Nashville Parent magazine December 2021

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GIFTS JUST FOR YOU!

DECEMBER 2021

EVERY. FAMILY. MATTERS.

happiest holidays!

Days of Giveaways! (see the prizes & win one — page 29)

How to Be Wise About Your Kid's First

Smartphone

HELP YOUR KIDS TO DEVELOP OUTSTANDING QUALITIES

plus: • PARADES • SANTA BREAKFASTS • HOLIDAY SHOWS • UNIQUE EVENTS

& lots more!

Innovative healing matters.

Claire knows.

When Claire was struggling to get her seizures under control, she and her mom turned to the trusted physicians at Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt.

Recognized by the National Association of Epilepsy Centers as Middle Tennessee’s only designated Level 4 Epilepsy Center, Children’s Hospital brings together a comprehensive team of health care professionals to tackle the most complex seizure disorders and determine the most effective course of treatment.

Using robotic stereotactic assistance (ROSA®), Claire’s pediatric epilepsy team was able to pinpoint the precise area of her brain causing the seizures and remove it with speed and accuracy.

Claire is now seizure-free and back to doing what she loves – playing the piano, hanging out with friends and being a healthy teenager.

Learn more about Claire and hear her story on Instagram. @vumcchildren

Ranked nationally. Caring locally.

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Putting Healthy Smiles on the NICE LIST this year.

Wishing you a Happy Holiday Season!

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MERRY & BRIGHT Celebrations for all ages this holiday season at Adventure Science Center.

TRAINS Temporar y Exhibition

For All Ages Arriving Thursday, December 16 The fan-favorite exhibit, Trains, is back with a new setup and hidden surprises!

Kid-Friendly Tuesday, December 31 at Noon A New Year’s eve party that still gets them to bed on time.

L A SER Holidays

For All Ages Shows Throughout December Experience classic holiday tunes set to lights & lasers in Sudekum Planetarium.

The fun begins at AdventureSci.org

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 70 years. Learn more ways to help your child at VanderbiltBillWilkersonCenter.com For appointments, call (615) 544-6429.

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

Dec.

VOLUME 30 | NUMBER 05

18

Teaching Qualities Like Empathy & More to Your Kids

The ability to unfold the richest aspects of your child’s personality is in your hands.

21

How to Be Wise About Your Child’s First Smartphone

You’re gifting the phone — now be sure you know what you’re getting into.

25 Gift Guide:Things We Like That You’ll Love

A browse-through selection of goodies any mom or dad could want.

The Polar Express shows Dec. 14 at Capitol Theatre in Lebanon and Dec. 18, 22 and 23 at Franklin Theatre in downtown Franklin.

Things to Do!

31

nashvilleparent.com

32

Editor Picks & Ongoing Events

35

Daily Events

37

Christmas Parades

42

Santa Sightings

44

A Charlie Brown Christmas Live on Stage

december 2021 7

DECEMBER

Quote

12

DAYS OF GIVEAWAYS!

page 29 SEE THE PRIZES, THEN ENTER TO WIN!

11

Editor’s Note

of the month “I will honor Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year. I will live in the Past, the Present, and the Future.

The Spirits of all Three will strive within me.

I will not shut out the lessons that they teach!”

CHARLES DICKENS English writer regarded by many as the greatest novelist of the Victorian era. From his 1843 novella, A Christmas Carol.

COMPANY

E S TA B L I S H E D I N

1993

nashvilleparent.com CALL US AT

615-475-5220 PUBLISHER

Stewart Day stewart@daycommedia.com

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Susan Swindell Day susan@daycommedia.com

MANAGING & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

Michael W. Aldrich michael@daycommedia.com

DIGITAL STRATEGIST

Alexandra Day alex@daycommedia.com

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR

Tim Henard timhenard@daycommedia.com

Something magical happened just before Christmas.

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ACCOUNT MANAGERS Alexandra Day, Noah Day, Jessie Gleason

Feedback

Parents weigh-in on getting spanked as a kid.

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DISTRIBUTION MANAGER

Noah Day noah@daycommedia.com Kevin Mutz distribution@daycommedia.com

Parent News

Nashville Parent wraps up 2021 with a General Excellence award and more pithy news you can use.

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AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIES AND PROGRAMS

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MARKETPLACE PARENT DIRECTORIES: NASHVILLEPARENT.COM

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8 december 2021

Win a Country Christmas package from Gaylord on Dec. 1.

win on #WINSdays!

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very Wednesday on our Facebook page we give away prizes for #WINSday. What to know:

HOW IT WORKS: Each Wednesday’s prior Thursday, our e-newsletter includes the upcoming #WINSday prize and the correct answer. On Wednesday (aka Winsday), we announce the #WINSday prize on Facebook asking, “What day is it?” You post the EXACT answer from the e-newsletter and get into our drawing!

Winners are announced the following day on Facebook.

WED., DEC. 1: A Gaylord Country Christmas package valued at $1,100!

WED., DEC. 8: A Moment’s Peace Gift Card valued at $100 WED., DEC. 15: Four tickets to Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel: The Exhibition WED., DEC. 22: A family four-pack to the Nashville Zoo. WED., DEC. 22: Four tickets to Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel: The Exhibition

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

Our magazines are published monthly by Day Communications, Inc. The mailing address is 1229 Lakeview Drive, Ste. A., Franklin, TN 37067. Phone number: 615-475-5220. E-mail to: npinfo@daycommedia.com. Every precaution has been taken to ensure the accuracy of published material, however, NASHVILLE/ RUTHERFORD/SUMNER/WILLIAMSON PARENT cannot be held responsible for opinions expressed or facts supplied by its authors. NASHVILLE/RUTHERFORD/SUMNER/ WILLIAMSON PARENT is copyright © 2021 by Day Communications, Inc. All rights reserved.

Reproduction without written permission is prohibited.

© 2021 DAY COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

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DAY BY DAY

By Susan Swindell Day

My Christmas Miracle

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young, weary mother walks into a pediatrician’s office hoisting an infant car seat and the infant. The mother is foggy-headed, downcast, and tears are just behind the blues of her eyes. She signs in, sits in the well-child area and waits, attentive to her sleeping infan;, thank God she’s sleeping.

Yes, the woman is me. And she doesn’t know what the heck she’s doing.

It was two days before Christmas and the baby at three days old isn’t getting enough milk. She’s not wetting enough diapers. And the Christmas tree is crooked and the house is a mess and the in-laws are set to arrive in the afternoon.

“Day?” the nurse calls.

I gather my baby, keeping my head down, sheepish, and follow the nurse.

“Hi,” I manage, tired, my car-seat carrying shoulder burning.

“We’ll be in here,” she chirps. I walk into the bright room, sun pouring through blinds, cheery wall paper bordering. The complete opposite of how I feel. I am a failure. I am not doing well. I don’t want to be here, but I need to be here. The walls were closing in.

The nurse shuts the door behind her and I wait. I silently remove my coat. I sit back and close my eyes. My chest is hot, I am thirsty, I cannot be comforted. After what feels like an eternity, my pediatrician walks in. A small, kind woman, she is quick to greet and check me out.

“Hey! How’s it going?!” she says warmly.

And I immediately start crying. Her kindness is too much. And the baby starts crying. As I lift her from the carseat, I gag my way through a confession.

“I am not making enough milk for her! I don’t think she knows how to latch!

I called a lactation woman and I tried warm compresses and cold compresses and I ... just ...I” And there I am, utterly broken down and blubbering while trying to unlatch my nursing bra in the doctor’s office, just letting it all out.

“Hey, hey, hey” the doctor says firmly. “It’s all right. It’s OK, no biggie.

Everything’s going to be OK. You’re just a little run down and tired, is all. I’m sure the baby’s A-OK. Here, let me hold her and take a look and I’ll have Mary make you a cup of tea and we’ll let you rest a bit.”

This was in my pediatrician’s office! Blessed Doctor Schull.

They put me in my own room with a cup of tea. They brought me my baby girl and said, don’t rush, don’t worry and just try to nurse. They dimmed the lights for me and closed the blinds and there we sat, my baby girl and I, alone and sort of in shock together. We could do this.

About an hour later we emerged from the best nursing session I ever knew. One where together, sleepily, we got to know each other. We took our time, we just went step by step without any pressure or Christmas trappings around to give me stress.

Blinking and relieved, I thanked the doctor and we made our way out. My baby was milk drunk and I had a dumb, crooked smile on my face. The doctor said, “It’s not about anything but you and the baby, OK? Let all of the rest of it go ... who cares?”

And that’s the night my husband did all of our Christmas shopping on Christmas Eve. At WalMart. Because I was happily home with the baby.

nashvilleparent.com

december 2021 11

FEED BACK QUESTION: “My husband believes in spanking and I do not. I remember being spanked by my mom, over her knee, and it hurt me and still bothers me.

So far we have not spanked our little boy, age 5. Do you remember being spanked and do you think it harmed you? What else can I do?”

We received more than 300 comments to this post on Facebook.

DO YOU RECALL BEING SPANKED? “I was spanked & it only took one time. It’s was definitely a learning experience, and I respect my parents for it. So far we haven’t spanked only because my kids are fairly well behaved, but it’s always on the table as option if the circumstance calls for it and my kids are fully aware of that possibility.”

Erin Warren Daniels “My husband and I do not spank, but were both spanked as kids. I’m 35 and still have panic attacks when I hear someone take off a belt. There are better ways to discipline, in my opinion, but it takes intentionality, consistency and work.”

Rachel Sloan “I don’t believe in spanking.

I’m a data-driven individual, and there are many studies that show spanking is not beneficial.

My husband and I don’t hit each other to modify behavior; I don’t understand why I would hit my child to modify theirs. I don’t think hitting children teaches them anything productive.”

Megan Poss

12 december 2021

“Yes, I was spanked and no, it did not harm me. I was taught to be respectful, obedient, and kind.”

Belinda Mitchell Knight “I was spanked, husband wasn’t spanked enough! However, I regret spanking my first three kids. It really just made them angry; it didn’t fix anything. Now, my 12-year-old likes to smack her 8 & 10-year-old siblings to get her way. Once I realized there were more efficient ways to discipline/teach right & wrong, I changed my methods.

(About four years ago). Also, I’m a big believer in natural consequences for things. It’s hard at first. I have twin “terdlers” now whom I don’t want to spank at all. Lots and lots and lots of (exhausting) redirecting right now.

(They’ll be 2 in Jan., so things are getting fun haha).”

Jessica Haack “I was spanked as a child. I’m happy to report that it had no negative impact on my growth and development. On the contrary, I didn’t engage in behavior I knew I would be punished for. Intrinsically, one should be

motivated to follow rules, but that wasn’t the case for me.

Spanking extrinsically motivated me to follow rules until I eventually learned that I should follow them by choice. I still love and respect my parents, grandparent, aunts and uncles (all who disciplined me by spanking and time outs).”

Amanda Cope Parks “I was. My grandmother hung the paddle right outside of our room at her house. I do not remember it really, and do not have any internal scars from it.

My son gets spanked. I believe there is a difference in discipline and abuse.”

Pam Bilbrey “I only remember one spanking I ever got and I don’t remember actually being hit. I just remember my dad being irrationally angry over something I did and hitting me with the belt. I believe angry spanking and corrective spanking are two different things.”

Ashley Harris “I was raised being spanked and slapped. We have raised our

nashvilleparent.com

children with out doing so. There is so much research showing the damage it does.”

Jennifer Ross “They weren’t meant to feel good! That would defeat the purpose. Spank your kids, but not in anger. Spare that rod and spoil that child! And yes, I was spanked and I knew why! It kept me on the straight and narrow and I would never hold it against my parents today. Let it go!”

Rick Jenkins “I was spanked. I think it helped me. Yes, it hurt; no, I wasn’t beaten. But as a parent, I see how much it hurt my parent more to have to do it. I think it taught me a lot. And I’m thankful. Everyone has to choose.”

Retta Lackey “We got a belt across the back of our thigh. I don’t believe in spanking at all. It didn’t work, only made me more depressed and anxious. I’m 61 years old and still dealing with it.”

Paula Ann Atkins

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PARENT NEWS Nashville Parent Brings Home the Gold & More at Annual PMA Awards The annual national awards ceremony was not held in 2020, but returned for 2021.

A

fter a year’s delay — and much upheaval in the publishing space thanks to Covid-19 — Nashville Parent has once again found itself in the winner’s circle!

The Parenting Media Association (parentmedia.org) — a national trade organization of regional parenting media companies Winner! The 2020 October — held issue of Nashville Parent won it’s annual a Silver Award for General conference Excellence.

