a musical petting zoo and tomato-tastic crafts.

NASHVILLE SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL

Thursday, Aug. 29 – Sunday, Sept. 22

The Yard at oneC1TY, Nashville

Page 46

Get in touch with your dramatic side at the 2024 Summer Shakespeare series featuring As You Like It. The show opens in Nashville then moves to Franklin in late September.

NASHVILLE STAMPEDE DAYS

Friday, Aug. 16 – Sunday, Aug. 18

Bridgestone Arena, Nashville

Page 39

"The toughest sport on dirt" fills Bridgestone for Nashville's PBR (professional bull riding) team, the Nashville Stampede.

KIDS FUN CONSTRUCTION & FARM EQUIPMENT FESTIVAL

Saturday, Aug. 24

Lucky Ladd Farms, Eagleville

Page 44

Kids can climb on excavators, a bulldozer and lots of other farm and construction equipment.

FALL ZZZOOFARI SLUMBER

Saturday, Aug. 31

Nashville Zoo, Nashville

Page 47

Join Nashville Zoo for a unique overnight camping experience as you sleep under the stars just a short distance away from the snoozing animals. Kids can enjoy a variety of activities during the evening and everyone gets breakfast in the morning.

COUNTY FAIRS IN MIDDLE TN

It's county fair season! Find the most current info on the fair in your neck of the woods.

42 TITANS PRESEASON

TITAN UP with the only home preseason game on Aug. 17 before the season starts in September.

44 FATHER-SON ADVENTURE WEEKEND

Dads and sons can make memories Aug. 23 – 25 at Deer Run in Thompson's Station.

GRAPE HARVEST STOMP

Smash grapes at Sumner Crest Winery on Saturday, Aug. 31.

47 ON YOUR RADAR

Mark your calendars for next month’s select outings. SCAN HERE TO VIEW "THINGS TO DO" ON YOUR PHONE!

DAILY EVENTS

THU 1

FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT FRANKLIN LIBRARY

615-794-3105

wcpltn.org

Kids ages 3 – 5 and their parents can join at the Franklin Library (1314 Columbia Ave., Franklin) for stories, songs, rhymes and more fun! Happens on select Thursdays and Fridays from 10 – 10:30 a.m. or 10:45 – 11 a.m.

SUMMER CRAFT SERIES AT MORNING GLORY ORCHARD

615-395-4088

morninggloryorchard.as.me

Join Morning Glory Orchard (7690 Nolensville Pike, Nolensville) for its Summer Craft Series at 10 a.m. including an arts & craft project in the orchard and storytime under a big shade tree. Also, go inside for a cider slush of your choice and shopping. Cost is $12.

BUSY BEE CLASS FOR KIDS

AT PATTERSON PARK

615-893-7439

murfreesborotn.gov

A children's class (ages 3 – 5) where they play 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 $3 for kids; $4 for adults.

EMBELLISHED INSTRUMENTS

615-416-2001

countrymusichalloffame.org

Young designers can personalize paper instruments inspired by ones on display in the galleries at Country Music Hall of Fame (222 Rep. John Lewis Way S, Nashville) from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Included with museum admission; free to museum members.

CAMPFIRE STORYTIME AT

THE DISCOVERY CENTER

615-890-2300

explorethedc.org

Drop by the Discovery Center (502 SE Broad St., Murfreesboro) every Thursday at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. for storytime in the "Great Outdoors" section. Included with admission ($12).

FREE GOODLETTSVILLE FARMERS MARKET

Celebrate seven years of the Goodlettsville Farmers Market 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

615-893-4131 rclstn.org

Girls Who Code Club is an after-school computer science program for all third through fifth graders (boys, too). Program happens from 4 – 4:45 p.m. at Linebaugh Library (105 W Vine St., Murfreesboro).

FREE HENDERSONVILLE SUMMER CONCERT SERIES streetsofindianlake.com

Bring lawn chairs, blankets or enjoy seating throughout the plaza for this concert series 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.

THURSDAY NIGHT OUT: DOG NIGHTS OF SUMMER

615-356-8000 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 musical lineup provides an eclectic soundtrack. In addition, the evenings feature regionally-sourced food and spirits, lawn games, wellness classes and more. Bring your pup along for ‘Dog Nights of Summer!’ Tickets are $10 for members and $22 for non members. Advanced reservation required.

AN

EVENING WITH VINCE GILL ryman.com

Hear Vince Gill's top-notch songwriting, guitar playing and tenor, all wrapped up in a quick wit with four shows at the Ryman Auditorium (501 Broadway, Nashville) Aug. 1 – 4. Shows start at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $65.

Thursday Night Out "Dog Nights of Summer": Bring the whole fam (pup included!) for dog-friendly fun Thursdays in August at Cheekwood. These special Thursday Night Out editions feature live music, dedicated drink stations for those with paws and local vendors offering treats and apparel for the pooches.

YOU’RE STILL HERE thetheaterbug.org

The Theater Bug presents this theatrical production exploring grief through the lens of a young person at OZ Arts Nashville (6172 Cockrill Bend Circle, Nashville) Aug. 1 – 4. Written by young playwright Huck Paisley, the show features a cast of three professional Nashville actors (who all have kids in the show). Performances are Thursday, Friday, Saturday at 7 p.m., plus Saturday matinee at 2 p.m. and Sunday at 6 p.m. Tickets are $18 online or $20 at the door.

FRI 2

FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT FRANKLIN LIBRARY

See Thursday, Aug. 1.

FREE TODDLER TIME WITH THOMAS

615-907-2251

murfreesborotn.gov

Bring your little ones 5 and younger to Sports*Com (2310 Memorial Blvd., Murfreesboro) for a class on Friday mornings from 10 – 11 a.m. The focus is on body part recognition and cognitive skill development. Cost is $3.

FREE MGL STORYTIME

615-907-3429

rclstn.org

Join for stories, songs and a craft every Friday morning at 10 a.m. at the MGL (Myrtle Glanton Lord) Public Library inside Patterson Park Community Center (521 Dr Martin Luther King Jr Blvd., Murfreesboro).

FREE AFTERSCHOOL ICE CREAM

615-862-8539

nashville.gov

After reserving your scoop, drop in the Shelby Bottoms Nature Center (1900 Davidson St., Nashville) anytime from 2 – 3 p.m. to learn some fantastic things about nature.

TURTLE TALKS AT THE DISCOVERY CENTER

615-890-2300

explorethedc.org

Drop by the Discovery Center (502 SE Broad St., Murfreesboro) every Wednesday and Friday at 3 p.m. for turtle feedings. Included with admission, free for members.

FREE FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS AT ARRINGTON VINEYARDS

615-395-0102

arringtonvineyards.com

Bring 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.

EMBELLISHED INSTRUMENTS

See Thursday, Aug. 1.

WILLIAMSON COUNTY FAIR

615-794-4386

williamsoncountyfair.org

Nine days of fun for all ages includes great food, music, rides and games at the AgExpo Park (4215 Long Lane, Franklin) Friday, August 2 through Saturday, August 10, 2024. In addition, enjoy fair favorites like the Children’s Barnyard and entertainment like Robocars, Sea Lion Splash and more! New attractions this year include Poppin' Penelope's Balloon Art Exhibit, Stilt Walker Peter Brunette, The Amazing Wonderland Circus.

GOODLETTSVILLE

MOVIES IN THE PARK: TROLLS BAND TOGETHER

Bring a blanket and enjoy a showing of Trolls Band Together in Peay Park (200 Memorial Drive, Goodlettsville).

The fun starts at 6:30 p.m. The movie starts at sundown.

FREE MT. JULIET FOOD & FLICK

mtjuliet-tn.gov

Bring your blanket or chairs for a family-friendly movie at the Charlie Daniels Park Amphitheater (1075 Charlie Daniels Pkwy., Mt. Juliet) on the ﬁrst Friday of each month through October. Film starts around 8:40 p.m. and concessions are available.

FREE FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE IN MURFREESBORO

mainstreetmurfreesboro.org

The ﬁrst Friday night in August is ﬁlled with music as Main Street Murfreesboro throws a 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 relax to the music. Come early to have dinner at one of the locally owned downtown restaurants and do a little shopping around the square before the music begins. This month, hear The Nashville Alternators (80-90’s).

FREE FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT AT THE SMYRNA OUTDOOR ADVENTURE CENTER

615-459-9710

townofsmyrna.org

Bring blankets, chairs and food to the lawn of Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center lawn (100 Sam Ridley Pkwy. E, Smyrna) for an outdoor movie starting at dark.

FREE FRANKLIN ART CRAWL

artscouncilwc.org/art-crawl

Enjoy an art crawl through some of Franklin’s historic buildings on the ﬁrst Friday of each month from 6 – 9 p.m. Many of the galleries serve complimentary refreshments during the evening and some o er live music.

AN EVENING WITH VINCE GILL

See Thursday, Aug. 1.

BOYZ II MEN

livenation.com

See the vocal harmony group Boyz II Men perform live at Ascend Amphitheater (310 1st Ave. S, Nashville). Concert starts at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $62.20.

FULL MOON HIKES AT OWL’S HILL

615-370-4672

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.

SOMETHING ROTTEN!

615-791-5007

pull-tight.com/something-rotten Welcome to the Renaissance and this musical farce, running Aug. 2 – 17 at the Pull-Tight Theatre (112 2nd Ave. S, Franklin). Set in the 1590s, brothers Nick and Nigel Bottom are desperate to write a hit play but are stuck in the shadow of that rock star known as “The Bard.” They set out to write the world’s very ﬁrst musical. Performances are Aug. 2 – 4, 7 – 11 and 14 – 17.

Curtain times are 7:30 p.m. for evening performances and 2:30 p.m. for Sunday matinees. Cost is $18 – $22.

YOU’RE STILL HERE BY THEATER BUG

See Thursday, Aug. 1.

SAT 3

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.

THINGS TO DO

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 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. Saturdays at The Streets of Indian Lake (300 Indian Lake Blvd., Hendersonville).

PARNASSUS BOOKS

STORYTIME

615-953-2243

parnassusbooks.net

Put on your ﬁnest pajamas and come out to Parnassus Books (3900 Hillsboro Pike Suite 14, Nashville) for a special storytime from 10:30 – 11 a.m. For ages 0 – 7. On Aug. 3, enjoy storytime with Emily Morrow, author of Little Helper, Big Imagination.

