Nashville Parent magazine December 2019 by Day Communications/DayCom Media

DECEMBER 2019

FREE

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nashvillePARENT every family matters.

A BABY IS BORN: What to Expect from Labor

LET IT GO: Give Your Stress a Holiday

YOUR STORY: • What Matters Most • The Best Gift is Love • Don't Let Your Situation Define YOU • Choosing Foster Parenting • Extra Goodness From an Extra Chromosome

THINGS TO DO!

SANTA BREAKFASTS, CHRISTMAS PARADES, FESTIVE SHOWS AND EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR HOLIDAY MERRY-MAKING!

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P E T

P H O T O S Santa Paws at The Mall of Green Hills Presented by Lee Company

SUNDAYS • DEC. 1 & 8 • 7:30PM-9:00PM Bring your furry friends to meet Santa at Santa’s Flight Academy located in the Upper Level, Macy’s Wing.

Locally Sponsored by

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Treat hearing and speech disorders early

Hearing and speech disorders can appear well before your child starts school. The specialists at the Vanderbilt Bill Wilkerson Center have been helping children and parents overcome hearing and speech problems for over 60 years. Learn more ways to help your child at VanderbiltHealth.com. For appointments, call (615) 936-5000.

VA N D E R B I LT B I L L W I L K E R S O N C E N T E R

FRANKLIN

LEBANON

HENDERSONVILLE

NASHVILLE

DECEMBER VOLUME 27 | NUMBER 5

Features

17 EXPECTING (Special Section) Knowing what to expect from labor can help to put you in charge; a newborn for Christmas; baby gear.

25 GIVE STRESS A HOLIDAY THIS SEASON Your hopes for the holiday season can be dashed by your old frenemy: stress. Don’t let it get ya.

29 THINGS TO DO

arades, breakfasts with Santa, holiday shows and more will make this month extra special for you and yours.

34 12 DAYS OF GIVEAWAYS! It’s a merry holiday indeed! We’re giving away lots of goodies — hurry to find out how to participate!

YOUR STORY This month we hear from Tracy Vitela, Bethany Lee, Casey Roberts, Shenell Gilliam-Rodgers and Faithe Logan.

nashvilleparent.com

december 2019 7

COMPANY

DECEMBER VOLUME 27 | NUMBER 5

E S TA B L I S H E D I N 1 9 9 3

GIVEAWAYS!

HOW TO WIN ON #WINSDAYS

In Every Issue

855-949-6678

nashvilleparent.com PUBLISHER

Stewart Day stewart@daycommedia.com

EDITOR

Editor’s Note

Susan Swindell Day susan@daycommedia.com

Editor Susan Day’s monthly column, also known as “Day by Day.”

MANAGING EDITOR/ ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Chad Young chad@daycommedia.com Alexandra Day alex@daycommedia.com

Parent News A local dad launches a Sky Zone indoor trampoline park in Murfreesboro; two local coaches of the year and more tidbits of parent info.

Sayin’ It Entertainment Editor Chad Young’s monthly column related to the arts.

Advertising

74 Fall Activities and After-School Programs

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Susan Swindell Day Win tickets to Jurassic World Live on Wednesday, Dec. 11.

very Wednesday on Facebook (@NashvilleParentMag), we give away fun prizes through our #WINSday contest. HERE’S THE KNOW-HOW: Each Thursday, we deliver an e-newsletter which includes the following Wednesday’s #WINSday prize and the corresponding answer (the only place you’ll get it). On Wednesday, we announce the #WINSday prize on Facebook asking, “What day is it?” You post the EXACT answer to be eligible for our prize drawing.

THIS MONTH’S GIVEAWAYS:

The Marketplace

The Directories:

NASHVILLEPARENT.COM

ow that Kroger has eliminated free magazines from its stores, we are in hundreds of other locations including the following spots:

Adventure Science Center Baskin Robbins Barnes & Noble Centennial Sportsplex CoolSprings Galleria The Factory at Franklin Ford Ice Center The Hermitage

ADVERTISING: ACCOUNT MANAGERS

• Four tickets to Jurassic World Live at Bridgestone Arena (Dec. 11)

MARKETPLACE

• Four tickets to ICE! featuring A Christmas Story at Gaylord Opryland Resort (Dec. 18)

Kevin Mutz distribution@daycommedia.com

• Four tickets to Zoolumination at Nashville Zoo (Dec. 25)

WHERE TO GET YOUR ISSUE

Tim Henard timhenard@daycommedia.com

• Four tickets to GLOW at First Tennessee Park (Dec. 4)

The Party Pages

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR

Local Libraries The Mall at Green Hills Parnassus Book Store Party City Saint Thomas Nashville Saint Thomas Rutherford Stones River Town Centre Summit Medical Center TriStar Medical Center Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital Vanderbilt Medical Center The Women’s Hospital Williamson Medical Center Whole Foods YMCAs

Noah Day, Jessie Gleason, Jackie Prutsman, Kyndall Reasonover Stewart Day stewart@daycommedia.com

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER

MISSION STATEMENT Nashville Parent and sister publications Rutherford, Sumner and Williamson Parent, aim daily to provide the community connection readers long for. We provide a helpful antidote to the isolation brought on by technology. We help moms, dads and families navigate the uncharted waters of parenting, and we weave bright threads of joy and opportunity into the daily lives of families.

NASHVILLE, RUTHERFORD, SUMNER AND WILLIAMSON PARENT MAGAZINES are published monthly by Day Communications, Inc. The mailing address is 1229 Lakeview Drive, Ste. A., Franklin, TN 37067. Phone number: 855-949-6678. E-mail to: npinfo@daycommedia.com. Every precaution has been taken to ensure the accuracy of published material, however, NASHVILLE/RUTHERFORD/SUMNER/ WILLIAMSON PARENT cannot be held responsible for opinions expressed or facts supplied by its authors. NASHVILLE/RUTHERFORD/ SUMNER/WILLIAMSON PARENT is copyright © 2019 by Day Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction without written permission is prohibited.

CIRCULATION VERIFICATION

C O U N C I L

8 december 2019

nashvilleparent.com

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Nov 15 - Feb 2 Come see the zoo in a whole new light this holiday season! Buy your tickets now at nashvillezoo.org/zoolumination

DAY BYDAY The Gift of Being Present By Susan Day

y four kids are four of the most wonderful people I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. I’m not quite sure how we managed it, but they are good,

solid, fun, friendly, smart, talented individuals. There are several guidelines I believe in when

it comes to mothering, but I’ve never tried to put them down. It’s only right now that I’m even aware of what I believe when it comes to kids. So for Christmas, I want to share with you some of my thoughts. I think I did these things and probably many other things — but most importantly, enjoy raising your kids. You only get one go ‘round at this.

MY 10 TIPS FOR RAISING KIDS • Give your kids chores and responsibilities starting from an early age: Let them know they are NEEDED. • Resist the need to swoop in and solve your child’s problems. Only help when they ask you for it. • Be quiet when your child tries to speak for himself in conversations. Do not answer for him. • Permit your kids to experience feelings of sadness or anger. • Let your kids make mistakes and learn the natural consequences of them. • When there’s something hard that needs to be said, say it. It’s much better to get it out than to let it simmer silently. • Write down the values you want to instill in your kids and work on inspiring them. • Include lots of one-on-one time with each child. • Hug your kids daily, and tell them you love them often. • Work hard to create balance for your family.

Email me thoughts! susan@daycommedia.com

nashvilleparent.com

december 2019 11

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PARENT NEWS

Kids will ﬂip over the new Sky Zone indoor trampoline park opening in Murfreesboro in early 2020.

SKY ZONE BOUNCES INTO MID TN The mid-state’s newest indoor trampoline park will open in late January/early February, but birthday party reservations are being taken now.

ron Launsby lived in Middle Tennessee for 10 years before moving away several years ago, but he’s happy to be back to start a new adventure for the community. The St. Louis native and father of six (his kids range in age from 4 - 18) left his career as a corporate retailer for Cracker Barrel and Kirklands to become a franchise partner in Sky Zone, the creator of the world’s first indoor trampoline park. There are currently more than 200 Sky Zone locations worldwide, and come early next year, a new location will open in Murfreesboro. It will be the only Sky Zone location in Middle Tennessee and in all of Tennessee, too. “Sky Zone is the ultimate entertainment destination where families can create lasting memories while ditching screen time and focusing on family fun,” says Launsby. Trampolines will consume 20 percent of Murfreesboro’s Sky Zone, Launsby says. Other attractions will include a Warped Wall,

nashvilleparent.com

Zip Line, Warrior Courses, Wipe Out, Rolling Log and more. A multi-use sport court will host volleyball, basketball, soccer and dodgeball. “Our goal is to be a place for people of all ages,” says Launsby. “Safety is paramount to what we do, from how our equipment is designed to the training of our employees,” he adds. The facility will include designated times just for toddlers and preschoolers. There will be several admission options, including a 90-minute timed play, daily passes and a monthly membership (prices to be announced). While the facility won’t be open until late January/early February, birthday party reservations will be taken beginning Monday, Dec. 2 for parties taking place in March or later. Sky Zone is located at 1220 N.W. Broad St., Murfreesboro. Learn more at skyzone. com/murfreesboro.

PARENT NEWS • Williamson Parks & Rec hosts a LETTERS TO SANTA initiative Dec. 2 - 16. Kids of all ages can write a letter to St. Nick and drop them off at Franklin Rec, Longview Rec, Nolensville Rec, Fairview Rec and the Hillsboro-Leiper’s Fork Community Center. Santa promises to send a letter back to every good boy and girl. Learn more at wcparksandrec.com. • The Bellevue and Green Hills Branch Libraries both host a HOLIDAY BOOK SALE this month. The Green Hills sale runs Dec. 1 - 4 (Sun 2 - 4 p.m., Mon - Wed 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.). Bellevue’s sale runs Dec. 5 - 8 (Thu 4 - 8 p.m., Fri 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sat 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sun 2 - 5 p.m.). Shop from an assortment of books, movies and music. Learn more at nashvillepubliclibrary.org. • Check out the first-ever ULTIMATE PARTY FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS drive-thru experience at Drakes Creek Park in Hendersonville. It takes place Dec. 1 - 15 from 5 - p.m. and is free. On Dec. 5 & 15 hayrides are available for $5. On Dec. 6 & 12, enjoy a carriage ride for $5. Learn more at holidayfesttn.org. • Give to local families in need this holiday season by making a $50 donation to the CHRISTMAS FOOD PROJECT. Brentwood Baptist operates the initiative. Every $50 provides food to feed a whole family for two weeks, a Bible, a Christmas story coloring book and more. To support the cause, visit christmastn.com.

Coach of the Year Tim Stone ... doing his coaching job.

Natalie Horel & Tim Stone Win COACH OF THE YEAR

his past fall’s sports season, Elephant Insurance sponsored two local youth sports leagues — Crieve Hall Youth Athletic Association and Williamson County Soccer Association (WCSA) — which oversee nearly 7,000 youth athletes. Out of dozens of nominations that Elephant Insurance received, two local coaches emerged as coaches of the year: Tim Stone (Crieve Hall) and Natalie Horel (WCSA). The two coaches whom kids love have similarities in how they work with their teams. We asked both coaches what the essentials are of a successful coach. “To be inspiring,” says Horel. “When I think back to the coaches I had as a child, I remember the ones who inspired, encouraged and pushed me,” she adds. Stone adds more. “Patient communication and a little empathy for the kids since some have never played a team sport before,” says Stone. In between practices, games, snacks and trophy recognitions, coaches tower above young athletes as they look to them for guidance and encouragement. “The driving force that keeps me trying hard as a coach is not the skill, drill or tactic,” Horel says. “It is the fact that I want each child to want to return day after day, and to push themselves to be the best version of themselves.” “The most important thing that I do, when addressing the kids, is that I get on their eye level to talk to them,” says Stone. “I never stand over them and look down on them when talking to them about things that they can do better,” he adds. Congratulation to coaches Natalie Horel and Tim Stone!

At left, Coach of the Year Natalie Horel with one of her teams.

14 december 2019

nashvilleparent.com

• National WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA DAY is Saturday, Dec. 14. The initiative coordinates wreath-laying ceremonies with the goal of placing a live wreath on every soldier’s grave. There are more than 1,600 locations nationwide, including several cemeteries here in Middle Tennessee. Your family can become a wreath sponsor for $15. Learn more at wreathsacrossamerica.org. • CAROLING FOR FANNIE BATTLE takes place Dec. 1 24. Your family or group can sign up to go caroling door to door in designated neighborhoods to help raise money for the Fannie Battle Day Home for Children. Get more info and caroling supplies at fanniebattle.org/caroling. • GET FREE 4x6 PHOTOS WITH SANTA at Bass Pro now through Dec. 24. Santa’s wonderland includes free picture frames, crafts, play areas and lots more. Head to basspro. com/santa for hours and information. Bass Pro is located at 323 Opry Mills Dr. in Nashville. • GET A FREE PHOTO WITH SANTA at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum Saturdays, Dec. 7 - 21 from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Visit countrymusichalloffame.org. • FRANKTOWN’S SECOND ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS is Williamson County’s ONLY drive-through lights spectacular. New to this year’s event is Lee Company’s Santa’s Village where families can get photos with Santa, hot drinks, cookies, camel rides for the kids, a Ferris wheel, carousel and petting zoo. Tickets are $25 per car. Franktown is at Williamson Ag Center, 4215 Long Lane in Franklin. Get tickets at franktownlights.com.

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EXPECTING 18

A Baby is Born: Understanding Your Labor

• Christmas With a Newborn • Baby Gear

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december 2019 17

EXPECTING

A BABY IS BORN What to Know About Labor When it comes to your body, labor and delivery is the most intense experience of your life. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why you need to know what to expect. By Christa Melnyk Hines

nashvilleparent.com

hrough each step of pregnancy, you’re not only mothering your growing baby, you’re preparing emotionally and physically for the final, most challenging leg of pregnancy’s marathon: labor and delivery. Wondering what to expect? First, discuss any anxieties or fears that you may be experiencing surrounding labor and delivery with your health-care provider. “They have seen it all and can often offer a lot of reassurance,” says Tara Chettiar, M.D., an OB/GYN. “Remember that you’re going into this as a team and everyone has the same goal: healthy mom and healthy baby.”

Considerations before labor.

A written birth plan can be a helpful way to think through your preferences and choices surrounding the birth of your baby. Discuss your plan with your provider, as well as any circumstances that might necessitate a medical intervention like an induction, forceps or Cesarian section. Also decide where you’re going to have your baby. Locally, expectant parents have multiple choices of birth centers and hospitals with highly trained, experienced medical staff. “Consider delivering at a hospital with an experienced labor and delivery team, including nurses, physicians and neonatal nurses who may care for your infant if difficulties should arise,” says Peter Caruso, M.D., an OB/GYN.

How do I know I’m in labor?

Many women feel Braxton-Hicks contractions throughout their pregnancies, especially beginning around the 20-week mark. These contractions are more of an uncomfortable nuisance than painful. They’re also characterized as more erratic than active labor, tending to last 10 - 20 seconds every 10 - 15 minutes. If you’re bothered by Braxton-Hicks contractions, make sure you’re getting enough fluids. “The most common cause of false labor is dehydration, and pregnant women get dehydrated much easier than non-pregnant women,” Chettiar says. Hot baths and showers also provide relief. “Heat is a natural muscle relaxant, so a heating pad on your back — not your belly — is a great option,” Chettiar adds.

First stage of labor.

Some signs of early labor include your water breaking (the rupture of the amniotic membranes), backache, blood-tinged discharge, menstrual-like cramps and low abdominal pressure. Stay close to home, try to rest and be prepared to head to the hospital as the time between contractions increases. If you are going to deliver your baby in a hospital, one of the first people you’ll meet will be a labor-and-delivery nurse who will guide you through the process, review your health history and learn about your birth plan. The staff will also check your blood pressure and monitor your baby’s heartbeat using a Doppler or fetal monitor.

Active labor.

During this stage, contractions are more painful and rhythmic in nature, lasting 30 - 60 seconds and occurring every five minutes for at least one hour. During this stage, expectant moms feel a wide range of emotions from anxiety and fear about the labor process to excitement that they’ll soon be cuddling their long-awaited baby. To stay comfortable, try natural pain relief like intermittent walking (unless you’ve dilated beyond seven centimeters), sitting on a labor or peanut ball, or asking your partner for a gentle massage on your lower back.

“Listening to music for distraction and shallow breathing techniques are (also) helpful,” Caruso says. Labor-and-delivery nurse Genna DeBrabander suggests activities like slow dancing, imagery and visualization, and changing position from one side of your body to the other for pain relief. “Another great option for pain control is the epidural,” DeBrabander says. If you plan to get an epidural, the health-care staff will hook you up to an IV.

Time to push.

Active labor has advanced to transitional labor when the intensity of your contractions increase and the cervix dilates from seven to 10 centimeters. At this point, you’ve entered the second stage of the labor process, which can last as few as 15 minutes to three hours. During this stage, you’ll start to push. Shallow breathing techniques during the first part of a contraction and pushing at the peak of a contraction can help you manage any pain or pressure you’re feeling. Caruso recommends a squat bar to help ease pain during the pushing phase. Your emotions may run the gamut, too. “There are many emotional challenges, such as despair, hopelessness, inadequacy, elation and a sense of accomplishment,” DeBrabander says. While this is the most physically and emotionally taxing part of the labor process, by the end of all of your hard work you’ll be rewarded with a baby in your arms.

Almost done.

The last stage of labor is the delivery of the placenta. You may barely notice these contractions after giving birth to your baby. The placenta develops during pregnancy. It attaches to the uterine wall and is connected to your baby’s umbilical cord. This organ supports your baby throughout his time in your uterus, providing oxygen and nutrients and removing waste products like carbon dioxide. If you plan on keeping your placenta, let your doctor know. After the delivery of your placenta, you may experience cramping as your uterus contracts and some perineum pain and swelling. “Topical medications, oral medications and ice packs are great to aid these discomforts,” DeBrabander says. As always, if you have any concerns during your pregnancy or questions about the labor and delivery process, be sure to consult with your health-care practitioner. Christa Melnyk Hines and her husband are the parents of two sons. Christa is the author of Confidently Connected: A Mom’s Guide to a Satisfying Social Life.

PREPARE AHEAD • Schedule tours of the birthing facilities where your

provider delivers • Learn about the facility’s labor and delivery policies and procedures • Discuss your preferences with your physician • Write a birth plan to bring with you to the hospital • Be aware of your options and plan for the unexpected

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december 2019 19

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EXPECTING

BABY BITS

Christmas With a Newborn Forget all of the running around that marks the season. THIS moment is just about Baby and you.

he holidays are hectic enough, but add a newborn to the mix, and you have to prioritize Baby’s needs as well as your own. Be realistic about what you can manage, says Denise Fields, co-author of Baby 411 (Windsor Peak; 2017). Here are some of Fields’ other pointers:

Focus on Peace

You are the one with the baby, so when it comes to all of the hubbub around you (decorating, get-togethers, shopping, events and outings), you call the shots. Hang a simple wreath on your door and forgo the lights if that’s all you can manage. It’s OK this year. In general, if you feel you don’t want to do something, don’t. If you want family to come to you rather than you having to pack up and go to them, say so.

Rules at the Ready

If Christmas means relatives will be coming to stay, be ready with directives. Ask them to call before arriving and to clarify that everyone is healthy. Ask all who wish to hold your newborn to wash their hands. If you are surprised by a visitor with a cold or other illness, gracefully keep Baby away. Stay close to your newborn in case you need to swoop in and retrieve him.

Feeding Your Infant

Newborns feed often during their first weeks of life, practically around the clock. Breastfeeding is awkward in the first few weeks as it is, so plan on moving to a quiet room (with the door shut) in order to get away from any noise and confusion. If you’re at someone’s home and there’s no place to hide, be sure to have a handy cover up on hand for privacy.

Take Advice With a Grain

People everywhere will give you their two cents about your newborn, especially if he starts crying while you’re out in public. A total stranger may say to you, “Aw, he’s hungry,” putting stress on you without meaning to. Be gracious — you’re doing the right things — and move on.

Fun Things to Do

Having a newborn at Christmas may be a once-in-a-lifetime treat. Make it special by making a tiny handprint ornament, dressing your infant in a sweet holiday outfit, playing lullaby versions of Christmas music and reading special Christmas stories to Baby. — Susan Day

nashvilleparent.com

EXPECTING By Alexandra Day

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SNUGGLE ME ORGANIC LOUNGER

snugglemeorganic. com | $99 If Baby isn’t in your arms, provide a heavenly spot for him to nestle in with the Snuggle Me Organic Lounger. The slightly sunken middle surrounded by a bumper pillow mimics the sensation of being held. As Baby gets older, use the Snuggle Me for tummy time or to help transition to a crib. The cover is machine washable and comes with a travel case.

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WHOLENESS

GIVE STRESS A HOLIDAY By McKenna Hydrick

Stress is unavoidable in life — especially during the busiest time of the year — but if you approach it the right way, it won’t dominate your days. Here are ways to deal with stress, and even use it to make you stronger.

et me tell you, friends — no one had to twist my arm on October 26 to break out my favorite Christmas PJs and fuzzy socks. That’s right. It marked the date of the beloved Hallmark holiday movie premieres. I know, they’re all so predictable. And every plot is the same.

Will a busy, corporate girl get snowedin to a small town during the Christmas festival and fall in love with a handsome guy who owns a flower shop? Yes, yes she will! Will a rich, important guy come to a small town for his cousin’s wedding and fall head over heels for the girl who owns a struggling boutique? Yes, yes he will! But, like you, I keep coming back every single time.

So what is it about Hallmark movies that gives us that comfy Christmas feeling? Beyond the unrealistic love stories and cheesy holiday decorations, there’s something about the simple life portrayed in these movies that attracts us. We want it; we crave it; we need it. And let’s be clear. In these movies, the “happily ever after” is never that the small-town resident moves to the big city and decides to create a busier schedule; (please turn the page)

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december 2019 25

WHOLENESS it’s the stressed-out person who learns a slower pace of life and quality relationships with the ones she loves is actually the key to a meaningful holiday season. If we can truly learn to slow it all down and pursue the things that really matter to us, we can lessen our stress and live a more fulfilled life.

STRESS

What’s standing in our way is our good old “frenemy,” stress. A 2014 study by the American Institute of Stress reveals that nearly half of the participants indicated stress has a negative impact on their personal and professional lives. Even more alarming statistics show that 77 percent of people regularly experience physical symptoms caused by stress and 73 percent experience psychological symptoms. In addition, a 2015 study released by the American Psychological Association reveals that parents with children younger than the age of 18 living in the home have “a more complicated relationship with stress.” That comes as no surprise to us, right? Then the holiday season hits us, and we take our regular stress levels to a whole new dimension. Joseph H. Wandass, III, M.D., a primary care provider with Gallatin Family Wellness, says “festive stress” can increase the intensity and

26 december 2019

types of stress that an individual experiences. He says there is research evidence that this is a real entity. External stresses include: obtaining gifts, long lines, shopping for and preparing food, cleaning, decorating and contemplating finances. Internal stresses can be increased from poor eating habits, altered exercise regimens, seasonal mood variations and altered sleep cycles. But we can’t talk about this topic without taking a look at the good kind of stress, too. It’s called eustress, and yes — it’s a real thing. Wandass says, “Not all stress is ‘bad’ stress. For instance, jitters before an exam, a business presentation or sporting activity can enhance your performance, allowing you to achieve your highest mental and physical capabilities.” Likewise, the holidays can produce eustress, too. Think about all the things that bring you joy this time of year. So — if you want to create the kind of holiday season you actually desire, the key is to tap into what produces eustress — and do your best to minimize the bad stress. It’s not an impossible feat if you set realistic goals, prioritize your to-do lists and stay focused on the true meaning of the season.

BUST THOSE HOLIDAY STRESSORS

Be proactive about finding solutions instead of being reactive to situations. Empower yourself to stop stress from destroying the joy of the season!

THE “RIGHT” GIFTS FOR THAT HARD-TOBUY-FOR PERSON Try shopping local. Grab a homemade shaving kit from the farmers’ market, an infused olive oil from Herban Market or browse the many unique shops our city

THE HASSLE OF SHIPPING When buying gifts for out-of-town family, think of small, easy-to-ship items. And while gift cards seem a little impersonal, people enjoy getting them — plus they are easy to send.

has to offer! Consider “in-honor-of” gifts to charitable organizations or “experience” gifts like a membership to the Nashville Zoo or Cheekwood. Or, buy a re-occurring gift like a subscription to Drew Holcomb’s Magnolia record club or StoryWorth, which compiles your family stories into a bound book.

Consider gifts that directly ship from the company like monthly/ quarterly subscription boxes or magazine subscriptions.

LACK OF TIME Consider time-blocking for tasks. Set a timer and work on one task at a time. Set realistic goals for your family and don’t over-plan activities. Creating margin in your day can allow for unexpected things to happen with ease. Choose a few key events or traditions for the holiday season and ditch the rest. Simplify your routines, prioritize your favorite activities and be flexible to changing plans! THE PRESSURE TO HAVE A “PERFECT” CHRISTMAS You might love watching Hallmark movies, but you don’t have to recreate them. Remember that your kids won’t remember the perfect matching Christmas outfits or the best homemade cinnamon roll recipe; they will remember the time you spent together making memories. HUGE CROWDS/ TRAFFIC Shop at smaller, local stores to avoid big crowds. To take the edge off, try headphones with calming music while you shop.

nashvilleparent.com

WRAPPING GIFTS Stores like Pottery Barn, Sephora, and Barnes and Noble will wrap presents for free (or for a small fee). To make wrapping easy at home,

set up a station that has everything you need right there. Use a string to tie the scissors to the area. NOT BEING ABLE TO AFFORD WHAT YOU WANT TO GIVE Your family member will cherish a gift from the heart over something that will financially strap

(think fruits, vegetables, and whole grains) and trying to maintain an exercise routine is key. Exercise burns off stress hormones. MENTAL TOLL OF PREPARING FOR/ HOSTING GUESTS Don’t be afraid to delegate tasks or hire help (hint: no one even

PROLONGED EXPOSURE TO DISTANT RELATIVES/CONVERSATIONS It’s healthy to set time limits and boundaries for gatherings you plan to attend that have potential to cause stress. If you get in an uncomfortable or negative conversation, respond with something like, “I’d rather not talk about that right now. We don’t get to see each other much, so I’d love to keep the conversation positive today!” THE LOSS OF A FAMILY MEMBER Maybe this year you’re affected by an empty chair at the table, whether it be through a divorce in the family, an empty nest or the death of a loved one. If appropriate for your situation, think about honoring that person by sharing stories or doing something as a family to honor your missed loved one.

BRING IN THE DOWNTIME

DRAW NEAR TO YOUR FAITHFUL FRIENDS There’s nothing like friendships to get you through stressful times.

you. Do a crafty DIY gift (crochet a winter scarf, write a poem, bake something sweet, build a picture frame, etc.). Also, giving to those in need can help switch your thoughts from selfpity to gratitude. WEIGHT GAIN Wandass says eating a healthy diet low in refined carbohydrates

has to know). If cooking isn’t your thing, let Whole Foods prepare the holiday meal. If cleaning stresses you out to the max, hire a company to come in and get it done. There’s no shame in getting help — you can’t do it all!

GO TO A HOLIDAY CONCERT OR LISTEN TO MUSIC AT HOME Research shows that listening to music is one of the top stress reducers. Clear your mind and enjoy the sounds of the season! DO SELF-CARE: Indulge in naps, reading books or meditation. Utilize apps like Headspace, Binaural, Simple Habit and Inscape.

nashvilleparent.com

Go for walks/hikes. Not only will this help you keep active during the winter, being in nature is also proven to help reduce stress. Keep a gratitude journal. Writing down what you are grateful for daily can help you see the good in your life and retrain your brain to focus on the positive. Plan your decorating and baking days: Take a day where there’s nothing else on the schedule but getting your home ready for the holidays or baking your family’s favorite treats.

