It’s almost that time of year again! Picture it with me: hot dogs & hamburgers on the grill, the smell of sunscreen mixed with chlorine, a nice cold beer in your hand, friends gathered around laughing, and the night ending with a majestic fireworks display. Yes, 4th of July is right around the corner!

Nashville has become one of the “it” cities for this national holiday, and if you are brave enough to brave the crowds, we’ve gathered a list of fun activities for you!

All Ages:

10th Annual Music City July 4th Run/Walk: This is a great way to get in a 5K or 10K before the BBQ's and fireworks ensue your day! We'll have a great run/walk passing the scenic views of the ever-changing/growing downtown Nashville, TN streets!

Participants will receive:

• Commemorative medal and athletic tank top
• Post race refreshments
• Afterparty exhibitors
• Access to family fun zone

13th Annual Music City Hot Chicken Festival: Who doesn’t want FREE hot chicken?! Check out this free festival in East Nashville (700 Woodland St) full of local vendors and a fire truck parade at 10:30am. Free samples are given to the first 500 people, with gates opening at 11am. Event ends at 3pm.

Price: FREE (bring money for food & beverages)

George Jones July 4th Celebration: Join us for Fourth of July Fireworks over the Cumberland River!! The George Jones is located on 2nd Avenue, just steps off Broadway and right in the middle of the action. Our venue directly overlooks the Cumberland River and 1st Avenue, making it the perfect destination for watching the unbeatable fireworks display with Nissan Stadium and the Cumberland River as your backdrop.

Tickets: two different price ranges

Franklin on the Fourth: The free festival kicks off at 10 a.m. on Thursday, July 4th, with bluegrass music playing from the stage. Food vendors include everything from roasted corn on the cob to BBQ, ice cream to nachos; and corn dogs to smoothies. Craft vendors will fill the area with woodworking, jewelry, and other handmade items. Antique cars will line Main Street between the square and 4th Avenue. The kid’s zone on 3rd Avenue North will have inflatables, a petting zoo, and pony rides. The always fun Children’s Parade begins lining up at 4:45 and starts at 5 p.m. Registration for the parade is free and goes on all day at the Lions Club booth, which also will be selling water.

Price: FREE

2019 Let Freedom Sing: This is the big bash downtown every year that people can’t stop talking about! Admission is free and features kid-free activities from 12-5pm.  Brett Eldredge will be the main performer and there will be a live performance by the Nashville Symphony at Ascend Amphitheater to one of the largest fireworks shows in the country. If you don’t feel like leaving your house & dealing with the crowds, CMT will air a 90-minute live special!

Price: FREE

Non-kid Friendly Events:

4th of July Rooftop Bash by 21c Museum Hotel Nashville: From fireworks to boozy popsicles, celebrate our country’s independence with the ultimate party in 21c Nashville’s rooftop suite. The exclusive event will include a full open bar, food from Gray & Dudley, live DJ entertainment, and a prime spot to watch one of the largest fireworks shows in the country.

Price: tickets range from $150-200

With this holiday falling on a Thursday, do some research before you make plans! Leave time for traffic and remember there may still be crowds at some of your favorite places such as Arrington Vineyards, Cummins Falls, Loveless Café, or any of the local parks around town!

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Kelsey Smith, a Nashville Guide writer
I'm one of those people that will tell you Texas is the best state and Nashville is the best city. You can find me touring on the road (selling t-shirts or being a PA) or at a local coffee shop (most likely The Well) hanging out with friends. 
Instagram: @riotkelsey // Email: kelseymariah14@gmail.com