TOTS! AT CHEEKWOOD

cheekwood.org/calendar/tots

Cheekwood's toddler program happens Tuesday and Saturday mornings in the Bracken Foundation Children’s Garden at Cheekwood (1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville). Tots and a guardians can enjoy hands-on activities and storytimes from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Join a member of the garden sta for Turtle Talks as they feed the turtles and answer questions about the shelled residents. Each week’s theme is inspired by current exhibitions or seasonal festivals, encouraging exploration of art and the natural world.

FREE NASHVILLE N-TRAK AT THE SMYRNA LIBRARY

615-459-4884

rclstn.org

Enjoy the sights and sounds of a model train display by Nashville N-Trak at the Smyrna Public Library (400 Enon Springs Road W, Smyrna) in the conference room from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 3 and Sunday, Aug. 4.

GOAT FARM EXPERIENCE

615-481-9546

noble-springs.com

Head to Noble Springs Dairy Farm (3144 Blazer Road, Franklin) to spend time kid goat cuddling and meeting farm animals. Come anytime between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. and plan on joining a guided educational tour at 11 a.m., if you'd like. Admission is $12 per person. Children 2 and younger, free.

(please turn the page)

Nashville N-Track: Enjoy the sights and sounds of an intricate model train display in the Conference Room at the Smyrna Public Library on Saturday, Aug. 3 and Sunday, Aug. 4.

Bubble Blast Foam Party: Play in a mountain of clean, refreshing foam with beach balls, pool noodles and more at Nashville Public Library's Donelson branch on Saturday, Aug. 3. After, join inside for more back-to-school fun.

FREE SATURDAY STORYTIME AT BRENTWOOD LIBRARY

615-371-0090

brentwood-tn.libcal.com

Families can join the Brentwood Library (8109 Concord Road, Brentwood) in the Story Room for stories, songs and crafts on Saturdays from 10:30 –11 a.m. For ages 3 and older.

LANE

MOTOR VAULT TOURS

615-742-7445

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 takes 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.

FREE BACK-TOSCHOOL BASH IN HENDERSONVILLE

celebrationoﬂife.com

Enjoy games, haircuts, backpacks and more at Celebration of Life Church (768 Forest Retreat Road, Hendersonville) from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Free, but must register.

GLOW IN THE PARK

615-610-9500

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.

HOT WHEELS MONSTER

TRUCKS

LIVE GLOW PARTY

bridgestonearena.com

This immersive family entertainment experience lets fans connect with their favorite real-life Hot Wheels Monster Trucks inside Bridgestone Arena (501 Broadway, Nashville) for a two-day, three-show run Aug. 3 – 4. The twohour spectacle features a laser light show, theatrical e ects, dance parties and Hot Wheels toy giveaways. Fans can also witness an appearance from the car-eating, ﬁre-breathing, transforming robot MEGASAURUS™, plus the Freestyle Motocross high-ﬂyers. Tickets start at $34.55.

WILLIAMSON COUNTY FAIR

EMBELLISHED INSTRUMENTS

See Thursday, Aug. 1.

FREE EXPLORE WITH A NATURALIST

615-862-8555

wpnc.nashville.gov.

Do you want your kids to spend more time in the great outdoors? Take them to explore with a naturalist this weekend at Warner Park Nature Center (7311 Highway 100, Nashville). This outdoor exploration focuses on discovery, observation and connecting with nature from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

FAMILY JAM SESSION

615-416-2001

countrymusichallo ame.org

Sing, dance, and play as a family at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum the ﬁrst Saturday of each month from 9:30 – 10:15 a.m. Designed for families with children age 5 younger, the Family Jam Session is a participatory musicmaking experience that encourages child development through moving, singing and listening.

DROP-IN KIDS ART CLASSES

615-933-9644

littlearthousenashville.com

Explore various mediums and create original works of art on Saturdays at Little Art House (338 46th Ave., N Nashville). Each week brings a new art project to take home. Happens at 9:30 and 10:15 a.m. for Littles and then at 11 a.m. for ages 4 – 10. Cost is $20 – $25.

FREE BUBBLE BLAST FOAM PARTY & BACK-TO-SCHOOL BASH IN DONELSON

615-862-5859 library.nashville.org

Experience a fun foam party and play in a mountain of clean, refreshing foam with beach balls, pool noodles and more at Nashville Public Library

Donelson branch (2714 Old Lebanon Pike, Nashville) at 11 a.m. Then, from 12 – 1 p.m., kids can join in the Teen Room for back-to-school activities like boardgames, crafts and more.

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

615-395-0102

arringtonvineyards.com

Come out to Arrington Vineyards (6211 Patton Road, Arrington) for live jazz and bluegrass bands Saturdays and Sundays on the Hillside stage from 3 – 7 p.m.

FREE SUMMER PICKIN’ PARTY AT SHELBY BOTTOMS

615-862-8539

nashville.gov

Bring your voice, acoustic instrument, a song to share, or just come to listen at the Shelby Bottoms Nature Center (1900 Davidson St., Nashville) from 1 –3 p.m. They'll be outside if it's not too hot, otherwise follow the music to the classroom.

WILDERNESS STATION’S END OF SUMMER BASH

615-217-3017

murfreesborotn.gov

Finish your summer o from 4 – 8:30 p.m. at the Wilderness Station at Barﬁeld Crescent Park (401 Volunteer Road, Murfreesboro). Hike to the campground to experience a “summercamp-day” like no other. Compete in archery tag and gaga ball, learn how to create your own shelter, try your hand at slacklining, enjoy up-close interactions with animal ambassadors and more. Plus, enjoy hotdogs, refreshments and s’mores. Cost is $3 per person or $10 per family.

See Friday, Aug. 2.

FREE BIG BAND DANCES

conservancyonline.com

Boogie down to Centennial Park’s Event Shelter (2500 West End Ave., Nashville). A live big band provides the music while you and your kids learn a di erent 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. before the evening’s big band takes over at 7:30 p.m.

A CABARET EXPERIENCE: PINK GOES GOOD WITH GREEN 615-782-4040

tpac.org

Studio Tenn Theatre Company and Tennessee Performing Arts Center team up for this special performance inside TPAC's Johnson Theater at 7:30 p.m. In Pink Goes Good With Green with Kara Lindsay & Teal Wicks, two Wicked witches give you a peek behind the emerald curtain with personal tales about what it was like to visit Oz night after night on Broadway. Together, Lindsay and Wicks will look back on the show that changed them “for good.”Tickets start at $49.

AN EVENING WITH VINCE GILL

See Thursday, Aug. 1.

SOMETHING ROTTEN! BY PULL-TIGHT PLAYERS

See Friday, Aug. 2.

YOU’RE STILL HERE BY THEATER BUG

See Thursday, Aug. 1.

(please turn the page)

THINGS TO DO

SUN 4

FREE NASHVILLE N-TRAK AT THE SMYRNA LIBRARY

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

EMBELLISHED INSTRUMENTS

See Thursday, Aug. 1.

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. No flashing lights, no music and no whistles. Cost is $8 for kids, parents are free.

HOUSE OF CARDS SUNDAY FAMILY BRUNCH

615-730-8326

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, 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

661-252-2440

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.

LANE MOTOR VAULT TOURS

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

FREE MUSIC IN THE VINES

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

HOT WHEELS MONSTER TRUCKS LIVE GLOW PARTY

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

FREE VINTAGE BASE BALL GAMES

See The Tennessee Association of Vintage Base Ball (or TAOVBB) play at Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park (600 James Robertson Pkwy., Nashville). Game starts at 12 p.m.

WILLIAMSON COUNTY FAIR

See Friday, Aug. 2.

SOMETHING ROTTEN! BY PULL-TIGHT PLAYERS

See Friday, Aug. 2.

YOU’RE STILL HERE BY THEATER BUG

See Thursday, Aug. 1.

AN EVENING WITH VINCE GILL

See Thursday, Aug. 1.

MON 5

WILLIAMSON COUNTY FAIR

See Friday, Aug. 2.

TUE 6

FREE STORYTIMES AT THE BRENTWOOD LIBRARY

brentwood-tn.libcal.com

Stories, songs, fingerplays and more on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at the Brentwood Library (8109 Concord Road, Brentwood). Toddlers ages 18 months – 3 years are at 10 a.m. Preschoolers ages 3 – 5 are at 11 a.m.

TOTS! AT CHEEKWOOD

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

FREE TERRARIUM TINKER

615-217-3017

murfreesborotn.gov

Join The Wilderness Sta tion (401 Volunteer Road, Murfreesboro) for a hands-on experience where you'll learn the art of crafting a unique mini ecosystem from 10 – 11 a.m. Bring a container with a lid (32 oz. maximum). All other necessary materials will be provided. Registration required.

FREE EAST NASHVILLE FARMERS MARKET

eastnashvillemarket.com

A community farmers' market pop up every Tuesday from 3:30 – 6:30 p.m. at the corner of 5th & Woodland in East Nashville. Park for free in the lot at the corner of 6th & Main St. and across the street at the First Church of the Nazarene.

NASHVILLE SOUNDS BASEBALL: TAIL WAGGIN' TUESDAYS

615-690-4487

milb.com/nashville Head to First Horizon Park (19 Jr Gilliam Way, Nashville) to see the Nashville Sounds starting at 6:35 p.m. On select Tuesdays, dogs are allowed entry at the ballpark to watch Sounds baseball with their owners (you must present proof of the dog's up-to-date rabies vaccination).

WILLIAMSON COUNTY FAIR

See Friday, Aug. 2.

LINDSEY STIRLING firstbankamphitheater.com

See Lindsey Stirling perform

WED 7

FREE BABY & ME PLAYTIME AT THE NOLENSVILLE LIBRARY 615-776-5490

wcpltn.org

An open playtime at Nolensville Public Library (915 Oldham Drive, Nolensville) designed for babies 0 – 18 months old and their caregivers every Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. Older siblings are welcome.

FREE STORYTIMES AT THE BRENTWOOD LIBRARY

See Tuesday, Aug. 6.

FREE GIRLS STEAM AHEAD WITH NASA 615-225-8312

rclstn.org

Join in at the Technology Engagement Center (306 Minerva Drive, Murfreesboro) for a journey through space and science with NASA. The 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 twelfth graders and happens from 4 – 5 p.m. The event is open to the public, no registration is required.

JOHN FOGERTY

irstbankamphitheater.comSee John Fogerty, of the classic rock band Creedence Clearwater Revival, performs live at FirstBank Amphitheater (4525 Graystone Quarry Lane, Franklin) with special guests George Thorogood & the Destroyers and Hearty Har. Show starts at 7 p.m.; tickets start at $55.