BRING IN THE MEANING

If you mindfully reduce stress, prioritize your activities and carve out downtime in your schedules, you’ll have more time to make memories with the people you love. Here are a few ways to create a holiday season full of depth and meaning: • Plan fun and free activities together like touring a living nativity or looking at lights. One idea is to let your kids write a list of their favorite things to do and choose one activity per child. This way everyone in the family gets a say. • Christmas carol for Fannie Battle, nursing homes or your neighbors! • Participate in the Marine Corps’ Toys for Tots Foundation. • Bake sweet treats and deliver to friends and neighbors • Buy presents for a child off of a wish tree or the Angel Tree, which

provides food and gifts for children and families in need. • Make charitable donations, even if they’re as small as extra change in the Salvation Army buckets • Volunteer together as a family by visiting a senior home, cleaning out old toys and donating them, making greeting cards or cooking a meal for a family in need. When it comes down to it, we get to choose how we want our December to turn out. Do you want to look back on this time and remember that you were exhausted, frazzled and irritated with the ones you love? Or do you want to remember that you were connected, filled up and thankful for your beautiful, messy life? “Set realistic goals and allow adequate time to plan, execute, and enjoy the holidays,” Wandass reiterates. “Surround yourself with family and friends and enlist their help to accomplish tasks. Don’t alter healthy dietary and exercise regimens. Avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine. Above all, keep in mind the eustress ‘joy’ of the holiday season!” McKenna Hydrick is a writer, speaker and artist in Franklin, Tennessee, who blogs about living her best life amidst struggle, sharing stories, resources and encouragement along the way. Learn more at mckennahydrick.com.

december 2019 27

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nashvilleparent.com

THINGS TO DO

By Chad Young

Ongoing Events

3 2 Daily Events

Look for Santa to quickly spot holiday happenings.

Christmas Parades

Breakfasts with Santa

Saying It

Aladdin Interview

55 SPECIAL SECTION

theARTS A COUNTRY CHRISTMAS Gaylord Opryland Resort 2800 Opryland Drive, Nashville Thru Wednesday, Jan. 1 A plethora of holiday festivities for your family!

aylord Opyrland Resort hosts the biggest holiday celebration in town, “A Country Christmas.” There are numerous attractions to choose from. The most popular for kids: Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical at the Grand Ole Opry House and the ICE! exhibit featuring A Christmas Story. Plus, there’s snow tubing, ice skating, gingerbread house making and more. For the complete list of fun, visit christmasatgaylordopryland.com.

nashvilleparent.com

57 61 65 71

Art Dance Music Theater

Fall Activities & After-School Programs

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

THINGS TO DO: ONGOING EVENTS These events take place with regular recurrence. Daily events start on page 32. FREE ABC CLUB (REGISTER)

615-452-1722 youseemore.com/gallatinpl

Age 4. Gallatin Public Library, 123 E. Main St., Gallatin. Every Wed & Thu 11 a.m. This class for 4-year-olds starting kindergarten in the next school year can study a letter of the alphabet with worksheets and show-and-tell fun.

FREE ADVENTURE CLUB 615-862-5854 library.nashville.org

Grades K - 4. Bellevue Library, 720 Baugh Road, Nashville. Every Tue 4 p.m. Crafts, activities, special guests, movies and more.

FREE ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS 615-217-3017 murfreesborotn.gov/parks

All ages. The Wilderness Station, 697 Veterans Pkwy., Murfreesboro. Every Sat 1:30 p.m. Meet an education animal during a mini lesson.

ARCHERY HOMESCHOOL DAY (REGISTER) 615-566-5187 musiccityarchery.com

Ages 7+. Music City Archery, 1113 Murfreesboro Road, Franklin. Every Tue & Wed 2:30 - 3:30 p.m. $20. Archery instruction with equipment provided and a game at the end. Parents can participate, too.

AR WORKSHOPS DIY PROJECTS (REGISTER) arworkshop.com

2022 Lindell Ave., Nashville (615258-5569); 330 Mayfield Drive, Ste. A-9, Franklin (615-285-4292); 1984 Providence Pkwy., Ste. 102, Mt. Juliet (615-212-5676). Choose from a variety of projects to personalize ranging from canvas pillows to wooden signs and more. Prices vary per project.

FREE BEYOND WINGS CIRCUS

615-373-9292 | plazamariachi.com All ages. Plaza Mariachi, 3955 Nolensville, Nashville. Fri 7 & 8 p.m., Sat 4:30, 5, 6:30 & 7:30 p.m., Sun 2:45, 4 & 6 p.m. Circus arts, aerialists, dance, fire dancing, stilt walking, juggling and more.

BRAIN BLAST TRIVIA NIGHT 615-790-2309 puckettsboathouse.com

All ages. Puckett’s Boat House, 94 E. Main St., Franklin. Every Wed 6 - 8:30 p.m. $10 food and beverage minimum per participant. Put your pop-culture knowledge to the test during this trivia competition.

FREE CLIMBING CLUB 615-495-9710 townofsmyrna.org

Ages 8+. Outdoor Adventure Center, 110 Sam Ridley Pkwy. E., Smyrna. Ev-

30 december 2019

ery Tue 4:30 - 6 p.m. $5 - $7. Climb the walls with games and challenges.

CRAFT LOVE DIY WORKSHOPS (REGISTER) craftlove.com

5104 Centennial Blvd.., Nashville (615-447-8480); 107 Confederate Drive, Franklin (615-447-8510). A variety of ongoing instructor-led crafting workshops for all ages where you create unique wood signs, pillows, home decor and other unique items.

FREE CRITTER ENCOUNTER

HOLIDAYS AT THE HERMITAGE

615-889-2941 | thehermitage.com

All ages. The Hermitage, 4580 Rachel’s Lane, Hermitage. Event hours and times vary. Regular admission is $22 adults, $17 ages 13 - 18, $12 ages 5 12. Some activities require additional fees. Daily holiday mansion tours, plus holiday carriages rides (Fri - Sun thru Dec. 22); Fireside with Father Christmas (Sun thru Dec. 22); Holiday Storytime (Sat thru Dec. 22); and Hermitage Holiday Cabin (Sat - Sun thru Dec. 22).

615-495-9710 townofsmyrna.org

HOMESCHOOL PE CLASS

EARLY EXPLORERS

Ages 6 - 15. Mon & Wed at Sports*Com (2310 Memorial Blvd.., Murfreesboro) and Tue & Thu at Patterson Park Community Center (521 Mercury Blvd.., Murfreesboro). 1 - 1:50 p.m. $3. Physical education activities that promote good health, sportsmanship, group participation and socialization. No class when city schools are out.

All ages. Outdoor Adventure Center, 110 Sam Ridley Pkwy. E., Smyrna. Every Wed 4:30 - 5:30 p.m. Meet a live animal then enjoy interactive, naturebased activities.

615-862-5160 adventuresci.org

Ages 3 - 5. Adventure Science Center, 800 Fort Negley Blvd.., Nashville. Every Mon 9 - 11 a.m. $18 adults, $14 children. See a planetarium show, listen to a story and play in the preschool area.

FAMILY CLIMB

615-796-6545 climbyourrock.com

All ages. The Ascent, 831 Park Ave., Murfreesboro. 12 - 6 p.m. $39 (covers day passes, gear and safety training for everyone in your immediate household). Enjoy indoor rock-climbing fun.

GLOW HOLIDAY

615-212-9377 | glowholiday.com

All ages. First Tennessee Park, 19 Junior Gilliam Way, Nashville. Thru Dec. 31 Tue - Sun (plus Mondays, Dec. 23 & 30) 4 - 10 p.m. $29.99 adults, $19.99 ages 3 - 12, $89.99 family pack (two adults, two kids), $79.99 VIP Experience; general admission discount Tue & Wed. Music City’s newest holiday attraction features 4 million lights, the S.’s tallest Christmas tree, Santa’s Workshop activities, ice skating, reindeer run tubing, marketplace shopping and more.

HOLIDAY LIGHTS

615-356-8000 | cheekwood.org

All ages. Cheekwood, 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville. Thru Jan. 5 from 5 - 10 p.m. $22 adults, $17 ages 3 - 17 (tickets are $15 adults/$10 youth after 8:30 p.m., $5 discount for members). Walk through an illuminated winter wonderland. Pop into the Frist Learning Center to visit with Santa and make holiday crafts (thru Dec. 24 from 5 - 8 p.m.).

chill@murfreesborotn.gov murfreesborotn.gov/parks

KIDFIT: MOVERS AND SHAKERS (REGISTER) 615-893-7439 murfreesborotn.gov/parks

Ages 1 - 3. Patterson Park Community Center, 521 Mercury Blvd.., Murfreesboro. Every Wed & Fri 10:30 - 11 a.m. $3. This class focuses on playing with others, gross motor skills and having fun.

KIDFIT: TWIST AND SHOUT (REGISTER) 615-893-7439 murfreesborotn.gov/parks

Ages 3 - 5. Patterson Park Community Center, 521 Mercury Blvd.., Murfreesboro. Every Wed & Fri 11:05 - 11:45 a.m. $3. Run, jump and play while learning skills like balance, coordination, listening and taking turns.

FREE KIDS MAKE (REGISTER) 615-371-0090 brentwood-tn.libcal.com

Ages 7 - 12. Brentwood Library, 8109 Concord Road, Brentwood. Every Tue 4:30 p.m. Explore new tools, fine motor skills, creative problem solving and self-directed play.

LITTLE ART HOUSE ART CLASSES

615-933-9644 littlearthousenashville.com

2104 Acklen Ave., Nashville. Drop-In Creative Play for ages 10 months - 3 years is every Fri - Sat 9:30 - 10:15 a.m. for $10. Drop-in Art Class for ages 4 - 10 are every Sat 11:30 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. for $15. Open Studio for ages 6+ is every Sat from 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. for $15. Find the full list of classes at the website.

nashvilleparent.com

MARINE BIOLOGIST FOR A DAY (REGISTER)

615-514-3474 aquariumrestaurants.com

Ages 8+. Aquarium Restaurant, 516 Opry Mills Drive, Nashville. Every Fri - Sat 8:30 - 10:30 a.m. $40. Go behind the scenes to learn about water chemistry, dissect a squid, observe a dive show and more.

MIND-BLOWING MATINEE 615-890-2300 explorethedc.org

All ages. Discovery Center, 502 S.E. Broad St., Murfreesboro. Tue - Fri 3:30 p.m. $8. Explore science through experiments and discovery.

FREE MUSIC WITH MISS SHANNON

615-452-1722 youseemore.com/gallatinpl

Ages 3 - 5. Gallatin Public Library, 123 E. Main St., Gallatin. Every Tue 10:30 & 11:30 a.m. Songs, music appreciation and learning through playing with musical instruments.

NASHVILLE FARMERS’ MARKET

615-880-2001 nashvillefarmersmarket.org

All ages. 900 Rosa L. Parks Blvd.., Nashville. A variety of chef demonstrations and cooking classes take place regularly. Enjoy Music at the Market Sat - Sun 11 a.m.

FREE PARNASSUS STORYTIME

615-953-2243 parnassusbooks.net

All ages. Parnassus Books, 3900 Hillsboro Pike, Nashville. Thu 4 p.m., Sat 10:30 a.m. Stories and songs.

FREE PLAZA STORYTIME

615-373-9292 | plazamariachi.com All ages. Plaza Mariachi, 3955 Nolensville, Nashville. 10:30 a.m. Stories in English and Spanish.

PPCC AFTER-SCHOOL ENRICHMENT PROGRAM 615-893-7439 murfreesborotn.gov/parks

Ages 8 - 13. Patterson Park Community Center, 521 Mercury Blvd.., Murfreesboro. Mon - Fri 2:30 - 6 p.m. $3. Sports activities, health and wellness lessons, visual and cultural arts, homework help, snacks and field trips.

FREE SANTA’S WONDERLAND

615-514-5200 | basspro.com/santa

All ages. Bass Pro Shop, 323 Opry Mills Drive, Nashville. Mon - Sat 9 a.m. - 9 p.m., Sun 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. Photos with St. Nick, games, crafts, a toy arcade, mingling with elves and more.

TUMBLEWEEDS (REGISTER) 615-895-5040 murfreesborotn.gov/parks

Ages 3 - 5. Sports*Com, 2310 Memorial Blvd.., Murfreesboro. Every Mon & Wed 10:15 - 11 a.m. $3. Learn the basic technique of tumbling along with improving balance, coordination and overall fitness.

WATER POLO

615-895-5040 murfreesborotn.gov/parks

Ages 13+. Sports*Com, 2310 Memorial Blvd.., Murfreesboro. Every Tue 7 - 8:45 p.m. $4 adults, $3 youth. Enjoy a night of water polo in the indoor pool.

WILD THINGS

615-217-3017 murfreesborotn.gov/parks

Ages 1 - 4 with a parent. The Wilderness Station, 697 Veterans Pkwy., Murfreesboro. Every Wed 9:30 a.m. $3. This nature-themed program includes songs, crafts, hikes and other activities.

WINTERFEST

fountainswinterfest.com

All ages. The Fountains at Gateway, 1500 Medical Center Pkwy., Murfreesboro. Open through Jan. 20, 2020. Hours vary daily. $15 adults, $12 ages 4 - 12. Enjoy 90 minutes of ice skating on the outdoor rink. Some days include live musical guests, special themes and Santa sightings.

YOUTH VOLLEYBALL CLASS 615-907-2251 murfreesborotn.gov/parks

Ages 9 - 17. Sports*Com, 2310 Memorial Blvd.., Murfreesboro. Every Thu 4:30 - 6 p.m. $3. Coaches give instruction on every aspect of the game.

Enjoy the glow of Holiday LIGHTS at Cheekwood through Sunday, Jan. 5. Go to nashvilleparent.com/2019lights to find our complete roundup of displays, including GLOW, The Dancing Lights of Christmas, Franktown Festival of Lights, Ultimate Party Festival of Lights, Chad’s Winter Wonderland and more!

SNACK ATTACK!

615-890-2300 | explorethedc.org

All ages. Discovery Center, 502 S.E. Broad St., Murfreesboro. Every Mon 3:30 p.m. $8. Make tasty snacks in the kitchen.

SPARK!

615-890-2300 | explorethedc.org

Ages 1 - 6. Discovery Center, 502 S.E. Broad St., Murfreesboro. Every Mon - Tue 9 a.m. $10. Enjoy STEAM-play activities.

FREE STATE MUSEUM HIGHLIGHT TOURS 615-741-2692 tnmuseum.org

All ages. Tennessee State Museum, 1000 Rosa L. Parks Blvd.., Nashville.

Tue - Sun 2 p.m. A guide takes you through the museum highlighting artifacts and stories.

focuses on body part recognition and cognitive skill development.

FREE STATE MUSEUM STORYTIME

615-851-2253 goodlettsvilleparks.com

615-741-2692 tnmuseum.org

Ages 3 - 6. Tennessee State Museum, 1000 Rosa L. Parks Blvd.., Nashville. Thu & Sat 10:30 a.m. Book readings and crafts.

FREE TOT TIME: GYM

Ages 2 - 5. Delmas Long Community Center, 200 Memorial Drive, Goodlettsville. Every Wed 9 - 11 a.m. Special tot toys are available for climbing and crawling, running and playing.

FREE TOT TIME: IMAGINATION 615-851-2253 goodlettsvilleparks.com

TODDLER TIME WITH THOMAS

615-907-2251 murfreesborotn.gov/parks

Ages 5 & younger. Sports*Com, 2310 Memorial Blvd.., Murfreesboro. Every Fri 10 a.m. $3. This play-based class

Ages 2 - 5. Delmas Long Community Center, 200 Memorial Drive, Goodlettsville. Every Thu 9 - 11 a.m. Children can play at the Imagination Playground while parents socialize.

nashvilleparent.com

YOUTH YOGA

615-786-0200 wcparksandrec.com

Ages 8 - 12. Williamson County Recreation Complex, 7250 Nolensville Road, Nolensville. Every Mon 5:45 - 6:45 p.m. $4. Learn mindful movement and meditation.

ZOOLUMINATION: CHINESE FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS

615-833-1534 | nashvillezoo.org

All ages. Nashville Zoo, 3777 Nolensville Road, Nashville. Thru Feb. 2 from 5 - 9 p.m. (Dec. 24 - 25 & 31 and Jan. 1). $19 adults, $14 ages 2 - 12, free ages 23 months and younger (members save $2 per ticket). The country’s largest Chinese lantern festival features more than 500 displays spread across the zoo’s 60 acres. The displays include zoo animals, holiday scenes and a 200-foot-long dragon. Santa’s there through Monday, Dec. 23!

(turn the page)

december 2019 31

THINGS TO DO: DAILY EVENTS SUN 1 CHRISTMAS IN AMERICA 1783 ON THE PUBLIC SQUARE 615-538-2076 franklintheatre.com

All ages. Franklin Theatre, 419 Main St., Franklin. 3 & 7 p.m. $10 - $20. A live variety radio event featuring musical guests and Christmas tales about George Washington.

FAMILY FUN DAY: AUNTIE CLAUS

615-252-4675 | nashvillect.org

All ages. Nashville Children’s Theatre, 25 Middleton St., Nashville. 1 - 1:30 p.m. $10. NCT teaching artists lead games and activities related to the Auntie Claus production.

GINGERBREAD DECORATING WORKSHOP (REGISTER) 615-942-7169 greendoorgourmet.com

All ages. Green Door Gourmet, 7007 River Road Pike, Nashville. 4 - 7 p.m. $50, $10 each additional person. Decorate a hand-built gingerbread house.

ING

FREE HENDERSONVILLE CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHT-

615-517-5714 | holidayfesttn.org

All ages. Memorial Park, 139 E. Main St., Hendersonville. 3 - 7:30 p.m. Before the lighting of the tree, enjoy a canine cutie contest, bounce houses, Santa & Mrs. Claus and live music.

HISTORIC HOME YULETIDE TOURS

615-833-1534 | nashvillezoo.org

All ages. Nashville Zoo, 3777 Nolensville Road, Nashville. 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. free with gate ($19 adults, $14 ages 2 - 12). Experience a traditional Victorian Christmas as the Croft home is decorated for the holidays and you’ll hear stories of the holiday traditions that started during that time period.

FREE HOLIDAY POP-UP

615-942-7169 greendoorgourmet.com

All ages. Green Door Gourmet, 7007 River Road Pike, Nashville. 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Holiday shopping with local vendors, a Santa photo booth, greenery from Gracious Garlands, cocoa and live Christmas trees for sale.

HOLIDAY TEA (REGISTER)

800-247-5223 | americangirl.com/ retail/nashville.php Ages 8+. American Girl Store, 1800 Galleria Blvd., Franklin. 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. $18. Treats, drinks, crafts and a build-your-own hot chocolate station.

32 december 2019

HOLIDAY TREE-LIGHTING PARTY FOR DOLLS AND GIRLS (REGISTER)

800-247-5223 | americangirl.com/ retail/nashville.php

Ages 5+. American Girl Store, 1800 Galleria Blvd., Franklin. 2 - 3:30 p.m. $40. Tree-lighting fun, crafts, cookies, cocoa and a mini fir tree to take home.

MON 2 FREE BRENTWOOD TREE LIGHTING & POLAR EXPRESS (REGISTER) 615-371-0090, ext. 8510 brentwood-tn.libcal.com

All ages. Brentwood Library, 8109 Concord Road, Brentwood. Readings of The Polar Express inside the library (at 5 & 6 p.m.; secure free tickets in advance) and the city’s tree lighting outside at 5:30 p.m.

FREE NATURE STROLLERS

615-799-5544 | bowiepark.org

Ages 18 months - 5 years. Bowie Nature Park, 7211 Bowie Lake Road, Fairview. 10 - 11 a.m. A book reading, songs, games, crafts and a childfriendly hike.

FREE READING PAWS (REGISTER)

615-893-4131 | rclstn.org

All ages. Linebaugh Library, 105 W. Vine St., Murfreesboro. 3:30 - 5 p.m. Kids can sign up to read to Stevie, the reading education assistance dog.

ROYALLY FUN COOKIE CLASS: WINTER FUN (REGISTER)

629-202-6949 | sugardrop.com

All ages. Sugar Drop, 7020 Church St. East, Brentwood. 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. $45. Learn the art of royal icing while decorating holiday cookies.

STICKY FINGERS (REGISTER) 615-790-5719 wcparksandrec.com Registration code Mon: 16159 Registration code Fri: 16156

The Nashville Children’s Theatre world premiere production of Auntie Claus runs through Sunday, Dec. 29. On Sundays, enjoy games and activities related to the production one hour prior to show time for $10.

TUE 3 FREE 15TH ANNUAL LIGHTING OF THE GREEN

615-966-1000 | lipscomb.edu

All ages. Lipscomb University, 1 University Park Dr, Nashville. 4 p.m. A holiday marketplace, photos with Santa, and music by Amy Grant, Marc Martel, Anthem Lights and Lipscomb choirs before the lighting of the tree.

GINGERBREAD HOUSE WORKSHOP (REGISTER)

615-459-9710 | townofsmyrna.org

All ages. Outdoor Adventure Center, 100 Sam Ridley Pkwy. E., Smyrna. 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. $8 medium size, $10 large size. Make a gingerbread house using royal icing, candies and other treats.

FREE HIKE WITH A NATURALIST 615-799-5544 | bowiepark.org

All ages. Bowie Nature Park, 7211 Bowie Lake Road, Fairview. 10 - 11:30 a.m. Embark on a guided hike through the nature trails.

MERRY MERCY CHRISTMAS BENEFIT

615-831-6987 mercymultiplied.com

All ages. Music City Center, 201 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville. 6 p.m. $135. A reception, silent auction dinner and entertainment by Danny Gokey benefiting Mercy Multiplied.

MTSU BLUE RAIDERS BASKETBALL

Ages 3.5 - 6. Franklin Recreation Complex, 1120 Hillsboro Road, Franklin. Mondays, Dec. 2 - 30 and Fridays, Dec. 6 - 27 from 9:30 - 11 a.m. $70 Monday series, $42 Friday series. Educational art experiences using a variety of media.

615-898-5261 | goblueraiders.com

WWE MONDAY NIGHT RAW

All ages. Riverfront Park, 100 First Ave. N., Nashville. Tue - Wed 12 - 8 p.m., Thu 12 - 4 p.m. See the 2019 playoff cars, get driver autographs, score giveaways and more.

615-770-2000 bridgestonearena.com

All ages. Bridgestone Arena, 501 Broadway, Nashville. 6:30 p.m. $19.21 - $111.50. A night of wrestling entertainment.

All ages. Murphy Center, 1301 E. Main St., Murfreesboro. 6:30 p.m. $15. Versus Columbia International.

FREE NASCAR CHAMPIONS WEEK

championsweek.nascar.com

NASHVILLE PREDATORS HOCKEY

FREE STORYTIME WITH MRS. CLAUS

615-859-3678 visitgoodlettsville.com

Ages 2 - 7. Historic Mansker’s Station, 705 Caldwell Drive, Goodlettsville. 10 - 11 a.m. Mrs. Claus reads two stories and leads carols, plus a Christmas treat to enjoy.

FREE STORYTIME WITH SANTA & MRS. CLAUS 615-893-4131 | rclstn.org

All ages. Linebaugh Library, 105 W. Vine St., Murfreesboro. 10 a.m. Enjoy holiday stories.

TUESDAYS FOR TOTS

615-356-8000 | cheekwood.org

Ages 1 - 3. Cheekwood, 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville. Today and Dec. 10 from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. $20 adults, $13 ages 3 - 17, free ages 2 & younger. Parent/tot drop-in activities include art and garden fun.

VANDERBILT COMMODORES BASKETBALL

615-322-4653 | vucommodores.com All ages. Memorial Gym, 210 25th Ave. S., Nashville. 7 p.m. $10 - $37. Versus Buffalo.

WED 4

AFTER-SCHOOL ART CLASS (REGISTER) 615-790-5719 wcparksandrec.com Registration code: 16261

Ages 7 - 12. Franklin Recreation Complex, 1120 Hillsboro Road, Franklin. Wednesdays, Dec. 4 - 18 from 4:30 - 5:30 p.m. $42. Explore art history, techniques and styles.

FREE BUILDING LIVES CHRISTMAS SALE

wearebuildinglives.org

All ages. The Fairgrounds, 500 Wedgewood Ave., Nashville. Wed - Fri 9 a.m. - 7 p.m., Sat 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Shop for a variety of gift items. Proceeds benefit veterans in need.

615-770-7800 nashvillepredators.com

All ages. Bridgestone Arena, 501 Broadway, Nashville. 7 p.m. $50 $500. Versus Tampa Bay Lightning.

nashvilleparent.com

(turn to page 35)

December 7–23 WITH THE NASHVILLE SYMPHONY

The world’s most beloved ballet and Music City’s favorite holiday tradition! Featuring photo opportunities with performers, lobby activities for the kids, and live music. Experience Nashville’s Nutcracker like never before! T I C K E T S AT

nashvilleballet.com

615-782-4040

T I C K E T S S TA R T AT $ 3 5 PRESENTING SPONSOR FOR NASHVILLE’S NUTCRACKER:

P R E S E N T E D AT:

12 DAYS OF

GIVEAWAYS! WE HAVE $2,700 WORTH OF EXPERIENCE PRIZES UP FOR GRABS! FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN!

HOW IT WORKS • THE GIVEAWAY OF THE DAY will be announced on our Facebook page (@NashvilleParentMag) at 9:30 a.m. Be on the lookout for #12 DAYS OF GIVEAWAYS • WE’LL ASK A QUESTION related to the prize. To get into the random drawing, SIMPLY COMMENT WITH YOUR ANSWER. • Winner will be selected via a RANDOM DRAWING and will be announced on Facebook that afternoon. • A giveaway a day takes place WEEKDAYS, DEC. 2 - 17. • DOUBLE YOUR CHANCE OF WINNING by liking our Facebook page along with our prize partners’ pages.

34 december 2019

PRIZES & SCHEDULE MONDAY, DEC. 2 Four tickets to Lythgoe Panto/TPAC’s Aladdin and His Winter Wish at on Thursday, Dec. 12. $180 value TUESDAY, DEC. 3 Six tickets to Nashville Ballet’s Nashville’s Nutcracker (choice of select dates between Dec. 7 - 22). $438 value WEDNESDAY, DEC. 4 “A Country Christmas” prize pack including four tickets to ICE! featuring A Christmas Story and four tickets to Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical at Gaylord Opryland Resort $500 value THURSDAY, DEC. 5 Family Two membership to Cheekwood (two adults and all kids in household). $100 value FRIDAY, DEC. 6 Four tickets to Mary Poppins at Nashville Repertory Theater (choice of date March 27 April 5, 2020) $220 value MONDAY, DEC. 9 Sapphire membership to Nashville Children’s Theatre’s 2020 - 2021 season. $179 value

nashvilleparent.com

TUESDAY, DEC. 10 Four tickets to Star Wars in Concert: Return of the Jedi with the Nashville Symphony (Friday, Feb. 7, 2020) $200 value WEDNESDAY, DEC. 11 Four tickets to the Broadway tour of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory on Tuesday, June 9, 2020. $280 value THURSDAY, DEC. 12 Family membership to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. $115 value. FRIDAY, DEC. 13 Four tickets to Blue Man Group’s “Speechless Tour” at TPAC on Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2020. $210 value MONDAY, DEC. 16 Voyager membership to Adventure Science Center (two adults & all kids in household). $139 TUESDAY, DEC. 17 Household membership to Nashville Zoo. $145 value

THINGS TO DO: DAILY EVENTS

Find our roundup of holiday light displays at nashvilleparent.com/2019lights.

WOODEN SNOWMAN (REGISTER)

615-890-5333 murfreesborotn. gov/parks

All ages. Gateway Island, 1875 W. College St., Murfreesboro. 6 - 8 p.m. $25. Assemble and paint a snowman for your porch or table.

WREATH-MAKING WORKSHOP (REGISTER)

FAMILY PROGRAM: SONGWRITING TUNE-UP (REGISTER) 615-416-2001 countrymusichalloffame.org

Ages 11 - 18. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, 222 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville. 3:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. free with gate ($25.95 adults, free for ages 18 & younger in Davidson and surrounding counties). Young budding songwriters can participate in one-on-one mentoring sessions with professional songwriters to help hone their craft.

FREE GINGERBREAD HOUSE AUCTION

615-824-6528 | holidayfesttn.org

All ages. Bluegrass Yacht & Country Club, 550 Johnny Cash Pkwy., Hendersonville. 2 - 5 p.m. After the judges pick the winners, you can bid in the auction for them benefiting Habitat for Humanity.

FREE KIDS’ HOUR

615-550-5660 | marewakefield. com

Ages 10 & younger. Whole Foods, 1566 W. McEwen Drive, Franklin. 9:30 a.m. Award-winning family entertainers Mare Wakefield and Nomad perform.

FREE NASCAR CHAMPIONS WEEK See Tuesday, Dec. 3.

FREE RAPTOR RHAPSODY 615-217-3017 murfreesborotn.gov/parks

All ages. The Wilderness Station, 697 Veterans Pkwy., Murfreesboro. 4 p.m. Get up close and personal with a live bird of prey..

FREE STORYTIME WITH MRS. CLAUS

See Tuesday, Dec. 3.

THU 5 FREE BUILDING LIVES CHRISTMAS SALE

See Wednesday, Dec. 4.

FREE COOKIES, COCOA AND CRAFTS AT THE FORT (REGISTER)

615-859-3678 | gvilleholidays.com

Ages 8+. Historic Mansker’s Station, 705 Caldwell Drive, Goodlettsville. 3 - 4 p.m. Sip cocoa and enjoy cookies while making a Christmas craft by candlelight.

