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We love living in Nashville no matter what the season, but once the kids are out of school, there’s even more to do as a family!
On The Sami Cone Show and Talk of the Town, I’m sharing my favorite Nashville Summer Family Freebies.
This is just a sampling of what there is to do around town, so if you know of more, I’d love for you to add them in the comments below.
Nashville Summer Family Freebies
VBS
I never experienced Vacation Bible School as a kid, but as a parent in Nashville, I’ve LOVED VBS over the past decade. Many churches will over VBS during one week in the summer and not only does it give the kids (typically K-5) some time to play and learn with new friends, but it also gives parents a few free hours during the day.
Free Movies
Music City Fireworks
Don’t miss the “Let Freedome Sing” Music City 4th of July celebration featuring Brad Paisley. (Great viewing from the Adventure Science Center).
Free Nashville Library Storytimes
While most libraries around town offer storytimes throughout the week, nowhere does it quite like the Nashville Public Library, especially when you factor in their puppet shows and story times you can stream that are free and open to anyone, even if you don’t live in Davidson county.
For more information on the Williamson County Public Library Summer Reading Program I shared on Talk of the Town, visit their website.
You can also check out NPL’s Library of Things where you can rent everything from musical instruments and bikes to sewing machines and tools.
Free Nashville Museums
- Bank of America customers participate in the Museums on Us program the first weekend of each month
- Kids 18 and Under ALWAYS get into the Frist Center for the Visual Arts for Free
- Many Nashville museums and mansions are free for children 5 & under, including Belle Meade Plantation, Country Music Hall of Fame and Fontanel.
- Cheekwood is free for children 2 and under, but they offer many free children’s activities, especially on Saturdays, once inside.
- Free admission for military personnel and their families at the Frist Center for the Visual Arts and at Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum from Memorial Day through Labor Day
Apple Camp
Apple stores offer a free camp for kids during various weeks in the summer. Sign up to be notified by email when dates are released. Read my Apple Camp post to see my kids’ experiences.
American Girl craft events
There is an American Girl Nashville store at the Cool Springs Mall. Check the American Girl website to find out when they’ll be offering free crafts and other events over the summer
Free Music In Nashville
We wouldn’t be Music City without free live music throughout the summer! Visit this list for concert dates.
(Keep in mind, CMA fest will not be happening in 2021, but plans to return in 2022)
- Arrington Vineyards offers free live jazz and bluegrass bands every Saturday and Sunday starting in April and continuing through October.
- Keep an eye out for Big Band dances to return at Centennial Park
Free Nashville Parks
Don’t forget about some of my favorite parks around town, including:
- Centennial Park including The Parthenon
- Dragon Park (aka Fannie Mae Dees Park)
- BiCentennial Park & fountains
- Red Caboose Park
- Music City Walk of Fame Park and of course…
- the Farmer’s Market downtown
Lowes Build and Grow Free Kids Workshops
-In the past, kids could build something for free at the Lowes Build and Grow workshops. Check with your local store to see if they will be offering workshops again or have kits for sale.
Home Depot Free Kids Workshop
On the First Saturday of every month from 9 am-Noon kids can build a project, plus get a free apron, pin and certificate at Home Depot. Check your local Home Depot to see if they have started again.
You can also check out my Chattanooga Summer Fun post for more family summer activities in Tennessee. And my friend Dawn from The Nashville Mom always has a great round-up of what’s happening in Music City for families.
And while you’re at it, check out my Top 20 Summer Boredom Busters and my top 70 things for teens to do while stuck at home.