Nashville Sounds: Take your kiddos out to the ballpark this month as the Sounds host 12 games at First Horizon Park with four giveaways, two "Sunday Family Fun Days" and even a "Pirates and Princesses Night" on Aug. 25.

NASHVILLE SOUNDS BASEBALL: WINNING WEDNESDAYS

615-690-4487

milb.com/nashville

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 -o card with a guaranteed prize. Also, if the Sounds win, fans get to run the bases!

FREE NATURE STORY & SONG

615-862-8539

nashville.gov

Join at Shelby Bottoms Nature Center (1900 Davidson St., Nashville) for nature-themed books and songs on the ﬁrst Wednesday of each month from 10 – 11:30 a.m. All ages welcome.

TURTLE TALKS AT THE DISCOVERY CENTER

See Friday, Aug. 2.

WILLIAMSON COUNTY FAIR

See Friday, Aug. 2.

SOMETHING ROTTEN! BY PULL-TIGHT PLAYERS

See Friday, Aug. 2.

THU 8

CAMPFIRE STORYTIME AT THE DISCOVERY CENTER

See Thursday, Aug. 1.

BUSY BEE CLASS FOR KIDS AT PATTERSON PARK

See Thursday, Aug. 1.

FREE GIRLS WHO CODE CLUB

See Thursday, Aug. 1.

FREE GOODLETTSVILLE FARMERS MARKET

See Thursday, Aug. 1.

FREE HENDERSONVILLE SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

See Thursday, Aug. 1.

FREE ALL ACCESS NIGHT AT THE DISCOVERY CENTER

615-890-2300

explorethedc.org

Enjoy this time for special needs families to enjoy the exhibits in a sensoryfriendly environment at the Discovery Center (502 Southeast Broad Street, Murfreesboro). Happens from 5 – 7:30 p.m. Reservations are suggested. Email curias@explorethedc.org for more information.

NASHVILLE SOUNDS: THROWBACK THURSDAYS

615-690-4487

milb.com/nashville

Head to First Horizon Park (19 Jr Gilliam Way, Nashville) to see the Nashville Sounds starting at 6:35 p.m. Every Thursday, the Sounds wear their 1978 uniforms to commemorate the team’s original uniform style.

THURSDAY NIGHT OUT : DOG NIGHTS OF SUMMER

See Thursday, Aug. 1.

SOMETHING ROTTEN! BY PULL-TIGHT PLAYERS

See Friday, Aug. 2.

WILLIAMSON COUNTY FAIR

See Friday, Aug. 2.

FRI 9

FREE TODDLER TIME WITH THOMAS

See Friday, Aug. 2.

FREE MGL STORYTIME

See Friday, Aug. 2.

FREE BUG SWEEP AT THE WILDERNESS STATION

615-217-3017

murfreesborotn.gov

Learn the di erence between insects and arachnids while meeting an animal ambassadors at The Wilderness Station (401 Volunteer Road, Murfreesboro). Search high and low for creepy crawlies in the native garden while observing them through a magnifying glass. Happens Friday, August 9 and Tuesday, August 20 from 10 – 11 a.m.

THINGS TO DO

NASHVILLE SOUNDS BASEBALL: FOX17 (FIREWORK) FRIDAYS

615-690-4487

milb.com/nashville

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.

FREE FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS AT ARRINGTON

DESIGN YOUR OWN AWARD

615-416-2001

countrymusichallo ame.org

Draw inspiration from the trophies on view throughout the museum, then create your own top prize from commonly found objects inside the Country Music Hall of Fame's Taylor Swift Education room (222 Rep. John Lewis Way S, Nashville) from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., Aug. 9 – 11. Included with museum admission; free to museum members.

Way Late Pay Date: Those 21 and older can put on their favorite true crime podcast and collect evidence for a special night at the Adventure Science Center on Friday, Aug. 9. Search for clues, learn the detective trade and more!

See Friday, Aug. 2.

FREE TOMATO ART FEST

tomatoartfest.com

This annual art and music festival features art, food, live music, contests and more dedicated to all-things tomato at Five Points in East Nashville (1106 Woodland St., Nashville).

Festival hours are Friday. Aug. 9 from 5 – 10 p.m. and Saturday, Aug. 10 from 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. There's so much to do and so many juicy events to sink your teeth into.

CANDLELIGHT: A TRIBUTE TO ADELE feverup.com

Candlelight concerts feature a string quartet playing hits by Adele. Experience a relaxing ambiance inside The Parthenon (2500 West End Ave., Nashville). The concert starts at 7 p.m. and tickets start at $33.

CANDLELIGHT: THE BEST OF HANS ZIMMER feverup.com

Discover the music of Hans Zimmer amid candlelight inside The Parthenon at Centennial Park (2500 West End Ave., Nashville). Concert starts at 9 p.m. Tickets start at $33. For ages 10 and older.

CHRIS STAPLETON

615-770-2000

bridgestonearena.com

See Chris Stapleton perform live with special guests Marty Stuart and Nikki Lane inside Bridgestone Arena (501 Broadway, Nashville) for his “All-American Road Show” tour on August 9 –10. Tickets start at $62 and both shows start at 7:30 p.m.

WAY LATE PLAY DATE: CSI

615-862-5160

adventuresci.org

Ages 21+ can put on their favorite true crime podcast and collect evidence for a night at the Adventure Science Center (800 Fort Negley Blvd., Nashville). Search for clues, learn the detective trade and discover the secrets of a perfect cocktail from Rosemary & Beauty Queen. Happens from 7 – 10 p.m. and costs $40.

(please turn the page)

WILLIAMSON COUNTY FAIR

See Friday, Aug. 2.

SOMETHING ROTTEN! BY PULL-TIGHT PLAYERS

See Friday, Aug. 2.

SAT 10

FREE NASHVILLE SPORTS CARD SHOW

Collectors and sports-lovers unite to browse over 100+ tables at Lighthouse Christian School Gym (5100 Blue Hole Road, Nashville) from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.

FREE COMMUNITY DAYS AT GLEN LEVEN FARM

615-244-5263

landtrusttn.org/glen-leven-farm

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. This month, learn about bees and local honey! You’ll be joined by Gary Saakian from Green Hills Gold, their resident bee keeper. He will have an observation hive and teach you how he raises bees and collects honey. They will also be giving away their recently harvested Glen Leven Farm honey while supplies last!

FREE MURFREESBORO FARMERS MARKET

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

FREE FRANKLIN FARMERS MARKET

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

FREE NOLENSVILLE FARMERS MARKET

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

FREE HENDERSONVILLE FARMERS MARKET

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

FREE KIDSVILLE AT THE PARTHENON

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

SENSATIONAL SUMMER CRAFT AT FRANKLIN LIBRARY

615-794-3105

wcpltn.org

Kids ages 3 and up can join in the Children’s Activity Room the Franklin Library (1314 Columbia Ave., Franklin) for a craft or three from 2 – 3 p.m.

DROP-IN KIDS ART CLASSES

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

PARNASSUS BOOKS STORYTIME

615-953-2243

parnassusbooks.net

Put on their ﬁnest pajamas and come out to Parnassus Books (3900 Hillsboro Pike Suite 14, Nashville) for a special storytime from 10:30 – 11 a.m. For ages 0 – 7. On Aug. 10, enjoy storytime with Anne Buckle, author of Fireﬂy.

GOAT FARM EXPERIENCE

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

LANE MOTOR VAULT TOURS

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

FREE THE BABY FAIR - NASHVILLE

Got a baby on board or expecting one? Come to Middle Tennessee’s longest-running annual event for new and expectant parents at Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital Midtown (Nashville) from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. The event features giveaways, vendors & booths with resources for new parents, networking opportunities, a variety of games and more. Plus, attendees can tour birthing facilities, meet OB/GYNs and certiﬁed nurse midwives and gain valuable insights from experts presenting informational sessions.

FREE BALLOONS OF PURE AWESOMENESS

615-224-6087

wcpltn.org

Join-award-winning balloon artist, Anthony Lena, for a fun and interactive balloon/magic show at the Fairview Public Library Branch (2240 Fairview Blvd., Fairview) from 11 – 11:45 a.m.

Friends Take Flight: Go up, up and away at this ADA-compliant tethered hot air balloon experience on Saturday, Aug. 10 and Sunday, Aug. 11 at Triple Creek Park in Gallatin.

THINGS TO DO

FREE SATURDAY STORYTIME AT BRENTWOOD LIBRARY

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

FRIENDS TAKE FLIGHT

friendsofgallatinmiraclepark.org

Enjoy this Americans with Disabilities (ADA)-compliant tethered hot air balloon experience on Aug. 10 from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. or Aug. 11 from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. at Miracle Park (240 Champion Drive, Gallatin). The event will include children's activities and food trucks. Tickets are $5 per person (only one person is allowed in the hot air balloon at a time).

FREE KIDS YOGA library.nashville.org

Join in the meeting room at Nashville Public Library Inglewood Branch (4312 Gallatin Pike, Nashville) for mindful movement combined with a story at 11 a.m. For ages 3 – 8.

QUILT SHOW AND TELL

931-245-4344

historiccollinsville.com

Join in a site-wide quilt "show and tell" at Historic Collinsville in rural Montgomery County. View quilts and hear the stories connected to the artwork. Regular admission is $14 for ages 13 and older; $8 for ages 6 -12 and free to children under age 6.

FREE TOMATO ART FEST

See Friday, Aug. 9.

WILLIAMSON COUNTY FAIR

See Friday, Aug. 2.

SUMMER SONGWRITER SERIES AT ROCK CASTLE

615-824-0502

historicrockcastle.com

Rock out at Rock Castle (39 Rockcastle Lane, Hendersonville) with food trucks, inﬂatables, yard games and original music from Nashville rising stars from 5 – 9 p.m. Adults are $10 and children are free.

FAMILY NIGHT RACING AT THE SPEEDWAY

nashvillefairgroundsspeedway. racing

A night of racing featuring Pro Late Model 100 and Super Trucks at the Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway (625 Smith Ave.,Nashville). Festivities start at 5 p.m. Kids 12 and younger, free.

NASHVILLE SOUNDS BASEBALL: HIT CITY SATURDAYS

615-690-4487

milb.com/nashville

Head to First Horizon Park (19 Jr Gilliam Way, Nashville) to see the Nashville Sounds at 6:35 p.m. On Saturdays, make the ballpark the place to be in Nashville with entertainment options like Third and Home and The Band Box.

SOMETHING ROTTEN! BY PULL-TIGHT PLAYERS

See Friday, Aug. 2.