FREE FAIRVIEW LEGO CLUB

615-224-6087 wcpl.ss9.sharpschool.com/fairview_public_library

All ages. Fairview Library, 2240 Fairview Blvd., Fairview. 4 - 5:30 p.m. Explore creativity while building with LEGO blocks.

FREE GUIDED NATURE HIKE (REGISTER) 615-862-8580 nashville.gov/parks

All ages. Beaman Park Nature Center, 5911 Old Hickory Blvd., Ashland City. 10 - 11:30 a.m. Embark on a two-mile guided hike with a park naturalist.

FREE GULCH NIGHT MARKET gulchnightmarket.com

All ages. The Gulch, 299 11th Ave S, Nashville. 5 - 9 p.m. Local artisans, food and drink vendors, a live DJ, entertainment and more.

615-942-7169 greendoorgourmet.com

Adults. Green Door Gourmet, 7007 River Road Pike, Nashville. 7 - 8:30 p.m. $65. Learn to create and decorate a wreath using natural materials.

FRI 6 FREE CANDY CANE VILLAGE

615-859-7979 | gvilleholidays.com All ages. Goodlettsville City Hall Park, 105 S. Main St., Goodlettsville. 6 p.m. Stroll through festively decorated seven-foot houses created by local businesses and organizations. The village is on display through Dec. 31.

CITY LIGHTS ADULT CIRCUS SHOWCASE

615-678-4739 | expressioncity.com All ages. Expression City, 1724a General George Patton Drive, Brentwood. Sat 7 p.m., Sun 2 p.m. $10. Adult circus performers show off their skills.

FREE FRANKLIN ART SCENE

615-815-6015 | franklinartscene.com All ages. 6 - 9 p.m. Explore dozens of art galleries in downtown Franklin.

FREE FRANKLIN CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING

franklintn.gov

All ages. Historic Downtown Franklin, 106 3rd Ave N, Franklin. 6 - 8:30 p.m. Kathie Lee Gifford emcees the festivities that include live music, appearances by Herme and Rudolph, and the lighting of the city’s tree.

FREE NASCAR CHAMPIONS WEEK See Tuesday, Dec. 3.

PREDS & PINS

615-770-2331 nashvillepredators.com/bowling

All ages. Hermitage Strike and Spare, 3436 Lebanon Pike, Hermitage. 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. $175. Join the Nashville Predators and Gnash to help strike out cancer during this bowling tournament benefiting the 365 Pediatric Cancer Fund. The night includes two hours of bowling, a food buffet, silent auction and more.

FREE TWEEN TIME

615-824-0656 youseemore.com/hendersonville Ages 9 - 12. Hendersonville Public Library, 140 Saundersville Road, Hendersonville. 5:30 p.m. Crafts, games and snacks.

FREE GOODLETTSVILLE CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING 615-851-2253 goodlettsvilleparks.com

All ages. Main St. Park, 105 S. Main St., Goodlettsville. 6 - 6:30 p.m. Experience the flip of the switch on the giant tree in front of City Hall. Santa’s Holiday Party follows.

FREE GUIDED HIKE (REGISTER) wcparksandrec.com Registration code: 16253

All ages. Timberland Park, Mile Marker 437.2 on Natchez Trace Pkwy., Franklin. 9:30 a.m. Learn about plants, animals and the history of the park.

nashvilleparent.com

HOLIDAY TEA (REGISTER)

800-247-5223 | americangirl.com/ retail/nashville.php

Ages 8+. American Girl Store, 1800 Galleria Blvd., Franklin. 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. $18. Treats, drinks, crafts and a buildyour-own hot chocolate station.

HOLLYDAY MARKETPLACE

615-494-8961 hollydaymarketplace.weebly.com All ages. Tennessee Miller Coliseum, 304 W .Thompson Lane, Murfreesboro. Fri - Sat 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. $7 in advance, $10 at the door. This shopping experience features more than 100 vendors.

FREE MTSU STAR PARTY

All ages. MTSU’s Wiser-Patten Science Hall Room 102, 1500 Greenland Drive, Murfreesboro. 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Chuck Higgins presents “NASA Citizen Science Projects” followed by telescope viewing.

FREE MURFREESBORO CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING CELEBRATION

615-895-1887 downtownmurfreesboro.com

All ages. Murfreesboro Public Square, 20 N. Public Square, Murfreesboro. 6 p.m. Enjoy live performances, carols, the lighting of the tree and a visit with Santa.

FREE NASHVILLE CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING

615-862-8400 nashville.gov

All ages. Public Square Park, 350 Deaderick St., Nashville. 6 p.m. Performances by local choirs and an appearance by Santa before the tree lights up.

OAKLANDS CHRISTMAS GALA

615-893-0022 | oaklandsmansion.org Adults. Oaklands Mansion, 900 N. Maney Ave., Murfreesboro. 6 p.m. $100. A reception, dinner and music.

FREE ORGANIC GARDENING: SAVING SEEDS AND PLANNING FOR WINTER (REGISTER)

615-862-8555 | wpnc.nashville.gov Ages 13+. Warner Park Nature Center, 7311 Hwy. 100, Nashville. 10 - 11 a.m. Bring your questions to this interactive program about growing a garden organically.

FREE SANTA’S HOLIDAY PARTY

615-851-2253 goodlettsvilleparks.com

All ages. Delmas Long Community Center, 200 Memorial Drive, Goodlettsville. 6:30 - 8 p.m. Visit with Santa, enjoy live music, create a craft, nibble on cookies and sip hot chocolate.

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december 2019 35

THINGS TO DO: DAILY EVENTS SCHOOL-AGE ART CLUB FOR HOMESCHOOLERS (REGISTER) 615-790-5719 wcparksandrec.com Registration code: 16268

Ages 7 - 12. Franklin Recreation Complex, 1120 Hillsboro Road, Franklin. Fridays, Dec. 6 - 27 from 9:30 - 11 a.m. $80. Explore art, history, techniques and styles.

VINTAGE MARKET DAYS HOLIDAY MARKET

vintagemarketdays.com/market/ nashville

All ages. The Fairgrounds, 500 Wedgewood Ave., Nashville. Fri - Sat 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sun 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. $5 - $12. An upscale vintage-inspired market.

SAT 7 13TH ANNUAL ST. NICHOLAS BALL

615-824-6528 holidayfesttn.org

St., Smyrna. 5 - 7 p.m. Pictures with Santa, cocoa, s’mores, carriage rides ($5) and more.

CHRISTMAS HOME TOUR OF SUMNER COUNTY

615-429-3029 | gallatintn.org

All ages. Sumner Tourism Center, 2310 Nashville Pike, Gallatin. 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. $12.50. Tour different homes and sites in the county. Proceeds benefit local charities.

FREE CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE

615-325-4086 sumnercrestwinery.com

All ages. Sumner Crest Winery, 5306 E. Old Hwy. 52, Portland. 1 - 5 p.m. Carolers sing while you enjoy appetizers, wine samples, recipes and specials in the gift shop.

CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE AND CANDLELIGHT TOUR

615-459-2341 | samdavishome.org

Adults. Bluegrass Yacht & Country Club, 550 Johnny Cash Pkwy., Hendersonville. 6 - 11 p.m. $150. Live entertainment, a seated Christmas dinner, silent auction and surprises benefiting the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Middle Tennessee.

All ages. Sam Davis Home, 1399 Sam Davis Road, Smyrna. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Free with gate ($15 adults, $10 ages 6 - 12, free ages 5 & younger). Make an ornament, roast chestnuts, sip wassail, listen to carolers and take a candlelit holiday tour of the house.

7-HOUR THEATRE

CITY LIGHTS ADULT CIRCUS SHOWCASE

615-895-2672 murfreesborotn.gov/parks

All ages. Bradley Academy Museum, 511 Mercury Blvd., Murfreesboro. 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. $10. Create an original show and perform it for an audience, all in seven hours!

FREE BUILDING LIVES CHRISTMAS SALE

See Wednesday, Dec. 4.

CHRISTMAS CANDLELIGHT TOUR OF HOMES

615-893-0022 oaklandsmansion.org

All ages. Oaklands Mansion, 900 N. Maney Ave., Murfreesboro. 4 - 8 p.m. $25 adults, $10 ages 6 - 12, free ages 5 & younger. An enchanting tour of 10 historic homes and landmarks. A holiday marketplace takes place in Oaklands’ Maney Hall.

FREE CHRISTMAS CAROLING CONTEST

615-859-3458 | rivergate-mall.com

All ages. RiverGate Mall, 1000 Rivergate Pkwy., Goodlettsville. 12 - 4 p.m. Cheer on individuals, school and church choirs, and other non-professional groups as they sing for a chance to have a recorded performance played on the radio.

FREE CHRISTMAS DOWNTOWN: A FRONT STREET CHRISTMAS townofsmyrna.org

All ages. Smyrna Train Depot, 98 Front

36 december 2019

See Friday, Dec. 6.

COOKIE DECORATING WITH MRS. CLAUS (REGISTER)

800-247-5223 | americangirl.com/ retail/nashville.php

Ages 5+. American Girl Store, 1800 Galleria Blvd., Franklin. 10 - 11 a.m. $10. Help Mrs. Claus decorate cookies and pose for pics.

COOKING FOR YOU! KIDS CLASS (REGISTER)

615-956-6077 | thecuriouskitchen.net Ages 8 - 15. The Curious Kitchen, 1602 W. Northfield Blvd., Murfreesboro. 4 7 p.m. $80. Learn to prepare an entire meal from scratch, including an appetizer, entree and dessert, and serve it to two people whom you invite.

DOLL HAIR SALON SPECTACULAR (REGISTER)

800-247-5223 | americangirl.com/ retail/nashville.php

Ages 8+. American Girl Store, 1800 Galleria Blvd., Franklin. 9 - 10 a.m. $25. Learn new tricks to style your doll’s hair.

EARTH ROCKS! WEBELOS WORKSHOP

615-217-3017 murfreesborotn.gov/parks

Ages 7+ (any Webelo Scout). The Wilderness Station, 697 Veterans Pkwy., Murfreesboro. 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. $3. Learn about geology while fulfilling

all requirements for the Earth Rocks! Webelo Adventure badge.

FAMILY PROGRAM: SONGWRITING TUNE-UP (REGISTER) See Wednesday, Dec. 4.

FREE FIRST SATURDAY ART CRAWL

615-256-2805 nashvilledowntown.com/events/ first-saturday-art-crawl All ages. 6 - 9 p.m. Twenty-five art galleries in the downtown area host receptions and art openings.

FROZEN II SENSORY SCREENING

615-451-9500 | ncgmovies.com

All ages. NCG Cinema, 1035 Greensboro Drive, Gallatin. 10 a.m. $7. See the new Frozen II movie in a sensoryfriendly environment.

FROZEN VIP EXPERIENCE 615-824-0502 historicrockcastle.com

All ages. Historic Rock Castle, 139 Rock Castle Lane, Hendersonville. 3 & 4:30 p.m. $25 per child (each additional is $20), parents are free. Elsa and Anna host an afternoon of fun including games, snacks, crafts and photo ops.

GINGERBREAD DECORATING WORKSHOP (REGISTER)

615-356-8000 | cheekwood.org

All ages. Cheekwood, 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville. 9 & 11 a.m. $60 members, $75 non-members (includes one gingerbread house and daytime admission for up to five people). Create a gingerbread masterpiece. Santa will be in the Frist Learning Center from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

GIRLS ON THE RUN 5K 615-862-8400 gotrmiddletn.org/5K

All ages. Shelby Park, 1900 Davidson St., Nashville. 8 a.m. $40 adults, $30 youth (discounts prior to race day); fun run is free. Participate in the 5K or kids’ one-mile fun run to raise money for Girls on the Run of Middle Tennessee.

HISTORIC HOME YULETIDE TOURS

See Sunday, Dec. 1

HO-HOHOLIDAYS

615-970-3800 daveandbusters.com/locations/ nashville

All ages. Dave & Buster’s, 540 Opry Mills Drive, Nashville. 9 - 11 a.m. $23.64. A breakfast buffet, face painting, balloon art, bowling, holiday crafting, a $10 power card, goody bag and more.

nashvilleparent.com

HOLIDAY BASKET WEAVING WORKSHOP (REGISTER) 615-370-4672 | owlshill.org

Adults. Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary, 545 Beech Creek Road S., Brentwood. 9:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. $55. Learn the basics of basic weaving with lots of holiday themed material to work with.

FREE HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE CRAFT & VENDOR FAIR

615-351-4973 | facebook.com/twmtn All ages. Tusculum Cumberland Presbyterian Church, 477 McMurray Drive, Nashville. 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Shop from small business vendors. Proceeds benefit Talk With Me Tennessee’s mission to donate communication devices to children with special needs.

FREE HOLIDAY MOVIE MARATHON

615-851-2253 goodlettsvilleparks.com

All ages. Delmas Long Community Center, 200 Memorial Drive, Goodlettsville. 12 - 3 p.m. Bring low lawn chairs or blankets for a family-friendly holiday film screening. Popcorn and drinks available for purchase.

FREE HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE

615-824-0502 historicrockcastle.com

All ages. Historic Rock Castle, 139 Rock Castle Lane, Hendersonville. 3 - 6 p.m. Tours of the home, carolers, refreshments and photos with Santa.

FREE HOLIDAY STORYTIME

615-953-2243 parnassusbooks.net

All ages. Parnassus Books, 3900 Hillsboro Pike, Nashville. 9 a.m. Don your PJs for holiday stories, songs and a festive treat.

CHRISTMAS PARADES! Celebrate the holiday season in your community. The Santa float in Nashville’s Christmas parade.

COLUMBIA

GOODLETTSVILLE

LEIPER’S FORK

Travels along West Seventh St. to Courthouse Square in Downtown Columbia.

Starts at the Delmas Long Community Center (200 Memorial Drive), up Memorial Drive, right on Main St. and ending at Goodlettsville Plaza on RiverGate Parkway.

Southall Road through the village on Old Hillsboro Road.

Monday, Dec. 2 at 7 p.m. Theme: “Jingle Around the Clock” 931-388-3647 columbiamainstreet.com

DONELSON-HERMITAGE Saturday, Dec. 14 at 2 p.m. Theme: “The Most Memorable Christmas Ever” 615-883-7896 | d-hchamber.com

Starts at the intersection of Elm Hill Pike and Donelson Pike continuing N. on Donelson and ending at the Donelson Station WeGo Star/RTA parking lot.

FAIRVIEW

Saturday, Dec. 14 at 4:30 p.m. Theme: “Fairview Storybook” 615-544-0061 fairviewchamber.org

Starts at Westwood Elementary School and ends the entrance to Bowie Park.

FRANKLIN

Saturday, Dec. 7 at 2 p.m. Theme: “Holiday Heroes” eventbrite.com

Starts at Boyd Mill Avenue at Jim Warren Park and travels down New Highway. 96 West to Third Avenue South then down Main Street ending at 11th Avenue North.

GALLATIN

Saturday, Dec. 8 at 12 p.m. Theme: “Christmas at the Movies” 615-452-4000 | gallatintn.org

Starts on Steam Plant Road and ends at Gallatin High School.

Saturday, Dec. 7 at 4 p.m. Theme: “Home for the Holidays” 615-851-2231 goodlettsvilleparks.com

HENDERSONVILLE

Sunday, Dec. 8 at 2:30 p.m. Theme: “A Golden Celebration” 615-517-5714 | holidayfesttn.org

Starts at Memorial Park and travels West Main St. to Executive Park Drive. This year’s Grand Marshals are Charlene Tilton and Cherish Lee.

Saturday, Dec. 14 at 5:30 p.m. Sumner County Christmas Boat Parade 615-517-5714 | holidayfesttn.org

A variety of boats decorated with holiday lights and other decor float across Old Hickory Lake, viewable from Sanders Ferry Park.

LA VERGNE

Saturday, Dec. 7 at 6 p.m. Theme: “Parade of Lights” 615-793-3224 | lavergnetn.gov

Begins at Veterans Memorial Park and ends at City Hall for the Christmas tree lighting.

LEBANON

Sunday, Dec. 1 at 2 p.m. Theme: “A Hometown Christmas Lebanon Celebration 200 Years” 615-444-5503 lebanonwilsonchamber.com

Saturday, Dec. 14 at 2 p.m. Theme: “Fun, Quirky, Country” 615-364-9152 FB: @LeipersForkChristmasParade

MT. JULIET

Saturday, Dec. 14 at 11 a.m. Theme: “Toy Story Christmas” 615-758-6522 | mtjuliet-tn. gov/426/christmas-parade

Starts at North Mt. Juliet Parkway and Weston Drive near West Wilson Middle School and ends on Charlie Daniels Parkway. This year’s Grand Marshals are Woody, Buzz and Bo Peep.

MURFREESBORO

Sunday, Dec. 8 at 2 p.m. Theme: “The Sounds of Christmas” 615-893-5373 | wgnsradio.com

Starts at the corner of East Main St. and Middle Tennessee Boulevard in front of MTSU, then travels to Public Square onto West Main Street, ending on Walnut Street.

NASHVILLE

Saturday, Dec. 7 at 8:30 a.m. No Theme nashvillechristmasparade.com

Starts on North First Avenue and Brandon Street traveling South to Broadway, then West on Broadway to North Eighth Avenue. You can purchase seats in the “Broadway Zone” ($20 $40) to be close to the performances. Proceeds benefit Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital.

The parade is in downtown Lebanon through the square and Main Street.

nashvilleparent.com

PORTLAND

Saturday, Dec. 7 at 5:30 p.m. Theme: “Santa’s Toy Shop” 615-325-9032 | portlandcofc.com

Starts at Freedom Drive and travels South on Highway 109 to Portland East Middle School. Prior to the parade, a festival takes place from 3 - 5 p.m. on Main Street. It includes cookie decorating, crafts, live music and a visit with Santa.

SMYRNA

Sunday, Dec. 1 at 2 p.m. Theme: “A Tennessee Christmas” 865-320-3892 | townofsmyrna.org Starts on Lowry Street and travels toward Sam Ridley Parkway.

SPRING HILL

Saturday, Dec. 14 at 5 p.m. Theme: “Christmas at the Movies” 931-486-3674 springhillkiwanis.com

The parade starts at the Tennessee Childen’s Home and travels North on Main Street then West on Beechcroft to Evans Park, then down Toone Prados Street back to the Children’s Home.

WHITE HOUSE

Saturday, Dec. 7 at 1 p.m. Theme: “A White House Historical Christmas” 615-672-4350, ext. 2114 cityofwhitehouse.com

Starts at White House City Park ending on West Drive.

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december 2019 37

Carols, Crafts& Festive wear is welcomed!

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December 14

•

10 am–3 pm

Join us for a FREE festive holiday event that includes cookie decorating, designing holiday cards, and making crafts. Local choirs will perform favorite Christmas carols.

December 1st - 24th Create a new holiday tradition this year. Gather your loved ones and serenade your neighborhood with holiday carols in support of Fannie Battle Day Home for Children – a nonprofit childcare center serving Nashville children and families since 1891. Visit fanniebattle.org/caroling for more info on how to get involved or to see other creative ways to join in the fun.

For more holiday events and storytime readings visit tnmuseum.org or call 615.741.2692 1000 Rosa L. Parks Boulevard on Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park

Happy Holidays From Our Family To Yours! Call today to schedule your next appointment!

Personalized dental care for the whole family!

1601 Westgate Circle Brentwood, TN 37027 615.373.9889

Dr. Alexandra Hendricks | Pediatric Dentistry Dr. Robert Hendricks | Orthodontics 38 december 2019

nashvilleparent.com

THINGS TO DO: DAILY EVENTS adults, $14 ages 2-12). Use a laser cutter to create a puzzle of your very own.

FREE MORNING WITH SANTA (REGISTER)

615-371-0090 brentwood-tn.libcal.com

All ages. Brentwood Library, 8109 Concord Road, Brentwood. 9:30, 10:30 & 11:30 a.m. Magician Scott Humston performs prior to Santa’s arrival. Plus, face painting, music and giveaways. You must pick up tickets ahead of time.

NASHVILLE PREDATORS HOCKEY

615-770-7800 nashvillepredators.com

All ages. Bridgestone Arena, 501 Broadway, Nashville. 7 p.m. $50 $500. Versus the New Jersey Devils.

FREE NO DRAMA CHRISTMAS ORNAMENTS

615-893-4131 | rclstn.org

All ages. Linebaugh Library, 105 W. Vine St., Murfreesboro. 2 p.m. An afternoon of holiday crafting.

Catch a sensory-friendly screening of Frozen II at NCG in Gallatin on Saturday, Dec. 7. HOLLYDAY MARKETPLACE

See Friday, Dec. 6.

FREE HOME DEPOT KIDS’ WORKSHOP (REGISTER)

615-269-7800 | homedepot.com

Ages 5 - 12. Home Depot (visit website for locations). 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. Create a Christmas countdown calendar using different tools.

FREE ISPY: SCAT

615-862-8555 | wpnc.nashville.gov All ages. Warner Park Nature Center, 7311 Hwy. 100, Nashville. 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Learn about animals by the droppings they leave behind.

JINGLE BELL RUN

629-401-2692 | arthritis.org

All ages. BiCentennial Park, 400 Fifth Ave. N., Franklin. 7 a.m. $20 - $40. Wear a festive holiday costume for this 5K or one-mile walk benefiting the Arthritis Foundation.

FREE JINGLE JAMBOREE

615-773-2298 shopprovidencemarketplace.com

All ages. Providence Marketplace, 401 S. Mt. Juliet Road, Mt. Juliet. 10 a.m. 12 p.m. Stories with Santa, costumed characters, face painting, cookie decorating and more.

JUNIOR CHEF CLASS: FROZEN II COOKIE PARTY (REGISTER) 615-292-5066 williams-sonoma.com

Ages 8 - 13. Williams-Sonoma, 2126 Abbott Martin Road, Nashville. 10 a.m. $30. Whip up sugar cookies using the new Frozen II cookie stamps.

FREE KIDSVILLE

615-862-8431 | kidsvilleonline.org

Ages 2 - 12. The Parthenon, 2500 West End Ave., Nashville. 11 a.m. Explore Dolly Parton’s story, The Coat of Many Colors, then create a coat of many colors bookmark.

FREE LEGO JR. MAKER 615-893-4131 | rclstn.org

Ages 4 - 12. Linebaugh Library, 105 W. Vine St., Murfreesboro. 10 a.m. Have fun building and creating with LEGO blocks.

FREE LEGOS IN THE LIBRARY 615-595-1250 wcpl.ss9.sharpschool.com

All ages. Williamson County Public Library, 1314 Columbia Ave., Franklin. 3 - 4:30 p.m. Build with LEGO and Duplo blocks.

MAKER LAB: LASERCUT PUZZLES (REGISTER) 615-862-5160 adventuresci.org

Ages 8+. Adventure Science Center, 800 Fort Negley Blvd., Nashville. 1 p.m. $30 in addition to gate ($18

NORTH POLE EXPRESS SANTA EXCURSION TRAIN (REGISTER) 615-244-9001 | tcry.org

All ages. Tennessee Central Railway Museum, 220 Willow St., Nashville. 9 a.m. & 1:30 p.m. $21 - $85. Enjoy a train ride with Santa and his elves to Lebanon and back (no layover).

FREE PHOTOS WITH SANTA

615-416-2001 countrymusichalloffame.org

All ages. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, 222 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville. 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Share your wish list and get a pic with St. Nick.

FREE PORTLAND CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL

615-325-9032 | portlandcofc.com All ages. Downtown Portland, 106 Main St., Portland. 3 - 5 p.m. Cookie decorating, crafts, live music, Santa and more. The parade follows.

REPTICON

repticon.com

All ages. The Fairgrounds, 500 Wedgewood Ave., Nashville. Sat 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sun 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. $12 adults, $5 ages 5 - 12. View and meet a variety of exotic critters that you can purchase along with supplies and accessories.

RUDOLPH’S RED NOSE RUN 5K

RUNNING OF THE ELVES

615-672-3937 whitehousechamber.org

All ages. White House City Hall, 105 College St., White House. 1 p.m. $25 - $30. Be the lead in the parade as the crowd cheers you on

FREE SANTA AT THE LIBRARY

615-862-5866 | library.nashville.org

All ages. Inglewood Library, 4312 Gallatin Pike, Nashville. 10:30 a.m. Meet St. Nick for stories and photos.

FREE SANTA IN THE COURTHOUSE

615-895-1887 downtownmurfreesboro.com

All ages. Rutherford County Courthouse, South Public Square, Murfreesboro. 12 - 4 p.m. Bring your own camera and take photos of your little ones on Santa’s lap.

FREE SHABBY LANE HOLIDAY SPLENDOR

615-898-7710 shabbylaneshoppingevents.com

All ages. Lane Agri-Park, 315 John Rice Boulevard, Murfreesboro. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Holiday shopping, photos with Santa, inflatables and an elf scavenger hunt.

FREE SHAKESPEARE ALLOWED

615-255-2273 | nashvilleshakes.org All ages. Nashville Public Library, 615 Church St., Nashville. 12 - 3 p.m. Participate in (or just listen to) a complete reading of Much Ado About Nothing.

SPECIAL NEEDS JUMP gotjump.com/tennessee

All ages. JumpStreet locations in Franklin, Goodlettsville and Murfreesboro. 9 - 11 a.m. $8 ages 4+, $4 ages 3 & younger. Children with special needs can enjoy a private hour of jumping on trampolines and playing on the equipment with the second hour open to the public.

STEP INTO CHRISTMAS YOUTH CIRCUS SHOWCASE

615-678-4739 | expressioncity.com All ages. Expression City, 1724a General George Patton Dr, Brentwood. Sat 7 p.m., Sun 2 p.m. $10. Young circus performers show off their skills in a holiday show.

VINTAGE MARKET DAYS HOLIDAY MARKET

See Friday, Dec. 6.

615-618-9499 | racesonline.com

All ages. Nissan Stadium, 1 Titans Way, Nashville. 7:30 a.m. $35 adults, $50 for a family of four, free ages 9 & younger. Wear merry attire for Rudolph’s costume contest followed by the race benefiting NeedLink Nashville. Plus, photos with Rudolph.

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december 2019 39

THINGS TO DO: DAILY EVENTS WONDERFUL LIFE ANNUAL HOLIDAY FUNDRAISER

615-736-2892 wonderfullifefoundation.org

All ages. War Memorial Auditorium, 301 Sixth Ave. N., Nashville. 5 p.m. $25. Watch a screening if It’s a Wonderful Life followed by a festive party with food, music and a wine pull. Proceeds support children being treated for serious illnesses.

YOGA AT BEAMAN (REGISTER)

615-862-8580 | nashville.gov/parks Adults. Beaman Park Nature Center, 5911 Old Hickory Blvd., Ashland City. 9:30 - 10:45 a.m. $10 - $10. Enjoy an outdoor yoga class in the serenity of Paradise Ridge.

FREE YULEFEST AT MANSKER’S STATION

615-859-3678 | gvilleholidays.com

All ages. Historic Mansker’s Station, 705 Caldwell Drive, Goodlettsville. 5 - 8 p.m. Experience the holidays in 18th-century style with live music, storytelling, carriage rides, refreshments and shopping.

SUN 8 FREE CARING SANTA (REGISTER)

615-514-1000 | oprymills.com

All ages. Opry Mills, 433 Opry Mills Drive, Nashville. 8 - 10:30 a.m. A private photo experience for children with special needs and their families.

DOG PHOTOS WITH SANTA

615-356-8000 | cheekwood.org

All ages. Cheekwood, 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Free with gate ($20 adults, $13 ages 3 - 17). Bring Fido for a photo op with St. Nick.

FAMILY FUN DAY: AUNTIE CLAUS

See Sunday, Dec. 1.

FREE FAMILY PROGRAM: MAKE LETTERPRESS ART

615-256-2805 | hatchshowprint.com Ages 5+. Hatch Show Print, 224 Fifth Ave S, Nashville. 12, 1 & 2 p.m. Learn about letterpress printing while creating letterpress art using carved wood, linoleum and metal block images. Attendance requires a program pass, available 30 minutes prior to each session on a first-come, first-served basis.

FILM: JIMMY DEAN CHRISTMAS SHOW

615-416-2001 countrymusichalloffame.org

All ages. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, 222 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville. 3 p.m. free with gate ($25.95 adults, free for ages 18 & younger in Davidson and surrounding counties). See the 1964 holiday special featuring Jimmy Dean, Boots Randolph and more.