November 14 - 16, 2021 BABYGUIDE at the Sirata VACAY Beach Resort in St. Petersburg, TOP Florida. On hand were publishers & and editors from across the country who produce highquality magazines, Winner! The 2021 companion webspring/summer Baby SPRING / SUMMER 2021

NASHVILLEPARENT.COM

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TIPS & TRICKS FOR MORE FUN, LESS STRESS

NEW-PARENT QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

RESOURCES SUPPORT

CHILD CARE: DAYCARE OR PREK?

sites, e-newletters and local live parenting events targeted to growing families who are looking for ways to improve their lives.

Nashville Parent, established in Middle Tennessee in 1993 by publisher Stewart Day and editor Susan Day, has consistently won at the annual conference for their publications which include Williamson, Rutherford and Sumner Parent along with the biannuals The Private School Directory, Baby Guide and the annual Family Manual.

The annual awards are judged by the University of Missouri School of Journalism, after evaluating hundreds of entries in numerous categories for accurate and comprehensive reporting, superior writing and thoughtful analysis of issues relevant to the parenting audience. The competition recognizes and rewards editorial, design and general excellence.

Editor Susan Day says the Nashville Parent team is dedicated to bringing the very best to the community — especially for children — by following and clinging to their mission of connecting parents to the community.

“I have four kids,” Day says. “I raised them while producing Nashville Parent and it was just great to dig into the area and discover everything here and to

stick with it through all of the changes from the small town Nashville was to the mecca it is now!”

Day works closely with Managing Editor Michael Aldrich to maintain the channels that make up everything the Nashville Parent brand is about including a robust social media space where they nurture and interact with more than 82 thousand followers on Facebook.

Nashville Parent’s numerous PMA awards for 2021 include: GOLD in Overall Writing GOLD in Editor’s Note GOLD in Service Feature GOLD in General Feature Writing SILVER in General Excellence SILVER in Calendar of Events SILVER in Overall Design SILVER in Q & A Interview SILVER in Use of Stock Photography BRONZE in Briefs/Short Stuff BRONZE in Personal Essay For the 2021 Baby Guide: GOLD in Ancillary General Excellence GOLD in Ancillary Overall Design Learn more about the annual awards at parentmedia.org.

Guide won Gold for Ancillary General Excellence..

nashvilleparent.com

december 2021 15

NEWS Laurie Berkner’s Holiday Party LIVE for Kids!

Two virtual parties take place Saturday, Dec. 18 at 11 a.m. and 4 p.m Central Time

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Laurie Berkner and band are throwing two holiday parties on Dec. 18 and kids and families can tune-in virtually. he queen of kids’ music — Laurie Berkner — invites kids and monthly streams and millions of albums, songs and families everywhere to two special virtual DVDs sold, many of Berkner’s song are beloved clasholiday concerts this month. “Holiday sics for children worldwide. During the holiday concert, Party” LIVE virtual family concerts take Berkner and her longtime collaborators will sing holiday place on Saturday, Dec. 18 at 11 and 4 p.m. Central Time. tunes in addition to many of their most popular hits Tickets are $20, but you get access to both 80-minute including “We are the Dinosaurs,” “Victor Vito,” and “Pig parties. Berkner and her band have been doing holiday On Her Head.” concerts for families for years.

The concerts are interactive experiences where kids “With all that’s going on in the world, I feel so lucky can sing and dance along and even share their thoughts to still be able to share our annual Holiday Concert and and ideas with Berkner via the live chat format throughcelebrate with families this year,” Berkner shares. She out the show. encourages everyone to wear their holiday favorites to Get tickets to Holiday Party LIVE now at Lauthe party and to come with treats and fun in mind. rieBerkner.com and livestream it on the 18th. For Berkner, one of the most popular children’s entertaingroup rates or need-based tickets, contact katie@ ers in the U.S., has filled countless venues nationwide twotomatoes.com. with young fans. With an average of more than 16 million

QUICK BITS ..................................

• The highly anticipated exhibit, THE ELEGANCE OF ROYAL FASHION, featuring Diana, Princess of Wales’ gowns from The Pat Kerr Private Royal Collection is open now at the Monthaven Arts and Cultural Center (107 Antebellum Cir. Hendersonville). Running through January 9, 2022, for more information, call 615-822-0789 or visit monthavenartsandculturalcenter.com.

• Looking for another reason to road trip East to the Smokies? DOLLY PARTON’S STAMPEDE DINNER Attraction transforms into a winter wonderland that includes a full-scale Nativity, holiday decorations, Santa Claus and a four-course holiday feast. The event runs through Jan. 1, 2022. Show times and reservations are available by calling 865-4534400 or visiting dpstampede.com.

16 december 2021

• There’s a full house of NEW BABIES AT NASHVILLE ZOO in the neonatal rooms at its HCA Healthcare Veterinary Center! Two cotton-top tamarins, a giant anteater, two caracal kittens, a Palawan binturong, and a banded palm civet were all born this fall and can be seen in the neonatal care rooms. Stop by the nursery window to see all the cuteness. Stay updated on these babies and more via Nashville Zoo’s social media.

• If you’re downtown over the holidays, be sure to step inside the 120-yearold UNION STATION NASHVILLE YARDS HOTEL lobby (1001 Broadway) to view some of the the recently completed $15.5 renovation. And, on the second Tuesday of each month, take in Stories at the Station. Head over on Dec. 14 from 6 - 9 p.m. for the free event. Learn more at unionstationhotelnashville.com.

A Holiday Tale & Coloring Book From Local Author

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ocal author Professor Thadamouse has a holiday book out that details the origins of Franklin’s Christmas tree in the town square. Young kids will be enthralled by The First Franklin Christmas Tree ($19.99) and the mysterious gift that Saint Nicholas leaves to the faith-filled townspeople. Professor Thadamouse — who started writing when he was just a wee mouse-pup in third grade — also has an accompanying coloring book ($9.99), so kids can read the story and color it too. It’s fun to envision small-town Franklin at its humble beginnings, compared to the bustling town it is today. Adults, too, will enjoy the sentiments the tale invokes. Cheery and colorful illustrations by Claudie C. Bergeron.

Pick up the book and coloring book for your kids at professorthadamouse.com; follow Professor Thadamouse on Facebook @professorthadamouse.

nashvilleparent.com

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PARENTING

BY SANDRA GORDON

Empathy, Creativity and Confidence Can Be Taught Like so much else in parenting, you have to model the virtues you want to bring out of your children

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hen my daughter was in the fourth grade, a proud tear sprang to my eye when her teacher, a stern taskmaster, said, “Rebecca has something that can’t be taught: Motivation.”

Rebecca, my shy, oldest always tried her best. Still, was she inherently self-motivated or just trying to please Mrs. Mekka by completing her assignments? I couldn’t be sure. But her teacher’s comment made me think about character development.

18 december 2021

Is It Inherited or Made?

It depends. Aside from self-motivation, which can be challenging to impart to others, many seemingly innate qualities can be learned, including creativity, empathy and selfconfidence. Here’s how to instill these three valuable virtues in your kids--and even yourself.

As our experts will attest, all it takes is a little homework.

Coaxing Creativity Using your imagination to create something new is a rewarding skill anyone can develop.

nashvilleparent.com

“Creativity is born from a child’s fantasy life, when he’s just playing or doing nothing and drawing on his own inner resources,” says artist and creativity expert Lynn Newman (lynnnewman.com).

Kids are used to be being told what to do.

But freeing up some screen-free down time is key to the creative process. “It’s important to let kids roam and explore, even if they’re just daydreaming on their bed. That fantasy world is where inventiveness is born,” Newman says.

Doing nothing doesn’t always come easy.

Many kids will soon complain that they’re

bored. But instead of suggesting what to do — such as baking cookies or planting flowers — “let kids be uncomfortable in that void and figure out how to fill it themselves,” Newman says. To get your child started, you might ask, “What’s the easiest thing you could do right now?” Or, “So what if you’re bored? Now what?”

Whatever your child comes up with, resist the urge to judge it.

“Kids want to create for the thrill of inventing, not for the product,” Newman says. If your child decides to paint, for example, don’t say “that’s a good thing to do” or declare that the resulting picture is pretty.

Judgment calls — good or bad — condition kids to seek validation, which squashes creativity. Instead, keep your comments neutral, such as “that’s interesting,” or say nothing and just be present. The essence of creativity is being comfortable with the uncomfortable and seeing what ideas spring from it. It’s a personal process that can translate to adulthood.

“When we give ourselves permission to sit still and ponder what’s important and what has meaning for us, we can create more of what we want in our lives,” Newman says.

Encouraging Empathy “Empathy — being able to stand in someone else’s shoes and understand how it feels to be there — can be taught to children,” says renowned psychiatrist Gail Saltz, M.D., who is also creator of the Podcast, “The Power of Different.” Seeing the world in multi dimensions is an important viewpoint. “Empathy gives you the objectivity to step out of a situation, look at it, then step back in and make better decisions for yourself,” Saltz says. “It’s about becoming an understanding bystander.”

If your child complains that a friend is suddenly not being nice, for example, empathy can help her consider what might be going on that’s causing the friend to act that way instead of automatically taking the behavior personally and ending the friendship. Empathy also allows kids to see that we’re not so different from each other, even if we might look that way.

“There are more families than ever that are of multi-race, religion or same sex,” Saltz says. When children learn to be empathetic, they can note similarities within those differences, such as we’re a family; they’re a family. We love each other; they love each other. We go on vacation; they go on vacation, and so on.

“Empathy teaches acceptance and builds mutual understanding and trust,” Saltz says.

Fostering empathy starts with role modeling empathetic behavior yourself and talking about

it. For example, if you ask a new mom in the neighborhood out for coffee, why not mention it to your kids that because she’s a newcomer, she might be lonely and looking for a friend? Also, discuss the social situations your kids mention or in the news by asking open-ended questions, such as, “What do you think about that?” Teaching empathy starts by engaging your kids in conversations about social and personal issues and drawing them out, Saltz says.

Inspiring Self-Confidence Kids today are suffering from a confidence crisis, says Heather Hans, a licensed clinical social worker and author of The Heart of Self-Love: How to Radiate with Confidence ($16.95; AuthorHouse).

“They’re growing up with Facebook, Instagram and Snap Chat, where everything is about image,” says Hans, who has a 10 year old son. “They’re worried about what other people will think of them, exhausted from the increased academic demands and competition and scared to get make a move or a commitment.”

A fear-based attitude can hold anyone back from reaching their potential. But there are lots of ways to promote a culture of confidence within your family. It begins with you.

“Our own self-work rubs off on our kids,” Hans says.

For starters, get into the habit of graciously accepting compliments instead of humbly dismissing them, such as saying, “Thank you” if someone says, “I like your shirt,”rather than, “What? This old thing?”

When your child overhears you accepting a compliment, you send a message that you’re worthy of the praise. “We teach people how to treat us by how we treat ourselves,” Hans says.

It’s also helpful to acknowledge when you’re angry, hungry or tired, as in, “I’m exhausted so I’m going to take a break instead of trying to plow through this project.”

“If we don’t take care of our basic human needs, it can take longer to get things done and feel like doomsday, which can wear on our selfesteem,” Hans says.

Finally, take healthy risks. “Do something that scares you that will help you grow and encourage your kids to do the same,” says Hans. If you’re terrified of public speaking, for example, volunteer to give a presentation at work and tell your kids about it. “There’s no better way for us to gain confidence than getting out of our comfort zone,” Hans says.

nashvilleparent.com

Sandra Gordon is an award-winning freelance writer who contributes regularly to numerous parenting publications across the country.

december 2021 19

S E R V I N G FA M I L I E S F O R O V E R 8 0 Y E A R S

WELCOME DR. POWELL! We are delighted to welcome Dr. Kristen Powell to our OHPA family.

She is now taking appointments.

She is originally from Mississippi but finished her residency in pediatrics at Vanderbilt. She will work in our Bellevue location and has a particular interest in helping new moms with feeding issues and lactation. She is excited about starting her practice and caring for all of our families!

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEKNIGHT AND WEEKENDS. WE ARE WITH YOU AND YOUR CHILD YEAR AFTER YEAR.

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Voted #1 Pediatric Office 17 Years in a Row! We pledge to continue to earn that trust one family at a time.

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Paul J. Heil, M.D. Linda D. Brady, M.D. Jon Betts, M.D. James Keffer, M.D. Jennifer Ragsdale, M.D.

John Long, M.D. Chris Smeltzer, M.D. Kylie Cormier, M.D. Vicky Phillips, M.D. Kristen Powell, M.D.

615-352-2990 or visit www.ohpa.com.