(please turn the page)

THINGS TO DO

FREE BIG BAND DANCES

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

CHRIS STAPLETON

See Friday, Aug. 9.

JOSHUA BASSETT & THOMAS DAY

ryman.com

Nashville's own singer/songwriter

Thomas Day is the opening act for Joshua Bassett's "The Golden Years" tour at the Ryman Auditorium (116 5th Ave. N, Nashville). Show starts at 7:30 p.m. and tickets start at $39.50.

FREE SUMMER STAR PARTY WITH WARNER PARKS

wpnc.nashville.gov

FRIST

FAMILY

SUNDAY fristartmuseum.org

On the second Sunday of each month, head to the Frist Art Museum for kid-friendly programming, family tours, multisensory gallery experiences and a visit to the Martin ArtQuest Gallery from 1 – 5 p.m.

FRIENDS TAKE FLIGHT

See Saturday, Aug. 10.

SOMETHING ROTTEN! BY PULL-TIGHT PLAYERS

See Friday, Aug. 2.

BIG3 2024 PLAYOFFS bridgestonearena.com

The BIG3, a 3-on-3 basketball league founded by hip-hop musician and actor Ice Cube, kicks off the playoffs for its 2024 season at Bridgestone Arena (501 Broadway, Nashville). The league consists of 12 teams whose rosters include both former NBA players and international players. Tickets start at $50.

WED 14

FREE BABY & ME PLAYTIME AT THE NOLENSVILLE LIBRARY

See Wednesday, Aug. 7.

FREE STORYTIMES AT THE BRENTWOOD LIBRARY

See Tuesday, Aug. 6.

TURTLE TALKS AT THE DISCOVERY CENTER

See Fridy, Aug. 2.

FREE TODDLER TIME IN LEIPER’S FORK

615-794-7019

wcpltn.org

Join local astronomers to view the night sky through telescopes at Warner Parks Special Events field (61 Vaughn Road Nashville). They’ll be looking at the Moon, nebulae and star clusters, peering into the heart of our own Milky Way galaxy. Find your favorite summer constellation! Email wpnc@nashville. gov to register.

SUN 11

COW AND PIG CUDDLING AT THE GENTLE BARN

See Sunday, Aug. 4.

HOUSE OF CARDS SUNDAY FAMILY BRUNCH

See Sunday, Aug. 4.

LANE MOTOR VAULT TOURS

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

NASHVILLE SOUNDS BASEBALL: FAMILY FUN SUNDAY

615-690-4487

milb.com/nashville

Head to First Horizon Park (19 Jr Gilliam Way, Nashville) to see the Nashville Sounds starting at 1:05 p.m.

On Sundays, it’s all about families with child-focused giveaways throughout the season plus kids can run the bases after the game. Tickets start at $15.

FREE VINTAGE BASE BALL GAMES

tennesseevintagebaseball.com

The Tennessee Association of Vintage Base Ball (TAOVBB) play games at Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage (4580 Rachels Lane, Hermitage) at 12 and 2:30 p.m., as well as at Oaklands Mansion in Murfreesboro at 1 p.m.

TUE 13

TOTS! AT CHEEKWOOD

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

FREE STORYTIMES AT THE BRENTWOOD LIBRARY

See Tuesday, Aug. 6.

CREED

livenation.com

See 90s' rock band Creed perform live at Ascend Amphitheater (310 1st Ave. S, Nashville) at 7 p.m.

ELLEN DEGENERES ryman.com

See comedian Ellen Degeneres perform live at Ryman Auditorium (116 Fifth Ave. N, Nashville). Tickets start at $65 and show starts at 8 p.m.

BIG3 2024 Playoffs: The BIG3, a 3-on-3 basketball league featuring both former NBA and international players, kicks off the playoffs for its 2024 season at Bridgestone Arena on Sunday, Aug. 11.

Bring your toddlers out to Leiper’s Fork Library (5333 Old Highway 96, Franklin) for songs, stories, nursery rhymes and crafts from 10 – 11 a.m. This program requires registration.

S.E.R.P.E.N.T. FESTIVAL W/ SLASH

firstbankamphitheater.com

S.E.R.P.E.N.T. is an anagram and stands for Solidarity, Engagement, Restore, Peace, Equality N’ Tolerance. The festival is a celebration of the blues — starring SLASH — and features special guests Larkin Poe, ZZ Ward and Robert Randolph at FirstBank Amphitheater (4525 Graystone Quarry Lane, Franklin). Show starts at 6:15 p.m. Tickets start at $81.

BOOK SIGNING WITH ADAM ROSENBAUM

parnassusbooks.net

Parnassus Books (3900 Hillsboro Pike Suite 14, Nashville) presents a talk with local author Adam Rosenbaum for the release of his new book for middle schoolers, The Ghost Rules Join at 6:30 p.m. for a conversation between Rosenbaum and author Kristin O’Donnell Tubb, followed by a book signing.

BUDDY GUY

615-687-6400

nashvillesymphony.org

Guy’s "Damn Right Farewell tour" will see The Americana Music Association Lifetime Achievement Award winner performing hits from his career in the Schermerhorn Symphony Center (1 Symphony Place, Nashville). Tickets start at $83.

SOMETHING ROTTEN! BY PULL-TIGHT PLAYERS

See Friday, Aug. 2.

THU 15

CAMPFIRE STORYTIME AT THE DISCOVERY CENTER

See Thursday, Aug. 1.

BUSY BEE CLASS FOR KIDS AT PATTERSON PARK

See Thursday, Aug. 1.

FREE RIVER EXPLORATION

615-217-3017

murfreesborotn.gov

Meet at the Stones River Overlook within Barfield Crescent Park (401 Volunteer Road, Murfreesboro) and explore the river to catch and release crawfish, snails and other interesting macroinvertebrates from 10 – 11 a.m. You will discuss biodiversity and the importance of healthy waterways. Water shoes are recommended, as anyone getting in the water must keep their shoes on. required.

FREE GIRLS WHO CODE CLUB

See Thursday, Aug. 1.

FREE GOODLETTSVILLE FARMERS MARKET

This week, enjoy a special children's storytime at 4:30 p.m.

FREE HENDERSONVILLE SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

See Thursday, Aug. 1.

WILSON COUNTY FAIR + TENNESSEE STATE FAIR

615-443-2626

wilsoncountyfair.net

The 2024 Wilson County Fair + Tennessee State Fair returns Aug. 15 – 24 at the James E. Ward Agriculture Center in Lebanon, better known as the Wilson County Fairgrounds. The fair theme “95 Reasons to Celebrate Tennessee” spotlights every county in Tennessee. There will be livestock shows, motorsports events, music on six stages, all kinds of exhibits, Fiddlers Grove Historic Village where you can step back in time and see demonstrations of years past, over 60 carnival rides for children and adults, and all kinds of entertainment located all over the Fair. Gates open Monday – Friday at 5 p.m., Saturdays at 10 a.m. and Sundays at 12 p.m. Gate admission is $15 for adults, $6 for children 6-12 and children 5 & under are free.

THURSDAY NIGHT OUT : DOG NIGHTS OF SUMMER

See Thursday, Aug. 1.

SOMETHING ROTTEN! BY PULL-TIGHT PLAYERS

See Friday, Aug. 2.

FRI 16

FREE TODDLER TIME WITH THOMAS

See Friday, Aug. 2.

WILSON COUNTY FAIR + TENNESSEE STATE FAIR

See Thursday, Aug. 15.

TURTLE TALKS AT THE DISCOVERY CENTER

See Friday, Aug. 2. (please turn the page)

Middle Tennessee County Fairs!

County fairs are always guaranteed family fun — as well as a great opportunity to check out other cool places in Middle Tennessee. Whether you like big motor sports or a nice picnic table and a fried funnel cake, there’s a fair for you in Middle Tennessee. Check them out below and plan your fair season:

WILLIAMSON COUNTY FAIR in Franklin

August 2 – 10 williamsoncountyfair.org

ROBERTSON COUNTY FAIR in Springfield August 6 – 10

robertsoncountyfair.com

HOURS: 5:30 p.m. each night except Saturday, 3 p.m. on Saturday COST: Monday – Thursday $12 (all ages) covers Fair and Carnival Rides; Friday and Saturday –Adults $10 Students $5 (*Does not cover rides)

NEW THIS YEAR! "Poppin' Penelope's Balloon Art Exhibit;" stilt walker Peter Brunette; juggler Michael Goudeau; magician Jay Mattioli; "The Amazing Wonderland Circus" and "Wild Science"

HOURS: Monday – Thursday: 6 - 10 p.m., Midway: Closes at 11 p.m.; Saturday: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m., Midway: Closes at Midnight; Friday: 6 – 10 p.m., Midway: Closes at Midnight; Sunday: 12 – 10 p.m., Midway: Closes at 11 p.m. COST: Adults are $12, children 6-12 are $7 (5 & under are free)

WILSON COUNTY FAIR + TENNESSEE STATE FAIR in Lebanon

August 15 – 24 wilsoncountytnstatefair.com

NEW THIS YEAR! "Back Seat Driver," sourdough bread, home brewing and live blacksmith competitions

HIGHLIGHTS: Special Needs Day (Aug. 17); Country trio Chapel Hart from America’s Got Talent (Aug. 18 at 8 p.m.)

HOURS: Monday – Friday: 5 – 11 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. – 11 p.m.; Sunday 12 – 11 p.m.

COST: $15 at the gates; $12 online through Aug. 14; $6 for kids; 5 and under are free

MAURY COUNTY FAIR in Columbia

August 29 – September 2 maurycountyfair.com

HIGHLIGHTS: The Tractor Pull (Aug. 30); Motocross ( Aug. 31); Junk Car Jump & Run (Sept 1 & 2)

HOURS: Gates open at 4 p.m. (Midway at 6 p.m.) Thursday –Friday, 12 p.m. (Midway at 2 p.m.) Saturday and 2 p.m. (Midway at 3 p.m.) Sunday – Monday

COST: $10 for adults Thursday, Friday and Sunday ($12 on Saturday, Monday); $10 for kids ages 7-12 Thursday and Sunday ($5 on Friday and Saturday, free on Monday). Midway armbands are $30 on Thursday, Sunday and Monday; $35 on Friday and Saturday

WHITE COUNTY FAIR in Sparta

August 30 – September 7 whitecountyagfair.com

COST: $5 every day except Kids night on Thursday, Sept. 5

NASHVILLE FAIR in Nashville

September 6 – 15 nashfair.fun

HOURS: Monday – Friday 5 – 9 p.m.; Saturday – Sunday 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.