FRESH PASTA MAKING FAMILY CLASS (REGISTER) 615-956-6077 thecuriouskitchen.net

All ages. The Curious Kitchen, 1602 W. Northfield Blvd., Murfreesboro. 1 - 4 p.m. $65 adults, $50 ages 5 - 17. Learn to make Italian chopped salad, fresh pasta, basil and mozzarella-stuffed garlic bread, and berry shortcakes with honey whipped cream.

GINGERBREAD DECORATING ORKSHOP (REGISTER) See Sunday, Dec. 1.

GRANDPARENTS, BE OUR GUEST!

615-459-9710 | townofsmyrna.org

All ages. Outdoor Adventure Center, 100 Sam Ridley Pkwy. E., Smyrna. 1 - 3 p.m. $4 adults, $3 children. Make special holiday crafts, snap a pic in the photo booth and enjoy other activities celebrating grandparents.

HISTORIC HOME YULETIDE TOURS

See Sunday, Dec. 1.

JUNIOR CHEF CLASS: GINGERBREAD HOUSE DECORATING (REGISTER) 615-292-5066 williams-sonoma.com

Ages 8 - 13. Williams-Sonoma, 2126 Abbott Martin Road, Nashville. 11 a.m. $30. Decorate your own gingerbread house to take home.

REPTICON

See Saturday, Dec. 7.

FREE SANTA CARES (REGISTER)

615-771-2050 coolspringsgalleria.com

All ages. CoolSprings Galleria, 1800 Galleria Blvd., Franklin. 9 - 11 a.m. A sensory-friendly Santa experience

STEP INTO CHRISTMAS YOUTH CIRCUS SHOWCASE

See Saturday, Dec. 7.

VINTAGE MARKET DAYS HOLIDAY MARKET

See Friday, Dec. 6.

HOLIDAY CAKE DECORATING CLASS (REGISTER)

800-247-5223 | americangirl.com/ retail/nashville.php

Ages 8+. American Girl Store, 1800 Galleria Blvd., Franklin. 3:30 p.m. - 5 p.m. $35. Decorate a six-inch personal cake.

The 15th Annual Wonderful Life Foundation’s fundraiser at War Memorial Auditorium on Saturday, Dec. 7 includes a a screening of the classic holiday movie. (turn to page 42)

40 december 2019

nashvilleparent.com

SUPPORTED BY

Yuletide joy is plentiful at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum— every weekend through the New Year, stop by for holiday cheer and musical inspiration.

FREE PHOTOS WITH SANTA Saturdays, November 30 – December 21 11 AM – 2 PM

CRAFTS AND CLASSES Festive fun is on the schedule every weekend at the Taylor Swift Education Center—make mini snowglobes or black-eyed pea maracas, take a beginner guitar workshop, and lots more. For a full list of holiday activities and events: CountryMusicHallofFame.org/DecktheHall2019

MUSEUM ADMISSION PROGRAM FOR LOCALS FREE ADMISSION FOR 18-AND-UNDER from Davidson, and immediate surrounding counties with proof of residence or school ID.

SUPPORTED BY

Community Counts Passport FREE ADMISSION FOR UP TO 2 ADULTS is available for check out at any Nashville Public Library location. A partnership of the Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum and Nashville Public Library

Additional support provided by Metropolitan Nashville Arts Commission; Nashville Parent; and Tennessee Arts Commission.

THINGS TO DO: DAILY EVENTS TUESDAYS FOR TOTS See Tuesday, Dec. 3.

FREE UNTIL YOU RETURN READING

nashvillestorygarden.org All ages. The Filming Station, 501 Eighth Ave. S., Nashville. 7:30 p.m. Nashville Story Garden hosts this staged reading of Emily Landham’s new play.

WED 11

HOMESCHOOL PROGRAM: CONIFEROUS OR DECIDUOUS? (REGISTER) See Tuesday, Dec. 10.

FREE KIDS’ HOUR

615-550-5660 | songsbyjake.com

Ages 10 & younger. Whole Foods, 1566 W. McEwen Drive, Franklin. 9:30 a.m. Multi-instrumentalist Jacob Johnson entertains kids.

FREE LUNCH & LEARN: HISTORY OF HOLIDAY SWEETS IN TENNESSEE 615-741-2692 | tnmuseum.org

Period re-enactors bring you into the time of Christ’s birth during Walk Thru Bethlehem on Sunday, Dec. 8 at Woodmont Christian Church. Kids can meet live animals and participate in a variety of hands-on activities. FREE WALK THRU BETHLEHEM

615-297-8563 | woodmontchristian.org/walk-thru-bethlehem

All ages. Woodmont Christian Church, 3601 Hillsboro Pike, Nashville. 1 - 7 p.m. More than 200 costumed characters and live animals recreate the village of Bethlehem at the time of Jesus’ birth. Hands-on children’s activities include basket weaving, carpentry, olive pressing and pottery.

MON 9 FREE ELF DAY FUN

615-862-5856 | library.nashville.org Ages 6 - 12. Bordeaux Library, 4000 Clarksville Pike, Nashville. 4:15 p.m. Get into the holiday spirit with elfthemed crafts, snack and activities.

FAMILY MONDAY

615-244-3340 | fristartmuseum.org

All ages. Frist Art Museum, 919 Broadway, Nashville. 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. $15 covers your entire family. Enjoy a trilingual storytime (English, Spanish, American Sign Language), family tours of the galleries and hands-on fun in the Martin ArtQuest Gallery. This month’s story is The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle.

FREE SNACK WITH SANTA (REGISTER)

wcparksandrec.com Registration code: 16115

42 december 2019

Ages 4 & younger. Timberland Park, Mile Marker 437.2 on Natchez Trace Pkwy., Franklin. 10 - 11 a.m. Meet Santa by the fireplace for a story and snack.

TUE 10 FREE COOKIES, COCOA AND CRAFTS AT THE FORT (REGISTER) See Thursday, Dec. 5.

FREE HOMESCHOOL DAY: HOLIDAY TRADITIONS IN TENNESSEE

NATURAL HOLIDAY WREATH MAKING

615-217-3017 murfreesborotn.gov/parks

Ages 10+. The Wilderness Station, 697 Veterans Pkwy., Murfreesboro. 6 p.m. $12. Create a holiday wreath using cedar boughs, grapevine bases, ribbons and accents.

PHOTOS WITH SANTA (REGISTER)

615-786-0200, ext. 2417 wcparksandrec.com Registration code: 16116

All ages. Tennessee State Museum, 1000 Rosa L. Parks Blvd., Nashville. 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Learn about holiday traditions through stories and crafts.

Ages 3 - 6. Williamson County Recreation Complex, 7250 Nolensville Road, Nolensville. 10 - 11 a.m. $5. Skip the mall lines! Cost includes a printed photo, and you can bring your own camera to snap pics, too.

HOMESCHOOL PROGRAM: CONIFEROUS OR DECIDUOUS? (REGISTER)

PRESCHOOL PROGRAM: FROZEN (REGISTER)

615-741-2692 | tnmuseum.org

615-459-9710 | townofsmyrna.org

Ages 5 - 15. Outdoor Adventure Center, 100 Sam Ridley Pkwy. E., Smyrna. 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. $5. Learn the differences of trees and how cold weather affects them.

615-459-9710 | townofsmyrna.org

Ages 2 - 5. Outdoor Adventure Center, 100 Sam Ridley Pkwy. E., Smyrna. 1 - 2 p.m. $2. Games, snacks and crafts with a Frozen theme.

NASHVILLE PREDATORS HOCKEY

STOP, DROP AND DECORATE: GINGERBREAD HOUSE EDITION

All ages. Bridgestone Arena, 501 Broadway, Nashville. 7 p.m. $50 $500. Versus the San Jose Sharks.

All ages. Sugar Drop, 7020 Church St. East, Brentwood. 2 - 4 p.m. $30. Decorate a gingerbread house using edible treats.

615-770-7800 nashvillepredators.com

629-202-6949 | sugardrop.com

nashvilleparent.com

All ages. Tennessee State Museum, 1000 Rosa L. Parks Blvd., Nashville. 12 p.m. Bring your lunch and learn about holiday baking traditions in the Volunteer State.

FREE STORYTIME WITH MRS. CLAUS

See Tuesday, Dec. 3.

FREE THE LITTLE MERMAID AUDITIONS

615-893-7439 murfreesborotn.gov/parks

Ages 6 - 17. The Washington Theatre, 521 Mercury Blvd., Murfreesboro. 4 - 9 p.m. Kids can try out for roles in Perform Murfreesboro’s upcoming production of Disney “under the sea” musical.

THE STAR WARS HOLIDAY SPECIAL: LIVE, ONSTAGE ... AND SPECIAL! pipeline-collective.com

All ages. Jamison Theater, 230 Franklin Road, Franklin. 7:30 p.m. $15. PipelineCollective presents a staged reading of the ill-fated 1978 Star Wars holiday special. Proceeds benefit the 501st Legion Make-A-Wish Endowment Fund.

THU 12 FREE COOKIES, COCOA AND CRAFTS AT THE FORT (REGISTER) See Thursday, Dec. 5.

BREAKFASTS WITH SANTA! Kids can feast with Kris Kringle, share their wish lists and enjoy fun photo ops. SAT, DEC. 7 BELMONT MANSION

1900 Belmont Blvd., Nashville 615-460-5459 belmontmansion.com 8:30 - 10 a.m. $30 adults, $20 children

Breakfast, carols, kids’ sanctities and photos with Santa. All ages.

NASHVILLE FARMERS’ MARKET

900 Rosa L. Parks Blvd., Nashville 615-880-2001 nashvillefarmersmarket.org 9 - 11 a.m. Free to visit with Santa and take pics. Breakfast is on your own at your choice of the market’s eateries. All ages.

STONES RIVER TOWN CENTRE 1720 Old Fort Pkwy. Murfreesboro 615-896-4486 stonesrivermall.com 8 a.m. - 10 a.m. $5

Enjoy breakfast with Mrs. Claus with an appearance by Santa.

WESTERN HILLS CHURCH OF CHRIST

7565 Charlotte Pike, Nashville 615-352-4362 eventbrite.com 8 a.m. - 10 a.m. $5 adults, $3 children

Enjoy breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus with photo ops, plus the Christmas Shoppe and silent auction. All ages.

SAT, DEC. 14

AMERICAN GIRL STORE

1800 Galleria Blvd., Franklin 800-247-5223 americangirl.com/retail/nashville. php 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. $25 (register in advance) Breakfast treats and photos with St. Nick. Ages 3+.

AQUARIUM RESTAURANT

516 Opry Mills Drive, Nashville 615-514-3474 aquariumrestaurants.com 8:30 a.m. $18.99 adults, $15.99 children

Join Santa and Sharkey for a breakfast buffet and additional activities. All ages.

BETHLEHEM UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

2419 Bethlehem Loop Road, Franklin 615-794-6721 eventbrite.com 9 - 11 a.m. $12 adults, $5 ages 3 - 12

Breakfast, photo ops, crafts and more. All ages.

JOE’S CRAB SHACK

123 Second Ave. S., Nashville 615-242-2722 joescrabshack.com 8 a.m. $15 adults, $8 children

A buffet breakfast, crafts, prizes and photos with St. Nick. All ages.

NASHVILLE FARMERS’ MARKET See Saturday, Dec. 7.

RAINFOREST CAFE

353 Opry Mills Drive, Nashville 615-502-3022 rainforestcafe.com 8 - 10 a.m. $20.88 adults, $14.09 ages 4 - 10, free ages 3 & younger

Join Cha! Cha! and Santa for a breakfast buffet, prizes, kids’ activities, goodie bags and more. All ages.

WHITTEN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

140 Scotch St., Hendersonville 615-822-3898 hendersonvilleparks.org 10:30 - 11:45 a.m. & 12:30 p.m. 1:45 p.m. Free (register in advance)

Enjoy pizza and soft drinks and a photo op with St. Nick. All ages.

SUN, DEC. 15

AQUARIUM RESTAURANT See Saturday, Dec. 14

MAGGIANO’S

SAT, DEC. 21

AMERICAN GIRL STORE See Saturday, Dec. 14.

AQUARIUM RESTAURANT See Saturday, Dec. 14.

NASHVILLE FARMERS’ MARKET See Saturday, Dec. 7.

RAINFOREST CAFE See Saturday, Dec. 14.

SUN, DEC. 22

AQUARIUM RESTAURANT See Saturday, Dec. 14.

MON, DEC. 23 VIKING PIZZA

3525 Kedron Road, Spring Hill springhillkiwanis.com/SantaBreakfast 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. $10 ages 9 & older, $5 ages 8 & younger

Decorate pancakes and dine with St. Nick. All ages.

3106 West End Ave., Nashville 615-514-0270 eventbrite.com 8:30 - 10:30 a.m. $19.95 adults, $14.95 ages 3 - 11

A breakfast buffet plus pics with Santa and a special treat for kids to take home. All ages.

(turn to page 45)

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december 2019 43

2019 HOLIDAY H A P P E N I NG S START SHOPPING

STORYTIME AND

PUPPET SHOW

BLACK FRIDAY

Linebaugh Public Library will present a holiday-themed Storytime & Puppet Show inside Books-A-Million.

Stop by Center Court to enjoy some music and sip complimentary hot coffee and cocoa beginning at 6 am on Black Friday, while supplies last. Stones River Town Centre will be open Extended Hours 6 am-10 pm for all your holiday shopping needs!

FRIDAY, NOV. 29 • EXTENDED HOURS

FRIDAY, NOV. 1 & FRIDAY DEC. 6 • 10 AM

CLICK WITH

OL’ SAINT NICK

PERFORMANCE SERIES

SOUNDS OF THE SEASON

NOV. 9 - DEC. 24

Steer your sleigh toward Santa’s Workshop in Center Court for professional photos with Santa.

Visit www.shopstonesriver.com for a schedule of all performances.

A HOLIDAY

CELEBRATION

BE REWARDED: SPEND $200,

GET $25 GIFT CARD

SATURDAY, NOV. 9 • 11 - 1 P.M.

MONDAY, DEC. 2 – SUNDAY, DEC. 8

Join us for craft activities, giveaways, hot cocoa, cookies, face painting and more to celebrate Santa’s arrival.

Spend $200 across three stores/restaurants at Stones River Town Centre between Dec. 2-8 and receive a $25 Be Rewarded Gift Card to Dillard’s, JCPenney, or Bath & Body Works, while supplies last. Bring qualifying receipts to the Mall Management Office (9 am-4 pm Monday-Friday). Redeem your receipts by Wednesday, December 11 at 5 pm. Visit shopstonesriver.com for details.

PET PHOTOS DURING

PAWS & CLAUS

NOV. 11, 18, & 25 • DEC. 2, 9, & 16 • 5 - 8 PM

Bring your furry, four-legged friends to have photos taken with Santa. Dogs and cats, only; they must be leashed or crated at all times. Beesley Animal Foundation will be on site providing information about their services and accepting food donations. Event is sponsored by Doggie’s Day Out.

GOBBLE, GOBBLE

THANKSGIVING DAY THURSDAY, NOV. 28

Stop by Center Court to enjoy some music and sip complimentary hot coffee and cocoa beginning at 7 pm, while supplies last. Stones River Town Centre will be open 6 am to 12 midnight on Thanksgiving Day.

extended shopping hours!

Refer to our calendar at shopstonesriver.com for holiday hours. Store hours may vary; visit your favorite retailers for details.

your go-to

gift guide

Take the guesswork out of gift-giving with a gift card from one of our fabulous shops! Please visit your favorite retailer or restaurant to purchase store gift cards.

Like us on Facebook and Follow us on Instagram & Twitter to find out more about holiday happenings, sales, and special events.

www.shopstonesriver.com

1720 Old Fort Pkwy, Murfreesboro | 615-896-4486

STORYTIME &

BREAKFAST WITH MRS. CLAUS SATURDAY, DEC. 7 • 8 - 10 AM

Enjoy Breakfast with Mrs. Claus with a special appearance by Santa and a lot of holiday fun! Tickets are $5 each and donated directly to Beesley Animal Foundation. Purchase tickets in the Mall Management Office (cash only) Monday through Friday 9 am to 5 pm. Space is limited; purchase your tickets early. Tickets must be purchased for both children and adults. Ticket sales begin November 4.

complimentary

gift wrapping

World Outreach Church returns to Stones River Town Centre to provide complimentary gift wrapping this holiday season. Volunteers will be set up next to Bath & Body Works from 12/7 - 12/24. Gifts must be purchased from Stones River Town Centre; those purchased elsewhere will not be eligible for complimentary gift wrap.

STONES R VER TOWN CEN TRE

THINGS TO DO: DAILY EVENTS HOLIDAY LOCK-IN

615-895-5040 murfreesborotn.gov/parks

All ages. Sports*Com, 2310 Memorial Blvd., Murfreesboro. 7 p.m. $20. Spend the night enjoying games, swimming, playing sports and more.

JURASSIC QUEST WITH ANCIENT OCEANS 936-588-3332 jurassicquest.com

All ages. Music City Center, 201 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville. Fri 3 - 8 p.m., Sat 9 a.m. - 8 p.m., Sun 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. $22 - $36. Experience life-size animatronic dinosaurs, interact with baby dinosaurs, dig up fossils and more. Plus, check out the ancient oceans exhibit where you’ll come face-to-face with a 50-foot megalodon.

MAKER LAB: CONDUCTIVE SEWING (REGISTER)

615-862-5160 | adventuresci.org

The 35th Annual Dickens of a Christmas takes place Dec. 14 - 15 in downtown Franklin.

FREE FAMILY BINGO NIGHT

615-851-2253 goodlettsvilleparks.com

All ages. Delmas Long Community Center, 200 Memorial Drive, Goodlettsville. 6 - 8 p.m. Have fun as Santa calls Bingo while you play for prizes.

FREE FELIZ NAVIDAD

615-862-5868 | library.nashville.org All ages. Madison Library, 610 Gallatin Pike S., Madison. 6 - 7:30 p.m. This Hispanic holiday celebration includes crafts, stories, treats, games and more.

FREE SNAKES: MYSTERIES IN NATURE

615-217-3017 murfreesborotn.gov/parks

Ages 12+. The Wilderness Station, 697 Veterans Pkwy., Murfreesboro. 5:30 - 6:30 p.m. Learn the natural history of snakes, including behavioral and community ecology, biodiversity and conservation of snakes in Tennessee.

FREE STORYTIME WITH MRS. CLAUS

See Tuesday, Dec. 3.

FREE THE 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS

615-862-5872 library.nashville.org

Ages 6 - 17. Watkins Park Library, 612 17th Ave. N., Nashville. 4 - 5 p.m. Sing and celebrate the holiday season.

THE ART OF HOLIDAY COCKTAILS

615-782-4040 | tpac.org

Ages 21+. War Memorial Auditorium, 301 Sixth Ave. N., Nashville. 6 p.m. $55. This tasting experience and hands-on cocktail-making workshop includes three holiday drinks, hors d’oeuvres by Char and recipe cards to take home.

FREE THE LITTLE MERMAID AUDITIONS See Wednesday, Dec. 11.

WINTER BARN SCENE PAINTING CLASS

615-890-5333 murfreesborotn.gov/parks

All ages. Gateway Island, 1875 W. College St., Murfreesboro. 6 - 8 p.m. $20. Use acrylic paint to create a wintry work of art.

FRI 13

FREE BELLS BEND NIGHT HIKE (REGISTER)

615-862-4187 | nashville.gov/parks All ages. Bells Bend Outdoor Center, 4187 Old Hickory Blvd., Nashville. 6 - 7:30 p.m. Hear the call of the wild while exploring and listening for the animals of the night.

FREE BIRDS AND TREES OF THE HILL FOREST (REGISTER)

615-862-8555 | wpnc.nashville.gov Ages 13+. Warner Park Nature Center, 7311 Hwy. 100, Nashville. 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Hiking boots and a binoculars are a must for this hiking expedition.

FREE BORO ART CRAWL

615-904-2787 | boroarts.org

All ages. 6 - 9 p.m. View art in more than 15 local galleries in Murfreesboro.

FLASHLIGHT CANDY CANE HUNT (REGISTER)

615-794-2103 | franklintn.gov/parks

All ages. Eastern Flank Battlefield Park, 1368 Eastern Flank Circle, Franklin. 5 & 7 p.m. $5. Kids can decorate treat bags before hitting the grounds with their flashlights (bring their own) to search for candy canes. Cocoa and cookies served.

Ages 8+. Adventure Science Center, 800 Fort Negley Blvd., Nashville. 1 - 3 p.m. $30 in addition to gate ($18 adults, $14 ages 2-12). Explore the basics of circuits, learn about conductive materials and incorporating them into fabric and get a crash course on hand-sewing techniques

FREE MAMMAL PELTS AND SKULLS (REGISTER) wcparksandrec.com Registration code: 16254

All ages. Timberland Park, Mile Marker 437.2 on Natchez Trace Pkwy., Franklin. 2:30 p.m. Learn about some of Tennessee’s native mammals, feel their pelts and see the skulls that go with them.

FREE NATURE CENTER OPEN HOUSE (REGISTER) 615-862-8580 nashville.gov/parks

FREE FOSSILS: DINOSAURS OF THE AMERICAS

All ages. Beaman Park Nature Center, 5911 Old Hickory Blvd., Ashland City. 4 - 6:30 p.m. Campfire activities, s’mores, late-night hiking and more.

Ages 10+. The Wilderness Station, 697 Veterans Pkwy., Murfreesboro. 5:30 - 6:30 p.m. Learn about the dinosaurs that once called the Americas home.

NIGHTMARE BEFORE CHRISTMAS FAMILY FUN NIGHT (REGISTER)

615-217-3017 murfreesborotn.gov/parks

GINGERBREAD HOUSE DECORATING (REGISTER)

800-247-5223 | americangirl.com/ retail/nashville.php Ages 8+. American Girl Store, 1800 Galleria Blvd., Franklin. 6:30 - 8 p.m. $35. Take part in one of the season’s tastiest traditions.

HERMITAGE HOMESCHOOL DAY

615-889-2941 | thehermitage.com

All ages. The Hermitage, 4580 Rachel’s Lane, Hermitage. 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. $18. Explore holiday traditions across the plantation with crafts, games and treats.

615-459-9710 | townofsmyrna.org

All ages. Outdoor Adventure Center, 100 Sam Ridley Pkwy. E., Smyrna. 5 - 7 p.m. $2. Crafts, games and visits from holiday characters.

PORTER FLEA HOLIDAY MARKET

porterflea.com

All ages. The Fairgrounds, 500 Wedgewood Ave., Nashville. Fri 6 - 9 p.m., Sat 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tickets are $25 for the Friday night preview; admission is free on Saturday. Tackle your holiday shopping with dozens of specialty vendors.

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nashvilleparent.com

december 2019 45

THINGS TO DO: DAILY EVENTS SANTA IN THE COURTHOUSE WITH SHACKLETT’S

615-895-1887 downtownmurfreesboro.com

All ages. Rutherford County Courthouse, South Public Square, Murfreesboro. 6 - 8 p.m. Photo package prices vary. Shacklett’s Photography is on site to capture a professional photo of your little ones with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

SANTA SPLASH & DASH

615-893-7439 murfreesborotn.gov/parks

Ages 7 - 13. Patterson Park Community Center, 521 Mercury Blvd., Murfreesboro. 6 - 9 p.m. $5 in advance, $7 day of. This indoor pool party includes dinner and an ornament craft.

FREE THE FROG PRINCE 615-862-5800 nashvillepubliclibrary.org

Ages 3 - 10. Nashville Public Library, 615 Church St., Nashville. 10:30 & 11:30 a.m. This musical marionette show tells the story of a lonely frog and a spoiled princess.

FREE THE LITTLE MERMAID AUDITIONS See Wednesday, Dec. 11.

SAT 14 FREE 35TH ANNUAL DICKENS OF A CHRISTMAS

williamsonheritage.org

All ages. Historic Downtown Franklin, 106 Third Ave. N., Franklin. Sat 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sun 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Middle Tennessee’s largest outdoor Christmas Festival includes strolling musicians,

dancers and characters, including many from Charles Dickens’ stories. Plus, carolers, vendors, crafts and more.

26TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS TOY TRAIN SHOW

dixiedivisiontca.com

All ages. The Fairgrounds, 500 Wedgewood Ave., Nashville. 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. $7 adults, free ages 12 & younger. Operating train layouts in action, more than 200 tables of new and antique model trains, door prizes, and five new train sets will be given away to kids through a drawing.

FREE CONSERVATION: THREATS & PROBLEMS AFFECTING SPECIES & THEIR SURVIVAL 615-217-3017 murfreesborotn.gov/parks

Ages 10+. The Wilderness Station, 697 Veterans Pkwy., Murfreesboro. 2 - 3 p.m. Learn about invasive species, habitat loss, climate change and diseases threatening animals species worldwide and at home in Tennessee.

CREATIVE ZONE: HOLIDAY PAPER CRAFT FUN 615-416-2001 countrymusichalloffame.org

FREE BANJO BY THE FIRE (REGISTER)

615-862-8580 | nashville.gov/parks

All ages. Beaman Park Nature Center, 5911 Old Hickory Blvd., Ashland City. 1 - 2 p.m. Learn about the banjo and its history while listening to variety of old songs around a bonfire.

FREE BETHLEHEM MARKETPLACE

615-896-0940 | sebaptist.org

All ages. S.E. Baptist Church, 708 Minerva Drive, Murfreesboro. Sat - Sun 12 - 5 p.m. A walk-through dram reenacting how the village of Bethlehem might have appeared the morning after the birth of Christ.

FREE CAROLS, CRAFTS AND COOKIES

615-741-2692 | tnmuseum.org

All ages. Tennessee State Museum, 1000 Rosa L. Parks Blvd., Nashville. 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Decorate cookies, design holiday cards and make festive crafts while local choirs perform Christmas carols.

All ages. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, 222 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville. 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. free with gate ($25.95 adults, free for ages 18 & younger in Davidson and surrounding counties). Join Hatch Show Print staff to make poinsettia ornaments, reindeer antlers, paper garlands, star ornaments and holiday cards.

ELVES IN TRAINING

615-851-2253 goodlettsvilleparks.com

All ages. Delmas Long Community Center, 200 Memorial Drive, Goodlettsville. 9:30 - 11 a.m. $10 for a family of four; $2 each additional family member. Make ornaments and treats for Santa’s reindeer while listening to a Christmas story and enjoying treats and hot chocolate.

GINGERBREAD DECORATING WORKSHOP (REGISTER) See Saturday, Dec. 7.

GNU TALES

615-745-1009 thirdcoastcomedy.club

All ages. Third Coast Comedy, 1310 Clinton St., Nashville. 10 a.m. $10 for the whole family. This improv comedy show for kids includes lots of audience participation.

HANDS-ON HISTORY: CHRISTMAS ON THE FRONTIER (REGISTER) 615-356-0501 bellemeadeplantation.com

Ages 4 - 12. Belle Meade Plantation, 5025 Harding Pike, Nashville. 10 a.m. $12. Explore yuletide traditions of old, go wassailing, make crafts and learn to dance the Virginia reel.

HISTORIC HOME YULETIDE TOURS

See Saturday, Dec. 7.

FREE HOLIDAY MOVIE MARATHON

See Saturday, Dec. 7.

FREE ISPY: THE PELTING ZOO

615-862-8555 | wpnc.nashville.gov All ages. Warner Park Nature Center, 7311 Hwy. 100, Nashville. 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Explore a variety of animal pelts.

JURASSIC QUEST WITH ANCIENT OCEANS See Friday, Dec. 13.

FREE KIDSVILLE

615-862-8431 | kidsvilleonline.org

Ages 2 - 12. The Parthenon, 2500 West End Ave., Nashville. 11 a.m. Explore the basics of photography, then make a pretend camera from recycled materials.

MAKER LAB: CONDUCTIVE SEWING (REGISTER) See Friday, Dec. 13.

FREE MEET SANTA AT THE BOWEN HOUSE

615-859-3678 gvilleholidays.com

All ages. Historic Mansker’s Station, 705 Caldwell Drive, Goodlettsville. 1 3 p.m. Meet St. Nick and Mrs. Claus, take a train ride, make a craft, and enjoy cookies and cocoa.

MONKEY MADNESS (REGISTER) 615-459-9710 townofsmyrna.org

Ages 5 - 13. Outdoor Adventure Center, 100 Sam Ridley Pkwy. E., Smyrna. 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. $4 adults, $3 children. Play monkey-themed games and make crafts.

Santa at RiverGate Mall. Find all Middle Tennessee mall Santas and their hours, including pet photo nights at nashvilleparent.com/mallsantas19.

46 december 2019

nashvilleparent.com

a.m. - 9 p.m. $18 adults, $14 ages 2 - 12. Explore exhibits, see demonstrations and catch a laser show.

STOP, DROP AND DECORATE: GINGERBREAD HOUSE EDITION 629-202-6949 | sugardrop.com

All ages. Sugar Drop, 7020 Church St. East, Brentwood. 10 - 11:30 a.m. $30. Decorate a gingerbread house using edible treats.