Bellevue Office

Old Harding Road Office

7640 Hwy. 70S. Nashville, TN 37221

5819 Old Harding Pike Nashville, TN 37205

20 december 2021

Ever buy a goat from a vending machine? #GivingMachinesNashville makes it easy for you to donate to charitable causes, like buying goats for families in developing countries.

100% of donations made at the Giving Machines are donated to nonprofits.

Located at Bridgestone Arena Plaza from 11/18 - 12/31/21.

GivingMachinesNashville.org

nashvilleparent.com

PARENTING

SMARTS ABOUT FIRST

SMARTPHONES

Maybe you’re giving your child his first smartphone for Christmas. Maybe you think you know what you’re doing. Maybe you don’t. Even if you DO, there’s plenty more to learn about the ins-and-outs and ups-and-downs of kid ownership.

W

ith Christmas here, many parents are wondering if they should finally cave and give their child a smartphone. It’s a tough call these days with all of the incoming news of kid anxiety and mental health. So, what’s the best — or “right” age for your kid to get a

BY JANIE SNYDERMAN phone? What is your decision to get a phone for your child based on? Is social pressure leading you astray? What kind of phone should you buy? And what parental controls are available to keep them safe?

There are lots of questions when you’re looking at plunking down for a phone and adding it to your family’s monthly tab.

THE RIGHT AGE There doesn’t appear to be a magic age for

when to get a kid a smartphone, yet according to Common Sense Media, a nonprofit group focused on responsible media use, by age 11, upwards of 53 percent of kids have one.

Middle school marks a big transition for kids — and the kids feel the pressure all around them to own a smartphone. Moms and dads feel it too, and the conversations begin. Common Sense media says age isn’t as important as maturity, though, so the de(please turn the page)

nashvilleparent.com

december 2021 21

PARENTING cision should be based on a kid-by-kid basis.

Evaluate your child’s readiness by asking yourself questions about your child.

• Is he responsible enough? (Does he get his homework done? Is he responsive to your requests? Does he take care of his personal items?)

• Do they already keep other devices, such as tablets, charged?

You can also look at whether there is a real need for your child to have a smartphone, such as being able to reach him if he’s on a sport’s travel weekend without you or if he walks home from school. Lots of parents go back and forth with their kids via text all day — it’s the new parenting realm — providing reminders about family schedules, birthdays and such.

Of course, if your children aren’t asking for smartphones many say it’s worth it to not buy one for them. Once you give a kid a smartphone, the competition for their attention begins.

Social Pressure The world of kids is a pressure cooker of social this-and-that. Once one popular kid has a smartphone all the rest of the kids start thinking they want one, too. Today plenty of elementary aged kids have them, but experts advise against kids that young having smartphones.

Why does your child want a phone? Is it for a good reason? (And while you don’t like it, it IS true that kids want to fit in, even as much as adults do).

Sometimes social pressure comes from

22 december 2021

school clubs and sports teams. Sometimes social pressures happen among parents trying to keep up. And in school, the focus on digital this and that practically makes a smartphone a necessity at younger and younger ages. But you don’t have to cave if you don’t want to.

Parents of little kids will often band together with like-minded families to hold off as a group. An organization called Wait Until 8th lets families pledge together not to give kids smartphones until eighth grade.

To ensure a lasting effect, the organization requires at least 10 families from a child’s grade and school to sign up. Parents can still sign the pledge if they give their kids a phone that can only text and call.

Be open with your kids about your real concerns about everything that phone ownership means.

“Talk about their digital footprint, which starts with iPads and computers but grows even more with smartphones,” says Mariah Bruehl, author of Real-Life Rules: A Young Person’s Guide to Self-Discovery, Big Ideas and Healthy Habits ($18; Roost Books). “You can do a search on yourself and show what comes up: the people you follow, comments you’ve made on posts or articles. Make sure your child understands that everything you do online — comments, likes, posts — stays with you for years to come,” she adds.

Picking the Phone It’s helpful for all of your family members to be on the same system, be it iOS or Android, experts say. That way you can more easily message one another, share

nashvilleparent.com

calendars, set up parental controls and more. Apple has Family Sharing and Screen Time controls for families with iPhones. The Google Family Link app works for those with Android phones (and Chromebooks). Google even has a Family Link iPhone app for parents to manage their kids’ Android phones.

When you link your kids’ phone account to yours you can set screen-time limits, choose which apps you want them to have, approve purchases from the App Store and the Google Play store and track their location, although that’s another subject altogether.

If you do buy your child a new smartphone, consider a protection plan, or at least a rugged case. The number of kids walking around with cracked cell phone glass is practically a running joke: If you show me your’s, I’ll show you mine.

Teaching Responsible Use Deciding on the right phone for your child is a step in the right direction, but before they power up for the first time, experts say you should talk with them about your expectations for its use — and what will happen in the event the phone gets damaged, lost or misused. Your ground rules should include no useage in your bedroom, courtesy in treating others and openness to you about cyberbullying.

You might even consider drawing up a contract with your child. You can find a Family Media Agreement at commonsensemedia. org/familyagreement.

Janie Snyderman is a writer, entrepreneur and a Media mom of two.

Call or book online.

My Gym of Brentwood 330 Franklin Road (Near TJ Maxx)

(615) 371-KIDS/5437

my-gym.com/brentwood MORE DETAILS

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Primrose School of North Murfreesboro 2308 Wendelwood Drive Murfreesboro, TN 37129 615.848.8440 PrimroseNorthMurfreesboro.com

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(615) 224-3851 www.harvestmartialarts.com nashvilleparent.com

THE LEADER IN EARLY EDUCATION AND CARE®

december 2021 23

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mom & dad gifts

holiday

THINGS WE LIKE THAT WE THINK YOU’LL

LOVE.

You’ve been through a lot. It’s OK to deck the halls with a little something for you this season.

Arizona Sherling Suede Leather Birkenstocks $150 birkenstock.com

PhoneSoap Pro $119.95 phonesoap.com

For men and women, these perfect house shoes wrap your feet in soft warmth while allowing your tootsies to breath.

Walk outside to get the mail; back inside for a coffee, you’ll want to live in these things.

Who doesn’t want to be germ-free? This rapid UV-C sanitizer will kill 99.9% of your phone’s surface bacteria in just five minutes. The Pro has a larger surface bay than the original — perfect for that new phone you get under the tree.

First Leaf Wine Club

Comfy Original

Various prices firstleaf.club

$44.99 thecomfy.com

Enter your preferences at the website then fine the perfect wines to match your palates.

Holiday Bundles are available (three wines for $49.95) or customized bundles in threesix- or 12-packs. Check out all of the award-winning wines and never whine again!

The original wearable blanket is perfect for soccer and hockey parents! It’s oversized and available in several different colors. Cozy wozy; toss it in the wash and tumble dry. Never be cold again!

nashvilleparent.com

december 2021 25

mom &

holiday

YOU’LL LOVE. YOU’LL L

Sliding Farmhouse Chalkboard Wooden Inlaid Backgammon Set $93.98 ymimports.com

Get serious with your game playing after the kids are in bed. Enjoying a life-long competition with your other is where it’s at!

This 17-inch, gorgeous set can stay out on your coffee table for years to come.

Let the games begin.

$55.99 kirklands.com

Communication is everything in a family and all families have to master it. You can use post-it-notes and text messages, but catch the rest of the details on the chalkboard!

“Ran to get Jimmy!” or “Turn off the oven at 5!” comes in super handy when a chalkboard’s on the wall. Here’s to happy families.

The Dad Hoodie $98 thedadhoodie.com

For the guy who doesn’t want to lug that diaper bag around no matter how stylish it is! The Dad Hoodie makes it convenient to do small errands. Available in black, charcoal, heather gray or navy, he doesn’t have to cramp his style, ya know?

26 december 2021

nashvilleparent.com

& dad gifts

LOVE. YOU’LL LOVE. NutriBullet Single Serve Blender $100 amazon.com

Whip up your smoothie and get going! This powerful 1200-watt blender includes a single-serve blender, travel cup, and all the hope and promise that healthy living provides. Toss it all in, pulverize into creamy deliciousness and ditch the guilt.

Baby Foot & Handprint Kit

Perfect Pair of the Month Club

$23.95 amazon.com

$85 murrayscheese.com

A keepsake to treasure forever, and you’ll never take it off the wall. The kit includes non-toxic clay, acrylic safety glass, twosided tape for pictures, rolling pin, choice of three colored mats (pink, blue and gender-neutral white), wall hanger, stand, and detailed instructions. Go ahead, ooh and ahh.

Yum, yum and yum. This gourmet subscription box includes delish pairings monthly. Items are chosen from the highest quality slections of both international and domestic producers.

You know that wine bottle you ordered? You know what to do.

Angie’s Tables Tablescape Kits $139.99 angiestables.com

Don’t have time to for fussing with table décor?

Thanks to Angie’s Tables, you’re covered. Angie’s Tables offers Tablescape Kits that get your table set fast.

This Goldleaf Tablescape includes napkins, tablecloth, napkin holders, goldleaf placemats, a goldleaf centerpiece mat, two candles and candle holders. It all comes in an easy-to-store flap box. Other seasonal and holiday kits available.

Voila!

nashvilleparent.com

College Sweatshirt $39.99 fanatics.com

Oh, yes, we all have our team! Whether it’s the Vols, the Tigers, the Dores, Bama or otherwise, you should each have the sweatshirt that tells your story. This tackle twill pullover can be worn proudly on game days even if you’re a house divided.

Oh, and go Dawgs!

december 2021 27

Celebrate the holiday season with Nashville’s most beloved holiday tradition!

to Request e sit in th ne! o Z w o Sn

WITH THE NASHVILLE SYMPHONY

DECEMBER 15–24 AT TPAC! CONCEPT, STORY TREATMENT, AND

Paul Vasterling Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky PRINCIPAL CONDUCTOR Ming Luke

CHOREOGRAPHY BY MUSIC COMPOSED BY

Tickets on sale NOW at NashvilleBallet.com

ENROLL NOW FOR

SPRING CLASSES

Ages 2–18 Classes Begin January 10 J O I N U S! Children’s Division Open House January 8, 2022 10–11 a.m.

R EG I ST E R TO DAY

NashvilleBallet.com/school

61 5 -2 97-2 9 6 6 X 91 0

12DAYSof

facebook.com/ nashvilleparentmag

GIVEAWAYS!

We’re giving away more than $3,000 in marvelous “experience” gifts found here on the different ornaments!12 Days of Giveaways happens via our Facebook page starting TPAC PRIZE WEDNESDAY, INCLUDES DECEMBER 1.

DETAILS: • THE GIVEAWAY OF THE DAY WILL BE ANNOUNCED ON FACEBOOK BETWEEN 8 a.m. & 2 p.m.

WATCH FOR #12DAYSOF GIVEAWAYS • A GIVEAWAY A DAY TAKES PLACE WEEKDAYS THROUGH DEC. 16 • WE’LL PROVIDE A QUESTION TO ANSWER AND A LINK TO THAT DAY’S CONTEST ENTRY FORM • FULL PRIZE DETAILS WILL BE INCLUDED IN THE FACEBOOK POST • WINNER WILL BE SELECTED VIA A RANDOM DRAWING AND ANNOUNCED THE NEXT DAY ON FACEBOOK

GRAND PRIZE!

A TWO-NIGHT STAY FOR A FAMILY OF FOUR AT GAYLORD OPRYLAND RESORT, ADMISSION TO SOUNDWAVES, MOVIE EXHIBIT, ICE TUBING $1,100 VALUE (DEC. 1)

A FAMILY 4-PACK TO ITS UPCOMING HOLIDAY PERFORMANCE OF A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS LIVE ON STAGE $300 VALUE (DEC. 3)

NASHVILLE BALLET PACKAGE INCLUDES 4 TICKETS TO NASHVILLE’S NUTCRACKER $140 VALUE (DEC. 6)

A FULL DAY OF PEACE SPA PACKAGE AT A MOMENT’S PEACE $385 VALUE (DEC. 8)

DISCOVERY CENTER AT MURFREE SPRINGS MEMBERSHIP FOR A FAMILY OF FOUR $100 VALUE (DEC. 14)

4 TICKETS TO MICHELANGELO’S SISTINE CHAPEL: THE EXHIBITION $70 VALUE (DEC. 15)

nashvilleparent.com

NASHVILLE ZOO HOUSEHOLD MEMBERSHIP $150 VALUE (DEC. 9)

CHEEKWOOD FAMILY MEMBERSHIP $100 VALUE (DEC. 13)

NASHVILLE REP PRIZE INCLUDES 4 TICKETS TO A CHRISTMAS STORY $186 VALUE (DEC. 2)

ADVENTURE SCIENCE CENTER VOYAGER MEMBERSHIP $139 VALUE (DEC. 16)

4 TICKETS TO THE NASHVILLE PREDATORS GAME ON NEW YEAR’S DAY AND 4 SKATE PASSES TO FORD ICE CENTER $360 VALUE (DEC. 7)

FRIST ART MUSEUM FAMLY MEMBERSHIP $75 VALUE (DEC. 10)

december 2021 29

•••

• •••••• • • • •

Please call ahead to see if your visit can be conducted via telemedicine.