COST: $10 for adults, $8 for children and seniors, kids 5 and under are free

Poppin' Penelope's Balloon Art Exhibit at the Williamson Co. Fair.

Lowe's Build & Grow Workshop: Drop by Lowe’s with your mini DIY-er on Saturday, Aug. 17 for a "Build & Grow" kit, featuring all the parts needed to build a fun, hand-built "Mini-Treehouse" that kids can really play with.

PBR: NASHVILLE STAMPEDE DAYS

pbr.com/events/stampede-days

Nashville’s PBR (Professional Bull Riders) team, the Nashville Stampede, host this three-day homestand at Bridgestone Arena (501 Broadway, Nashville) Aug. 16 – 18. Witness bull riders going head-to-head with powerful bucking bulls to see which team can come out on top. In addition, enjoy fan activation and live entertainment. Tickets start at $34.50.

ADULTS

ONLY POOL PARTY

615-889-7050 x211

nashvilleshores.com

springfieldtn.go

Nashville Shores (4001 Bell Road, Hermitage) is open from 5 – 10 p.m. for adults only featuring the Wavepool, Lazy River, Mega Mayhem, Big Kahuna & Glow Foam Party with a DJ. General admission is $40 + tax.

FULL MOON PICKIN’ PARTY

615-370-8053

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. 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, ages 7 – 17 are $10, children 6 and younger are free.

Springfield Parks & Recreation brings 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 at sunset.

ARSENIC & OLD LACE

615-904-2787

boroarts.org

Drama critic Mortimer Brewster’s engagement announcement is upended when he discovers a corpse in his elderly aunts’ window seat. Produced by Murfreesboro's Center For the Arts, the show runs Aug. 16 – 25 at the Center for the Arts (110 West College Street, Murfreesboro) on Thursday, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Adults are $22. Rated PG.

SAT 17

TOTS! AT CHEEKWOOD

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

FREE MURFREESBORO FARMERS MARKET

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

FREE FRANKLIN FARMERS MARKET

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

LANE MOTOR VAULT TOURS

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

WILSON COUNTY FAIR + TENNESSEE STATE FAIR

See Thursday, Aug. 15.

PARNASSUS BOOKS STORYTIME

615-953-2243 parnassusbooks.net

Put on your finest pajamas and come out to Parnassus Books (3900 Hillsboro Pike Suite 14, Nashville) for a special storytime from 10:30 – 11 a.m. For ages 0 – 7. On Aug. 10, enjoy storytime with Hanna x Madge.

GOAT FARM EXPERIENCE

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

DROP-IN KIDS ART CLASSES

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

FASHION FOR A FRACTION BOUTIQUE WAREHOUSE SALE fashionforafraction.com

Find all the latest fashions for up to 75 percent off retail prices at The Factory at Franklin's Liberty Hall (230 Franklin Road, Franklin) from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Entry is $10.

FREE KIDSVILLE AT THE PARTHENON

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

FREE LOWE’S BUILD & GROW WORKSHOP

lowes.com

Cruise into various Lowe’s locations with your mini DIY-er for this month’s "Build & Grow" kit. You'll get all the parts needed to build then head home with a "Mini-Treehouse" that your kid can really play with. Workshop happens from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Reserve your spot online.

LANE MOTOR MUSEUM FUN DAY

615-742-7445

lanemotormuseum.org

With regular paid admission, this special event day at the Lane Motor Museum (702 Murfreesboro Pike, Nashville) includes free vault tours and rides in select museum vehicles and in-museum vehicle demonstrations. The rides and vault tours are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Happens from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Cost is $12 adults; $3 for youths aged 6 -17; children under 5 free.

NASHVILLE HOME EXPO

516-688-5856

nashvillehomeexpo.com

Browse exhibitors with unique ideas for Nashville home owners at the Nashville Fairgrounds' Expo 3 building (625 Smith Ave., Nashville). You’ll find items for remodeling, restoration, decor and more. Happens Saturday from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. –5 p.m. Cost is free with parking ($10).

FREE SATURDAY STORYTIME AT BRENTWOOD LIBRARY

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

FREE HIKE WITH A NATURALIST AT THE WILDERNESS STATION

615-217-3017

murfreesborotn.gov

Join the Wilderness Station (401 Volunteer Road, Murfreesboro) on a hike at Barfield Crescent Park from 10:30 –11:30 a.m. Hike the trail learning about animals, bugs, trees and wildflowers.

BLACK ARTS BASH

615-356-8000

cheekwood.org

From morning to night, Cheekwood (1200 Forrest Park Dr., Nashville) will celebrate Black artists with music, dance, spoken word, visual art and more. Attendees have the opportunity to explore and experience the many forms of Black musical expression and traditions, including gospel, R&B and funk. Other offerings include a community quilt activity, story time and hands-on activities for the kids and southern favorites made by local Black chefs. Cost is $20 for adults, youth get in free (free for members!).

PBR: NASHVILLE STAMPEDE DAYS

See Friday, Aug. 16.

(continued on page 42)

THINGS TO DO

MAKE A HAND-TOOLED LEATHER KEYCHAIN

615-416-2001

countrymusichalloffame.org

Come out to Country Music Hall of Fame (222 Rep. John Lewis Way S, Nashville) and explore the history of leatherwork and learn how leather accessories are made and then design your own hand-tooled leather keychain. Happens from 1 – 2 p.m. Recommended for ages 7 and older. Included with museum admission; free to members.

GOATS & GUITARS

615-481-9546

noble-springs.com

Enjoy this special family-friendly live music night, as well as baby goat cuddling, at Noble Springs Dairy Farm (3144 Blazer Road, Franklin) from 5 to 8 p.m. Tickets are $12 per person. Children 2 and younger are free.

FREE PICKIN’ IN THE PARK

931-487-0027

The 12th annual Pickin’ in the Park concert series returns to Harvey Park (4001 Miles Johnson Parkway, Spring Hill) with monthly cocerts through September. The family-friendly event features local musicians and songwriters. Bring chairs and blankets and enjoy an evening of music. Food trucks will be on site.

FREE BIG BAND DANCES

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

SOMETHING ROTTEN! BY PULL-TIGHT PLAYERS

See Friday, Aug. 2.

PRESEAON: TENNESSEE

TITANS VS. SEATTLE SEAHAWKS

tennesseetitans.com

There's nothing like preseason football in Music City! The Titans take on the Seattle Seahawks at Nissan Stadium (1 Titans Way, Nashville), with kickoff scheduled for 6 p.m.

ARSENIC & OLD LACE AT CENTER FOR THE ARTS

See Friday, Aug. 16.

A CABARET EXPERIENCE: BROADWAY MY WAY

615-782-4040

tpac.org

Studio Tenn and Tennessee Performing Arts Center (TPAC) team up for this special show inside TPAC's Johnson Theater at 7:30 p.m. In Broadway My Way, Alton Fitzgerald White, who has performed the role of Mufasa in Disney’s

The Lion King a record-breaking 4,308 times, will share his stories. White’s show is also an evening featuring songs from other characters White has played, plus interpretations of music by Stephen Sondheim, Alan Menken and others.Tickets start at $49.

MOTOR CITY MAGIC: MOTOWN TRIBUTE

615-786-0186 ext. 2525 wcpactn.com

Come out to the Williamson County Performing Arts Center at Academy Park (112 Everbright Ave., Franklin) for this Motown tribute show. Tickets are $27.50 for adults and $25 for seniors 55 and older. Concerts start at 7 p.m.

BIG MOUTH BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL thecaverns.com

Musical sparks will fly as this inaugural festival comes to The Caverns (555 Charlie Roberts Road, Pelham) Aug. 17 – 18. In addition to the pickin’ on stage, the two-day camping festival includes open cave jam sessions, artist workshops, craft vendors, food trucks, cave tours, yurt glamping and more. Kids 12 and younger are free.The lineup includes John McEuen & The Circle Band, Blue Highway, The Po’ Ramblin’ Boys and more, with Blake Williams as emcee.

Two-day tickets for the festival include free camping, starting at $79.50. Kids under 5 are free and kids 5 – 12 are eligible for a two-day Young Grasser ticket for $40.

SUN 18

BIG MOUTH BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL

See Saturday, Aug. 17.

Tennessee Titans Preseason: TITAN UP, Nashville! The boys are back with only one home preseason game on Saturday, Aug. 17 before kicking off the regular season on Sunday, September 8 (home opener on Sunday, September 15).

FREE VINTAGE BASE BALL GAMES

tennesseevintagebaseball.com

Take your baserunners to see The Tennessee Association of Vintage Base Ball (TAOVBB) play games at 12 and 2:30 p.m. at Rippa Villa (5700 Main St., Spring Hill).

COW AND PIG CUDDLING AT THE GENTLE BARN

See Sunday, Aug. 4.

LANE MOTOR VAULT TOURS

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

FREE MUSIC IN THE VINES

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

NASHVILLE HOME EXPO

See Saturday, Aug. 17.

PBR: NASHVILLE STAMPEDE DAYS

See Friday, Aug. 16.

TRAIN & REO SPEEDWAGON 615-763-3367

firstbankamphitheater.com

See Train & REO Speedwagon perform live at FirstBank Amphitheater (4525 Graystone Quarry Lane, Franklin) at 6:25 p.m. Tickets start at $81.25.

ARSENIC & OLD LACE AT CENTER FOR THE ARTS

See Friday, Aug. 16.

MON 19

WILSON COUNTY FAIR + TENNESSEE STATE FAIR

See Thursday, Aug. 15.

TUE 20

FREE TODDLER TIME AT THE FRANKLIN LIBRARY

615-595-1244

wcpltn.org

Caregivers and ages 18 months to 3 years are welcome to join the Franklin Library (1314 Columbia Ave., Franklin) for songs, stories, shakers and fun. Happens at 9:30, 10:15 or 11 a.m.

FREE STORYTIMES AT THE BRENTWOOD LIBRARY

See Tuesday, Aug. 6.

TOTS! AT CHEEKWOOD

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

FREE BUG SWEEP AT THE WILDERNESS STATION

See Friday, Aug. 9.

WILSON COUNTY FAIR + TENNESSEE STATE FAIR

See Thursday, Aug. 15.

NASHVILLE SOUNDS BASEBALL: TAIL WAGGIN' TUESDAYS

See Tuesday, Aug. 6.

Under the Stars Concert Series: Bust out your best blanket or lawn chair for this special conert series Aug. 23 - 25 at Cheekwood in Nashville, featuring live performances from local songwriters.