FREE THE FROG PRINCE See Friday, Dec. 13.

VANDERBILT COMMODORES BASKETBALL 615-322-4653 vucommodores.com

All ages. Memorial Gym, 210 25th Ave. S., Nashville. 7 p.m. $10 - $42. Versus Liberty.

FREE WOMEN’S WORKSHOP: OUTDOOR COOKING (REGISTER)

615-862-8555 | wpnc.nashville.gov

NASHVILLE PREDATORS HOCKEY

615-770-7800 nashvillepredators.com

All ages. Bridgestone Arena, 501 Broadway, Nashville. 5:30 p.m. $50 $500. Versus the Dallas Stars.

NORTH POLE EXPRESS SANTA EXCURSION TRAIN (REGISTER) See Saturday, Dec. 7.

PANCAKE BREAKFAST & MARKETPLACE

615-898-7710 extension.tennessee.edu

All ages. Lane Agri-Park, 315 John Rice Boulevard, Murfreesboro. 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. Breakfast is $10 adults, $5 ages 10 & younger; admission to the marketplace is free. Start things off with breakfast (until 12 p.m.), then shop the marketplace, take selfies with Santa and make crafts. Breakfast proceeds benefit the Rutherford County 4-H program.

FREE PHOTOS WITH SANTA

See Saturday, Dec. 7.

PORTER FLEA HOLIDAY MARKET

See Friday, Dec. 13.

FREE SANTA IN THE COURTHOUSE

See Saturday, Dec. 7.

SECOND SATURDAY

615-862-5160 | adventuresci.org All ages. Adventure Science Center, 800 Fort Negley Blvd., Nashville. 9

Ages 13+. Warner Park Nature Center, 7311 Hwy. 100, Nashville. 1 - 3 p.m. A two-mile hike followed by whipping up lunch options for colder hiking months.

YOGA AT BEAMAN (REGISTER) See Saturday, Dec. 7.

SUN 15 FREE 35TH ANNUAL DICKENS OF A CHRISTMAS

See Saturday, Dec. 14.

FREE BETHLEHEM MARKETPLACE

See Saturday, Dec. 14.

COOKIE DECORATING WITH MRS. CLAUS (REGISTER)

800-247-5223 | americangirl.com/ retail/nashville.php

Ages 5+. American Girl Store, 1800 Galleria Blvd., Franklin. 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. $10. Help Mrs. Claus decorate cookies and pose for pics.

CREATIVE ZONE: “GOLDEN HOUR” PAPER FANS 615-416-2001 countrymusichalloffame.org

All ages. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, 222 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville. 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. free with gate ($25.95 adults, free for ages 18 & younger in Davidson and surrounding counties). Design a paper fan inspired by Kacey Musgrave’s latest album cover.

DROP & SHOP WITH MRS. CLAUS (REGISTER)

615-790-5719, ext. 2018 wcparksandrec.com Registration code: 15833

Ages 4 - 14. Williamson County Enrichment Center, 110 Everbright Ave., Franklin. 6 - 10 p.m. $25 first child, $15 each additional. Kids can enjoy a pizza dinner and fun with Mrs. Claus like cookie decorating, crafts, Bingo and a holiday movie while you are out Christmas shopping.

FAMILY FUN DAY: AUNTIE CLAUS

See Sunday, Dec. 1.

GINGERBREAD HOUSE WORKSHOP (REGISTER)

615-933-9644 littlearthousenashville.com

Ages 2+. Little Art House, 2104 Acklen Ave., Nashville. Ages 2 - 8 from 2 - 4 p.m., ages 9 & older from 5 - 6:15 p.m. $35 - $40. Use candies and icing to create your own unique gingerbread house.

HANUKKAH FEST 615-356-7170 nashvillejcc.org/ hanukkahfest

All ages. Gordon Jewish Community Center, 801 Percy Warner Boulevard, Nashville. 4 - 7 p.m. $10 adults, $5 children, $40 family max. A carnival, live entertainment, kids’ games and art projects, a dreidel tournament and dinner featuring latkes, a full kosher dairy dinner and jelly donuts.

HISTORIC HOME YULETIDE TOURS

See Sunday, Dec. 1.

JURASSIC QUEST WITH ANCIENT OCEANS See Friday, Dec. 13.

TENNESSEE TITANS FOOTBALL 615-565-4000 | titansonline.com

All ages. Nissan Stadium, 1 Titans Way, Nashville. 12 p.m. $50 - $333. Versus the Houston Texans.

MON 16 CHRISTMAS 4 KIDS TOUR BUS SHOW

christmas4kids.org

All ages. Hendersonville Walmart, 204 Anderson Lane N., Hendersonville. 5 - 9 p.m. $5 adults, $2 ages 2 - 12, $20 family max. Walk through the tour buses of country stars and get autographs from artists during this benefit for Christmas 4 Kids, which provides shopping spree money for local kids in need.

HOMESCHOOL DAYS: VICTORIAN ERA

615-356-0501 bellemeadeplantation.com

All ages. Belle Meade Plantation, 5025 Harding Pike, Nashville. 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. $10 students, $15 parent chaperones. Explore how art and creativity helped our country piece itself back together after the Civil War.

TUE 17 FREE COOKIES, COCOA AND CRAFTS AT THE FORT (REGISTER) See Tuesday, Dec. 3.

COUNT DRAHOON’S FEATURE OF FRIGHT: SOUTHERN GOTHIC GHOST SHOW

615-904-2787 | boroarts.org

All ages. Center for the Arts, 110 W. College St., Murfreesboro. 7 p.m. $20 adults, $15 students, $10 ages 11 & younger. Self-proclaimed vampire and podcast host Count Drahoon presents five radio plays about ghosts, the South and scarecrows in an attempt to bring back on old ghost story Christmas tradition.

HOMESCHOOL PE: HIGH FLYING NUN (REGISTER)

PRINCESS PARTY (REGISTER)

615-459-9710 | townofsmyrna.org

All ages. St. Theatre Company, 1120 Elm Hill Pike, Nashville. 11 a.m. $20 per child (free for parents). Enjoy stories, songs and dancing with princesses.

PRESCHOOL PROGRAM: LITTLE PICASSOS (REGISTER)

615-554-7414 streetheatrecompany.org

SKATE NIGHT & PICTURES WITH SANTA

615-799-9331 wcparksandrec.com

All ages. Fairview Recreation Complex, 2714 Fairview Blvd., Fairview. 6:30 8:30 p.m. $5. Have fun with holidaythemed roller skating games and have your pic taken with St. Nick.

nashvilleparent.com

Ages 5 - 15. Outdoor Adventure Center, 100 Sam Ridley Pkwy. E., Smyrna. 9 & 10:30 a.m. $2. Play games based around flight and things that fly.

615-459-9710 | townofsmyrna.org

Ages 3 - 5. Outdoor Adventure Center, 100 Sam Ridley Pkwy. East, Smyrna. 1 p.m. - 2 p.m. $2. Learn about mixing colors while painting a creation on canvas.

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december 2019 47

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Holidays! from

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academy

Come see why our Academy families voted us Best of Parent Magazine for child care 12 years in a row!

11 convenient locations in Middle Tennessee Take a tour and bring this in for a FREE week or visit:

www.academychilddevelopment.com/special

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2009

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2017

2018

2019

THINGS TO DO: DAILY EVENTS FRI 20

ACRYLIC PAINTING ON CANVAS: SNOWMAN (REGISTER) 615-790-5719 wcparksandrec.com Registration code 12/20: 15916 Registration code 12/27: 15917

Ages 6 - 13. Franklin Recreation Complex, 1120 Hillsboro Road, Franklin. Today and Dec. 27 9 - 10:30 a.m. $20. Learn brush strokes while painting a snowmen on an 8 x1 0 canvas.

BEESWAX CANDLE MAKING (REGISTER)

wcparksandrec.com Registration code: 16255

All ages. Timberland Park, Mile Marker 437.2 on Natchez Trace Pkwy., Franklin. 2 p.m. $2. Learn the life history of bees then make honeycomb candles.

BELLES OF FRANKLIN & COMEDIENNE LESLIE TOWNSEND 615-786-0186 academyparktn.wcparksandrec. com

Experience Jurassic World dinosaurs in a new way when they roar their way into Bridgestone Arena Dec. 19 - 22.

All ages. Academy Park Performing Arts Center, 112 Everbright Ave., Franklin. 7 p.m. $20 - $30. Enjoy seasonal music by the Belles of Franklin before clean comedienne Leslie Townsend takes the stage.

FREE BELLS BEND NIGHT HIKE (REGISTER) STICKY FINGERS GRANDPARENT & ME PRESCHOOL ART CLASS (REGISTER) 615-790-5719 wcparksandrec.com Registration code: 16265

Ages 3 - 5. Franklin Recreation Complex, 1120 Hillsboro Road, Franklin. 9:30 - 11 a.m. $15 per pair. Create art together with a holiday theme.

FREE STORYTIME WITH MRS. CLAUS

See Tuesday, Dec. 3.

WED 18

FREE KIDS’ HOUR WITH GINGER SANDS

615-550-5660 | gingersands.com

Ages 10 & younger. Whole Foods, 1566 W. McEwen Drive, Franklin. 9:30 a.m. Award-winning recording artist Ginger Sands performs music for children.

FREE NIGHT HIKE (REGISTER) 615-862-8580 nashville.gov/parks

All ages. Beaman Park Nature Center, 5911 Old Hickory Blvd., Ashland City. 5 - 7 p.m. Enjoy the mystery of the park trails in the dark during this moderate three-mile hike.

FREE RAPTOR RHAPSODY

FREE STORYTIME WITH MRS. CLAUS

See Tuesday, Dec 3.

THU 19 FREE COOKIES, COCOA AND CRAFTS AT THE FORT (REGISTER) See Thursday, Dec. 5.

FREE EVERGREEN BEAMAN (REGISTER) 615-862-8580 nashville.gov/parks

Ages 13+. Beaman Park Nature Center, 5911 Old Hickory Blvd., Ashland City. 9:30 - 10 a.m. Learn about evergreen plants and winter trees.

FREE HIKE WITH A NATURALIST 615-799-5544 | bowiepark.org

All ages. Bowie Nature Park, 7211 Bowie Lake Road, Fairview. 10 - 11:30 a.m. Embark on a guided hike through the nature trails.

FREE HOLIDAY GAME DAY

615-862-5872 | library.nashville.org Ages 12 - 17. Watkins Park Library, 612 17th Ave. N., Nashville. 12 - 1 p.m. Enjoy holiday games and activities.

JURASSIC WORLD LIVE

615-770-2000 jurassicworldlivetour.com

All ages. Bridgestone Arena, 501 Broadway, Nashville. Thu - Fri 7 p.m., Sat 11 a.m., 3 & 7 p.m., Sun 1 & 5 p.m. $27.30 - $124. Experience the Jurassic World dinosaurs in a brand-new way as they make their first arena appearance. Enjoy the excitement as an adventurous story unfolds while you see favorite dinos like Indominus Rex, Blue the Raptor, Triceratops, Pteranodons, T-Rex and others from the movie franchise.

LITTLE NATURALISTS: THE LISTENING WALK (REGISTER) 615-425-3706 tnstateparks.com/parks/bledsoecreek

Ages 2 - 5. Bledsoe Creek State Park, 400 Zieglers Fort Road, Gallatin. 10:15. - 11:15 a.m. $5. Learn how to experience nature with your eyes and ears, hear a story and create a craft.

MINIATURE MASTERPIECES WORKSHOP (REGISTER) 615-933-9644 littlearthousenashville.com

Ages 2 - 10. Little Art House, 2104 Acklen Ave., Nashville. 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. $35 - $40. Young artists with a parent can learn the process of mixed media while working on a wrapped canvas.

615-862-4187 nashville.gov/parks

All ages. Bells Bend Outdoor Center, 4187 Old Hickory Blvd., Nashville. 6 - 7:30 p.m. Hear the call of the wild while exploring and listening for the animals of the night.

COLOR WHEELS CAMP CHRISTMAS (REGISTER)

615-790-5719 wcparksandrec.com Registration code 12/20: 16272 Registration code: 12/23: 16274

Ages 6 - 10. Franklin Recreation Complex, 1120 Hillsboro Road, Franklin. 1 - 4:30 p.m. $42. Sculpt, draw and paint a holiday art project.

FREE FAMILY CAMP NIGHT (REGISTER)

615-862-4187 | nashville.gov/parks All ages. Bells Bend Outdoor Center, 4187 Old Hickory Blvd., Nashville. 4:30 p.m. Bring your gear and spend the night at the park’s campground.

FAMILY FRIDAY: WINTER WONDERLANDS

615-933-9644 littlearthousenashville.com

Ages 3 - 12. Little Art House, 2104 Acklen Ave., Nashville. 4 & 5:15 p.m. $20. Use science to make snow and create art.

See Wednesday, Dec. 4.

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nashvilleparent.com

december 2019 49

Bring in the new year at 12 p.m. on December 31 with the whole family!

Learn more at adventuresci.org

10th Anniversary Celebration! Middle Tennessee’s LARGEST Drive-Through Light & Music Show

FREE WRISTBANDS

FIRST TIME EVER: All Santa’s Village activities are included in the per car admission price!! excludes food, pictures, and merchandise.

Located at the James E. Ward Agricultural Center, Home of the Wilson County Fairr TheDancingLightsOfChristmas.com 50 december 2019

CUT OUT THIS COUPON TO GET

$3 OFF!

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THINGS TO DO: DAILY EVENTS STOP, DROP AND DECORATE: GINGERBREAD HOUSE EDITION

629-202-6949 | sugardrop.com

All ages. Sugar Drop, 7020 Church St. East, Brentwood. 1 - 3:30 p.m. $30. Decorate a gingerbread house using edible treats.

FREE THE FROG PRINCE See Friday, Dec. 13.

FREE WINTER SOLSTICE CELEBRATION (REGISTER)

615-862-8555 | wpnc.nashville.gov All ages. Warner Park Nature Center, 7311 Hwy. 100, Nashville. 3 - 6:30 p.m. Celebrate the beginning of winter with wreath making, crafts, music, campfires, snacks and a luminary walk through the forest.

SAT 21 GINGERBREAD HOUSE DECORATING (REGISTER)

800-247-5223 | americangirl.com/ retail/nashville.php Ages 8+. American Girl Store, 1800 Galleria Blvd., Franklin. 6:30 - 8 p.m. $35. Take part in one of the season’s tastiest traditions.

FREE HOLIDAY MOVIE & COOKIE DECORATING (REGISTER) 615-371-0090 brentwood-tn.libcal.com

Ages 12 - 18. Brentwood Library, 8109 Concord Road, Brentwood. 4 - 5:30 p.m. Watch the movie Elf while decorating sugar cookies.

JINGLE BOUNCE (REGISTER)

615-893-8386 bounceu.com/murfreesboro-tn

All ages. BounceU Murfreesboro, 1222 Park Ave., Murfreesboro. From 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. it’s for ages 7 and younger; from 1 - 3 p.m. it’s all ages. $11.95. Bounce on inflatables and enjoy cookies with Santa.

FREE CHRISTMAS COOKIE DECORATING FOR KIDS

615-862-5866 | library.nashville.org Ages 4+. Inglewood Library, 4312 Gallatin Pike, Nashville. 2 - 3:30 p.m. Decorate cookies using icing and sprinkles.

FREE CHRISTMAS CRAFTING

615-862-5858 | library.nashville.org Ages 7 - 12. N. Branch Library, 1001 Monroe St., Nashville. 10:45 - 11:45 a.m. Make crafts for Christmas decor.

FREE FAMILY MOVIE

615-893-4131 | rclstn.org

All ages. Linebaugh Library, 105 W. Vine St., Murfreesboro. 10 a.m. Enjoy a screening of the 2019 version of The Lion King.

FAMILY PROGRAM: MINI MUSEUM SNOW GLOBES

615-416-2001 countrymusichalloffame.org

JURASSIC WORLD LIVE

All ages. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, 222 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville. 10:30 & 11:30 a.m. free with gate ($25.95 adults, free for ages 18 & younger in Davidson and surrounding counties). Create a miniature museum exhibit within a snow globe.

MAKER LAB: LASERCUT PUZZLES (REGISTER)

GINGERBREAD DECORATING WORKSHOP (REGISTER)

See Thursday, Dec. 19.

615-862-5160 | adventuresci.org

Ages 8+. Adventure Science Center, 800 Fort Negley Boulevard, Nashville. 1 p.m. $30 in addition to gate ($18 adults, $14 ages 2-12). Use a laser cutter to create a puzzle of your very own.

SANTA IN THE COURTHOUSE WITH SHACKLETT’S See Friday, Dec. 13.

See Saturday, Dec. 7.

HISTORIC HOME YULETIDE TOURS

See Sunday, Dec. 1.

FREE HOLIDAY MOVIE MARATHON

See Saturday, Dec. 7.

JURASSIC WORLD LIVE See Thursday, Dec. 19.

KIDS’ HOLIDAY COOKING SERIES (REGISTER)

615-956-6077 thecuriouskitchen.net

Ages 6 - 15. The Curious Kitchen, 1602 W. Northfield Blvd., Murfreesboro. 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. $150. This three-day class includes holiday baking and gourmet gingerbread house making.

FREE KIDSVILLE

615-862-8431 | kidsvilleonline.org

Ages 2 - 12. The Parthenon, 2500 West End Ave., Nashville. 11 a.m. Explore how new music expands ears and minds, them make a musical craft.

MTSU BLUE RAIDERS BASKETBALL

615-898-5261 | goblueraiders.com

All ages. Murphy Center, 1301 E. Main St., Murfreesboro. 2 p.m. $15. Versus Saint Bonaventure.

PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT (REGISTER)

615-459-9710 | townofsmyrna.org

Ages 6 - 13. Outdoor Adventure Center, 100 Sam Ridley Pkwy. E., Smyrna. 6 - 10 p.m. $5 members, $10 nonmembers. Your kids can enjoy a variety of fun activities while you have a night out to yourself.

FREE PHOTOS WITH SANTA

See Saturday, Dec. 7.

SANTA AND S’MORES (REGISTER)

615-425-3706 | tnstateparks.com/ parks/bledsoe-creek

All ages. Bledsoe Creek State Park, 400 Zieglers Fort Road, Gallatin. 2 - 4 p.m. $5 adults, $10 ages 12 & younger. Join Santa at the campfire, sip cocoa, enjoy s’mores and snap a pic with St. Nick.

FREE SANTA IN THE COURTHOUSE

See Saturday, Dec. 7.

FREE THE FROG PRINCE

ing, including national and sectional competitors.

CANVAS AND CUPCAKES (REGISTER)

800-247-5223 | americangirl.com/ retail/nashville.php Ages 7+. American Girl Store, 1800 Galleria Blvd., Franklin. 3:30 - 5 p.m. $35. Create a painting while enjoying cupcakes and lemonade.

CREATIVE ZONE: COUNTRY ORNAMENTS

615-416-2001 countrymusichalloffame.org

All ages. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, 222 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville. 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. free with gate ($25.95 adults, free for ages 18 & younger in Davidson and surrounding counties). Decorate a salt-dough ornament in country music style.

FAMILY FUN DAY: AUNTIE CLAUS

See Sunday, Dec. 1.

FILM: THE JOHNNY CASH SHOW

615-416-2001 countrymusichalloffame.org

All ages. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, 222 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville. 3 p.m. free with gate ($25.95 adults, free for ages 18 & younger in Davidson and surrounding counties). See the 1970 Christmas episode featuring June Carter, the Everly Brothers and Roy Orbison.

HISTORIC HOME YULETIDE TOURS

See Sunday, Dec. 1.

HOLIDAY TEA (REGISTER)

See Friday, Dec. 13.

JURASSIC WORLD LIVE

WINTER SOLSTICE NIGHT HIKE (REGISTER)

TENNESSEE TITANS FOOTBALL

615-370-4672 | owlshill.org

Ages 9+. Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary, 545 Beech Creek Road S., Brentwood. 6 - 8:30 p.m. $20. Picnic in the pavilion before heading to the woods for naked eye astronomy and calling in owls.

SUN 22 A TROPICAL HOLIDAY ICE SKATING SHOW

615-928-7977 nashvilleiceskate.com

All ages. Centennial Sportsplex, 222 25th Ave. N., Nashville. 2 p.m. $15 adults, $10 age 4 - 12. This ice show highlights all levels of figure skat-

nashvilleparent.com

See Thursday, Dec. 19.

titansonline.com

All ages. Nissan Stadium, 1 Titans Way, Nashville. 12 p.m. $50 - $333. Versus the New Orleans Saints.

MON 23 FREE CHRISTMAS CRAFTING

615-862-5858 | library.nashville.org Ages 7 - 12. N. Branch Library, 1001 Monroe St., Nashville. 10 a.m. Make crafts for Christmas decor.

(turn the page)

december 2019 51

THINGS TO DO: DAILY EVENTS

CHRISTMAS EVE EVE

615-459-2341 | samdavishome.org

All ages. Sam Davis Home, 1399 Sam Davis Road, Smyrna. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Free with gate ($15 adults, $10 ages 6 - 12, free ages 5 & younger). Tour the house and learn about Victorian Christmas traditions and how the Davis family celebrated the holidays.

COLOR WHEELS CAMP CHRISTMAS (REGISTER)

See Friday, Dec. 20.

HOLIDAY COOKIE DECORATING (REGISTER)

800-247-5223 | americangirl.com/ retail/nashville.php Ages 6+. American Girl Store, 1800 Galleria Blvd., Franklin. 12 & 4 p.m. $10. Decorate cookies with frosting and sprinkles.

HOLIDAY TEA (REGISTER)

800-247-5223 | americangirl.com/ retail/nashville.php

Ages 8+. American Girl Store, 1800 Galleria Blvd., Franklin. 2 - 3 p.m. $18. Treats, drinks, crafts and a build-yourown hot chocolate station.

NASHVILLE PREDATORS HOCKEY

THU 26

FREE BATTLE OF STONES RIVER 157TH ANNIVERSARY 615-893-9501 | nps.gov/stri

All ages. Stones River National Battlefield, 3501 Old Nashville Hwy, Murfreesboro. Hours are programs change daily today through Dec. 31. Join park rangers for a series of walks, talks, tours and living history demonstrations.

HOLIDAY ICE SKATING LESSONS

615-928-7977 nashvilleiceskate.com

All ages. Centennial Sportsplex, 222 25th Ave. N., Nashville. Thu - Sat 1:15 p.m. - 2:15 p.m. (a second session takes place Jan. 2 - 4). $65 for one week, $120 for both. Learn to ice skate (rental skates provided).

FRI 27

ACRYLIC PAINTING ON CANVAS: SNOWMAN (REGISTER)

See Friday, Dec. 20.

FREE BATTLE OF STONES RIVER 157TH ANNIVERSARY See Thursday, Dec. 26.

615-770-7800 nashvillepredators.com

FREE BELLS BEND MOUNTAIN BIKE RIDE (REGISTER)

TUE 24

All ages. Bells Bend Outdoor Center, 4187 Old Hickory Blvd., Nashville. 3 - 4:30 p.m. Bring your own bike and helmet for a ride on the mountain bike trails. All skill levels welcome.

All ages. Bridgestone Arena, 501 Broadway, Nashville. 7 p.m. $50 $500. Versus the Arizona Coyotes.

FREE CHRISTMAS EVE CARILLON CONCERT

615-460-4608 belmont.edu/music

All ages. Belmont University’s Bell Tower, 1900 Belmont Blvd., Nashville. 2 p.m. Enjoy holiday tune’s on the bell tower’s carillon.

COOKIE DECORATING WITH MRS. CLAUS (REGISTER)

800-247-5223 | americangirl.com/ retail/nashville.php

Ages 5+. American Girl Store, 1800 Galleria Blvd., Franklin. 10 - 11 a.m. $10. Help Mrs. Claus decorate cookies and pose for pics.

WED 25

MERRY CHRISTMAS! 52 december 2019

615-862-4187 | nashville.gov/parks

MARSHMALLOW HIKE

615-370-4672 | owlshill.org

All ages. Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary, 545 Beech Creek Road, Brentwood. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. $10. Hike the winter woods followed by hot chocolate and roasted marshmallows.

NASHVILLE PREDATORS HOCKEY

615-770-7800 nashvillepredators.com

All ages. Bridgestone Arena, 501 Broadway, Nashville. 7 p.m. $50 $500. Versus the Pittsburgh Penguins.

SAT 28

FREE ANIMAL TRACKS (REGISTER)

4187 Old Hickory Blvd., Nashville. 9 10 a.m. Learn how to find and follow animal tracks and learn about animal habitats.

Cat Club hosts agility competitions, and you can meet and greet the cats. Plus, there’s shopping, rescue cats for adoption, door prizes and raffles.

FREE BATTLE OF STONES RIVER 157TH ANNIVERSARY

MUSICAL PETTING ZOO

See Thursday, Dec. 26.

DOLL HAIR SALON SPECTACULAR (REGISTER) 800-247-5223 | americangirl.com/ retail/nashville.php

Ages 8+. American Girl Store, 1800 Galleria Blvd., Franklin. 9 - 10 a.m. $25. Learn new tricks to style your doll’s hair with insider tips from professional stylists, plus get hair accessories. Crafts and treats follow.

FREE FILM SCREENING: PLANET EARTH (REGISTER)

615-862-8580 | nashville.gov/parks All ages. Beaman Park Nature Center, 5911 Old Hickory Blvd., Ashland City. 12 - 2 p.m. Enjoy a screening of an award-winning nature documentary.

FROSTBITE 5K/10K & KIDS FUN RUN 1K

615-826-9622 ymcamidtn.org/frostbite

All ages. Sumner County Family YMCA, 102 Bluegrass Commons Blvd., Hendersonville. 8:30 a.m. $40 for 5K/10K, $5 for kids’ 1K. Race to support the Y’s efforts to give everyone in the community the opportunity they need to learn, grown and thrive.

FREE HOLIDAY HILL HIKE (REGISTER)

615-862-8555 wpnc.nashville.gov

Ages 8+. Warner Park Nature Center, 7311 Hwy. 100, Nashville. 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. Hike the Hill Forest Trail.

FREE LEGO PLAYTIME

615-452-1722 youseemore.com/gallatinpl

All ages. Gallatin Public Library, 123 East Main St., Gallatin. 10:30 a.m. 12:30 p.m. Get creative while building with LEGO blocks.

MARSHMALLOW HIKE

See Friday, Dec. 27.

MEWSIC, MEWSIC, MEWSIC ALLBREED & HOUSEHOLD PET SHOW nashvillecatclub.com

615-862-4187 | nashville.gov/parks

Ages 6 -10. Bells Bend Outdoor Center,

All ages. The Fairgrounds, 500 Wedgewood Ave., Nashville. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. $7 adults, $5 ages 3 - 11. The Nashville

nashvilleparent.com

615-416-2001 countrymusichalloffame.org

All ages. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, 222 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville. 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. free with gate ($25.95 adults, free for ages 18 & younger in Davidson and surrounding counties). Try new and familiar instruments.

RACCOON LOG RIDE

615-745-1009 thirdcoastcomedy.club

All ages. Third Coast Comedy, 1310 Clinton St., Nashville. 10 a.m. $10 for the whole family. This improv comedy show for kids includes lots of audience participation.

SUN 29

FREE BATTLE OF STONES RIVER 157TH ANNIVERSARY See Thursday, Dec. 26.

CREATIVE ZONE: BOOT SCOOTIN’ COWBOY BOOTS 615-416-2001 countrymusichalloffame.org

All ages. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, 222 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville. 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. free with gate ($25.95 adults, free for ages 18 & younger in Davidson and surrounding counties). Inspired by the fashionable footwear in the Brooks & Dunn: Kings of Neon exhibit, create a boot pattern to reflect your own personality.

FAMILY FUN DAY: AUNTIE CLAUS

See Sunday, Dec. 1.

FILM: PURINA GRAND OLE OPRY CHRISTMAS SHOW

615-416-2001 countrymusichalloffame.org

All ages. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, 222 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville. 3 p.m. free with gate ($25.95 adults, free for ages 18 & younger in Davidson and surrounding counties). See the 1955 Christmas show featuring Eddy Arnold, Grandpa Jones, Minnie Pearl and more.

MEWSIC, MEWSIC, MEWSIC ALLBREED & HOUSEHOLD PET SHOW See Saturday, Dec. 28.

(turn to page 54)

We Scoop Poop

A school is only as good as it’s

teachers, and

ours are great!

Happy Holidays from our family to yours.

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www.pawstops.com december 2019 53

THINGS TO DO: DAILY EVENTS MTSU BLUE RAIDERS BASKETBALL

615-898-5261 | goblueraiders.com

All ages. Murphy Center, 1301 E. Main St., Murfreesboro. 3:30 p.m. $15. Versus Rhode Island.