EVENING AND WEEKEND HOURS Hours and availability vary by location, visit tnpeds.com for details.

SAME DAY APPOINTMENTS FOR SICK VISITS

www.TNPeds.com

••

NEW TELEMEDICINE OPTIONS

••

WE ARE HERE FOR YOU WITH...

••

••

• • •

• • • •••••• • • • ••

HERE FOR YOU ALL HOLIDAY SEASON

Call us to schedule your flu vaccination today!

Thank you Sumner and Williamson Parent readers for voting us Best Pediatrician!

ALL LOCATIONS NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

4720 Trader’s Way, Ste. 600 Thompson’s Station, TN 37179

1370 Gateway Blvd., Ste. 110 Murfreesboro, TN 37129

410 North Parrish Place, #2000 Hendersonville, TN 37075

5505 Edmondson Pike, Ste. 104 Nashville, TN 37211

(615) 302-1279

(615) 890-9008

(615) 826-2080

(615) 331-5898

DECEMBER

By Michael W. Aldrich

THINGS TO DO!

Editor’s Picks, etc.

32 Reoccuring events and our favorites.

Daily Events 35 Day-to-day goings on.

Christmas Parades!

37 Local festivities for the holiday season.

42 44

Santa Sightings

Where to see the big man in red near you.

Charlie Brown Live On Stage A family holiday favorite comes to life at TPAC.

Editor’s Picks: 32 Amy Grant & Vince Gill at The Ryman

36 The Muppets Christmas Carol movie with the Nashville Symphony

38 Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel: The Exhibition

39 Tuba Christmas 41 Dickens of a Christmas

46 Winterfest at Fountains at Gateway

47 New Year’s Eve Live in Nashville

Nashville’s Nutcracker

N

ashville’s version of the timeless holiday classic returns for the 14th year Dec. 15 - 24, with more than 100 dancers per performance taking audiences on a fantastic journey through a dreamland filled with beloved characters.

nashvilleparent.com

31

EDITOR’S PICKS & ONGOING EVENTS FRANKTOWN FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS 615-595-1227 FranktownOpenHearts.com

Drive-through in your car and enjoy thousands of sparkling holiday lights and more than 200 light displays from 5 - 9 p.m. through Dec. 26 at The Williamson County Ag Center (4215 Long Lane, Franklin). Tickets are $25 per car.

On Walkin’ Wednesdays, get out and stroll the lighted route from 5 - 6:30 p.m. followed by regular car tours from 7 - 9 p.m.

GAYLORD OPRYLAND’S A COUNTRY CHRISTMAS

615-889-1000 christmasatgaylordopryland.com

Explore acres of twinkling lights, more than 17 hours of exciting activities, shows and events including ice skating/tubing, photos with Santa, horsedrawn carriage rides and more through Jan. 2. In addition, step into the world of Buddy the Elf in the all-new Mission: Save Christmas featuring an Elf™ walk-through experience.

HOLIDAY LIGHTS 615-356-8000 cheekwood.org

Walk through an illuminated winter wonderland at Cheekwood (1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville) from 5 - 10 p.m. with one mile of lights, real reindeer, s’more pits, Nutcracker Marche in the Mansion, the Poinsettia Tree and more through Jan. 9, 2022. $22 adults, $17 ages 3 - 17 ($5 discount for members).

MUSIC CITY CHRISTMAS CRUISE

generaljackson.com/music-citychristmas-evening-cruise

Twelve Nashville talents perform Christmas classics and modern holiday favorites on the General Jackson Showboat. Boarding is 6:15 p.m., boat departs at 7 and returns at 9:45 p.m. Cruise and show are $45 for kids ages 4 - 11 and $60 for adults. Dinner options are available for an additional price. Midday cruises available daily from 11:15 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. through Dec. 25.

THE OAK RIDGE BOYS CHRISTMAS IN TENNESSEE DINNER SHOW 615-889-1000 tickets.gaylordopryland.com

A 25-day residency as part of Gaylord Opryland’s A Country Christmas (2800 Opryland Drive; Tennessee Ballroom) through Dec. 25. The dinner show features a holiday meal followed by The Oak Ridge Boys. Cost is $99.99 per adult, $39.99 per child (4 - 11) and children 3 and younger are free.

FREE SCHOLASTIC BOOK FAIR AT SMYRNA PUBLIC LIBRARY 615-459-4884 rclstn.org

Drop by Smyrna Public Library (400 Enon Springs Road West, Smyrna) from 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. through Dec. 7 for 50 percent off all merchandise.

A CHRISTMAS STORY 615-782-4040 nashvillerep.org

Light your leg lamps and grab your pink bunny pajamas because A Christmas Story by Nashville Repertory Theatre returns to TPAC’s Johnson Theater (505 Deaderick Street) Wednesday - Sundays, Dec. 2 - 19. Show times vary. Tickets start at $46.50.

HOLIDAY WONDERS AT BOWIE PARK 615-799-5544 elsnashville.com

Gather a carload for this drive-through holiday light show at Bowie Park (7211 Bowie Lake Road, Fairview) from 6 - 10 p.m. every Thursday through Sunday, Jan. 9. Be sure to stop by the Nature Center, transformed into Santa’s Village, for a quick visit and photo op with Santa, hot cocoa, cookies and a take-home craft for the kids. Tickets are $25.

MICHELANGELO’S SISTINE CHAPEL: THE EXHIBITION

615-514-1000 chapelsistine.com/exhibits/nashville Michelangelo’s paintings carefully reproduced photographically and artfully displayed in their original size at Opry Mills Mall (433 Opry Mills Drive, Nashville) Thursdays -Sundays, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. through January 16, 2022. The visit takes around 60 to 90 minutes. Tickets are $17.50 and can be purchased here.

WINTERFEST AT FOUNTAINS AT GATEWAY

Enjoy Murfreesboro’s outdoor ice skating rink through Jan. 30, 2022 at Fountains at Gateway (1500 Medical Center Parkway, Murfreesboro). Hours are Wednesdays and Thursdays from 4 - 8 p.m., Fridays from 12 - 10 p.m., Saturdays from 12 - 10 p.m. and Sundays from 1 - 8 p.m. Holiday hours start Dec. 20 through Jan. 3 and are Sunday - Thursday from 12 - 9 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays from 12 - 10 p.m. and Sundays from 1 - 9 p.m. Admission is $15 for ages 13 and older, $12 for kids ages 4 - 12 and kids 3 and younger are free. Admission includes tax, skate rentals and 90 minutes on the ice.

FREE CANNONSBURGH VILLAGE DRIVE-THROUGH CHRISTMAS LIGHTS 615-890-0355

Who’s excited for Christmas lights?!

Scan the QR code to check out our full 2021 roundup.

32 december 2021

For the second year, Cannonsburgh Village (312 S. Front St., Murfreesboro) hosts a free drivethrough Christmas lights event the first three weekends in December from 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.

nashvilleparent.com

NASHVILLE’S NUTCRACKER

615-782-4040 nashvilleballet.com

Nashville Ballet’s holiday tradition finds Clara and her magical friends on a journey through a spectacular dreamland with familiar Nashville landmarks. Performed in TPAC’s Jackson Hall from Dec. 15 - 24.

Tickets start at $35.

FREE WINTER WONDERLAND AT J. TRAVIS PRICE PARK SPRINGFIELD springfield-tn.org Enjoy thousands of Christmas lights and more than a dozen holiday scenes at J. Travis Price Park (4155 Wilks Road, Springfield) from 5:30 - 9 p.m.

Dec. 10 through Dec. 23.

THINGS TO DO CHRISTMAS LIGHTS CARRIAGE RIDES

615-983-2303 sugarcreekcarriages.com

Enjoy the Christmas decorations of downtown Nashville with a 20, 30 or 45-minute private narrated carriage ride to the city Christmas tree, along with other spots like Schermerhorn Symphony Center, Country Music Hall of Fame, Bridgestone Arena, Riverfront Park and more. Rides are on Fridays from 6 - 10 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays from 1 - 9 p.m. through Dec. 31. Rides start at $64.95.

Amy Grant and Vince Gill once again spend December at the Ryman, playing a total of 12 Christmas concerts.

“Christmas at the Ryman” runs from Monday, Dec. 13 through Wednesday, Dec. 22.

A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS LIVE ON STAGE

THE ELVES AND THE SHOEMAKER

Join Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus and the whole Peanuts gang as they produce their own Christmas play and learn the true meaning of the season at TPAC’s Polk Theater (505 Deaderick Street, Nashville). Adapted from Charles M. Schulz’s timeless story, this production runs Dec. 16 22. Tickets start at $40.

Nashville Children’s theatre (25 Middleton Street, Nashville) presents the world premiere through Dec. 19; Fridays at 6:30 p.m., Saturdays at 1 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Inspired by the Grimm Brothers’ tale and written

by Executive Director Ernie Nolan, this playful retelling shows that exhibiting kindness and creativity can be as lifechanging as a pair of well-made shoes!

Perfect for ages 4 and older.

615-782-4040 tpac.org

ELF THE MUSICAL AT BOROARTS

FREE FAIRVIEW TINSEL TRAIL

615-904-2787 boroarts.org

fb.me/e/X65c1h14

Murfreesboro’s Center for the Arts (110 West College Street, Murfreesboro) presents this holiday favorite live on stage Dec. 3 - 19. Performances are Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Adults are $18; children are $14.

SCROOGE IN ROUGE 615-826-6037 hpactn.com

615-252-4675 nashvillechildrenstheatre.org

Come out to Hendersonville Performing Arts Company (260 West Main Street, Hendersonville) for this quick-change, cross-dressing version of the Charles Dickens classic. Performances are through Dec. 12 on Fridays, Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and on Saturdays and Sundays at 2 p.m. Adult admission is $20; children/seniors are $17.

The Inaugural Festive Fairview Tinsel Trail opens Dec. 4 and runs nightly from 2 - 9 p.m. through Jan. 2 at Fairview City Hall (7100 City Center Cir, Fairview). Stroll and check out the Christmas trees decorated by local businesses, organizations, groups and individuals. Food trucks available Saturdays and Sundays.

IMMERSIVE VAN GOGH EXHIBIT nashvillevangogh.com

Lose yourself in 500,000 cubic feet of monumental projections animating Vincent van Gogh’s oeuvre. Wander through moving images that highlight brushstrokes, detail and color to illuminate the mind of the master painter. The exhibit runs Dec. 9, 2021 - Feb. 6, 2022 at Lighthouse ArtSpace Nashville (4416 Ridgefield Way, Nashville). Tickets start at $39.99.

nashvilleparent.com

AUDIENCE OF ONE PRESENTS: MATILDA THE MUSICAL 615-784-4014 capitoltheatretn.com

Come out to Capitol Theatre (110 W Main St., Lebanon) for Audience of One’s live production of Matilda The Musical Thursdays - Sundays, Dec. 9 19. General seating tickets are $17.

IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE: A LIVE RADIO PLAY studiotenn.com

The holiday classic film comes to life as a live 1940s radio broadcast at the Factory at Franklin’s Jamison Theater (230 Franklin Road, Franklin) Thursdays - Sundays Dec. 9 through 24. With the help of an ensemble of five actors that bring a few dozen characters to the stage, the story of George Bailey unfolds as he considers ending his life one fateful Christmas Eve. Run time is approximately 90 minutes and tickets start at $35.

AMY GRANT & VINCE GILL: CHRISTMAS AT THE RYMAN 615-889-3060 ryman.com

One of Music City’s most treasured traditions returns to Ryman Auditorium (116 5th Avenue North, Nashville) with Amy Grant and Vince Gill’s 12-concert run Dec. 13 - 22. Show dates and times vary. Tickets start at $50 (online tickets available for $40).

(Please turn the page)

december 2021 33

An educational journey from the first steps through graduation.

�The " child is both a hope and a promise for mankind."