EARTH, WIND & FIRE AND CHICAGO

bridgestonearena.com

See Earth, Wind & Fire and Chicago coheadline inside Bridgestone Arena (501 Broadway, Nashville). Shows starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $33.

FREE ADVENTURE SCIENCE CENTER AT THE LIBRARY: AMUSEMENT PARK PHYSICS

615-862-5867

library.nashville.org

Get ready for a wild ride pushing Newton's laws to their limits with hands-on coaster challenges at the Nashville Public Library Hadley Park branch at 4:30 p.m. Along the way, see demonstrations of potential and kinetic energy, Newton's second law of motion and more. Recommended for ages 7 – 14, but all are welcome.

FREE MOONWALK WITH THE NATURALISTS

615-862-8539

nashville.gov

Join in at Shelby Bottoms Nature Center (1900 Davidson St., Nashville) for a moon-lit hike around the park from 9 – 10 p.m.

WED 21

FREE BABIES & BOOKS STORYTIME AT THE FRANKLIN LIBRARY

615-595-1244

wcpltn.org

Drop by the Franklin Library (1314 Columbia Ave., Franklin) for this this storytime for parents, caregivers and babies (0 to 18 months) on Wednesdays from 10 – 10:30 or 10:45 – 11:15 a.m.

FREE STORYTIMES AT THE BRENTWOOD LIBRARY

See Tuesday, Aug. 6.

FREE TODDLER TIME IN LEIPER’S FORK

See Wednesday, Aug. 14.

HOMESCHOOL DAY: GUIDED TOURS OF CANNONSBURGH VILLAGE

615-801-2606

mbnevills@murfreesborotn.gov

Homeschool families, kick-off “Back to School” with guided tours of Cannonsburgh Village (312 S Front Street, Murfreesboro) on either Wednesday, Aug. 21 or Thursday, Aug. 29 at 10 a.m. The program features a guided tour of the village plus history of the buildings. Admission is $3 per person. Reservations are required by August 14.

WILSON COUNTY FAIR + TENNESSEE STATE FAIR

See Thursday, Aug. 15.

NASHVILLE SOUNDS BASEBALL: WINNING WEDNESDAYS

See Wednesday, Aug. 7.

THE CONCERT: A TRIBUTE TO ABBA

615-687-6400

nashvillesymphony.org

Join the world’s top ABBA tribute band as they perform some of ABBA's most iconic dance songs including “Mamma Mia,” “Waterloo,” “Dancing Queen,” “S.O.S.,” “Gimme, Gimme, Gimme” and more. Schermerhorn Symphony Center (1 Symphony Place, Nashville). Show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $70.

FREE OUTDOOR EXPLORERS AT BRENTWOOD LIBRARY

615-371-0090

brentwood-tn.libcal.com

Explore the world with a family nature walk at the Brentwood Library (8109 Concord Road, Brentwood) from 5 – 6 p.m. Each session will explore a different aspect of the ecosystem we live in. For grades 3 – 7.

THU 22

FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT FRANKLIN LIBRARY

See Thursday, Aug. 1.

TODDLER ADVENTURES AT CANNONSBURGH: ABC’S & 123’S

615-801-2606

mbnevills@murfreesborotn.gov

Kick-off “Back to School” at Cannonsburgh Village (312 S Front St., Murfreesboro) on either Thursday, August 22 or Wednesday, August 28 at 10 a.m. Kids will explore the village, search for fun things and have a storytime. Admission is $3 per person with reservations required by August 15.

WILSON COUNTY FAIR + TENNESSEE STATE FAIR

See Thursday, Aug. 15.

CAMPFIRE STORYTIME AT THE DISCOVERY CENTER

See Thursday, Aug. 1.

BUSY BEE CLASS FOR KIDS AT PATTERSON PARK

See Thursday, Aug. 1.

FREE GIRLS WHO CODE CLUB

See Thursday, Aug. 1.

THINGS TO DO

FREE GOODLETTSVILLE FARMERS MARKET

See Thursday, Aug. 1.

FREE HENDERSONVILLE SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

See Thursday, Aug. 1.

THURSDAY NIGHT OUT : DOG NIGHTS OF SUMMER

See Thursday, Aug. 1.

NASHVILLE SOUNDS: THROWBACK THURSDAYS

See Thursday, Aug. 8.

ARSENIC & OLD LACE AT CENTER FOR THE ARTS

See Friday, Aug. 16.

FRI 23

FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT FRANKLIN LIBRARY

See Thursday, Aug. 1.

FREE TODDLER PLAY AT THE WILDERNESS STATION

615-217-3017

murfreesborotn.gov

Bring your little ones ages 1- 4 for play time inside the Wilderness Station (401 Volunteer Road, Murfreesboro) from 10 – 11 a.m. This self-guided event includes sensory toys, fun crafts and exploration in nature. The Nature Play area will be incorporated, weather permitting.

BELT BUCKLES AND BOLO TIES

615-416-2001

countrymusichalloffame.org

Bring the kiddos 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.

FREE NASHVILLE FLEA MARKET

615-862-5016

nashvilleflea.com

Nashville's monthly flea market weekend returns with more than 800 vendors from 30 states to shop from at the Nashville Fairgrounds (625 Smith Ave., Nashville). Parking is $5.

UNDER THE STARS CONCERT SERIES AT CHEEKWOOD

615-356-8000

cheekwood.org

Hear songwriters under the stars at Cheekwood (1200 Forrest Park Dr., Nashville) Aug. 23 – 25. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy a session while immersing yourself in the soundtrack of the season. Concerts start at 7 p.m. and tickets start at $65.

(please turn the page)

THINGS TO DO

WILSON COUNTY FAIR + TENNESSEE STATE FAIR

See Thursday, Aug. 15.

NASHVILLE SOUNDS BASEBALL: FOX17 (FIREWORK) FRIDAYS

See Friday, Aug. 9.

CANDLELIGHT CONCERT: A TRIBUTE TO COLDPLAY feverup.com

This concert features a string quartet playing favorite anthems by the British band, Coldplay. Experience a relaxing ambiance inside The Parthenon (2500 West End Ave., Nashville) in candlelight. Concerts start at 7 and 9 p.m. and tickets start at $36.

FATHER-SON ADVENTURE WEEKEND AT DEER RUN

615-794-2918

deerrun.camp/father-son

This father-son weekend from Friday, Aug, 23 through Sunday, Aug. 25 o ers plenty of recreation, games and more. Everything is planned — so just show up, choose the activities you want and enjoy yourself! This weekend is awesome for uncles, foster dads and mentors to be alongside boys. Cost ranges from $139/person without overnite accommodations up to $389/person with overnite accommodations.

LIVE TELESCOPE NIGHT

615-373-4897

dyer.vanderbilt.edu

Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory (1000 Oman Drive, Brentwood) will open its doors so you can view unique exhibits, engage with astronomers and gaze at various celestial objects (weather permitting). Suggested for ages 8 and older. Cost is $7.18. Must register.

ARSENIC & OLD LACE AT CENTER FOR THE ARTS

See Friday, Aug. 16.

ALLEN STONE

ryman.com

Hear soul singer Allen Stone perform live at the Ryman Auditorium (116 5th Avenue North, Nashville) starting at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $35.

SAT 24

FREE MURFREESBORO FARMERS MARKET

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

FREE FRANKLIN FARMERS MARKET

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

FREE NOLENSVILLE FARMERS MARKET

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

FREE KIDSVILLE AT THE PARTHENON

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

PARNASSUS BOOKS STORYTIME 615-953-2243

parnassusbooks.net

Put on your pajamas and come out to Parnassus Books (3900 Hillsboro Pike Suite 14, Nashville) for a special storytime from 10:30 – 11 a.m. For ages 0 – 7. On Aug. 10, enjoy storytime with David Covell, author of Gather Round

WILSON COUNTY FAIR + TENNESSEE STATE FAIR

See Thursday, Aug. 15.

BELT BUCKLES AND BOLO TIES

See Friday, Aug. 23.

KIDS

FUN CONSTRUCTION & FARM EQUIPMENT FESTIVAL luckyladdfarms.com

FREE JR. NATURALIST: THE BUZZ ABOUT POLLINATORS

All sorts of pollinators are buzzing, fluttering and zipping around the park visiting the flowers. What are pollinators, what do they do and how can we help them? Come explore at Shelby Bottoms Nature Center (1900 Davidson St., Nashville) from 9:30 – 11 a.m. to find out. For ages 8 and older. Registration required.

GOAT FARM EXPERIENCE

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

LANE MOTOR VAULT TOURS

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

DROP-IN KIDS ART CLASSES

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

Bring the kids to Lucky Ladd Farms (4374 Rocky Glade Road, Eagleville) to explore and climb on farm and construction equipment, hammer and drill at activity centers and more from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. A special construction site will is ready for exploration. Kids can climb on excavators, a bulldozer and lots of other farm and construction equipment. Plus, enjoy life-size Jenga games and giant Lincoln log building sets. All the farm’s standard attractions are also included. General admission is $17.

FREE NASHVILLE FLEA MARKET

See Friday, Aug. 23.

WILD

ABOUT FUNGUS

615-370-4672

owlshill.org

Learn the basics of mushroom cultivation and enjoy a guided hike at Owl's Hill Nature Sanctuary (545 Beech Creek Road, Brentwood). Learn about log selection, timing, spore selection, inoculation methods, care of the logs, harvesting and storage of mushrooms. Happens at 10 a.m. Cost is $40 for two people. Must register.

FATHER-SON ADVENTURE WEEKEND AT DEER RUN

See Friday, Aug. 23.

FREE DISCOVER INDIA DAY

615-890-2300

explorethedc.org

“Travel” to India at the Discovery Center (502 Southeast Broad St., Murfreesboro). Families will be able to take pictures in front of the Taj Mahal, go on a Gandhi walk, make Raksha Bandhan friendship bracelets and more from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

TOTS! AT CHEEKWOOD

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

MUSICAL INSTRUMENT PETTING ZOO

615-416-2001

countrymusichallo ame.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 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 EXPLORE WITH A NATURALIST

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

FREE KIDS YOGA

See Saturday, Aug. 10.

FREE BIG BAND DANCES

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

NASHVILLE SOUNDS BASEBALL: HIT CITY SATURDAYS

See Saturday, Aug. 10.

Father-Son Adventure Weekend: This father-son weekend Aug. 23 - 25 at Deer Run in Thompson's Station offers plenty of recreational choices, fun games and more which create life-time memories and a stronger bond.