MON 30

FREE BATTLE OF STONES RIVER 157TH ANNIVERSARY See Thursday, Dec. 26.

MUSIC CITY BOWL musiccitybowl.com

All ages. Nissan Stadium, 1 Titans Way, Nashville. 3 p.m. $25 - $200. An SEC football team challenges either an ACC or Big Ten team (teams TBA)

NEW YEAR’S BALLOON COUNTDOWN (REGISTER)

615-893-8386 bounceu.com/murfreesboro-tn

All ages. BounceU Murfreesboro, 1222 Park Ave., Murfreesboro. From 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. it’s for ages 7 and younger only; from 1- 3 p.m. it’s for all ages. $11.95. Bounce on inflatables and celebrate the new year with a balloon drop.

STEM FOUNDATIONS USING LEGO (REGISTER) 615-790-5719 wcparksandrec.com Registration code: 16275

Ages 5 - 10. Franklin Recreation Complex, 1120 Hillsboro Road, Franklin. 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. $71.60. Level up your engineering skills with Play-Well TEKnologies and thousands of LEGO parts. Takes place today and tomorrow.

WINTER BREAK CAMP: SCIENCE OF SLED DOGS (REGISTER)

615-459-9710 | townofsmyrna.org

Ages 8 - 12. Outdoor Adventure Center, 100 Sam Ridley Pkwy. E., Smyrna. 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. $35. Learn how sled dogs adapt to survival in the subarctic.

TUE 31

FREE BATTLE OF STONES RIVER 157TH ANNIVERSARY See Thursday, Dec. 26.

COUNTDOWN TO NOON

615-890-2300 | explorethedc.org

All ages. Discovery Center, 502 S.E. Broad St., Murfreesboro. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. $8. Celebrate the new year with karaoke, a Wii dance party, a resolution wall, art and tinkering projects and the balloon drop.

FAMILY PROGRAM: NEW YEAR’S EVE LUCKY BLACK-EYED PEA MARACAS 615-416-2001 countrymusichalloffame.org

Ages 4+. Country Music Hall of Fame

54 december 2019

and Museum, 222 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville. 10:30 a.m. & 11:15 a.m. Free with gate ($25.95 adults, free for ages 18 & younger in Davidson and surrounding counties). Make maracas using dried black-eyed peas to bring in good luck for the new year.

HAPPY NOON YEAR (REGISTER)

615-862-5160 | adventuresci.org All ages. Adventure Science Center, 800 Fort Negley Blvd., Nashville. 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. $18 adults, $14 ages 2 - 12. Celebrate the new year with a morning of science fun before the festive balloon drop at noon.

FREE JACK DANIEL’S MUSIC CITY MIDNIGHT: NEW YEAR’S EVE IN NASHVILLE

615-741-5280 visitmusiccity.com/newyearseve

All ages. Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park, 600 James Robertson Pkwy., Nashville. 4 p.m. Before the music note drops and the fireworks deploy, enjoy live music by Keith Urban, Jason Isbell & the 400 Unit, The Struts, Amanda Shires, Bren Joy, Kalie Shorr and the Fisk Jubilee Singers. The music note raises at 6:15 p.m. for families with kids too little to stay out late.

MIDNIGHT AT NOON (REGISTER)

615-459-9710 townofsmyrna.org

All ages. Outdoor Adventure Center, 100 Sam Ridley Pkwy. East, Smyrna. 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. $2. New Year Bingo, a scavenger hunt, New Year wish writing, crafts and more.

NEW YEAR’S BALLOON COUNTDOWN (REGISTER)

See Monday, Dec. 30.

FREE NYE OPEN HOUSE & MACBETH SNEAK PEEK

615-255-2273 | nashvilleshakes.org All ages. Belmont University’s Troutt Theater, 2112 Belmont Blvd., Nashville. 1 - 4 p.m. Join Nashville Shakespeare Festival for cookies, hot drinks and a peek at its winter production of Macbeth.

WINTER BREAK CAMP: COUNTDOWN TO A NEW YEAR! (REGISTER)

615-459-9710 | townofsmyrna.org

Ages 8 - 12. Outdoor Adventure Center, 100 Sam Ridley Pkwy. East, Smyrna. 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. $35. Enjoy traditional New Year’s Eve activities and learn how other country’s celebrate the new year.

SAYING IT from-my-seat ponderings on the local arts scene

Is Supply and Demand Good for the Arts?

t’s funny the amount of phone calls and e-mails I receive from friends asking me about everything happening at every venue in town. I’ve never received so many frantic inquiries, though, than in the past few weeks about all-things-Hamilton. “When are tickets going on sale?” “Will there be a presale?” “Will there be a lottery?” “OMG, they released more tickets, but they jacked up the prices. Is this show even worth it???” I can’t yet attest to whether or not the ticket prices are worth it for Hamilton, because I haven’t seen the show yet (I’m going on New Years Day). In the realm of all the Hamilton conversations and the reality of what happened in TPAC’s box office between it’s initial public on-sale date and then the second round, I understand why people are nerve-wracked and upset. The initial ticket price range for Hamilton tickets was $79 - $149. Then a couple days later, there were more tickets available on TPAC’s website, with the lowest price being $269. Now, whatever remaining seats there are (at least of this writing) will cost you $449 - $499. By the way, in all fairness, orchestra level seats for Hamilton in NYC are still fetching between $500 - $1,000! But that’s also New York. And even that’s still a pricing jab. I understand the nature of supply and demand, but does it belong in the world of the arts to the point that it eliminates a lot of folks from being able to see shows? Even regional companies are known to publish on their websites that ticket prices are subject to increase based on demand. Locally, that messaging has even shown up on Nashville Ballet’s ticketing page. Shouldn’t the initial ticket price range that’s originally published just stay intact versus hiking it up regardless? I think so. All the hype and buzz surrounding a show certainly presents a fun level of excitement (especially when you get your hands on the tickets). But I often wonder if it backfires somehow when a production takes advantage of that just to make more money. I believe the arts should be accessible to everyone, yet I also understand how they are traditionally underfunded. It’s an interesting topic. And I get the arguments on both sides of the coin. It’s a good thing that many theater shows — both sitting productions in New York and national tours — offer affordable seats through ticket lotteries in contrast to expensive tickets. HAMILTON TICKET LOTTERY You might still be in luck if you didn’t manage to snag Hamilton tickets before now. For all performances of the show’s run at TPAC (Dec. 31 - Jan. 19), there will be 40 seats up for grabs for $10 a pop through a digital lottery on the Hamilton app. Be sure to download it to your device. The lottery details will be available closer to the show’s opening at TPAC. — Chad Young

nashvilleparent.com

the ARTS 57 ART An on-point collection of

painted hearts is on display at the Center for the Arts.

61 DANCE Nashville Ballet’s Nashville’s

Nutcracker helps to usher in the magic of the season.

65 MUSIC Amy Grant is ready to rekindle

the kid at heart in all of us as she gears up for her annual concert snowball fight. It takes place when she and hubby Vince Gill present their annual “Christmas at the Ryman” residency.

71 THEATER Nashville Opera presents a

family-friendly holiday production of Amahl and the Night Visitors. Plus, Aladdin flies into TPAC, and you can read our interview with the star and the director on page 73.

nashvilleparent.com

december 2019 55

ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS IS MY

two front seats

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nashvilleparent.com

TPAC.ORG

ART

MURFREESBORO HEARTS Center for the Arts 110 W. College St., Murfreesboro Thru Jan. 6, 2020

A community-building project is now on display featuring the works of several local artists.

he artwork of several Rutherford County citizens of all ages, races and socioeconomic categories is now on exhibit at the Center for the Arts. Murfreeboro HeArts has been a multi-phase initiative going back to 2018 when special heart-shaped artwork popped up around the courthouse square in local business windows. Twenty four local artists painted 24 large aluminum hearts fabricated by local blacksmith Joe Brown. Among the artists are Norris Hall, Lisa Sims, April Broussard, Mira Patel, Lisa Browning and Susan Gulley There will be a reception on Friday, Dec. 13 from 6 7:30 p.m. during the Boro Art Crawl. Normal gallery hours are Mon - Fri 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Admission is free. Call 615-904-2787 or visit boroarts.org.

nashvilleparent.com

december 2019 57

THINGS TO DO: ART GALLERY LISTINGS

See “Perle Fine: Pure Myth,” part of the Selections from The Cheekwood Collection exhibit at Cheekwood through Sunday, Jan. 5, 2020.

THE ARTS COMPANY

215 Fifth Ave. of the Arts Nashville 615-254-2040 theartscompany.com

CHEEKWOOD

1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville 615-356-8000 | cheekwood.org

• Each month’s new exhibit is unveiled during the First Saturday Art Crawl.

• Thru Jan 5: Umwelts 2019 (As the Crow Flies): David Brooks • Thru Jan 5: Selections from The Cheekwood Collection

BENNETT GALLERIES

FRIST ART MUSEUM

2104 Crestmoor Road, Nashville 615-297-3201 bennettgalleriesnashville.com • Several established and emerging artists on display.

BERGER GALLERY AT THE ARTS CENTER OF CANNON COUNTY 1424 John Bragg Hwy., Woodbury 615-563-2787 artscenterofcc.com

919 Broadway, Nashville 615-244-3340 | fristartmuseum.org • Thru Jan 5: Murals of N. Nashville Now • Thru Jan 12: Hearts of Our People: native Women Artists • Thru Jan 12: OSGEMEOS: In Between • Thru Feb. 23: Eric Carle’s Picture Books: Celebrating 50 Years of “The Very Hungry Caterpillar”

LEU ART GALLERY AT BELMONT UNIVERSITY

1900 Belmont Blvd.., Nashville belmont.edu/omore

• Thru Dec. 6: eWaste • Thru Dec. 6: The Nashville Portraits • Thru Dec. 6: Greetings and Salutations

MONTHAVEN ARTS & CULTURAL CENTER

• Thru Jan. 5: Go West Young Man

MTSU’S TODD ART GALLERY

TINNEY CONTEMPORARY

• Thru Dec. 7: Bachelors of Fine Arts Show

Rotating exhibits throughout the year.

919 Broadway, Nashville 615-898-5532 | mtsu.edu/art

• Local, regional and national artists on display.

OZ ARTS

HATCH SHOW PRINT’S HALEY GALLERY

Rotating exhibits throughout the year.

CENTER FOR THE ARTS

110 W. College St., Murfreesboro 615-904-2787 | boroarts.org • Thru Jan. 6: Murfreesboro Hearts

224 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville 615-577-7710 hatchshowprint.com

• Thru Jan. 12: Moonlightin’: The Artwork of Hatch Show Print’s Designers/ Printers

LEIPER’S CREEK GALLERY

6172 Cockrill Bend Cir., Nashville 615-350-7200 | ozartsnashville.org

THE PARTHENON

2500 West End Ave., Nashville 615-862-8431 | nashville.gov/ Parks-and-Recreation/Parthenon. aspx

• Permanent: The Cowan Collection of American Art

4144 Old Hillsboro Road, Franklin 615-599-5102 leiperscreekgallery.com • Twenty-four artists on display

58 december 2019

THE RYMER GALLERY

Rotating exhibits throughout the year. New shows are revealed during the First Saturday Art Crawl.

CARL VAN VECHTEN ART GALLERY AT FISK UNIVERSITY • Currently on display are Artists in Residence 1888-Present: Fisk Faculty & Alumni Show and 615 North

• Dec. 5 - Jan. 4: Holiday Group Show • Jan. 11 - Feb. 2: Dane Carter & Lindsy Davis • Feb. 8 - March 7: Dana Oldfather

233 Fifth Ave. N., Nashville 615-752-6030 therymergallery.com

GALLERY 202

1000 17th Ave. N., Nashville 615-329-8720 | fisk.edu/galleries

919 Gallatin Ave., Ste. 4 Nashville 615-236-6575 theredarrowgallery.com

1017 Antebellum Cir. Hendersonville 615-822-0789 monthavenartsandculturalcenter. com

• Rotating art exhibits throughout the year.

202 Second Ave. S., Franklin 615-472-1134 | gallery202.com

RED ARROW GALLERY

nashvilleparent.com

237 Fifth Ave. N., Nashville 615-255-7816 tinneycontemporary.com

VANDERBILT ART GALLERY 419 21st Ave. S., Nashville 615-322-0605 vanderbilt.edu/gallery

• Thru Dec. 14: Symbols and Archetypes: Two Millennia of Recurring Visions in Art

YORK & FRIENDS FINE ART GALLERY

644 W. Iris Drive, Nashville 615-352-3316 yorkandfriends.com

• More than 30 artists on display capturing fine Southern living.

SPRING SOCCER LEAGUES Positive Environment. Supportive Coaches. Fun and Friendships. Practice starts Feb. 25 REGISTER ONLINE TODAY

ymcamidtn.org/youth-sports For more info email us at youthsports@ymcamidtn.org

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nashvilleparent.com

december 2019 59

Thank you for Voting Us Nashville’s #1 Dance Studio!

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60 december 2019

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nashvilleparent.com

DANCE

NASHVILLE’S NUTCRACKER TPAC’s Jackson Hall 505 Deaderick St., Nashville Dec. 7 - 23 One of Nashville’s favorite holiday traditions brings many aspects of our city to life onstage, and it boasts a large cast of local kids!

“I

believe Nashvillians have made attending Nashville Ballet’s Nashville’s Nutcracker a yearly tradition because it is the perfect gathering for families, friends and neighbors to celebrate the holidays together,” says Nashville Ballet Principal Dancer Kayla Rowser (pictured above; she’ll be performing both the Sugar Plum Fairy and the Snow Queen this season). “There truly is nothing like seeing a Nutcracker performance to bring extra joy and magic to the holiday season,” she adds. This long-standing, family-favorite production truly ushers in the holiday spirit. In addition to the sheer magic and beauty of this particular ballet, it’s extra charming with all the local kids sharing the stage. There are four different girls sharing the role of Clara this year, and you can read our Q&A with them at nashvilleparent.com. Showtimes vary. Tickets are $35 - $93. Call 615-7824040 or visit nashvilleballet.com.

nashvilleparent.com

december 2019 61

THINGS TO DO: DANCE LISTINGS

The Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker is at the Ryman on Christmas Eve. FREE BALLET FOLKLORICO SOL DE MEXICO

Every Sunday | All ages 615-373-9292 | plazamariachi.com

Plaza Mariachi, 3955 Nolensville Pike, Nashville. 1:30, 2:30 & 3:45 p.m. Dance performances representing several regions from Mexico.

GREAT RUSSIAN NUTCRACKER

Tuesday, Dec. 24 | All ages 615-889-3060 mininutcracker.brownpapertickets.com

Moscow Ballet at the Ryman Auditorium,116 Fifth Ave. N. Nashville. 1 & 5 p.m. $31 - $91. This Russian interpretation of this holiday ballet tradition feature more than 200 costumes, eye-popping sets, towering puppets and soaring birds.

THE LONGEST NIGHT

Dec. 20 - 21 | All ages 615-350-7200 | ozartsnashville.org

Ephiphany Dance Partners, Portara Ensemble, Ciona rouse and Jeff Coffin at OZ Arts, 6172 Cockrill Bend Cir., Nashville. Fri 8 p.m., Sat 2 & 8 p.m. $25. This multidisciplinary production features dance, music, storytelling and original music to mark the winter solstice.

62 december 2019

THE MINI NUTCRACKER

Dec. 6 - 8 | All ages 615-862-8439 | ryman.com

The Centennial Youth Ballet at Harpeth Hall’s Davis Auditorium, 3801 Hobbs Road, Nashville. Fri 7 p.m., Sun 2 & 7 p.m., Sun 1 p.m. $12 adults, $8 ages 12 & younger; Sunday tickets are $15 and include a reception. A young girl’s Christmas dream comes to life in a magical world, complete with swirling snowflakes, waltzing flowers, dancing bon bons and giant mice.

NASHVILLE’S NUTCRACKER

The Centennial Youth Ballet presents its annual production of The Mini Nutcracker Dec. 6 - 8 at Harpeth Hall’s Davis Auditorium.

See page 61.

THE NUTCRACKER

Thursday, Dec. 19 | All ages academyparktn.wcparksandrec.com

The Dancer Project Conservatory at Academy Park Performing Arts Center, 112 Everbright Ave., Franklin. 4:30 & 7 p.m. $20. A new take on the holiday favorite with all-new original choreography.

nashvilleparent.com

THE NUTCRACKER

Thursday, Dec. 5 | All ages anchorlink.vanderbilt.edu/organization/vupointeballet VUPointe Ballet Theatre at Ingram Hall, 2400 Blakemore Ave., Nashville. 7:30 p.m. $5. Enjoy the annual holiday tradition followed by a reception.

Nashville's first dance studio for people of all ability levels! Contact us to schedule a FREE consultation today. lauren@moveinclusivedance.com 615-582-4993 Located in Bellevue less than 1/2 a mile from I40!

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december 2019 63

chapel Bible classes prayer inspiration missions Holly Tree of Brentwood 1384 Holly Tree Gap Road Brentwood, TN 37027 615.377.6636

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64 december 2019

Nashville

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nashvilleparent.com

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MUSIC

CHRISTMAS AT THE RYMAN Ryman Auditorium 116 Fifth Ave. N., Nashville Dec. 11 - 12, 15 - 19, 22 - 23 The “Queen of Christmas Music,” Amy Grant, and happy hubby Vince Gill sing your family into the holiday spirit ... and be ready for Amy’s snowball fight from the stage!

my Grant has a unique gift for making the most wonderful time of the year so much more special with her approach to the season’s music. The annual Christmas residency at the Ryman that Grant and husband Vince Gill present is the big concert hit of the season. This year there are 12 performances, and for the first time ever, this year brings matinee show (Dec. 15, 22 & 23 at 3 p.m.). Grant loves dressing up for the occasion, and she chuckles about Gill’s more casual approach. “I love carefully selecting the holiday stage clothes — something festive and elegant — only to see Vince walk out in a Nashville Predators’ jersey!” says Grant. Be ready for Grant to toss something your way during the show, too. “I love reviving the snowball fight every year because you are never too old for a snowball fight. It brings out the kid in all of us!” she says. Remaining seats are limited, ranging from $40 - $140. Call 615-889-3060 or visit ryman.com.

nashvilleparent.com

december 2019 65

THINGS TO DO: MUSIC LISTINGS 3RD & LINDSLEY

818 Third Ave. S., Nashville 615-259-9891 | 3rdandlindsley.com • Dec. 2 & 9: The Time Jumpers 8 p.m. $20 • Dec. 3: Son Little 8 p.m. $18 • Dec. 4: Sixwire 8 p.m. $10 • Dec. 5: The Shadowboxers 8 p.m. $20 • Dec. 6: Resurrection: A Journey Tribute 8 p.m. $20 - $60 • Dec. 7: The SteelDrivers with Ashley Caudill 8 p.m.

ACADEMY PARK PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 112 Everbright Ave., Franklin 615-786-0186 | academyparktn. wcparksandrec.com

• Dec. 7 - 8: The Rat Pack Now 7 p.m. Sat, 2 p.m. Sun $25 - $35 • Dec. 15: Debbie Cunningham’s Home for Christmas 3 p.m. $20 - $30

THE ARTS CENTER OF CANNON COUNTY

1424 John Bragg Hwy., Woodbury 615-563-2787 | artscenterofcc.com • Dec. 20 - 22: Jingle, Rattle & Roll 7:30 Fri - Sat, 2 p.m. Sun $15

THE BASEMENT

1604 Eighth Ave. S., Nashville 615-645-9174 thebasementnashville.com

• Dec. 2: Dawson Neal 6 p.m. Free • Dec. 3: Thomas Galloway 8 p.m. Free • Dec. 4: Justin Wade Tam, Angel Snow 7 p.m. $10 • Dec. 5: The JP Strauss EP Release Party 9 p.m. $8 - $10 • Dec. 6 - 7: Goodbye June 8 p.m. $15 • Dec. 8: Juanaroo 8 p.m. $14 - $15 • Dec. 11: Anastasia Elliot 9 p.m. $7 - $10 • Dec. 13: The North 41 9 p.m. $8 - $10 • Dec. 14: Phil Madeira 7 p.m. $7 • Dec. 18: Parker Gispert 9 p.m. $10 •Dec. 19: David Cook: The Holiday Birthday Show 8 p.m. $20 - $100

THE BASEMENT EAST

BLAIR SCHOOL OF MUSIC

• Dec. 1: Jack Harlow 8 p.m. $17.50 - $80 • Dec. 2: Rare Hare 11 8 p.m. $10 • Dec. 3: La Dispute 7:30 p.m. $25 $28 • Dec. 4: Pete Yorn 8 p.m. $35 - $40 • Dec. 5: Shane Smith & The Saints 8 p.m. $12 - $15 • Dec. 6 - 7: ‘Tis the Season Live Band Pop Punk & Emo Karaoke 8 p.m. $10 • Dec. 12 - 13: The Weeks 8 p.m. $19 - $21 • Dec. 19: White Reaper 8 p.m. $16 - $19 • Dec. 22: JD McPherson 8 p.m. $20 - $25 • Dec. 28: Michal Menert & Late Night Radio 9 p.m. $15 - $20

• Dec. 8: Blair Children’s Choruses Winter Concert 2 p.m. Free • Dec. 16: Curb Youth Symphony 7:30 p.m. Free

917 Woodland St., Nashville 615-645-9174 thebasementnashville.com

THE BELCOURT

2102 Belcourt Ave., Nashville 615-846-3150 | belcourt.org

• Dec. 21: The Ornaments in Concert present A Charlie Brown Christmas 10 a.m. $12 - $14

BELMONT’S BELL TOWER

1900 Belmont Blvd.., Nashville 615-460-4608 | belmont.edu/music • Dec. 24: Richard Shadinger’s Christmas Even Carillon Concert 2 p.m. Free

BELMONT MANSION

2100 Belmont Blvd.., Nashville 615-460-5459 belmontmansion.com

• Dec. 9: A Camerata Christmas 7:30 p.m. Free • Dec. 19 & 22: Mistletoe, Mischief and Memories: A Christmas Cabaret 8 p.m. $30

2400 Blakemore Ave., Nashville 615-322-7508 blair.vanderbilt.edu

THE BLUEBIRD CAFE

4044 Hillsboro Pike, Nashville 615-383-1461 | bluebirdcafe.com

• Dec. 1: Writers Night with Marla Canon Goodman 8 p.m. $10 food/drink minimum Other December shows not available at press time.

BRIDGESTONE ARENA

501 Broadway, Nashville 615-770-2000 bridgestonearena.com

• Dec. 4: Trans-Siberian Orchestra 7:30 p.m. $19.21 - $111.50 • Dec. 5: Ariana Grande 7:30 p.m. $49.95 - $279.95 • Dec. 12 - 13: Luke Combs 7 p.m. $25 - $50

CANNERY BALLROOM

1 Cannery Row, Nashville 615-251-3020 | mercylounge.com All shows are 18+ unless otherwise noted

• Dec. 10: In Flames with Red & Arrival of Autum 7 p.m. $32 - $150 • Dec. 11: Matisyahu 8 p.m. $32.50 $35 (all ages) • Dec. 18: Horton’s Holiday Hayride Startting Reverend Horton Heat 8 p.m. $10 • Dec. 31: My Sol-Called Band: The Ultimate ‘90s New Year’s Eve! 9:30 p.m. $30 - $100 (ages 21+)

CATHEDRAL OF THE INCARNATION

BELMONT’S MCAFEE CONCERT HALL

2100 Belmont Blvd.., Nashville 615-460-4608 | belmont.edu/music

• Dec. 7: Nashville Children’s Choir 2 & 4:30 p.m. Free • Dec. 9: Tennessee Youth Symphony Winter Concert (tnys.org) 7:30 p.m. Free

2015 West End Ave., Nashville cathedralnashville.org/events

• Dec. 3 - 4: Christmas at the Cathedral. 7:30 p.m. Free • Dec. 14: Christmas with Kevin & Friends 7:30 p.m. $25 - $42.95

CHRIST CHURCH

15354 Old Hickory Blvd.., Nashville 615-834-6171 christchurchnashville.org

• Dec. 7: Christmas with the Christ Church Choir 2 & 7 p.m. $10 - $20

CITY WINERY

609 Lafayette St., Nashville 615-324-1010 | citywinery.com

The Tennessee Youth Symphony presents its Winter Concert on Monday, Dec. 9 at Belmont University’s McAfee Concert Hall.

66 december 2019

• Dec. 1: Levi Kreis 7 p.m. $20 - $25 • Dec. 3: Albert Cummings & Mike Zito 7 p.m. $20 - $28 • Dec. 5: Chrisette Michele 7 p.m. $45 - $55 • Dec. 8: Street Corner Symphony Holiday Tour 8 p.m. $25 - $35 • Dec. 9: Jason Eskridge Christmas with Friends 8 p.m. $20 • Dec. 10: Blind Boys of Alabama Christmas Show 8 p.m. $35 - $50

nashvilleparent.com

• Dec. 12: Christmas and Love with Kenny Lattimore 7 & 10 p.m. $35 - $45 • Dec. 15: The Music of Motown for Kids 12 p.m. $15 • Dec. 15: Melinda Doolittle 8 p.m. $30 - $40 • Dec. 20: Gabe Dixon 8 p.m. $18 $25 • Dec. 21: Eric Benet 7 & 10 p.m. $40 - $65 • Dec. 22: Jody Nardone Trio presents A Charlie Brown Christmas tribute 7 p.m. $20 - $25 • Dec. 28: Mac McAnally 8 p.m. $55 - $65 • Dec. 31: Marc Broussard 7 & 11 p.m. $45 - $60

CMA THEATER

224 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville 615-760-6556 | cmatheater.com

• Dec. 11: First Ladies of Bluegrass 7:30 p.m. $39.50 - $59.50

COUNTRY MUSIC HALL OF FAME AND MUSEUM

222 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville 615-416-2001 countrymusichalloffame.org All of these performances are free with museum admission ($25.95 adults, free ages 18 & younger in Davidson & surrounding counties) • Dec. 1: Richard Smith 1 p.m. • Dec. 7: Don Henry and Jon Vezner 11:30 a.m. • Dec. 8: John McDaniel 1 p.m. • Dec. 14: Gary Burr and Georgia Middleman 11:30 a.m. • Dec. 15: Fats Kaplin 1 p.m. • Dec. 22: Joe Fick 1 p.m. • Dec. 28: Emily West 11:30 a.m. • Dec. 29: Justin Branum 1 p.m.

THE COWAN

500 Cowan St., Nashville 615-777-3007 topgolf.com/us/nashville

• Dec. 4: Ganja White Night 9 p.m. $27.50 • Dec. 6: Tobe Nwigwe 7 p.m. $25 $85 • Dec. 7: The Mowgli’s 7 p.m. $25 $149 • Dec. 8: The Endless Bummer Tour 7 p.m. $19 • Dec. 12: Peekaboo 9 p.m. $20 - $25 • Dec. 17 Sum 41 6 p.m. $33.50 $202.50 • Dec. 20: Josh Wink 9 p.m. $10 - $15 • Dec. 31: Feed Me 9 p.m. $25 - $50

THE END

2219 Elliston Place, Nashville 615-321-4457 | endnashville.com All shows are 18+ (unless otherwise noted)

• Dec. 1: Oceanoa, By the Thousands, Gamma Sector 7 p.m. $15 - $18 • Dec. 3: Mike’s Dead, Ryan Oaks 8 p.m. $15 (all ages) • Dec. 4: Gabrielle Vaughn with Lobby Language 8 p.m. $5 • Dec. 5: Agnostic Front, Slapshot 8 p.m. $18 - $20

The Theater Bug’s annual Winter Concert takes place Dec. 12 - 15 featuring more than 55 youth performers. • Dec. 6: Thelma & The Sleaze with The Bobby Lees & Black Venus 8 p.m. $10 • Dec. 7: Shadow 15, The Ratz, File 13, Colverbottom, 69 Tribe & USR 8 p.m. $7 • Dec. 8: Alterbeast 8 p.m. $10 • Dec. 10 Garden of Eden 8 p.m $5 • Dec. 11: Crack Mammoth 8 p.m. $5 • Dec. 12: Blue Trees 8 p.m. $7 • Dec. 13: Charge the Atlantic 9 p.m. $5 • Dec. 14: Mindex with Jonteal 9 p.m. $12 • Dec. 20: Black[pool Mecca 9 p.m. $7 • Dec. 21: Secret Recipe 9 p.m. $12 • Dec. 22: Don Giosue 7 p.m. $12

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

EXIT/IN

FRANKLIN THEATRE

2208 Elliston Place, Nashville 615-321-3340 | exitin.com All shows are 18+

• Dec. 1: Fabio Frizzi 8 p.m. $30 • Dec. 4: Hurry Back, Hurry Back! 8 p.m. $10 • Dec. 5: Hopscotch Mafia 8 pm. $12 - $15 • Dec. 6: Kadavar 8 p.m. $15 - $20 • Dec. 7: Chuck Indigo 9 p.m. $15 $20 • Dec. 8: Eeevee 8 p.m. $12 • Dec. 9: Cassadee Pope’s Throwback Country Night 8 p.m. $15 • Dec. 10: Kendell Marvel 8 p.m. $20 • Dec. 11: Delta Rae 8 p.m. $20 • Dec. 13: Truth 9:30 p.m. $15 - $20 • Dec. 14: Turkuaz 9 p.m. $16 - $20 • Dec. 19: KRS-One 9 p.m. $20 - $25 • Dec. 21: Pile 8 p.m. $15 - $20 • Dec. 27 - 29: All Them Witches 9 p.m $18 - $20 • Dec. 31: Terrapin Flyer 10 p.m. $25

265 W. Thompson Lane Murfreesboro 615-898-1862 | tnphil.org

• Dec. 12: Tennessee Philharmonic’s Timeless Christmas Treasures 7 p.m. $15 - $40

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 4815 Franklin Pike, Nashville music.fpcnashville.org

• Dec. 8: FPC Sanctuary Choir & Orchestra present Glory to God in the Highest 4 p.m.