–Maria Montessori

www.montessoriacad.org

100 Montessori Drive, Brentwood, TN

MEN’S & WOMEN'S BASKETBALL DECEMBER HOME GAMES 12/2 12/2 12/15 12/15 12/18 12/19 12/22

THU THU WED WED SAT SUN WED

LIPSCOMB LIPSCOMB CHATTANOOGA AUBURN BETHEL (IN) MIDDLE TENNESSEE WKU

5 PM 7 PM 5 PM 7 PM 2 PM 3 PM 1 PM

Visit BELMONTBRUINS.COM for the full schedules Text 615.460.BALL for information on our $20 Birthday Party Package which includes a game ticket, meal voucher, birthday announcement, visit from Bruiser and so much more!

WATCH LIVE ON MEN'S

WOMEN'S

All Times CST • Dates & times are subject to change Buy tickets at

BELMONTBRUINS.COM #ITSBRUINTIME @belmontmbb | @belmontwbb @belmont_mbb | @belmontwbb

34 december 2021

nashvilleparent.com

DAILY EVENTS WED 01

JUMPAROO TODDLER TIME urbanairtrampolinepark.com

The trampoline park opens just for the little ones and their parents to jump, bounce and crawl around safely Mon -Thu at Urban Air Adventure Park in Nashville (4331 Old Hickory Boulevard, Old Hickory) and Fridays in Cool Springs (1735 Galleria Boulevard, Franklin) from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Admission is $11.99 plus tax per child; and parents play free.

FREE HOLIDAY MOVIE SERIES AT INGLEWOOD: ELF 615-862-5866 library.nashville.org

Enjoy a free family holiday movie every Wednesday in December from 3:30 - 6 p.m. at Inglewood Library (4312 Gallatin Pike, Nashville).

FREE WILD WEDNESDAY AT SOAC

michelle.nicholson@townofsmyrna.org

Join the staff at Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center (100 Sam Ridley Parkway East, Smyrna) to discover something wild about the natural world each Wednesday from 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.

You may meet a SOAC animal or enjoy a nature-based activity.

FREE NEW BEGINNINGS FREE HEALTH AND FITNESS CLASS FOR WOMEN 615-862-5871 thenewbeginningscenter.org

All ages. Southeast Branch Library, 5260 Hickory Hollow Parkway, Antioch, 6 p.m. - 7 p.m. Learn tips for healthy eating and techniques for managing stress with 30 minutes of exercise and healthy lifestyles, Wednesdays at Southeast Branch Library (5260 Hickory Hollow Parkway, Antioch) from 6 - 7 p.m. Register online.

THINGS TO DO

EARLY LEARNERS AT SOAC

FREE TEEN CRAFTERNOON

Join Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center (100 Sam Ridley Parkway East, Smyrna) to craft cute autumn animals at this weekly program from 1 - 2 p.m.

For ages 2 - 6, cost is $2.

Drop in for a random craft from 3:30 - 5:30 p.m. in the Teen Room at Williamson County Public Library (1314 Columbia Avenue, Franklin). Supplies will be available to create a new piece of art or to just relax and doodle.

townofsmyrna.org shelly.denton@townofsmyrna.org

615-595-1250 wcpltn.org

FREE FRIENDS OF BELLEVUE BRANCH LIBRARY BOOK SALE See Thursday, Dec. 2.

FREE BALANCED YOGA (ONLINE)

FREE READ WITH BISCUIT

Join BalancED for Richland Park Library’s free community yoga program. Classes are held via Zoom on Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. Email timothy. allman@nashville.gov for instructions on how to join the class.

Children ages 5 - 12 can improve literacy skills by reading with Biscuit for 15 minutes between 4 and 5 p.m. at Brentwood Library (8109 Concord Road, Brentwood). Sign up for your time online.

615-799-5544 bowiepark.org/news-events

NASHVILLE PREDATORS HOCKEY

STEAL AWAY AT OZ ARTS

615-450-3049

Come see the Nashville Predators play at Bridgestone Arena (501 Broadway, Nashville). 7 p.m. nhl.com/predators

A new contemporary music-dance-opera hybrid inspired by traditional spirituals and art songs at OZ Arts (6172 Cockrill Bend Circle, Nashville). Dozens of Nashville artists ages 8 to 78 are featured in the multigenerational cast collaboration. Tickets start at $20 and shows are at 8 p.m.

615-862-5870 timothy.allman@nashville.gov

615-770-2000

CANDLELIGHT: HOLIDAY SPECIAL FEATURING THE NUTCRACKER & MORE feverup.com/m/104010

A talented string quartet perform Holiday classics and more featuring a vocalist on select pieces at 6:30 and 9 p.m. at Studio 615 (272 Broadmoor Dr., Nashville). Tickets start at $30.

FREE SCHOLASTIC BOOK FAIR AT SMYRNA PUBLIC LIBRARY See Wednesday, Dec. 1.

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

615-350-7200 ozartsnashville.org/steal-away

FRI 03 LITTLE LEAPERS MURFREESBORO skyzone.com

Kids age 7 & younger can enjoy the full trampoline park to themselves from 9 11 a.m. on Fridays and Sundays at Sky Zone (1220 NW Broad St, Murfreesboro) Cost is $14.99.

FREE HIKE WITH A NATURALIST

Embark on a guided hike through the trails at Bowie Park (7211 Bowie Lake Road, Fairview) from 9 - 10:30 a.m.

MISTLETOE MERCHANTS 2 Start your holiday shopping early at the Wilson County Expo & Ag Center (945 Baddour Pkwy., Lebanon). Find gifts, jewelry, decor and more fom 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. Cost is $10 - $20. Through Dec. 5.

CANDLELIGHT & CHRISTMAS GHOST TOURS 615-790-7190 lotzhouse.com

The Lotz House (1111 Columbia Avenue, Franklin) hosts a Christmas Candlelight Tour every Friday and Saturday in December from 5:30 until 7:30 p.m. The tour showcases the decorations of the period of the 1864 Battle of Franklin including fresh décor of pulled cotton, harvested nuts, fresh apples, magnolia branches and cut holly. Tickets are $12. Ghosts of Christmas Past Tour tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for children ages 7 – 13.

(Please turn the page)

TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA 615-770-2000 bridgestonearena.com

An evening of holiday music by TransSiberian Orchestra at Bridgestone Arena (501 Broadway, Nashville).

Tickets start at $37.

FREE GENTLE YOGA 615-862-5854 library.nashville.org

Breathe and stretch with Small World Yoga in this class every Wednesday at Bellevue Library (720 Baugh Road, Nashville) from 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

THU 02 FREE FRIENDS OF BELLEVUE BRANCH LIBRARY BOOK SALE 615-862-5854 library.nashville.org

Choose from an assortment of books, movies and music Dec. 2- 4 from 4 - 8 p.m. at Bellevue Library (720 Baugh Road, Nashville).

The first weekend of December is all about craft fairs! Check out Mistletoe Merchants at Williamson County Ag Center Dec. 3 - 5. In addition. the Thompson’s Station Holiday Market at Homestead Manor and the Christmas Commando Craft Fair at Hendersonville High School will be on Saturday, Dec. 4.

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december 2021 35

THINGS TO DO

CHRISTMAS THROUGH THE AGES: A VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS AT WYNNEWOOD rb.gy/zovvh2

Explore Christmas through the ages at Wynnewood and Cragfont on alternating Saturdays through Christmas from 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Journey through a Victorian holiday at Wynnewood and learn about the Christmas traditions as shared in diaries and letters. Ages 16 & older are $12, ages 7 to 16 are $8 and 6 & younger get in free.

FREE COMMANDO CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR fb.me/e/1cpR4MMRH

Come out to Hendersonville High School (123 Cherokee Road, Hendersonville) for boutiques, handmade crafts and food from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., sponsored by the HHS wrestling team.

Nashville Symphony presents Disney’s The Muppet Christmas Carol in Concert featuring a screening of the complete film with the musical score performed live to the film Dec. 3 - 5.

CANDLELIGHT UNDER THE STARS: A JOURNEY THROUGH SCI-FI & FANTASY SCORES 615-862-5160 feverup.com/m/104063

Celebrate songs from Star Wars; Star Trek; Back to the Future and more at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. at ASC’s Sudekum Planetarium (800 Fort Negley Blvd., Nashville). Tickets are $60.

CELEBRATION OF DANCE: RHYTHMIC CIRCUS HOLIDAY SHUFFLE 615-538-2076 franklintheatre.com

Experience this adrenaline-soaked dance performance by Rhythmic Circus at Franklin Theatre (419 Main Street, Franklin) for three performances, Dec. 3 and 4 at 8 p.m. and Dec. 4 at 2 p.m. Tickets start at $57.50.

FAMILY FRIDAYS AT LITTLE ART HOUSE NASHVILLE

FAMILY NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM : KNITTING 101

Use specialty materials to create fun memories and holiday crafts at Little Art House (2106b Acklen Avenue, Nashville) Classes are 3:30 - 4 p.m. for ages 1 - 4 and 4:30 - 5 p.m. for ages 4 - 10. It’s intended to be two people per registration (one adult/child or two kiddos with drop off).

Family Night in December at Sam Davis Home (1399 Sam Davis Road, Smyrna) is all about knitting from 6 - 8 p.m. Cost is $10.

615-933-9644 Littlearthousenhasville.com

HOLIDAY LASER SHOW AT SUDEKUM PLANETARIUM 615-862-5160 adventuresci.org

Sit back and take in the state-of-the-art 63-foot dome theater with this holidaythemed laser show at the Adventure Science Center (800 Fort Negley Boulevard, Nashville). Ticket prices on website.

FREE CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING ON FRANKLIN SQUARE

STEAL AWAY AT OZ ARTS

The event features entertainment by local school children, musicians, performers and Santa Claus on the Franklin Square (305 Public Square, Franklin) from 7 - 9 p.m.

THE MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL IN CONCERT WITH THE NASHVILLE SYMPHONY

franklintn.gov

FREE GOODLETTSVILLE TREE LIGHTING 615-859-7979 goodlettsville.gov

Come out to Goodlettsville City Hall (105 N Main St, Goodlettsville) beginning at 6 p.m. for holiday music and the official lighting of the new Christmas Tree at Goodlettsville City Hall.

36 december 2021

See Thursday, Dec. 2.

615-687-6400 nashvillesymphony.org

The Nashville Symphony presents Disney’s The Muppet Christmas Carol in Concert featuring a screening of the complete film with the musical score performed live to the film Dec. 3 - 5 at Schermerhorn Symphony Center (1 Symphony Place, Nashville). Tickets start at $40.

615-459-2341 samdavishome.org

SAT 04 FREE ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS AT WILDERNESS STATION 615-217-3017 murfreesborotn.gov

Join the Wilderness Station (697 Veterans Parkway, Murfreesboro) at 1:30 p.m. for a program introducing its education animals. All ages welcome and program is free.

DROP-IN KIDS ART CLASSES 615-933-9644 LittleArtHouseNashville.com

Kids are invited to create original works of art on Saturday mornings at Little Art House Nashville (2106b Acklen Avenue, Nashville). Read a book, create a work of art and enjoy sensory play. The 9:30 - 10 a.m. class is for ages 1 - 4, and the 10:30 - 11 a.m. class is intended to be drop-off class for ages 4 - 10. Cost is $15.

FREE RUTHERFORD COUNTY YOUTH MAGIC GROUP 615-459-4884 rclstn.org/events

Young magicians meet at 9:30 a.m. for magic geared for ages 6 -12. Recurring at Smyrna Library on the first Saturday and Linebaugh in Murfreesboro on the second Saturday of the month.

FAMILY PROGRAM: SONGWRITING 101

FREE CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE AT ROCK CASTLE

615-416-2001 countrymusichalloffame.org

Bring the family to tour the 1784 Historic Rock Castle (139 Rock Castle Lane, Hendersonville) and enjoy a taste of Christmas from a bygone era.

In addition to a free tour, there will be refreshments, holiday gift shop and a special appearance by Santa Claus for photos.

FREE KID’S COMMUNITY EVENT AT PLAZA MARIACHI

615-824-0502 historicrockcastle.com

FREE SHAKESPEARE ALLOWED (ONLINE) nashvilleshakes.org

Read out loud with Nashville Shakespeare Festival via Zoom the first Saturday of each month at 12 p.m. This month’s selection is Richard III.

nashvilleparent.com

Write a song as a group in this introductory workshop while learning songwriting fundamentals including form, theme and rhyme scheme from 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. at Country Music Hall of Fame (222 Rep. John Lewis Way).

Included with museum admission.

615-373-9292 plazamariachi.com

Free sports for kids ages 7 - 17 Saturdays from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. at Plaza Mariachi (located at 3955 Nolensville Pike, Nashville). Also, cartoons, a Mr. Bond Science Guy show, animal encounters, magicians and more.