IRON & WINE

ryman.com

See award-winning singer/songwriter Iron & Wine perform live at the Ryman Auditorium (116 5th Ave N, Nashville) with special guest Sunny War. Shows starts at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $39.50.

MATT RIFE

bridgestonearena.com

See comedian Matt Rife perform live at Bridgestone Arena (501 Broadway, Nashville) as part of his "ProbleMATTic World Tour." Show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $61.50.

NASHVILLE SC HOME GAMES

nashvillesc.com

See the "Boys in Gold" face off at GEODIS Park (501 Benton Ave., Nashville) as Nashville SC concludes its fifth season in Major League Soccer. Children 3 years and older require a ticket.

UNDER THE STARS CONCERT SERIES AT CHEEKWOOD

See Friday, Aug. 23.

ORVILLE PECK’S SIXTH ANNUAL RODEO

livenation.com

See Orville Peck's Sixth Annual Rodeo live at Ascend Amphitheater (310 1st Ave. S, Nashville) starting at 5 p.m. Tickets start at $54.35.

CHI-TOWN TRANSIT

AUTHORITY: CHICAGO TRIBUTE

615-786-0186 ext. 2525 wcpactn.com

Come out to the Williamson County Performing Arts Center at Academy Park (112 Everbright Ave., Franklin) for a special Chicago tribute. Tickets are $27.50 for adults and $25 for seniors 55 and older. Concerts start at 7 p.m.

CORNELIA AIRPARK CONCERTS corneliaairparkconcerts.com

The 2024 Cornelia Airpark Concerts monthly music series concludes this at Nashville's Shelby Park. This unique concert experience features live music (Josh Riley, The Young Fables, Brazilbilly), craft beers, wine, local food trucks, activities and "Instaworthy" moments, including photos with a vintage plane. Bring blankets and lawn chairs. Doors open at 5:30 p.m 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.

ARSENIC & OLD LACE AT CENTER FOR THE ARTS

See Friday, Aug. 16.

SUN 25

HOUSE OF CARDS SUNDAY FAMILY BRUNCH

See Sunday, Aug. 4.

FATHER-SON ADVENTURE WEEKEND

See Friday, Aug. 23.

BELT BUCKLES AND BOLO TIES

See Friday, Aug. 23.

COW AND PIG CUDDLING AT THE GENTLE BARN

See Sunday, Aug. 4.

LANE MOTOR VAULT TOURS

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

FREE MUSIC IN THE VINES

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

FREE NASHVILLE FLEA MARKET

See Friday, Aug. 23.

NASHVILLE SOUNDS BASEBALL: FAMILY FUN SUNDAY

See Sunday, Aug. 11.

FREE VINTAGE BASE BALL GAMES

tennesseevintagebaseball.com

The Tennessee Association of Vintage Base Ball (or TAOVBB) wraps up its 2024 season with a game at Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park (600 James Robertson Pkwy., Nashville) at 1 p.m.

ARSENIC & OLD LACE AT CENTER FOR THE ARTS

See Friday, Aug. 16.

UNDER THE STARS CONCERT SERIES AT CHEEKWOOD

See Friday, Aug. 23.

JOAN JETT & THE BLACKHEARTS

ryman.com

See Joan Jett & the Blackhearts perform live at Ryman Auditorium (116 Fifth Avenue North, Nashville). The concert starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $59.75.

TUE 27

TOTS! AT CHEEKWOOD

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

FREE STORYTIMES AT THE BRENTWOOD LIBRARY

See Tuesday, Aug. 6.

FREE TODDLER TIME AT THE FRANKLIN LIBRARY

See Tuesday, Aug. 20.

TODDLER TUESDAY AT SAM DAVIS HOME

615-459-2341 samdavishome.org

Littles ages 1 – 4 enjoy games, crafts, hikes, experiments, live animals and more at Sam Davis Home (1399 Sam Davis Road, Smyrna) from 10 – 11 a.m. This month's theme is "Flower Power." Cost is $8 for toddlers and siblings, free for parents.

THINGS TO DO

GLASS ANIMALS

bridgestonearena.com

See alernative rock band Glass Animals perform live at Bridgestone Arena (501 Broadway, Nashville) with special guest Kevin Abstract. Concert starts at 7:45 p.m. and tickets start at $40.

EVENING OF STORIES AT BELMONT

thefishercenter.com

FREE GOAT CUDDLING AT EAST NASHVILLE BEER WORKS

eastnashbeerworks.com

The baby goats are BAAAAAAAACK in the beer garden at East Nashville Beer Works (320 E Trinity Lane Nashville), and now you can catch them on the last Tuesday each month this summer through September from 4 – 7 p.m. This event is for all ages.

FREE EAST NASHVILLE FARMERS MARKET

See Tuesday, Aug. 6.

Enjoy a night of storytelling in words and songs at the Fisher Center for the Performing Arts (2020 Belmont Blvd., Nashville). The night consists of two storytellers (Trisha Yearwood and Christian Wiman) and three musical guests (Kyshona Armstrong, Tommy Prine, Natalie Hemby) sharing their unique gifts. Concert starts at 7 p.m.

WED 28

FREE BABY & ME PLAYTIME AT THE NOLENSVILLE LIBRARY

See Wednesday, Aug. 7.

FREE STORYTIMES AT THE BRENTWOOD LIBRARY

See Tuesday, Aug. 6.

(please turn the page)

Maury County Fair: Carnival rides, exotic animals, science shows and arena events (like the junk car jump & run and the Saturday motocross races) Aug. 29 – Sept 2 in Columbia.

THINGS TO DO

Hummingbird Festival: Come out to The Wilderness Station in Murfreesboro on Saturday, Aug. 31 for hummingbird banding, children's activities, guest speakers, hummingbird merchandise and more.

FREE TODDLER TIME IN LEIPER’S FORK

See Wednesday, Aug. 14.

TURTLE TALKS AT THE DISCOVERY CENTER

See Friday, Aug. 2.

TODDLER ADVENTURES AT CANNONSBURGH:

ABC’S & 123’S

see Thursday, Aug. 22.

FREE BABIES & BOOKS STORYTIME AT THE FRANKLIN LIBRARY

See Wednesday, Aug. 21.

SAMMY HAGAR

bridgestonearena.com

See Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Sammy Hagar perform live inside Bridgestone Arena (501 Broadway, Nashville) with special guest Loverboy. Hagar will be joined by rock heavyweights and longtime bandmates Michael Anthony (bass, backing vocals), Jason Bonham (drums) and Joe Satriani (guitar). Show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $44.

THU 29

HOMESCHOOL DAY: GUIDED TOURS OF CANNONSBURGH VILLAGE

see Wednesday, Aug. 21.

BUSY BEE CLASS FOR KIDS AT PATTERSON PARK

See Thursday, Aug. 1.

FREE GOODLETTSVILLE FARMERS MARKET

See Thursday, Aug. 1.

FREE NASHVILLE BALLET’S SLEEPING BEAUTY STORYTIME

615-862-5860

library.nashville.org

Join a Nashville Ballet teaching artist for a fairytale classic at the Nashville Public Library Bordeaux branch (4000 Clarksville Pike, Nashville). Children will dance their way through this tale and learn how the ballet has become a cherished production through its enchanting music and movement. Starts at 11:30 a.m.

MAURY COUNTY

FAIR

maurycountyfair.com

MEET THE ASTRONOMER TALK + TELESCOPE VIEWING

615-373-4897

dyer.vanderbilt.edu

Browse exhibits, enjoy an astro talk about the coming solar eclipse and view the sky through the historic Seyfert Telescope at the Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory (1000 Oman Dr., Brentwood). The event begins at 7 p.m. Cost is $7.18. Recommended for ages 12 and older.

THURSDAY NIGHT OUT : DOG NIGHTS OF SUMMER

See Thursday, Aug. 1.

FREE HENDERSONVILLE SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

See Thursday, Aug. 1.

FREE NASHVILLE SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL

615-255-2273

nashvilleshakes.org

FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT FRANKLIN LIBRARY

See Thursday, Aug. 1.

CAMPFIRE STORYTIME AT THE DISCOVERY CENTER

See Thursday, Aug. 1.

Come out for carnival rides, exotic animals, science shows, arena events (like the junk car jump & run and the Saturday motocross races) and more Aug. 29 – Sept 2 at the Maury County Fair (1018 Maury County Park Dr., Columbia). Gates open at 4 p.m. (Midway at 6 p.m.) Thursday – Friday, 12 p.m. (Midway at 2 p.m.) Saturday and 2 p.m. (Midway at 3 p.m.) Sunday – Monday. Tickets are $10 for adults Thursday, Friday and Sunday ($12 on Saturday and Monday); $10 for kids ages 7 -12 Thursday and Sunday ($5 on Friday and Saturday, free on Monday). Midway armbands are $30 on Thursday (BOGO), Sunday and Monday; $35 on Friday and Saturday.

FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT FRANKLIN LIBRARY

See Thursday, Aug. 1.

FREE TODDLER TIME WITH THOMAS

See Friday, Aug. 2.

TURTLE TALKS AT THE DISCOVERY CENTER

See Friday, Aug. 2.

BOOT SCOOTIN’ COWBOY BOOTS

615-416-2001

countrymusichallo ame.org

Inspired by fashionable footwear featured in the museum galleries, young designers will create boot patterns to reﬂect their own personalities from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. at Country Music Hall of Fame (222 Rep. John Lewis Way S, Nashville). Included with museum admission; free to members.

GREEN DAY AT GEODIS PARK

nashvillesc.com

Green Day and special guests, The Smashing Pumpkins, Rancid and The Linda Lindas, bring The Saviors Tour to GEODIS Park (501 Benton Ave., Nashville). Show starts at 5:30 p.m. Tickets start at $73.

FREE FALL MUSICIANS CORNER & KIDSVILLE musicianscornernashville.com

This outdoor concert series is celebrating 15 years with performances, 75+ artisan vendors, food trucks and more in Nashville's Centennial Park (near the West End Avenue park entrance). Kidsville is where little ones can enjoy fun, ﬁtness, crafts and educational guests and activities. The fall series kicks o on Friday, Aug. 30 from 5 – 9 p.m. and then continues Saturday, Aug. 31 from noon – 6 p.m. The series continues on Fridays in September.