419 Main St., Franklin 615-538-2076 | franklntheatre.com

• Dec. 2 - 4: Tim Rushlow & His Big Band 8 p.m. $41.50 - $59.50 • Dec. 7: Louis York & The Shindellas 8 p.m. $35 - $45 • Dec. 8 - 9: Night of Hope: A Family Christmas 7:30 p.m. Sun, 7 p.m. Mon $25 - $45 • Dec. 11 - 12: David Archuleta Christmas Show 8 p.m. $36 - $51 • Dec. 13: Over the Rhine Christmas 8 p.m. $36 - $46 • Dec. 18: BeauSoleil Cajun Christmas avec Michael Doucet 8 p.m. $29 - $39 • Dec. 19: Exile Christmas 8 p.m. $39 - $49 • Dec. 20 - 21: The Gatlin Brothers Country & Christmas 8 p.m. $50 - $60 • Dec. 27: Gary Morris 8 p.m. $42 $57 • Dec. 28: Lee Roy Parnell & Friends 8 p.m. $48 - $58

FRIST ART MUSEUM

919 Broadway, Nashville 615-244-3340 | fristartmuseum.org All performances are free

• Dec. 6: Due Sudeste 6 p.m. • Dec. 7: Nashville Flute Choir 1 p.m. • Dec. 7: Blair Suzuki Strings 2 p.m. • Dec. 13: Ronny Criss 6 p.m. • Dec. 14: The Atwood Quartet 12:30 p.m. • Dec. 15: The Providence Pipes 1 p.m. • Dec. 19: Tramaine Arte’Mis 6 p.m.

GRAND OLE OPRY HOUSE

2804 Opryland Drive, Nashville 800-SEE-OPRY | opry.com

• Dec. 31: John Prine, Marty Stuart & His Fabulous Superlatives, and The Secret Sisters 8 p.m. $81.50 - $256.50

THE HERMITAGE

4580 Rachel’s Lane, Hermitage 615-889-2941 | thehermitage.com • Dec. 7: Carols by Candlelight 6 p.m. Free

THE HIGH WATT

1 Cannery Row, Nashville 615-251-3020 | mercylounge.com All shows are 18+

• Dec 2: Mammoth, Henry Park, Chlsy, Goodie Bag 7 p.m. $5 - $7 • Dec. 3: Amy Guess 8 p.m. $10 - $12 • Dec. 5: Ugly Sweater Party 7:30 p.m. $8 - $10 • Dec. 6: Rock By the Sea: Christmas 7:30 p.m. $27 - $30 • Dec. 8: Diamante: Blue Balls Holiday Tour 8 p.m. $13 - $15 • Dec. 9: Laura Stevenson with Adult Mom 8 p.m. $13 - $15 • Dec. 11: Your Neighbors & The Broomestix 8 p.m. $7 - $10

• Dec. 12: Stevie Rae Stephens 8 p.m. $5 • Dec. 13: The Pressure Kids 8 p.m. $8 - $10 • Dec. 15: Emarosa 7:30 p.m. $17 • Dec. 20: Tommy Woman and Raygun 8 p.m. $10

JAMISON THEATER

230 Franklin Road, Franklin 615-541-8200 | studiotenn.com • Dec. 17: Christmas with Patrick Thomas 7 p.m. $35 - $90

MARATHON MUSIC WORKS 1402 Clinton St., Nashville 615-891-1781 marathonmusicworks.com

• Dec. 6: Chon 7:30 p.m. $27.50 - $55 • Dec. 13: Chevelle 8 p.m. $30 - $50 • Dec. 14: Anderson East 8 p.m. $22 - $25 • Dec. 21: Billy Strings 8 p.m. $25 $50 • Dec. 28: The Jesus Lizard 8 p.m. $30 - $75 • Dec. 31: Cherub 9 p.m. $30 - $100

MERCY LOUNGE

1 Cannery Row, Nashville 615-251-3020 | mercylounge.com All shows are 18+

• Dec. 3: Play Away the Layaway: A Holiday Benefit Concert 8 p.m. $12 - $15 • Dec. 5: Have a Rad Christmas (Or Any Other Holiday) 9 p.m. $7 - $10 • Dec. 6: Robyn Hitchcock with Sean Nelson 9 p.m. $20 • Dec. 7: Bruce Springsteen vs Tom Petty Tribute 9 p.m. $30 - $1,000 • Dec. 12: Ida Mae with Logan Ledger 8 p.m. $15 - $20

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THINGS TO DO: MUSIC LISTINGS (Mercy Lounge, cont’d) • Dec. 13: Boombox 9 p.m. $17 - $20 • Dec. 14: Beer & Hymns: Carols 7:30 p.m. $13 - $17 • Dec. 16: Nashville Drummers Jam 8 p.m. $10 • Dec. 20: NashFeels: An R&B Party Experience 9 p.m. $15 - $20 • Dec. 27: They Velcro Pygmies

MONTHAVEN ARTS & CULTURAL CENTER

1017 Antebellum Cir. Hendersonville 615-822-0789 | monthavenartsandculturalcenter.com

• Dec. 21: Carlene Carter & Friends 6 p.m. $40

MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM 417 Fourth Ave. N., Franklin 615-862-6390 nashvilleauditorium.com

• Dec. 6: Love. Laugh. Hip-Hop Holiday Fest featuring Jacquees, Dreezy, Irene the Dream & more 7 p.m. $25 - $43 • Dec. 16: Greta Van Fleet 8 p.m. $39.50 - $49.50

OZ ARTS

6172 Cockrill Bend Cir., Nashville 615-352-7200 | ozartsnashville.org • Dec. 7: Mellotron Variations 8 p.m. $25

PALLADIUM BALLROOM AT WOOLWORTH ON FIFTH 221 Fifth Ave. N. Nashville 615-891-1361 woolworthonfifth.com • Dec. 7: Duffy Jackson Big Band 7:30 p.m. Free

Dave Barnes plays Christmas music at the Schermerhorn on Sunday, Dec. 8.

68 december 2019

RYMAN AUDITORIUM

116 Fifth Ave. N., Nashville 615-889-3060 | ryman.com See page 65 for Amy Grant and Vince Gill’s Christmas at the Ryman

• Dec. 3: Opry at the Ryman 3:30, 7 & 9:30 p.m. $50 - $100 • Dec. 4 - 5: Brett Eldredge 8 p.m. $35 - $85 • Dec. 6 - 7: Opry at the Ryman 7 & 9:30 p.m. $50 - $100 • Dec. 8 - 9: Andrew Peterson: Behold the Lamb of God 7 p.m. $52.50 • Dec. 10 & 13: Opry at the Ryman 7 p.m. $50 - $100 • Dec. 14: Opry at the Ryman 7 & 9:30 p.m. $50 - $100 • Dec. 20 - 21, 27 - 28: Opry at the Ryman 7 p.m. $50 - $100 • Dec. 29: Robert Earl Keen 7:30 p.m. $37.50 - $45 • Dec. 30 - 31: Old Crow Medicine Show 7:30 p.m. Mon, 9 p.m. Tue $59.50 - $99.50

SCHERMERHORN SYMPHONY CENTER

1 Symphony Place, Nashville 615-687-6400 nashvillesymphony.org

• Dec. 1: Drifters, Coasters & Platters Sing Holidays & Hits 7:30 p.m. $51 $116 • Dec. 5 - 7: Kellie Pickler in Music City Christmas with the Nashville Symphony 7 p.m. Thu, 8 p.m. Fri - Sat $59 - $140 • Dec. 7: Holiday Spectacular & Sing-Along 11 a.m. $15 - $94 • Dec. 8: Dave Barnes’ A Very Merry Christmas 7:30 p.m. $64 - $103 • Dec. 9: Drew and Ellie Holcomb’s Neighborly Christmas 7:30 p.m. $89 - $99 • Dec. 10: Michael W. Smith: Christmas with the Nashville Symphony 7:30 p.m. $53 $149

Old Crow Medicine Show continues its annual tradition of wrapping up the year with two shows at the Ryman, Dec. 30 - 31. • Dec. 12 - 13: Home Alone in Concert 7 p.m. $51 - $117 • Dec. 15: Music City Carol Sing 5 & 8 p.m. $15 - $55 • Dec. 19 - 22: Guerrero Conducts Handel’s Messiah with Nashville Symphony & Chorus 7 p.m. thu, 8 p.m. Fri - Sat, 2 p.m. Sun $57 - $183 • Dec. 23: Sing! An Irish Christmas with Keith & Kristyn Getty 7:30 p.m. $60 - $100 • Dec. 28: Viva Las Vegas with Frankie Moreno 8 p.m. $24 - $71

STREET THEATRE COMPANY 1120 Elm Hill Pike, Nashville 615-554-7414 St.theatrecompany.org

• Dec. 8: The Gift of Song: The Gift of Music 7 p.m. $20 adults, $15 students • Dec. 14: The Gift of Song: Mary Jane’s Breakdown 7:30 p.m. $20 • Dec. 19: The Gift of Song: Believe 7 p.m. $20 adults, $15 students • Dec. 19: The Gift of Song: Christmas Showcase 7:30 p.m. $20 adults, $15 students

THE STATION INN

402 12th Ave. S., Nashville 615-255-3307 | stationinn.com

• Every Sunday: Gospel Music with Val Storey, Larry Cordle & Mike Rogers 4 p.m. $15 • Every Sunday: Bluegrass Jam 8 p.m. Free • Dec. 2: New Monday 9 p.m. $15 • Dec. 3, 10, 17: Doyle & Debbie 7 p.m. $20 • Dec. 3: Ketch Secor & Molly Tuttle 9:30 p.m. $20 • Dec. 4 - 5: Town Mountina 9 p.m. $15 • Dec. 6: The Po’ Ramblin’ Boys 9 p.m. $15 • Dec. 7: Bill Monroe Apprecation Night 8 p.m. $20 • Dec. 11: 432 Sessions Band 9 p.m. $15 • Dec. 12: Rob Ickes & Trey Hensley 9 p.m. $15 • Dec. 13: Peter Cooper, Eric Brace, Thomm Jutz & Friends 9 p.m. $15 • Dec. 14: Tennesse Mafia Jug Band 9 p.m. $15 • Dec. 18: The McCrary Sisters 9 p.m. $15 • Dec. 19: Brad Davis & The Double

nashvilleparent.com

Down Up Daredevils 9 p.m. $15 • Dec. 20: Fireball Mail 9 p.m. $15 • Dec. 21: Songs from the Road Band 9 p.m. $15 • Dec. 27: Josh Williams Band 9 p.m. $15 • Dec. 28: Shawn Camp & Friends 9 p.m. $20

THE THEATER BUG

4809 Gallatin Pike, Nashville 615-818-7358 | thetheaterbug.org

• Dec. 12 - 15: Winter Concert: On the Air 7 p.m. Thu - Fri, 2 & 7 p.m. Sat, 6 p.m. Sun $10 adults/$5 ages 11 & younger in advance; $12/$7 at the door

TPAC

505 Deaderick St., Nashville 615-782-4040 | tpac.org

• Dec. 28: Manhnheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis 8 p.m. $40 - $70

WASHINGTON THEATRE AT PATTERSON PARK

521 Mercury Blvd.., Murfreesboro 615-893-7439 murfreesborotn.gov/parks

• Dec. 9: Perform Murfreesboro Christmas Showcase 7 p.m. $5

WILDHORSE SALOON

120 Second Ave. N., Nashville 615-902-8200 wildhorsesaloon.com

No events were listed at press time.

WILLIAMSON COUNTY ENRICHMENT CENTER

110 Everbright Ave., Franklin wcparksandrec.com

• Dec. 7: Williamson County Community Band Holiday Concert. 7 p.m. Free • Dec. 8: Williamson County Community Chorus Winter Concert. 3 p.m. Free

WINTER HOUSE CONCERT SERIES AT ROCK CASTLE 139 Rock Castle Lane Hendersonville 615-824-0502 historicrockcastle.com

• Dec. 14: The Bird & The Bear and Kyshona 6 - 9:30 p.m. $50

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THEATER

AMAHL AND THE NIGHT VISITORS Noah Liff Opera Center 3622 Redmon St., Nashville Dec. 13 - 15 Nashville Opera celebrates the holiday season with a family-friendly classic paired with a new one-act opera.

hen it comes to this season’s holiday offerings onstage, be sure to put Nashville Opera on your list, because it’s serving up a classic family-friendly production for ages 5 and older, and it’s a show full of humor and wonder. Local 12-year-old Alan Harrisohn Foeder makes his Nashville Opera debut in the title role of Amahl and the Night Visitors. Sung in English, this holiday opera focuses on a shepherd boy and his mother who entertain three traveling kings during a pit stop on their journey. The story shines light on how the generosity of heart can be a miracle in itself. In addition, you’ll get to see Pepito, a mini-opera about a forgotten shelter dog who opens the hearts of a young married couple. Showtimes are Fri 8 p.m., Sat - Sun 4 p.m. Tickets are $26 - $85. Call 615-782-4040 or visit nashvilleopera.org.

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december 2019 71

THINGS TO DO: THEATER LISTINGS EDITOR’S NOTE:

The only shows listed here are holiday-themed productions. For non-holiday shows — including Cinderella; Disney’s Frozen Jr.; Hamilton; and The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe — go to nashvilleparent. com. THE 12 DATES OF CHRISTMAS Dec. 6 - 15 | Ages 14+ 615-681-7220 | twtp.org

Tennessee Women’s Theater Project at Looby Theater, 2301 Rosa L. Parks Blvd.., Nashville. Thu - Sat 7:30 p.m., Sun 2:30 p.m. $25. This one-woman play follows a gal’s year-long stumble back into the dating world, and it comes to fruition during the holidays.

AMAHL AND THE NIGHT VISITORS See page 71.

ALADDIN AND HIS WINTER WISH

Dec. 12 - 22 | All ages 615-782-4040 | tpac.org

Lythgoe Family Panto at TPAC’s Polk Theater, 505 Deaderick St., Nashville. Thu 7 p.m., Fri 7 p.m. (plus 3 p.m. on Dec. 20), Sat 2 & 7 p.m. (plus 11 a.m. on Dec. 21, no evening show on Dec. 21), Sun 12 & 5 p.m. $40 - $55. This holiday panto production finds a genie helping Aladdin rescue the princess from the clutches of an evil magician.

AUNTIE CLAUS

Thru Dec. 29 | All ages 615-252-4675 | nashvillect.org

Nashville Children’s Theatre, 25 Middleton St., Nashville. Sat 2 p.m. (additional 10 a.m. shows on Dec. 21 & 28); Sun 2 p.m.; Wednesdays, Dec. 4 & 18 at 1 p.m.; Friday, Dec. 20 at 7 p.m.; Tuesday, Dec. 24 at 10 a.m.; Thursday, Dec. 26 at 10 a.m.; Friday, Dec. 27 at 10 a.m. & 7 p.m. $23 adults, $17 ages 3 - 17. Based on Elise Primavera’s children’s book, this musical follows Sophie Kringle’s eclectic great aunt.

THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER

Sunday, Dec. 15 | All ages 615-538-2076 | franklintheatre.com

Sat 2 & 7 p.m., Sun 2 p.m. A youth cast presents the beloved Peanuts holiday tale.

CLOSED FOR THE HOLIDAYS

NUNCRACKERS THE MUSICAL

CHRISTMAHANAKWANZIKA SPECTACULAR

Lakewood Theatre Company, 2211 Old Hickory Blvd.., Old Hickory. Fri - Sat 7:30 p.m., Sun 2:30 p.m. $15 adults, $12 students. After a blizzard shuts down the roads on Christmas Eve, a motley crew of travelers find themselves stranded at the local community center.

Hendersonville Performing Arts Company, 260 W. Main St., Hendersonville. Thu - Sat 7:30 p.m., Sun 2 p.m. $18 adults, $15 students. This Nunsense Christmas musical is presented as the first TV special taped by Reverend Mother in the convent basement.

Dec. 6 - 14 | All ages 615-554-7414 St.heatrecompany.org

St. Theatre Company, 1120 Elm Hill Pike, Nashville. Thu - Sat 7:30 p.m. $20 adults, $15 students. Celebrate the entire holiday season with skits, comedy, songs and more.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

Thru Dec. 22 | All ages 615-782-4040 | nashvillerep.org

Nashville Rep at TPAC’s Johnson Theater, 505 Deaderick St., Nashville. Wed - Fri 7:30 p.m., Sat 2:30 & 7:30 p.m., Sun 2:30 p.m. $25 - $64. Patrick Barlow’s adaptation of Charles Dickens’ beloved tale using five actors and imaginative props.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

Dec. 6 - 22 | All ages 615-904-2787 | boroarts.org

Center for the Arts, 110 W. College St., Murfreesboro. Fri - Sat 7:30 p.m., Sun 2 p.m. $18 adults, $16 students, $14 children. The tale of three ghosts haunting that old geezer Ebenezer on Christmas Eve.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

Dec. 6 - 15 | Ages 4+ 615-852-8499 springhousetheatre.com

Springhouse Theatre Company, 14119 Old Nashville Hwy., Smyrna. Fri - Sat 7:30 p.m., Sun 3:30 p.m. $15 adults, $10 students/children. A faithful, fastpaced version of Dickens’ iconic tale.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL: A LIVE RADIO PLAY Dec. 5 - 14 | All ages 615-431-9620 actorspointtheatre.com

Actors Point Theatre Company at Myer’s Front Porch, 162 E. Main St., Hendersonville. 7:30 p.m. (a dinner option is available starting at 6:30 p.m.). $14 - $36. Dickens’ classic comes to life in the style of a live 1940s-era radio play, complete with commercials and sound effects.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL LIVE

Dec. 5 - 14 | All ages audienceofoneproductions.com

Act Too Players at The Franklin Theatre, 419 Main St., Franklin. 4 & 7:30 p.m. $13 - $25. A couple struggling to put on a church Christmas pageant are forced to cast the most awful kids in history.

Audience of One at the Capitol Theatre, 110 W. Main St., Lebanon. Thu - Fri 7 p.m., Sat 1 & 7 p.m. $20 adults, $15 ages 3 - 11. Charles Dickens’ classic tale comes to life onstage.

A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS

A CHRISTMAS CAROL WITH JASON WOODS

Dec. 19 - 22 | All ages 615-538-7107 | sourceonefive.com

Source One Five at Mockingbird Theater at The Factory, 230 Franklin Road, Building 6, Franklin. Thu - Fri 7 p.m.,

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Dec. 6 - 22 | Ages 8+ 615-847-0934 lakewoodtheatre.org

ELF THE MUSICAL

Dec. 5 - 8 | All ages 615-786-0186, ext. 2513 wcparksandrec.com

Star Bright Players at Freedom Middle School’s Shelby Theatre, 750 Hwy. 96 W., Franklin. Thu - Sat 7 p.m., Sun 2 p.m. $12. The beloved story of a young orphan who is raised as a would-be elf.

EVERY CHRISTMAS STORY EVERY TOLD (AND THEN SOME) Dec. 12, 14 & 15 | All ages 615-255-2273 | nashvilleshakes.org

Nashville Shakespeare Festival at Troutt Theatre, 2112 Belmont Blvd.., Nashville. Thu & Sat 7:30 p.m., Sun 2:30 p.m. $20 adults, $18 students, free ages 9 & younger. This comical holiday show promises to be a party for the whole family.

IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE THE MUSICAL Dec. 5 - 22 | All ages 615-883-8375 thelarrykeetontheatre.org

The Larry Keeton Dinner Theatre, 108 Donelson Pike, Nashville. Thu - Sat 7 p.m., Sun 2 p.m. $25 - $32 adults, $15 - $22 ages 12 & younger. A musical version of the tale of George Bailey’s magical holiday experience.

JINGLE ALL THE WAY Dec. 6 - 21 | All ages 615-646-9977 dinnertheatre.com

Chaffin’s Barn Dinner Theatre, 8204 Hwy. 100, Nashville. Fri - Sat 11 a.m. $10. This children’s holiday show finds sibling elves-in-training trying to help get Christmas back on schedule.

JUNIE B. IN JINGLE BELLS, BATMAN SMELLS! Dec. 6 - 8, 14 & 21 | All ages 615-893-9825 | mltarts.com

Murfreesboro Little Theatre at The Washington Theater (Dec. 6 - 8; Fri Sat 7 p.m., Sun 2 p.m.), 521 Mercury Blvd.., Murfreesboro; and Linebaugh Library (Dec. 14 & 21; 2 p.m.), 105 W. Vine St., Murfreesboro. $10 adults, $7 students (Linebaugh shows are free). Drama ensues surrounding the school’s holiday sing-along and secret Santa gift exchange.

Saturday, Dec. 14 | All ages 615-538-2076 | franklintheatre.com

419 Main St., Franklin. 7:30 p.m. $25 - $35. One man into more than 25 characters in this Dickens show.

nashvilleparent.com

Thru Dec. 15 | All ages 615-826-6037 hpactn.com

RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER THE MUSICAL

Thru Dec. 27 | All ages 615-889-1000 christmasatgaylordopryland.com

Grand Ole Opry House, 2804 Opryland Drive, Nashville. Dates & times vary. $24.99 - $109.99. A live musical version of the classic TV holiday special.

SANDERS FAMILY CHRISTMAS

Dec. 5 - 21 | All ages 615-646-9977 dinnertheatre.com

Chaffin’s Barn Dinner Theatre, 8204 Hwy. 100, Nashville. Thu 12 & 730 p.m. (no matinee Dec. 12), Fri - Sat 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 15 at 2 p.m. $35 adults, $20 students, $13 ages 12 & younger. The sequel to Smoke on the Mountain features 25 S.ern Gospel Christmas favorites.

THE SANTA DIARIES

Dec. 13 - 22 | All ages 615-598-8950 encore-theatre-company.org

Encore Theatre Company, 6978 Lebanon Road, Mt. Juliet. Fri - Sat 7:30 p.m., Sun 2:30 p.m. $16 adults, $13 ages 11 & younger. A self-absorbed Hollywood actor returns to his small hometown to direct the community holiday play and rediscovers the joy of Christmas.

A TUNA CHRISTMAS Thru Dec. 21 | All ages 615-646-9977 dinnertheatre.com

Chaffin’s Barn Dinner Theatre, 8204 Hwy. 100, Nashville. Thu 7:30 p.m., Fri - Sat 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 8 at 2 p.m. $35 adults, $20 students, $13 ages 12 & younger. Christmas in the third smallest town in Texas features the a hot competition by way of the annual lawn-display contest.

WHITE CHRISTMAS

Dec. 6 - 21 | All ages 615-791-5007 | pull-tight.com

Pull-Tight Theater, 112 Second Ave. S., Franklin. Thu - Sat 7:30 p.m., Sun 2:30 p.m. $18 adults, $12 students. Based on the movie, this musical features 17 Irving Berlin songs.

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

The Magic of Aladdin and His Winter Wish! It’s a collaborative effort, and we caught up with the star and the director to discuss the family-friendly panto production.

Aladdin and the princess fly high over the stage during a magic carpet ride.

ast December, TPAC did something brand new by teaming up with Lythgoe Family Panto to create a new holiday experience for Nashville families. The result was Peter Pan and Tinker Bell: A Pirate’s Christmas. It introduced lots of families to the magical, interactive realm of panto and quickly became one of 2018’s biggest holiday hits. The Lythgoe/TPAC collaboration is back this year with a new show, Aladdin and His Winter Wish. This year’s production pulls in Nashville Children’s Theatre’s Executive Artistic Director Ernie Nolan to direct the show. “This is my first offical panto production,” says Nolan. “Panto is a style of theater that is usually a classic story remixed for a contemporary audience with contemporary music and a present-day vibe. The environment is a mix of a musical and an in-the-moment experience like improv,” he adds. The show invites kids in the audience to involve themselves in the action. “In panto, the audience is a character and is very much a part of the experience by way of participation,” says Nolan. It’s an all-ages experience, and the story has one foot in the classic tale while giving it a twist. Chattanooga, Tennessee, native Damon J. Gillespie stars as Aladdin. His Broadway

credits include Newsies and Aladdin. In addition to other regional theater roles, the 25-year-old also has a track record on TV, including NBC’s Rise, Empire and The Society. He also has a new show coming to Netflix in 2020 called Tiny Pretty Things. He’s excited to come back to his home state this month to bring holiday magic to local families. “I’ve never done something like this before,” says Gillespie. “I’ve done interactive shows before where I get to break the fourth wall, but nothing like this,” he adds, noting that this will be his third rendition of Aladdin (he also performed in a version of the show in middle school). Gillespie says you can count on a lot of fun and magic and that the show’s music includes oldies and newbies that are fan favorites, and he can’t wait to share them all with everyone. Gillespie has his own wish when it comes to kids in the audience. “I’m hoping kids will see how much fun we’re having doing live theater, singing our faces off and dancing,” Gillespie says. “I’m hoping this will inspire kids to not be afraid to go out and do it themselves. I’m a big advocate for getting more kids into the arts. When kids come and see this, my goal is to inspire them to go out and do it themselves,” he adds.

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IF YOU GO: Aladdin and His Winter Wish Dec. 12 - 22 TPAC’s Polk Theater 505 Deaderick St., Nashville 615-780-4040 | tpac.org Showtimes: Thu 7 p.m., Fri 7 p.m. (plus 3 p.m. on Dec. 20), Sat 2 & 7 p.m. (plus 11 a.m. on Dec. 21, no evening show on Dec. 21), Sun 12 & 5 p.m. Tickets: $40 - $55. You can get four tickets for $99 at the following performances: Dec. 12, 18 & 19 at 7 p.m., Dec. 20 at 3 p.m. (orchestra Row P or back). NASHVILLE PARENT NIGHT! Thursday, Nov. 19 is Nashville Parent night at Aladdin! Save 15 percent off tickets that night only by using promo code NASHPARENT. Stick around after the show for an exclusive talkback with the cast.

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a paid advertising directory

FALL

ACTIVITIES

AFTER-SCHOOL

PROGRAMS

Enrich your child’s education & fitness outside of the classroom with one of these opportunities.

Photo courtesy of Bill Taylor’s Bushido School of Karate.

ACADEMICS

The Tutoring Center

18 Cadillac Drive, Brentwood 615-942-2629 3748 Hillsboro Pike, Nashville (Green Hills) 615-891-3384 300 Indian Lake Blvd.., #2400, Hendersonville 615-991-6811 3411 Memorial Blvd.., #3, Murfreesboro 615-890-6284 mathnasium.com

The Tutoring Center works with students grades K - 12 in math, reading and writing. We work with students on their academic skills and concentration through our patented “Rotational Approach to Learning.” As a company we have a 95 percent success rate for students advancing an entire grade level in six months. Call today for information about our free diagnostic assessment and test consultation.

Mathnasium

The Mathnasium Method™ has transformed the way kids learn math for more than a decade. Our specially trained math instructors will teach your child how to understand math in an individual setting — our unique approach enables us to effectively explain math concepts and lend a helping hand to every student. Our tutors foster a caring, encouraging environment that helps kids thrive and learn!

Providence Christian Academy 410 DeJarnette Lane, Murfreesboro 615-904-0902 | providencechristian.com

We are an inter-denominational Pre-K – grade 12 school. Offering a classical education with a Christian worldview and parental involvement. As our mission statement says, “We are teaching students to seek God’s truth and equipping them with the tools for a lifetime of learning.” We are fully accredited by ACSI, the Association of Christian Schools International and by AdvancED.