FREE KID-MADE ORNAMENTS

615-862-5866 library.nashville.org

Kids will move from station to station to make up to five different Christmas ornaments at Inglewood Library (4312 Gallatin Pike, Nashville). To ensure safety, the program will be offered in two sessions of one hour each.

Call to register for either the 2 or 3 p.m. session.

FREE ¡FELICES FIESTAS! WITH RACHEL RODRIGUEZ 615-862-5862 library.nashville.org

Get into the holiday spirit with singer, songwriter, teaching artist and mother of two, Rachel Rodriguez, through stories, music and dance at Goodlettsville Library (205 Rivergate Parkway, Goodlettsville) from 10:30 11 a.m.

HOLIDAY SPIRITS COCKTAIL FESTIVAL holidayspiritstn.com

Stroll through The Factory at Franklin (230 Franklin Road, Franklin) sipping cocktails, listening to music, and waving to Santa from 6 - 9 p.m. Each ticket includes 12 sample-sized yuletide cocktails. Food and full-sized drinks will be available for purchase as well.

Tickets are $44.

LANE MOTOR VAULT TOURS 615-742-7445 lanemotormuseum.org/events

The museum has more than 580 cars, but only space to display 150 cars at a given time. Weekend tours at 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. let you view all the cars in their vault. Located at 702 Murfreesboro Pike, the cost is $6 (in addition to museum admission, which is $3 for kids and $12 for adults).

MISTLETOE MERCHANTS 2 See Friday, Dec. 3.

PARENT’S NIGHT OUT AT SUMMIT SPORTS CENTER summitsportscenter.com

Drop the kids off on select Saturdays from 6 - 10 p.m. at Summit Sports Center (2015 Johnson Industrial Blvd, Nolensville). Kids can enjoy pizza and refreshments along with playing in the obstacle course, bounce house, foam pit, in-ground trampolines and more.

Cost is $35 per child.

Enjoy A Christmas Parade Near You! FRANKLIN CHRISTMAS PARADE Saturday, Dec. 5 Winding through the streets of downtown Franklin, the parade is a celebration of the holidays and the official welcome of Santa Claus; 2 - 4 p.m. The parade begins at Jim Warren Park (705 Boyd Mill Ave, Franklin).

GOODLETTSVILLE CHRISTMAS PARADE Saturday, Dec. 5 The annual parade takes place at 4 p.m. This year’s theme is “Hometown Superheroes.” The parade begins at the Delmas Long Community Center (200 Memorial Drive) and continues up Memorial Drive, taking a right onto Main Street and ending at the Goodlettsville Plaza (Rivergate Parkway).

FREE READ WITH SADIE

LEBANON CHRISTMAS PARADE Sunday Dec. 5 Lebanon’s annual parade travelsl through Lebanon’s historic square and feature floats, balloons, bands and more from 2 - 4 p.m. This year’s theme is “Jingle All the Way.”

Kids ages 6 - 12 are invited can read with a trained therapy dog from 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. in the Children’s Story Theater at Franklin Main Library (1314 Columbia Avenue, Franklin). Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Attendance is limited and registration is required.

HENDERSONVILLE CHRISTMAS PARADE Sunday, Dec. 5 Marching bands, horse-drawn floats and favorite Christmas characters starting at Drakes Creek Park (120 East Main Street, Hendersonville) from 1 - 3 p.m. This year’s theme is

615-595-1244 wcpltn.org

“Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.” The Hendersonville tree lighting ceremony happens in the evening.

SMYRNA CHRISTMAS PARADE Sunday, Dec. 5 The 46th annual Town of Smyrna Christmas parade and food drive starts at Smyrna Town Hall (315 South Lowry Street,Smyrna) at 2 p.m. Floats, bands, classic cars, dancers and Santa & Mrs. Claus travel northbound on Lowry Street toward Sam Ridley Parkway.

GALLATIN CHRISTMAS PARADE Saturday, Dec. 11 The 2021 Christmas parade, “Past Present Future – Celebrating 100 Years of the Gallatin Chamber” starts at 12 p.m. and ends with Santa Claus kicking off the holiday season.

LAVERGNE PARADE OF LIGHTS Saturday, Dec. 11 Held at 5 p.m., beginning at City Hall and ending at Veterans Memorial Park, where the tree lighting and fireworks will take place.

This year’s theme is “Who Stole Christmas?” Activities include ice skating, carols, pictures with Santa, snacks & more.

LEIPERS FORK CHRISTMAS PARADE Saturday, Dec. 11 The annual Christmas parade

takes place at 2 p.m. This year’s Grand Marshall is Country artist Chris Janson. In case of rain, the parade will move to the following Saturday, Dec. 18.

MT JULIET CHRISTMAS PARADE Saturday, Dec. 11 The theme is “A Patriotic Christmas,” and the route runs from Mt. Juliet League Park (10835 Lebanon Road, Mt. Juliet) to East Division Street off of N. Mt. Juliet Road. The parade will dovetail with the city tree lighting at the Division Street Clocktower. Music, food, games, and more from 1 - 3 p.m.

SPRING HILL CHRISTMAS PARADE Saturday, Dec. 11 The 2021 Kiwanis Spring Hill Christmas parade starts at 5 p.m. and the theme is “Sounds Of The Season”. The parade begins at Evans Park and enters onto Beechcroft Road and then travels right onto Main Street (U.S. 31), ending at Spring Hill Elementary School.

MURFREESBORO CHRISTMAS PARADE Sunday, Dec. 12 Celebrate Christmas with the theme, “The Spirit of Christmas.”

The parade begins on the downtown Murfreesboro square (20 North Public Square, Murfreesboro) at 2 p.m. and travels down Main Street toward MTSU.

(Continued on page 40)

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december 2021 37

THINGS TO DO SENSORY FRIENDLY PLAY AT URBAN AIR ADVENTURE PARK 615-972-7172

The park is transformed into a calmer atmosphere for those with special needs, their siblings and caregivers at Urban Air Adventure Park (4331 Old Hickory Boulevard, Old Hickory) from 9 - 11 a.m. No flashing lights, no music, and no whistles.

JIM BRICKMAN: THE GIFT OF CHRISTMAS 615-538-2076

Jim Brickman is back with his annual holiday tour “The Gift of Christmas,” a magical evening celebrating music, love and family at the Franklin Theatre (419 Main Street, Franklin) Dec. 5 at 2 and 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $50.

LANE MOTOR MUSEUM VAULT TOURS See Saturday, Dec. 4.

FREE LEGO BUILDING FUN 615-862-5863 library.nashville.org

A new walk-through, digital art experience features the works of Michelangelo on view at Opry Mills Thursdays - Sundays through Jan. 16, 2022.

FREE READING PAWS NASHVILLE

615-862-5785 events.library.nashville.org

Children ages 5 - 12 are welcome to come and read to a live, furry friend the first Saturday of each month at Nashville Public Main Library (615 Church Street, Nashville) from 1 - 2:30 p.m. Registration is required by calling 615-862-5785. Check in at the Children’s Dept. desk upon arrival.

NASHVILLE HOLIDAY MUSIC SPECIAL

The Nashville Holiday Music Special will help ring in the holidays on News 2 on Saturday, Dec. 4, at 9 a.m., Sunday, Dec. 5 at noon, Saturday, Dec. 25 at 11 a.m., and will air nationwide through Timeless Syndication throughout the season. The one-hour broadcast is set to feature a star-studded lineup of performances and celebrity appearances from artists including Kristin Chenoweth, Gary LeVox, Point of Grace and more. Performances will take place at Ryman Auditorium, Grand Ole Opry and Skyway Studios.

THE MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL IN CONCERT WITH THE NASHVILLE SYMPHONY See Friday, Dec. 3.

FREE MUSIC CITY FOOD TRUCK PARK & FLEA MARKET bestfoodtrucks.com/musiccityfoodtruckpark

Held inside a huge facility at 400 Davidson St., the Music City Food Truck Park & Flea Market takes place Saturdays from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

38 december 2021

FREE YULEFEST AT HISTORIC MANSKER’S STATION 615-859-3678 cityofgoodlettsville.org/1420/ Yulefest

Musicians, storytellers and demonstrators in the cabins of the fort at Historic Mansker’s Staion (705 Caldwell Drive, Goodlettsville). Visitors can listen to the sounds of yesteryear as they tour the sites and take in the beauty of decorations, refreshments and unique shopping from 5 - 8 p.m.

FREE MUSIC IN THE VINES 615-395-0102 arringtonvineyards.com

Come out to Arrington Vineyards (6211 Patton Road, Arrington) from 3 - 7 p.m. for free live jazz bands. Also on Dec. 11 and 14. Food trucks available. No reservations required.

NASHVILLE PREDATORS HOCKEY

SUN 05 FREE FLEA MARKET SUNDAYS AT PLAZA MARIACHI 615-373-9292 plazamariachi.com

Come to Flea Market Sundays at Plaza Mariachi (3955 Nolensville Pike) to find deals on new and used clothing, furniture, home items, tools, new and used shoes, toys, face masks and baby items. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

FREE MEET THE GRINCH AT THE CHRISTMAS PLACE MT. JULIET christmasplace.com

Come out to the newly opened The Christmas Place (2250 North Mount Juliet Road, Mount Juliet) for a free meet and greet with Whoville’s least favorite resident, The Grinch from 12 3 p.m. every Sunday until Christmas.

See Thursday, Dec. 2.

NASHVILLE HOLIDAY MUSIC SPECIAL

CANDLELIGHT & CHRISTMAS GHOST TOURS

MISTLETOE MERCHANTS 2

See Friday, Dec. 3.

See Friday, Dec. 3.

HOLIDAY LASER SHOW AT SUDEKUM PLANETARIUM

FREE SANTA CARES AT RIVERGATE MALL

STEAL AWAY AT OZ ARTS

Children with special needs and their families are invited to a special photo session and activities with Caring Santa from 10 - 11 :30 a.m. at Rivergate Mall (1000 Rivergate Parkway, Goodlettsville). Located in Center Court at the Santa Set.

See Saturday, Dec. 4.

See Friday, Dec. 3.

See Thursday, Dec. 2.

CELEBRATION OF DANCE: RHYTHMIC CIRCUS HOLIDAY SHUFFLE See Friday, Dec. 3.

615-859-3458 rivergate-mall.com

nashvilleparent.com

The LEGO League at Green Hills Library (3701 Benham Avenue, Nashville) from 2 - 4:45 p.m. is for families to play with provided LEGOs, Duplos and Mega Bloks. For ages 2 - 12.

FLASHLIGHT CANDY CANE HUNT 615-794-2103 franklintn.gov

The grounds of Eastern Flank Battlefield Park(1368 Eastern Flank Circle, Franklin) are sprinkled with candy canes from 5 - 8 p.m. Kids will decorate treat bags for their candy canes before the hunt. Hot chocolate and cookies will be served. Participants must bring a flashlight, and all other supplies will be provided. Event is limited to 100 participants and registration and $5 fee required.

LITTLE LEAPERS MURFREESBORO See Friday, Dec. 3.

STEAL AWAY AT OZ ARTS See Thursday, Dec. 2.

THE MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL IN CONCERT WITH THE NASHVILLE SYMPHONY See Friday, Dec. 3.

MON 06 EARLY EXPLORERS 615-862-5160 adventuresci.org

Preschoolers and parents can enjoy exhibits, attend story time and participate in an activity at Adventure Science Center (800 Fort Negley Boulevard, Nashville) from 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. $18 for non-member adults & $14 for nonmember youth; free for members.

THINGS TO DO FREE GAMING MONDAY 615-862-5860 library.nashville.org

Challenge your friends with a variety of tabletop and video games every Monday at 3 p.m. at East Branch Library (206 Gallatin Avenue, Nashville). For ages 12 - 17.

FREE PET PHOTO NIGHTS WITH SANTA AT RIVERGATE MALL 615-859-3458 rivergate-mall.com

Bring your furry friends to RiverGate Mall (1000 Rivergate Parkway, Goodlettsville) for a night just for pets on Monday nights through Dec. 20 in Center Court in front of JCPenney’s.

FREE PET PHOTOS WITH SANTA AT COOLSPRINGS GALLERIA 615-771-2128 coolspringsgalleria.com

Bring your furry friends for photos with Santa in Center Court at CoolSprings Galleria (1800 Galleria Blvd, Franklin) on Mondays through Dec. 13 from 4 7 p.m. Pets must be on a leash.

FREE READING PAWS AT LINEBAUGH 615-893-4131 x 114 rclstn.org/calendar

Come read to Stevie and General, Linebaugh Library’s friendly Reading Education Assistance dogs, from 3:30 5 p.m. Registration is required.