KIDZ BOP LIVE 2024

ﬁrstbankamphitheater.com

Get in touch with your dramatic side at the Nashville Shakespeare Festival's 2024 Summer Shakespeare series, featuring one of Shakespeare’s most romantic comedies, As You Like It. The show plays at The Yard at ONEC1TY (8 City Blvd., Nashville) Thursdays – Sundays, Aug. 29 – Sept. 22 (plus Labor Day Monday, Sept. 4) and then again at Academy Park (120 Everbright Ave., Franklin) Thursday – Sunday, Sept. 26 – 29. The Festival is a free event (with a suggested $10 per person donation per show). Each evening begins with food vendors at 5:15, an “Insight” talk at 5:30, a pre-show concert at 6 and the main performance at 7 p.m.

FRI 30

FREE MGL STORYTIME

See Friday, Aug. 2.

See the KIDZ BOP Live 2024 Tour at FirstBank Amphitheater (4525 Graystone Quarry Lane, Franklin). Tickets start at $42.50; show starts at 7 p.m.

MAURY COUNTY FAIR

See Thursday, Aug. 29.

FREE NASHVILLE SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL

See Thursday, Aug. 29.

SAT 31

TOTS! AT CHEEKWOOD

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

FREE NASHVILLE SPORTS CARD SHOW

See Saturday, Aug. 10.

FREE NOLENSVILLE FARMERS MARKET

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

FREE MURFREESBORO FARMERS MARKET

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

FREE FRANKLIN FARMERS MARKET

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

FREE HUMMINGBIRD FESTIVAL AT THE WILDERNESS STATION

615-217-3017

murfreesborotn.gov

Come out to The Wilderness Station (401 Volunteer Road, Murfreesboro) for a Hummingbird Festival from 7:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. (bird banding is at 7:30 a.m., other activities start at 10 a.m.). There will be children's activities, guest speakers, hummingbird merchandise and more.

FREE KIDSVILLE AT THE PARTHENON

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

GOAT

FARM EXPERIENCE

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

FREE HENDERSONVILLE FARMERS MARKET

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

FREE SATURDAY STORYTIME AT BRENTWOOD LIBRARY

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

LANE MOTOR VAULT TOURS

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

FREE MUSIC IN THE VINES

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

DROP-IN KIDS ART CLASSES

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

BOOT SCOOTIN’ COWBOY BOOTS

See Friday, Aug. 30.

MAKE DIY FRIENDSHIP BRACELETS

615-416-2001 countrymusichalloffame.org

Come make custom friendship bracelets at the Country Music Hall of Fame in the Taylor Swift Education Center! Happens from 1 – 2 p.m. Included with museum admission, free to members.

FREE FALL MUSICIANS CORNER & KIDSVILLE

See Friday, Aug. 30.

ZZZOOFARI SLUMBER

615-833-1534

nashvillezoo.org

A unique overnight camping experience as you sleep under the stars just a short distance away from the snoozing animals. Zzzoofari Slumber features a variety of activities during the evening and breakfast the next morning. Campers also receive free entry to the zoo on Sunday. Participants (age 4+) are $45 (members) and $65 (non-members); toddlers (ages 2-3) are $25 (members) and $45 (non-members).

FREE NASHVILLE SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL

See Thursday, Aug. 29.

FREE GRAPE HARVEST STOMP portlandcofc.com

Join Sumner Crest Winery (5306 Old Highway 52 Portland) to celebrate the beginning of grape harvest season starting at 5 p.m. Bring friends and enjoy live music and good times with your feet in the grapes and live music from 6 – 9 p.m.

KING GIZZARD AND THE LIZARD WIZARD livenation.com

See rock band King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard perform live at Ascend Amphitheater (310 1st Avenue South, Nashville). Show starts at 8 p.m. and tickets start at $54.35.

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, loud-purring kittens roam about. There are two times at 1:30 and 3 p.m. For ages 16 and older. Cost is $25.

MAURY

COUNTY FAIR

See Thursday, Aug. 29.

FREE BIG BAND DANCES

See Saturday, Aug. 3.

NASHVILLE FAIR

Sept. 6 – 15

The Fairgrounds Nashville nashfair.fun

MIDDLE TN HIGHLAND GAMES & CELTIC FEST

Sept. 7 – 8

Sander Ferry Park, Hendersonville midtenngames.com

CHEEKWOOD HARVEST

Typically starts mid-September Cheekwood, Nashville cheekwood.org

BIG MACHINE MUSIC CITY GRAND PRIX

Sept. 14 – 15

Nashville Superspeedway, Lebanon musiccitygp.com

TENNESSEE TITANS

HOME OPENER

Sept. 15

Nissan Stadium, Nashville tennesseetitans.com

DISNEY ON ICE

Sept. 19 – 22

Bridgestone Arena, Nashville bridgestonearena.com

Grape Harvest Stomp: Have a stompin' good time at Sumner Crest Winery on Saturday, Aug. 31. The kid-friendly stomp kicks off the grape harvest season each year. After the stomp, get ready to dance the night away with a free concert on the lawn.

Act Too Players

Renowned for our outstanding musical theatre program, we extend our program offerings to include classes in acting, dance, and voice. Our youth education programming is designed to give each student the opportunity for a well rounded performing arts education. Our carefully curated classes, camps, and workshops not only unlock the doors to imagination and self-confidence but also instill the discipline and work ethic vital for any creative journey. Join us in the transformative world of performing arts at Act Too Players! 615-294-0667 | acttooplayers.com 1113 Murfreesboro Road, #119, Franklin

Adventure Science Center

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

Enrichment Programs and After-School Activities

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

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

Bill Taylor Bushido School of Karate

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

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.

Vanderbilt Programs for Talented Youth

Whether you are a motivated young learner, the parent of an advanced child, or an educator who works with high-achieving students, there is something for everyone at PTY. Join us! We offer programs for talented children in grades K - 12 as well as their families and educators.

615-297-2966 | nashvillechildrenstheatre.org 25 Middleton St., Nashville

Cheekwood Estate and Gardens

Engage students in art, history, and botanical gardens with a trip to Cheekwood. Students can enjoy a self-guided experience, or a curriculum-centered guided field trip. Destination Cheekwood brings families in on a Saturday for a visit filled with art, garden, and historical experiences and activities. Cheekwood GROWS targets third grade students to teach them about gardening.

615-356-8000 | cheekwood.org

1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville

615-322-8261 | pty.vanderbilt.edu

Peabody #506, 230 Appleton Place, Nashville

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

E.T.C. Gymnastics

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.

615-867-6900 | 615-617-7644 | etcgymnastics.com 1137 Haley Road, Murfreesboro 11301 Old Nashville Hwy, Smyrna

Lane Music

Providing professional lessons, rentals, repairs, and more to musicians of all levels. For over 35 years, Lane Music has helped educate and shape generations of musicians. Lane Music has expanded to include world-class stores in Nashville and Knoxville. From first-time players to seasoned professionals, Lane Music has the gear you need to ensure your musical endeavors thrive.

615-679-8888 | lanemusic.com 1625 Galleria Blvd., Brentwood

My Gym of Brentwood

Award-winning My Gym Brentwood offers a My Gym PreK Prep Program twice a week as well as our mommy and me and gymnastics classes, kids birthday parties, camps and other fantastic fun filled programs for ages 6 wks - 10 yrs.

615-371-5437 | mygym.com/brentwood 330 Franklin Road, Brentwood

Providence Christian Academy

We are an inter-denominational Pre-K – 12th grade independent school located in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. Providence Christian Academy offers a classical education with a Christian worldview, partnering with committed parents. Our mission is “to teach students to seek God’s truth and to equip them with the tools for a lifetime of learning.” Now enrolling for fall 2024

615-904-0902 | providencechristian.com 410 Dejarnette Lane, Murfreesboro

Girl Scouts of Middle Tennessee

Ready to embark on a journey filled with adventure, leadership opportunities, and making lifelong friendships? Join the Girl Scouts and discover a world where girls grow into strong, confident, and capable leaders. Whether you’re interested in leading a community service project, organizing events, or simply speaking up for what you believe in, Girl Scouts provides a supportive environment where your voice is heard and your ideas are valued.

LearningRx

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

New Visions Dojo

Karate Lessons for Kids! When you enroll in our kids karate classes, you’re signing up for proactive, professional instruction with teachers who invest in your children to help them develop goals, skills, and a personal best. Meeting students on their level is our specialty. Ninjas karate classes (ages 4 - 6). Youth karate classes (ages 7 - 12). Teen and adult classes offered as well.

615-972-0989 | newvisionsdojo.com 6601 Sugar Valley Drive #111, Nashville

Southern Stars Preschool

Our curriculum allows you and your child to grow at an individual pace. While many preschools focus on a singular facet of learning, we focus on every facet of learning, including: gross motor skills, fine motor skills, social skills, verbal skills, concentration and focus skills, literacy skills, match and history skills, art, music, and dance skills, and play-based learning..

615-509-9423 | southernstarsmontessori.net 910 Wedgewood Ave., Nashville

615-383-4090 | gsmidtn.org

Mobile Music Academy

Offering private music instruction from fun, qualified teachers in your own home. We teach piano, guitar, bass, voice, strings, brass, and most other instruments. We offer competitive rates and flexible scheduling with special daytime rates available. We teach all ages, styles, and abilities. Serving the Middle TN area. Voted #1 for music instruction!

615-994-1915 | mmamusic.com

Serving the Greater Nashville Area

Olympic Fencing TN Alliance

We provide top-notch fencing training for all skill and fitness levels. As experienced coaches and a family devoted to fencing, we create a respectful and supportive environment. Whether your goal is to become an Olympic fencer, attend an elite university, or simply stay strong and happy, our club is the place for you. Join us to challenge your mind and body and discover that anything is possible.

346-971-1080 | fencingtn.com

Franklin, Nashville, Nolensville and Murfreesboro

Tennessee Robotics Center

Tennessee Robotics Center (TRC) offers engaging homeschool and after-school robotics and STEM education programs that captivate, inspire, and empower students to excel academically, socially, and technically through hands-on exploration into the exciting realms of technology, robotics, and computer science.

615-796-4632 | tennesseeroboticscenter.com 2231 NW Broad St., Ste. D, Murfreesboro

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Throughout August dogs are welcome at Thursday Night Out where an adventure through food, drink and song awaits. Local Vendors will be on-hand with treats and apparel for the pooches. Upcoming performers include, St. Owsley, Deep Fried Five, McKinley James, Big Shoes, and Paul Childers. Reserve tickets at cheekwood.org. August 1, 8, 15, 22, & 29 | 5:30 – 9 PM

Cheekwood is funded in part by Spirits Sponsor