5021 Hughes Crossing, Ste. 160, Franklin 615-721-8844 | franklin.tutoringcenter.com franklintn@tutoringcenter.com

ANIMALS/EQUESTRIAN Harris Riding Academy

6331 Franklin Road, Murfreesboro 615-556-7370 | facebook.com/harrisridingacademy lessonshra@gmail.com

Let us take you and your child through the whole horse experience. Programs geared for beginner to show riders, kids to adults, and everything in between. Let us help you achieve your horse dreams. Check us out on Facebook.

ARTS: DANCE

Ann Carroll School of Dance 93 Seaboard Lane, Brentwood 615-790-6468 | anncarrollschoolofdance.com di@anncarrollschoolofdance.com

Check us out in our new location! ACSD is celebrating 50 years of excellence and accommodates its students in a faith-based environment which is responsible for many people in the professional performance

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and teaching worlds. ACSD prides itself on being a place for all to learn. Whether you are looking for a once-a-week class, a competitive team or a pre-professional track, we have something for you.

Dance in Bloom

7982-A Coley Davis Road, Nashville 615-662-4819 | danceinbloom.com

We offer classes for ages 2 and older in ballet, tap, jazz, hip-hop, improv and cheer. Classes are upbeat and fun! Now registering for fall.

Grassland Dance Academy 1111 Battlewood St. , Franklin 615.790-7660 | gdadance.com

Grassland Dance Academy offers a variety of dance classes for all ages and all styles. Dance gives children a creative outlet to enjoy music, learn coordination and rhythm, work on fitness, and most of all, have fun! Ask us about our birthday parties.

School of Nashville Ballet 3630 Redmon St., Nashville 615-297-2966 | nashvilleballet.com

School of Nashville Ballet offers world-class dance instruction to ages 2 and older of every experience level. Students can stretch their imaginations in the Children’s Division, nurture their skill and artistry in the Academy Division and let loose and express themselves in Community Division Youth Classes. More information is available on our website.

ARTS: MUSIC

Mobile Music Academy

615-301-8589 | mobilemusicacademy.com info@mobilemusicacademy.com

Mobile Music Academy offers 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!

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

222 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville 615-416-2001 countrymusichalloffame.org/outofschooldays

Beat the boredom on days off school! Register for an Out of School Day workshop offered Veterans Day — Monday, Nov. 11. Youth ages 11 - 18 can learn new skills, make new friends, tour the galleries and enjoy interactive fun. Pre-registration is required.

ARTS: THEATER

Nashville Children’s Theatre 25 Middleton St., Nashville 615-254-9103 | nashvillect.org

We offer a variety of fun, engaging drama classes throughout the school year, including fall and spring break camps, for ages 4 - 18. Drama school classes take place Saturdays, Tuesdays and Thursdays during the school year.

FITNESS/SPORTS Bill Taylor’s Bushido School of Karate

1911 Business Campus Drive, Murfreesboro 615-890-6755 1820 N.W. Broad St., Murfreesboro 615-893-6003 | bskonline.com | bushido96@aol.com

Let martial arts take your kids to new heights! Bill Taylor’s Bushido School of Karate offers programs in traditional karate from age 3 - adult. Call now to find out how to get one month free with uniform.

David Deaton Karate 761 W. Main St., Hendersonville 615-824-9111 1027 B W. Main St., Lebanon 615-547-1754 1249 N. Mt. Juliet Road, Mt. Juiet 615-754-6878 daviddeaton.com

All ages can benefit from the curriculum which builds character, confidence, respect and self-discipline. Award-winning leadership and excellence with classes for Little Dragons (4 - 5 years) to adult. Visit today or check the website for more information.

E.T.C. Gymnastics

1137 Haley Road, Murfreesboro 615-867-6900 1932 Almaville Road, Smyrna 615-617-7644 | etcgymnastics.com coachken@etcgymnastics.com

E.T.C. Gymnastics is dedicated to bringing a new standard of excellence in gymnastics through Him. We offer classes in gymnastics for boys and girls ages 2 years and older. We also offer cheerleading and tumbling, as well as competitive teams. Call and ask about our free trial class. We also do parties, field trips and parents’ nights out.

Harvest Martial Arts

595 Hillsboro Road, Ste. 337, Franklin 615-224-3851 | harvestmartialarts.com harvestmartialarts@gmail.com

Harvest Martial Arts is a traditional martial arts school that teaches Han Mu Do and fitness classes to both adults and kids. We have a broad range of classes and a very accessible schedule to make sure that you can attend our martial arts classes at the most convenient time. Located in Historic Downtown Franklin.

My Gym

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

We build strong, healthy bodies through tumbling, relays, music and gymnastics. High-energy, structured classes improve balance, agility and build self-confidence. Our immaculate facilities and low student-teacher ratios help children 3 months - 13 years develop excellent fitness habits in a non-competitive way.

One Goal Sports

714 S. Church St., Murfreesboro 615-896-7309 | onegoalsports.net admin@onegoalsports.net

A non-profit, community-based sports league providing quality sports programming for families in a fun, Christian environment. Now registering for spring soccer, summer T-ball, summer coach pitch, summer flag football and others. Visit our website for more information.

YMCA of Middle Tennessee

Fall Soccer Leagues • ymcamidtn.org/youth-sports/leagues

YMCA youth soccer leagues encourage each player as they learn sportsmanship, develop their skills and gain a sense of accomplishment, no matter the outcome of the game.

Fall Basketball Leagues ymcamidtn.org/youth-sports/leagues

At the Y, we focus on teamwork, sportsmanship and cooperation. Helping your child learn the game in an encouraging environment.

Fall Sports Classes • ymcamidtn.org/youth-sports/classes

Score points with your child by giving them a taste of the fun and excitement of being part of a youth sports team with our introductory six-week classes. Choose from soccer, flag football or basketball.

Swim Lessons • ymcamidtn.org/swim-lessons

The YMCA’s swim lessons use a variety of fun methods to help swimmers of all ages overcome fears and build confidence in the water. Classes are offered year-round for kids of all ages.

SCIENCE/TECHNOLOGY Adventure Science Center 800 Fort Negley Blvd.., Nashville 615-862-5177 | adventuresci.org

Opening minds to the wonder of science for more than 70 years. Plan an adventure for the family including the Sudekum Planetarium, Adventure Tower and soundBox, an immersive exhibit to explore sound and music!

Mr. Bond’s Science Guys 615-573-2702 | mrbondscienceguy.com

Our winter, spring and summer camps inspire a lifelong enthusiasm for science and learning, teaching creative problem-solving skills, teamwork and perseverance in an entertaining, kid-friendly setting. The camps are full- or half-day and are excellent for ages 5 - 12. Sibling discounts are available.

Digital Worlds VR

1945 Mallory Lane, Franklin 615-538-7514 | digitalworldsvr.com

DWVR offers the best true virtual realty experience in the area. Located near CoolSprings Galleria, it’s perfect for family and team outings, birthday parties, homeschool groups and events. You and your family are invited for a free 15-minute demo at our state-of-the-art virtual realty arcade.

SUMMER CAMP PREVIEW Camp Juliette Low

321 Camp Juliette Low Road, Cloudland, GA 770-428-1062 | cjl.org

Platform tents, outdoor adventure, traditional camping, fun and friendship. Located on Lookout Mountain, Camp Juliette Low is an independent, residential summer camp for girls ages 7 - 17 that fosters self-confidence, independence, teamwork and leadership. One- and two-week sessions. Preparing girls for confident living and leadership since 1922.

YMCA CAMP OCOEE 111 YMCA Drive, Ocoee, TN 423-338-5588 | ymcacampocoee.org

Located in the mountains of Southeast Tennessee, Camp Ocoee has ben providing children with wilderness adventures since 1923. Oneweek sessions for boys and girls ages 7 - 15. 4:1 camper to staff ration. Strong Christian environment. Activities include horseback riding, white-water rafting, kayaking, climbing, mountain biking, camp-outs and many more.

Photo courtesy of School of Nashville Ballet.

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SUMMER FLAG FOOTBALL • SUMMER TEE BALL

On Lookout Mountain in Cloudland, GA

—Juliette Gordon Low

Outdoor adventure for girls ages 7-17 1 & 2 week sessions: June 7– August 1, 2020

Early Bird rates through January 15th

CJL.org

R SIGN UP FO SOCCER & CLIMBING NOW!

One Goal Sports is a Christian-based competitive, youth sports organization where each player’s skills are encouraged and celebrated, and the love of Jesus Christ is shared and demonstrated.

714 S. Church Street, Murfreesboro

Preparing Girls for Confident Living and Leadership Since 1922

(615) 896-7309 www.onegoalsports.net WINTER BASKETBALL • WINTER CHEERLEADING

DIVE INTO

ADVENTURE

1137 Haley Rd., Murfreesboro 1932 Almaville Rd., Smyrna

615-867-6900

615-617-7644

• ages 2 and up • girls and boys • tumbling • parents night out • school’s out camps • ninja program

WINTER CAMP

Offered during the holidays when school is closed.

RESTAURANT GROUP TOURS EDUCATION PROGRAMS BEHIND THE SCENES TOURS GROUP MENUS GIFT SHOP

NEW CLASSES!

Home school PE class at Murfreesboro location Thursdays at 11am! Home school Gymnastics at Smyrna location Tuesdays at 1pm!

Thank you Rutherford families for voting us #1 for 19 years in a row!

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RESTAURANT find us on

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Opry Mills • Exit 11 Off Briley Parkway 615.514.3474 • aquariumrestaurants.com

SUMMER COACH PITCH • FALL SOCCER

“Fresh air is your great friend.”

SPRING SOCCER • SPRING ROCK CLIMBING

Camp Juliette Low

Know others and be known by others by sharing YOUR STORY with us! Every month, we’ll print your stories here. Read on, then submit YOUR STORY to Associate Editor Noah Day at noah@daycommedia. com. Include your name and a photo.

What Matters Most by Tracy Vitela

think for most parents, at least for me, I worry about my children’s future, specifically their happiness. In our society we ask our kiddos all the time, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” A constant reminder that they must know and choose now. I’m 38, and my mom friends and I are still asking ourselves, “What do we want to be when we grow up?” My kids’ happiness is everything to me. I don’t always succeed at showing them happiness in everything, but I do try my best. I don’t want them to worry if their highlight reel looks good enough to “earn” a like. I want them to be happy even if it’s out of style or missing a few thousand likes to be a viral hit. I want them to know they don’t have to ace every test or get into the very best college. I want them to experience the best kind of friendships. The kind that make you cry so hard from laughter. I want them to know that not everyone will like them and they won’t always be invited.

I want them to know they will get peer pressured or booted. But if they can find the good things in everything, their hearts will be full, and with experience, they will be grateful. I want them to be happy with themselves as they are, made perfectly. I’ve learned that the only way to succeed in knowing happiness is loving yourself first. Every darn part of you. It matters to me that they are fulfilled and grateful. It matters to me that they find joy in giving abundantly and to those less fortunate. It matters that their hearts are beaming when helping others. It matters most to know that they have the chance to impact others by their words and actions. I want them to know they can show people that a mix of a great smile, some good neighborly love and genuine kindness can really be the ripple our world needs today. It only takes one person at a time. Giving my kids a chance to know joy is an overwhelming success in my book. Have I achieved that? Not sure, they’re still growing, learning and experiencing all the fun and messy parts of being a kiddo. Is it scary? Heck yeah, it is! But I wouldn’t want it any other way. (please turn the page)

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SUBMIT ONE! E-mail YOUR STORY (include your name and a photograph). Send it to Associate Editor Noah Day: noah@daycommedia.com; Subject: YOUR STORY.

The Best Gift is Love by Shenell Gilliam-Rodgers

y story goes like this ... A little more than 40 years ago, I was born to a mother that already had four kids making me number five. However, for several reasons, she decided to give me away. There were no legal documents signed. Just a mother to another mother saying, “You can have her.” So my mama (not my biological mama) took me home and raised me as her own. I was told she tried to return me, but my biological mother did not want me. Therefore, she took me home with her and raised me as her own until her death. I was 19 and will never forget that day. On October 9, 1999, my dear mother departed this earth and my life was forever changed a second time. The first time was when she took me home as a baby with her. She loved and cared for me like she had birthed me. I always tell people I was favored from the day I was born. I can’t tell no one else’s story but my own. This woman with a sixth-grade education from the country part of Tennessee (Somerville/Rossville area) worked as a housekeeper for more than 30 years at Rhodes College. She showed and gave me more love without ever really saying a word sometimes. My mama, Coline Warner Green, aka “Bea,” was my role model and will always be. She showed me what unconditional love looked liked. She instilled values in me that I try to instill in my two daughters each and every day. I am and will always be forever grateful to her. Not only to her. I’m forever grateful to my biological mother for putting me first and allowing me to have a life of love from four parents in their own way. She also showed me what love looks like. Two non-blood-related parents who I stayed with until I got married and two blood-related parents who raised me from a distance in their own way. I hear the term blended family sometimes, and I think to myself... half of my family is not blood-related, but that does not make them any less my family. If it wasn’t for all these people, I would not be the person I am today. My home was always full of love, food and people. I never wanted for anything. My family get-togethers were always crowded. Is my life perfect now? No, but I try to treat everyone with respect and live a life that contributes to the best of society. I respect that everyone has a story, and we should all examine ourselves instead of judging others. The best gift we can all use and give our kids and this world is LOVE. Thank you to all my family; because of you my life is full.

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Your Situation Doesn’t Define You by Bethany Lee

Roller Coaster to Parenting by Casey Roberts

ine years ago this month, we were patiently waiting to be put on the call list. We had been married five years and had been through countless fertility treatments when we decided to open our home to fostering. We didn’t get the call until January, but we made it through the classes. That first call was a roller coaster of emotions. We were finally going to be parents to two precious baby girls, four and five months old. Fast forward three months, and we were bringing home a 4-week-old baby boy that had been fighting for his life in the NICU. Nine years later and countless court dates, visitations, parent and team meetings, hospital stays, surgeries, doctors appointments, classes, good-byes and emotions that I never knew were even possible, and we have adopted four beautiful babies and are currently fostering a 6-month-old beautiful baby girl that we were able to bring home from the NICU. Our journey is unique and full of moments where I didn’t know how we would get through the day. Of course, this is just a tiny piece of our story. The emotional roller coaster to becoming parents has been nothing but amazing, from infertility to five beautiful children who each have a different beginning to life, now bonded in a way I never dreamed would be possible.

am a mother of two. I had my son at 17. I was the pregnant high school girl. No one expected me to excel (except my mom!). I was labeled. Just from that. But you know what? I took my situation, and I learned from it. My son put my life on track, and I used it to make the best of a rather complicated situation. I graduated high school early with a newborn, and I automatically enrolled in college. I met my amazing husband during my freshman year of college. My sophomore year, we had our daughter, and I finished my associates degree. “How are you going to finish now with two children?” But I know what I want, and I will achieve my goals. “It’s too hard to go to college with a baby.” I did it anyway, and I will be finishing my bachelor’s degree with two sweet babies! I proved them all wrong. I’m now a junior at MTSU and on track to graduate with a bachelor’s degree. I also have a job, as well as sewing cloth diapers and children’s clothing on the side for a little extra income. Don’t let your situation define you. You CAN achieve your goals, no matter what situation you are in. You can do it. My children have been that extra push to keep me going when things get tough and I feel like giving up. My children are now 5 years old and 16 months, and I wont give up! Mothers are superheroes, and my mother has been my backbone through it all. Thanks, Mom, and to my amazing husband for always believing in me.

(please turn the page)

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The Extra Goodness that an Extra Chromosome Brings By Faithe Logan

or more than a decade we wished, dreamed and prayed for a child. We wanted one to call ours, for you see we already had four that were ‘his’ and two that were ‘hers.’ Finally, it became a reality! But shortly after finding out we were going to add another to our family, the excitement was dampened by conflict, pain and even sadness. Through an early blood test, we were told that there was a 99 percent chance that our little one would be born with Down syndrome. We were scared of the future simply because of the unknown and uncertainty. A few weeks later, we were told the heart didn’t look right and they wanted a closer look. The 20-week ultrasound took a much closer look at the heart and revealed several abnormalities: congenital heart defects (ASD, PDA, VSD x2 and Ebstein’s Anomaly). At that time we also did an amniocentesis to verify the Down syndrome diagnosis. Within a couple of weeks we knew that our little girl would be born with Down syndrome and a severe combination of heart defects. It appeared that her heart condition might dash our hopes and take her away before she even began to live. On Tuesday, April 1, 2014, at one of our numerous doctor visits, our little girl’s heart was failing and her heart rate was dropping precariously low. Our doctor’s words shocked and stunned us. She simply said, “Today is a great day to have a baby!” So off we went to meet our little girl. Once we were checked into labor and delivery and the monitors were in place, we began to think it was all a false alarm. Her heart rate looked normal again. Just as we were getting comfortable thinking we might be in for a regular induction and delivery, her heart rate dropped. Within 30 minutes, Dawn Isabella Willow Logan made her entrance into this world, screaming and pink! This was impressive since we were told to prepare for her to be blue, quiet and potentially not breathing. Within minutes of being born, she was already showing her spunk and attitude. The doctor placed the small knit cap on her head and Dawn immediately reacted by reaching up and pulling off the cap! We knew we had

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a fighter on our hands and that we were far from the end of this journey! Over the next two-and-a-half years, Dawn fought to survive and thrive. She stayed in the NICU for almost a month and came home with an NG feeding tube and oxygen. At 2 months old, she had her first and second open heart surgeries with a short time on life support (ECMO) between the two. She was so sick, and her surgeon just wasn’t sure she would survive. But God knew! By His will and love, Dawn had the spunk she needed to make it through! A year later she was diagnosed with severe obstructive sleep apnea and had her first tonsil and adenoid surgery. Less than a year later, her sleep apnea was worse and at 22 months, she had an additional surgery to correct this problem. She battled through a terrible UTI that turned into a serious bladder infection with a week in the hospital. She contracted RSV and another virus which she could not handle on her own, and she ended up back in the hospital on antibiotics and oxygen. At 2-and-a-half years old, her heart needed additional surgery to replace her heart valve and reconstruct the right side. This surgery was a pivotal point in her life. After 12 hospital stays, five surgeries, two heart caths, so many pokes and prods, she was finally in a great place health-wise! Now at 5, she is stronger and healthier than we could have ever imagined after such

nashvilleparent.com

a rocky start to life. She is embracing all that kindergarten at Stewart Creek Elementary has to offer and learning and growing alongside her typical peers. She is a fun, playful, rambunctious, comical, energetic little girl that is a friend to all! As the light of our lives, she keeps us on our toes and busier than ever. Dawn is active at Life Point Church, busy with the Down Syndrome Association of Middle Tennessee, The Brett Boyer Foundation and Project Heart, spreading awareness and acceptance. She’s involved in Special Olympics Young Athletes, learning and playing at Gigi’s Playhouse in Brentwood, exploring with her Daisy Girl Scout troop, working on her modeling career with BNA Kids, advocating as a MakeA-Wish kid, serving as an ambassador for Paperdolls Photography and smiling bright as a representative for The Best Bows by Allison. She has shown us that the fear of the unknown is nothing compared to all the EXTRA goodness that her extra chromosome brings. There is NOTHING that she cannot do in her own time and in her own way. Strong will (stubbornness) and determination is what will propel her into the future. Every day we share her with the world! Every day we strive to make the world a better place for her and because of her! She has a bigger purpose in life than any of us can imagine. She will light up the darkness!

A Festive Advertising Section

The Party Pages KIDS

LOVE

MAGIC STEVE

Horse Birthday Parties! ✪ Multiple Party Themes ✪ Climate-Controlled Party Room ✪ Safe, Fun and Clean Environment ✪ Parties for Ages 3 and Up!

(615)397-2838 A Magic Show Creates Memories that last a lifetime

#1 PARTY PLACE

11 YEARS IN A ROW! with Parents’ Save $25 Cookies Night Out Santa

when you add the bundle to your Private Party! Let us take care of everything! ONLY 1 offer/special per party

Dec 20

Friday, Dec 13 Sat, Dec 21 6-9:30 New Years Balloon 10-noon Ages 7 & under 1-3 All ages

Countdown Dec 30 & 31

Check In Begins at 5:45

We Supply The Fun And You Supply The Party Place! Create & Bounce Art Camp

Dec 20, 23, 27 Jan 2-3, 6 9:30-3 pm or 1/2 Day

MrBondScienceGuy.com 615-573-2702

See Online Calendar for times/ages

615-893-8386

murfreesboro.tn@bounceu.com

Spectacular Science Parties Over 20 ye ars in Middle TN !

1222 Park Ave. Murfreesboro

nashvilleparent.com

Thank you for voting us one of the best Party Entertainers!

615-556-7370

www.harrisridingacademy.com harrisridingacademy@gmail.com 6331 Franklin Rd, Murfreesboro

Have your next

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december 2019 81

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The Party Pages PLAY IN THE GAME! TRY

OUR

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615-538-7514 www.digitalworldsvr.com 1945 Mallory Lane Ste. 170, Franklin

BIRTHDAYS | CORPORATE EVENTS | DATE NIGHTS | TEAM BUILDING

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THE UNITED ESCAPES OF AMERICA Suspicion of a secret agent. Does he work for us or someone else? The clues hold the answers.

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rince

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THE GRAND ILLUSION Your team must return the Magic Book of Secrets to it’s rightful owner!

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Sumner P

Find these party places and entertainers – and more! – in the directories on our website

VOTED #1 PARTY PLACE Sumner P

Sumner P

me Party e r t Ex

UNLIMITED access to all 6 Circus World attractions!

1 Game of bowling & shoe rental Pizza Party w/soft drinks, paper products & hostess

band Par t is ty r Unlimited playtime in Circus World!

lay Party p ft So

Pizza Party w/soft drinks, paper products & hostess

3 Helium balloons on a used bowling pin for guest to sign & birthday child to take home

Must be 3 years old and 36” tall.

ing Srttrikers l o w Pa y

2 Hours of unlimited access to our Softplay Gym

Pizza Party w/soft drinks, paper products & hostess

2 Hours of bowling with shoe rental

3 Helium balloons on a used bowling pin for guest to sign & birthday child to take home

Pizza Party w/soft drinks, paper products & hostess

Child must be 6 years old or younger for this package.*

Sumner

aders Poll Re

t • Annua nt • Annua en l l are ar aders Poll Re

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! w o R a n i s r a e 7Y

*(If you have older kids coming you can add on a wristband guest for them for $17.95 so they can do all the big attractions while the little kids play. Area will be open to the public as well.)

3 Helium balloons on a used bowling pin for guest to sign & birthday child to take home Bowling is for all ages! Add $1 per person to make a VIP Lane party!!

20%

off regular priced

shoe only B O W L IN G &rental

Limit one discount per coupon. NOT valid on group or birthday parties. Expired coupons NOT accepted. Original magazine print coupon valid only - computer printouts and copies NOT accepted. Coupon must be presented at time of purchase. Expires December 31, 2019.

Circus World Attractions Include:

LAZER TAG, BUNGEE JUMP TRAMPOLINES, ROLLER SKATING, TIME FREAK, RELIX COASTER, LAZER FRENZY & BUMPER CARS! Hendersonville

1/2 OFF OFF ONE WRIST BAND

Hendersonville Strike & Spare 90 Volunteer Drive 615-824-5685

Hermitage Hermitage Strike & Spare 3436 Lebanon Pike 615-883-8900

Check us out at

strikeandsparebowling.com

the

MARKETPLACE SIGN UP FOR WINTER ‘20 TODAY!

• Paisley Hall Preschool•

Sylvan Park, West End area, Beautiful Victorian House ✯✯✯ TN 3 STAR RATING OPENINGS 9 mos. - 5 yrs. • Focus on Music, The Arts, Literature, Math & Science • Musical & hand drumming workshops • Great outdoor play area www.facebook.com/PaisleyHallSchool

SMALL FRIES In Home Daycare

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6 Weeks - 5 Years Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm Meals and Snacks Included

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(615-893-9496) • TidyPawsOnline.com

Welcome to the Future of Early Childhood Education

GRANDMA'S

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at Moores Lane & Gen. George Patton

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3528 Central Pike, Hermitage

Free estimates & aﬀordable

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Now Enrolling Infants & Preschoolers Ages 6 Weeks - 5 Years

DRIVERS WANTED to deliver Nashville, Williamson, Sumner & Rutherford Parent (van or truck required)

email Kevin at

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(615) 830-5601 Larry@ThePrescottPainters.com

Deadline for the January 2020 issue is December 16. RATES AND SIZES PRINT AND DELUXE ONLINE DIRECTORY LISTING PACKAGE Ad Size 1 mo.* 3 mo. 6 mo. 12 mo. $ $ 150 $125 $110 95 Single $ $ $ $ 230 190 160 150 Double Rates are per month. *1x ads for events only. Upgrade to a Feature listing for just $25 additional.

PRINT AD ONLY Ad Size Single Double

1 mo. 3 mo. 6 mo. 12 mo. $ $ $ $ 95 85 75 50 $ $ $ $ 175 150 125 110

Marketplace Special Opportunities! Ask about our... • Online listing & homepage • Social media sponsored posts • Business highlight on our enewsletter • Digital online and mobile ads

Rates are per month

Mobile Pet Sitting Honesty & reliability guaranteed!

DIMENSIONS (width x height) Single ad: 2.25” x 1.125”

“I will care for your pets like they are my own ...with pure love.”

PAYMENT & CONTACT

Serving: Antioch, Brentwood, Franklin, Murfreesboro, and Smyrna

(615) 893-9496 www.pawstops.com

Double ad: 2.25” x 2.375”

PAYMENT: All ads must be prepaid prior to print and/or placement on website. EMAIL: stewart@daycommedia.com CALL: (855) 949-6678

84 december 2019

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If you are submitting your own ad, you must submit it as a PDF. No other file formats are accepted. We are happy to design your ad for you and provide a proof. Multiple revisions will incur additional artwork fee. Marketplace ads are not regionalized.

TERMS & CONDITIONS 1. Ads may be edited for length, content and language. 2. Publication of ad does not constitute endorsement by this publication. 3. Ad proofs are NOT guaranteed. 4. No Marketplace ads accepted for products or services offered for more than $50. 5. No refunds will be made after payment has been processed. 6. This publication reserves the right to refuse any ad at any time.

11 Convenient Locations in Middle Tennessee

the

academy

Bellevue

harpeth village 615-646-6171

Brentwood

maryland farms 615-221-5155 powell place 615-712-6374

Franklin

cool springs 615-771-2898 forrest crossing (615) 512-6888 mckayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mill 615-771-1131 seaboard lane 615-373-PLAY westhaven 615-790-6737

So Much More

Than Just Child Care.

Come see The Academy for yourself!

Hendersonville

Thank you!

indian lake village 615-824-1159

Murfreesboro gateway 615-890-5885

For voting us Best of Parent Magazine twelve years in a row! 2008

2009

2010

2011

Check out our website!

2012

2013

2014

2015

Spring Hill

2016

2017

2018

2019

heritage commons 615-591-4040

Take a tour and bring this in for a FREE week!

www.academychilddevelopment.com/special

ER CA M M

2020 RE F

I A

A D VEN

What are YOUR kids doing this summer?

Saturday, February 22

10 a.m - 3 p.m. Cool Springs Galleria â&#x20AC;˘ 1800 Galleria Blvd., Franklin

For more information email stewart@daycommedia.com nashvilleparent.com/campfair20

nashville children’s theatre

Auntie

claus n is a triumph... o ti c u d ro p r e b li “This high-ca eatrical kickth w e n st e b e Auntie Claus is th ason in town!” se y a d li o h e th off to ville Parent h s a N , g n u o Y d - Cha

NOW through DEC 29

The beloved children’s book is now the family holiday musical event of the season

RESERVED TICKETS (615) 252-4675 • www.NashvilleCT.org 25 Middleton Street • Free Parking Adjacent to the Theatre

YEARS 1998-2019 The only pediatric dentist ofﬁce to be voted Best by readers of BOTH Nashville Parent and Sumner Parent twenty-two years in a row!

We believe in the happy smile of a child.

■ Providing comprehensive dental care for children and teens, including those with special needs ■ Great kid friendly ofﬁce and caring staff ■ Accepts most insurance/Tenncare Provider

HENDERSONVILLE

behind Kroger on E. Main

118 Maple Row Blvd. Suite A1A

615-824-5047

MADISON

in the Medical Dental Village

500 Lentz Drive Suite 40

615-868-9057

www.KRSPD.com Find us on Facebook

Kurt R. Swauger, D.D.S. Emily Suiter, D.D.S. Corey J. Cloud, D.D.S. Lora Kewallal, D.D.S. Members American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry Diplomates of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry Proud members of “The Summit Institute” group of dental professionals

Favorite Nashville Parent’s

DOCs

On a scale of A+ to F