FREE HOLIDAY FAMILY MOVIES AT EDGEHILL: THE POLAR EXPRESS 615-862-5861 library.nashville.org

WED 08 FREE GENTLE YOGA See Wdnesday, Dec. 1.

Enjoy a free family holiday movie every Wednesday in December from 3:30 - 6 p.m. at Edgehill Library (1409 12th Avenue South, Nashville).

FREE YARN LOVE MURFREESBORO

JUMPAROO TODDLER TIME See Wednesday, Dec. 1.

FREE HOLIDAY MOVIE SERIES AT INGLEWOOD: THE SANTA CLAUSE See Wednesday, Dec. 1.

615-893-4131 rclstn.org

Come out to Linebaugh Library in Murfreesboro for a casual meetup for yarn enthusiasts who love to knit and crochet; 6 p.m. Bring supplies.

FREE WILD WEDNESDAY AT SOAC

FREE MEET SPIDER HERO & AMERICAN HERO

615-889-3060 ryman.com

615-771-2128 coolspringsgalleria.com

Come out to CoolSprings Galleria (1800 Galleria Blvd., Franklin) near the Santa Set on from 5 - 7 p.m. for free photos with “Spider Hero” & “American Hero.”

FREE TUBA CHRISTMAS GALLATIN 615-451-5961 tubachristmas.com

More than 100 tubas playing Christmas Carols for the 35th year at First Baptist Church (205 E. Main Street, Gallatin) starting at 7 p.m.

See Wednesday, Dec. 1.

A VERY SHE & HIM CHRISTMAS Head to Ryman Auditorium (116 5th Avenue North, Nashville) for Zooey Deschanel (She) & M. Ward (Him). Tickets start at $39.

THU 09 EARLY LEARNERS AT SOAC

FREE WIC MOBILE LAB

615-862-5871 library.nashville.org

Families new to WIC benefits may attend the new WIC Mobile Clinic to pick up vouchers instead of going to their WIC clinic location from 10 - 1 p.m. at the Southeast Branch Library (5260 Hickory Hollow Parkway, Antioch).

FREE MARVEL MOVIE NIGHT 615-862-5862 library.nashville.org

Teens ages 12-18 can watch and discuss the previous Spider-Man movies in the Teen Room at Goodlettsville Library (205 Rivergate Parkway, Goodlettsville) in anticipation for the upcoming Spider-Man: No Way Home, from 3:30 - 5:30 p.m.

FREE BALANCED YOGA See Thursday, Dec. 2.

See Thursday, Dec. 2.

FRI 10

CANDLELIGHT: HOLIDAY SPECIAL FEATURING THE NUTCRACKER & MORE

JUMPAROO TODDLER TIME

See Thursday, Dec. 2.

See Wednesday, Dec. 1.

(Continued on page 45)

FREE AFTER-SCHOOL MOVIE MONDAY 615-862-5854 library.nashville.org

Teens in grades 5 - 12 can drop by Bellevue Library (720 Baugh Road, Nashville) from 4 - 5:30 p.m. for a movie in the Teen Room.

FREE BRENTWOOD CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING 615-371-0090

Come out for the annual tree lighting ceremony at the John P. Holt Brentwood Library (8109 Concord Road, Brentwood) at 5:30 p.m. The evening includes music and holiday treats, as well as special Polar Express storytimes at 5 and 6 p.m. Tickets for storytimes are required.

TUE 07 FREE WISHING CHAIR PRODUCTIONS STORY TIME library.nashville.org

Every Tuesday at 10:30 a.m., bring your kids ages 0 - 6 to Nashville Public Library (615 Church Street, Nashville) for live puppet shows. Running time is 30 - 45 minutes and all are welcome.

Storytime is presented in Church Street Park, across the street from the Main Library.

For 35 years, more than 100 Tuba players join for a Middle Tennessee Christmas tradition. They’ll perform carols at First Baptist Church in Gallatin on Dec. 7 and at First Baptist Church in Nashville on Dec. 12.

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december 2021 39

Helping children discover their own creativity is the goal of If Not You, Then Who?, the critically-acclaimed children’s book series co-authored by parents David and Emberli Pridham.

The series follows the adventures of siblings Brooke and Noah who apply their own imaginations to create all kinds of useful inventions. The set of four beautifully illustrated hard cover books is specially bundled for the holidays and available for only $49.95.

www.ifnotyoubooks.com

Make your mental health a priority.

Forrest Counseling Services, LLC A safe place for healing and growth.

Sliding Scale Options Virtual or In-Person Therapy

Marriage and Family Therapist Serving Middle Tennessee Specializes in Individual Trauma and Abuse Recovery for Adults and Children Specializes in Premarital Counseling

210 25th Ave. N, Nashville, TN 37203

615-576-3325 • forrestcounselingservices@gmail.com Tara Forrest, MMFT

https://tara-forrest.clientsecure.me

THANK YOU MURFREESBORO!

From all of us to all of you—we are so grateful for your support and loyalty.

We are proud to be Murfreesboro’s most awarded and longest serving martial arts school and we pledge to continue to serve you and our community.

Sensei Bill Taylor Instructors and Staff

In Celebration of Our Awards

FREE CLASS!

KARATE OR CARDIO KICKBOXING

NORTH MURFREESBORO | 1820 NW Broad Street | 615-893-6003 SOUTH MURFREESBORO | 1911 Business Campus Drive | 615-890-6755

B S KO N L I N E . C O M 40 december 2021

nashvilleparent.com

THINGS TO DO LITTLE LEAPERS MURFREESBORO See Friday, Dec. 3.

HOLIDAY LASER SHOW AT SUDEKUM PLANETARIUM See Friday, Dec. 3.

CANDLELIGHT & CHRISTMAS GHOST TOURS See Friday, Dec. 3.

MISTLETOE MIXOLOGY 615-889-2941 thehermitage.com

Participants will have the chance to make three holiday-themed drinks while enjoying Christmas music, trivia and more festive fun at The Hermitage (4580 Rachels Lane, Hermitage) from 7 - 9 p.m. All tickets include a stainless-steel bar tools kit (valued at $49). Tickets are $70 for members, $75 for nonmembers.

SANTA SPLASH & DASH 615-893-7439 murfreesborotn.gov

Celebrate the holiday season with an ornament craft, a meal and lots of swimming from 5 - 8 p.m. at Patterson Park Community Center (521 Mercury Blvd, Murfreesboro). Space is limited to the first 40 participants. For ages 8 - 14. $5 pre-registration; $7 if you wait until day of event.

JON PARDI & OLD CROW MEDICINE SHOW AT THE OPRY 1-800-SEE-OPRY opry.com/2021shows

See Jon Pardi and Old Crow Medicine Show perform live at the Grand Ole Opry (2804 Opryland Drive, Nashville) starting at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $55.

SAT 11

CHRISTMAS THROUGH THE AGES: AN EARLY TENNESSEE CHRISTMAS AT CRAGFONT

615-452-7070 visitsumnertn.com/place/cragfontstate-historic-site Explore Christmas through the ages with house tours and hot cider at Historic Cragfont (200 Cragfont Road, Castalian Springs) between 9:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. Cost is $12 for ages 16 and up, $8 for ages 7 to 16 and free for kids 6 and under.

FREE RUTHERFORD COUNTY YOUTH MAGIC GROUP See Saturday, Dec. 4.

SCOUT-URDAYS AT DISCOVERY CENTER 615-890-2300 explorethedc.org

Scouting groups can meet badge, pin, loop and rank requirements while learning new skills in an interactive environment at the Discovery Center (502 Southeast Broad Street, Murfreesboro) from 2:30 - 3:30 p.m. Cost is $10 per scout, $5 per adult.

YOGA FOR KIDS

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

FREE YOUTH MAGIC SHOW AT LINEBAUGH 615-893-4131 rclstn.org

Come to Linebaugh (105 West Vine Street, Murfreesboro) from 10 - 11 a.m. for a special magic show hosted by the Abner Youth Magic Club!

615-833-1534 nashvillezoo.org

Santa comes to Nashville Zoo at the new adults-only, holiday-themed event from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Grab a date or some pals, and enjoy samples from your favorite beverage purveyors while dancing along to live performances of your favorite holiday tunes. General admission tickets are $80. Designated driver tickets are $40 and will not receive beverage samples.

SUN 12

HOLIDAY LASER SHOW AT SUDEKUM PLANETARIUM

See Saturday, Dec. 11.

See Friday, Dec. 3.

FREE DICKENS OF A CHRISTMAS ELF!

FREE PAWSOME READING WITH SHILOH

See Saturday, Dec. 11.

LITTLE LEAPERS MURFREESBORO See Friday, Dec. 3.

FREE MEET THE GRINCH AT THE CHRISTMAS PLACE MT. JULIET See Sunday, Dec. 5.

TENNESSEE TITANS VS. JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS tennesseetitans.com

The Titans take on the Jags at Nissan Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for noon.

JARS OF CLAY FAMILY CHRISTMAS SHOW 615-538-2076 franklintheatre.com

A night full of festivities and a whole lot of Christmas spirit at Franklin Theatre (419 Main Street, Franklin) for two shows at 2 and 7 p.m. Tickets start at $50.

MON 13 FREE PET PHOTO NIGHTS WITH SANTA AT RIVERGATE MALL See Monday, Dec. 6.

EARLY EXPLORERS See Monday, Dec. 6

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

STUDIO TENN PRESENTS: CHARLES DICKENS’ A CHRISTMAS CAROL

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 from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. on the streets fo downtown Franklin.

CANDLELIGHT & CHRISTMAS GHOST TOURS

Join Brentwood Library (8109 Concord Road, Brentwood) for kid’s yoga, which includes books, games and more from 2 - 2:45 p.m. Cost is $10.

Holiday shopping, food and fun at Lane Agri-Park (315 John Rice Boulevard, Murfreesboro) from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

williamsonheritage.org/event/ dickens2021

Accompanied by orchestra and a choir, Sarah decks the halls with renditions of classics from the Christmas canon, along with holiday favorites and her hits. Show starts at 8 p.m. at Ryman Auditorium (116 5th Avenue North, Nashville) and tickets start at $59.

SANTA SIPS AT NASHVILLE ZOO

Children (ages 5 - 12) can improve literacy skills by reading with Shiloh for 20 minutes between 12 and 2 p.m. at Brentwood Library (8109 Concord Road, Brentwood). Sign up for a slot.

FREE DICKENS OF A CHRISTMAS

615-889-3060 ryman.com

See Friday, Dec. 3.

FREE SHABBY LANE HOLIDAY SPLENDOR

615-898-7710 shabbylaneshoppingevents.com

SARAH BRIGHTMAN: A CHRISTMAS SYMPHONY

615-538-2076 franklintheatre.com

Mark Cabus takes on more than 18 characters — from Scrooge to Marley’s Ghost, Mr. Fezziwig, Bob Cratchit and even Tiny Tim — capturing the haunting tale of an angry, old man bound to save his shrunken heart. Performances are at Franklin Theatre (419 Main Street, Franklin) at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Tickets start at $50.

ELF!

bravocreativeartscenter.com

Bravo Creative Arts proudly presents this musical based on the popular holiday movie. Four performances at Father Ryan Theater (700 Norwood Dr., Nashville) Dec. 11 at 2 and 6:30 p.m. and Dec. 12 at 1 and 5 p.m. Tickets $12 Advance/Reserved or at Door.

The 36th Annual Dickens of a Christmas is Middle Tennessee’s largest outdoor Christmas festival, returning December 11-12 in downtown Franklin.

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december 2021 41

THINGS TO DO SPECIAL!

Santa Sightings!

A 2021 guide to help you introduce your kiddos to the big man in red with singular and reoccuring events and experiences near you.

single events FREE SANTA STORYTIME AT LINEBAUGH Wednesday, Dec. 1 615-893-4131 rclstn.org

Santa and Mrs. Claus will be at Linebaugh Library (105 West Vine Street, Murfreesboro) from 10 a.m.

- 12 p.m. Mrs. Claus will lead a special Christmas storytime with stories and songs, and Santa will be available for pictures.

FREE MORNING WITH SANTA AT BRENTWOOD LIBRARY Saturday, Dec. 4 615-371-0090

The annual Morning with Santa program at Brentwood Library (8109 Concord Road, Brentwood) will be Saturday, Dec. 5 from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. with the opportunity to enjoy refreshments, face painting, music, giveaways and of course, Santa Claus!

FREE COOKIES WITH SANTA Saturday, Dec. 4

Walter Hill Church of Christ (7277 Lebanon Road, Murfreesboro) is hosting Cookies with Santa, a free community event where children get their picture with Santa from 9 - 11 a.m. Parents and Guardians will be able to choose between a traditional pose on Santa’s lap and a socially distanced pose.

SANTA PICTURES AT DONUT COUNTRY Saturday, Dec. 4

Santa is coming to Donut Country (1311 Memorial Blvd, Murfreesboro) on Saturday, December 4th from 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Receive a ticket to see Santa with ANY purchase. Parents may take their own pictures for free or may purchase photos from the onsite photographer, Sarah Lawrence of Little Tots Photography.

CANDLELIGHT TOURS, PHOTOS WITH SANTA & CHRISTMAS GHOST TOURS Saturdays Dec. 4, 11 & 18 615-790-7190 lotzhouse.com

Santa Claus will be at The Lotz Hous(1111 Columbia Avenue, Franklin) every Saturday in December from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., where children and families will have the opportunity to have their picture taken with Santa. Candlelight Tour tickets are $12 per person every Friday and Saturday in December from 5:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. Ghosts of Christmas Past Tour tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for children ages 7 – 13.

42 december 2021

FREE VISIT WITH SANTA AT MARTIN’S HOME & GARDEN Saturday, Dec. 4 615-867-7121

Santa is coming to Martin’s Home & Garden (1020 NW Broad St, Murfreesboro)! Share your Christmas wishes and have your picture taken with him for free from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. No professional photographer will be provided so bring your own camera.

FREE CHRISTMAS IN BRENTWOOD Sunday, Dec. 5 christmasinbrentwood.net

Come out to Brentwood Academy (219 Granny White Pike, Brentwood) for their communitywide Christmas celebration featuring Christian recording artists Point of Grace from 4 - 7 p.m. at n. The free event will feature Santa and elves, an interactive petting zoo, trackless train, bounce houses, arts and crafts and food trucks.

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA AT THE AQUARIUM Saturdays Dec. 11 & Dec. 18 615-514-3474 aquariumrestaurants.com

Enjoy a delicious breakfast with the man in the red suit at The Aquarium Resaurant (516 Opry Mills Drive, Nashville) on Dec. 11th and 19th from 9 - 10 a.m.

Tickets start at $15.99 and registration required.

HOLLY JOLLY PRIVATE SHOPPING WITH SANTA MEET & GREET Saturday, Dec. 18 615-771-2128 americangirl.com/retail/nashville

Children will enjoy a festive penguin craft followed by holiday cookie decorating at The American Girl Store in CoolSprings Galleria (1800 Galleria Blvd, Franklin) from 9 - 10 a.m. $20 per person. Reservations required. For girls ages 3 and up.

MISS LUCILLE’S BRUNCH WITH SANTA Sunday, Dec. 19

Come see Santa and enjoy a great brunch experience at Miss Lucille’s! The farm tables will be set up in The Belle Hollow (2231 Madison Street, Clarksville) for a buffet-style brunch from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. A photo booth will be set up to capture the memories of the event with Ole Saint Nick himself. Cost is $20 for adults + $12 for kids (Kids ages 2 and under free, but must reserve a space).

nashvilleparent.com

reoccuring events SANTA’S WONDERLAND AT BASS PRO SHOP

THE CHRISTMAS PLACE

Daily thru Dec. 23 christmasplace.com | 865-453-0415 2250 N Mt Juliet Rd, Mt. Juliet

Daily thru Dec. 24 basspro.com/santa | 615-514-5200 323 Opry Mills Drive, Nashville

Families who visit Santa receive a free 4x6 studio-quality photo, as well as a free digital video greeting card to share on social media. Additional photo packages are also available for purchase and print instantly in the store. Note: These are contactless visits with Santa.

OPRY MILLS MALL

Daily thru Dec. 24 simon.com/mall/opry-mills | 615-514-1100 433 Opry Mills Drive, Nashville

Hours: Monday through Thursday from 11:15 a.m. - 7:45 p.m., Friday & Saturday from 10:15 a.m. - 7:45 p.m. and Sunday from 12:15 - 5:45 p.m.

Location: Entry 2, Near Coach and Ann Taylor Factory.

Special Events: Caring Santa (for kids with special needs) is Sunday, Dec. 5 from 9 - 10:30 a.m.

Hours: Monday through Friday from 3 - 8 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. - 8 p.m., and Sunday from 12 - 6 p.m.

GOVERNOR’S SQUARE MALL

Daily thru Dec. 24 governorssquare.net | 931-552-0289 2801 Wilma Rudolph Blvd, Clarksville

Hours: Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. - 7 p.m., Sunday from 12 - 6 p.m.

STONES RIVER TOWN CENTRE Daily thru Dec. 24 shopstonesriver.com | 615-896-4486 1720 Old Fort Pkwy, Murfreesboro

Hours: Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. - 7 p.m., Sunday from 12 - 6 p.m. (breaks from 2:30 - 3 p.m.). Christmas Eve hours are 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

BIG LOTS IN MURFREESBORO

RIVERGATE MALL

Daily thru Dec. 24 rivergate-mall.com | 615-859-3458 1000 Two Mile Parkway, Goodlettsville

Visits with Santa are always free and photo packages are available for purchase.

Hours: Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. (break from 3 - 4 p.m.), Sunday from 12 - 6 p.m. (break from 3 - 3:45 p.m.)

Special Events: Santa Cares (a sensory-friendly event) is Sunday, Dec. 5 from 10 - 11:30 a.m. Pet photos with Santa are Dec. 20 from 5 - 7 p.m.

MALL AT GREEN HILLS

Daily thru Dec. 21 christmasplace.com | 865-453-0415

2250 N Mt Juliet Rd, Mt. Juliet Hours: Wednesdays through Sundays (except for Monday and Tuesday, Dec. 20-21) from 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.

THE STREETS OF INDIAN LAKE Daily thru Dec. 24 streetsofindianlake.com | 866-704-3000 300 Indian Lake Blvd, Hendersonville

NORTH POLE EXPRESS SANTA EXCURSION TRAIN RIDE Saturdays Dec. 4, Dec. 11 & Dec. 18 tcry.org/train-rides | 615-241-0436 220 Willow Street, Nashville

Daily thru Dec. 24 shopgreenhills.com | 615-298-5478 2126 Abbott Martin Road, Nashville

Highlights: Step inside Santa’s 22-foot tall sleigh and experience the magical snowfall. Reservations are recommended.

Sit with Santa for your photos or remain socially-distanced.

Hours: Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. (break from 3 - 4 p.m.) and Sundays from 12 - 6 p.m. (break from 2:30 - 3 p.m.) Note: Santa will not be on-site December 1, 7 and 8.

COOLSPRINGS GALLERIA

Daily thru Dec. 24 coolspringsgalleria.com | 615-771-2050 1800 Galleria Blvd, Franklin

Hours: Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. (break from 3 - 4 p.m.), Friday & Saturday from 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. (break from 1 - 2 p.m. and 5 - 5:45 p.m.) and Sunday from 12 - 6 p.m. (break from 2:30 - 3 p.m.).

Location: Center Court, lower level Special Events: Pet photos with Santa on Dec. 6 and 13; from 4 - 7 p.m., Character Appearances on Dec. 7 and 14 from 5 - 7 p.m., Titan Santa on Dec. 2 from 5 - 7 p.m. and Santa Cares on Dec. 12 from 9:30 - 11 a.m.

GAYLORD OPRYLAND

Daily thru Dec. 24 ChristmasAtGaylordOpryland.com | 615-889-1000 2800 Opryland Drive, Nashville

Hours: Friday & Saturday from 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday 12 - 8 p.m. Note: Tickets must be purchased in advance, online.

Enjoy a train ride with Santa and his elves to Lebanon and back (no layover) at Tennessee Central Railway Museum. This is a 64 mile, 2 hour round trip! Train departs for morning and afternoon rides at 9 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Cost is $22 for children under 12, adult coach and dining seats are $45.

SANTA PHOTOS AT WILSON BANK & TRUST

Visit Santa at Wilson Bank & Trust locations throughout Middle Tennessee this Christmas season. Bring your camera!

Friday, Dec. 3: Gladeville location (8875 Stewarts Ferry Pike, Mt. Juliet) from 3 - 5 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 4: Smithville location (576 W Broad St, Smithville) from 8:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 4: Mt. Juliet location (1476 N Mt Juliet Rd, Mt. Juliet) from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 10: Murfreesboro location (2640 S Church St, Murfreesboro) from 3 - 5 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 10: Smyrna location (210 Commerce Dr, Smyrna) from 3 - 5 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 11: Hartsville location (127 McMurry Blvd, Hartsville) from 8:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 11: Murfreesboro location (3110 Memorial Blvd, Murfreesboro) from 9 - 11 a.m.

Saturday, Dec. 11: Providence location (709 S Mt Juliet Rd, Mt. Juliet) from 9 - 11 a.m.

Saturday, Dec. 11: Cookeville location (320 S Jefferson Ave, Cookeville) 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 17: Hermitage location (4736 Andrew Jackson Pkwy, Hermitage) from 3 - 4:30 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 18: Murfreesboro location (710 NW Broad St, Murfreesboro) from 9 - 11 a.m.

Saturday, Dec. 18: Hendersonville location (175 E Main St, Hendersonville) from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

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december 2021 43

THINGS TO DO FREE AMERICAN RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE 615-862-5880 library.nashville.org

The Nashville Main Library (615 Church Street, Nashville) will host an American Red Cross Blood Drive from 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome. Appointments are preferred. Contact sarah. arntz@nashville.gov to schedule an appointment.

FREE TUBA CHRISTMAS NASHVILLE 615-714-0247 tubachristmas.com

A Charlie Brown Christmas Live On Stage

“I

“This role is really special to me,” Robinson says. “Not only did I grow up watching all the Peanuts specials just like everyone else, but I was actually in two different Charlie Brown plays in high school. So, you could say Charlie has been hovering around my life for as long as I can remember. It seemed only natural and appropriate that I should audition for this,” he adds.

Though he played Snoopy in his high school productions, it was the character of Charlie Brown that he always connected with.

“I feel like I’m more of a Charlie Brown than a Snoopy anyway,” Robinson explains.

“When you think about it, most people are Charlie Brown-types. We’re all unsure of ourselves, but we’re doing better than we think we are.

And that’s the moral of these stories. Often times, he’s feeling bad about himself or he’s

UT VS MEMPHIS MEN’S BASKETBALL

CHRISTMAS WITH THE KING: A HOLIDAY TRIBUTE TO ELVIS

The University of Tennessee Volunteers and the University of Memphis Tigers men’s basketball teams will face each other at Bridgestone Arena (501 Broadway, Nashville) at 7 p.m. Tickets are $15.75

A special two-hour show starring Elvis tribute artist Cote Deonath with the David Fontana Band (David is the son of Elvis’ drummer, DJ Fontana). The show features costume changes, a visit by Santa and 25 of the King’s hits at Franklin Theatre (419 Main Street, Franklin) at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $39.

615-770-2000 bridgestonearena.com

44 december 2021

615-538-2076 ranklintheatre.com

FREE HERMITAGE HOLIDAY CRAFTS 615-880-3951 library.nashville.org

BY MICHAEL W. ALDRICH sn’t there anyone who knows what Christmas is all about?”

Join Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Linus, Lucy and the rest of the Peanuts gang as they search for answers to that question in A Charlie Brown Christmas Live On Stage, at TPAC’s Polk Theater Dec. 16 - 22.

This fresh take on the timeless classic gives audiences a new way of experiencing Charles M. Schulz’s story as portrayed by real actors who maintain the integrity and spirit of each Peanuts character.

The production encompasses scenes from the original animated television show, and expands the story into greater detail with fun, music and Christmas spirit.

For Aaron Robinson, who plays Charlie Brown, auditioning for this role was a nobrainer.

More than 100 tubas playing Christmas Carols for the 35th year at First Baptist Church (108 7th Avenue South, Nashville) from 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Free admission and free parking in the pay lot behind First Baptist Church.

confused about something, but in the end his friends and the people who love him bring him back up and help him to realize that everything’s going to be alright.”

Whether you come for the goofy dances, the underwhelming Christmas tree or Snoopy’s impressive flips and tricks, families are sure to leave reminded of the true meaning of Christmas.

“The character of Linus has this big monologue talking about the nativity scene and the Christ story which is what Christmas is all about,” Robinson says. “This show reminds us that the Christmas season is not about commercialism or getting presents, it’s about spending time with the people you love.”

Tickets start at $25 and are on sale now at TPAC.org, by phone at 615-782-4040 and at the TPAC Box Office, 505 Deaderick St., in downtown

FREE PET PHOTOS WITH SANTA AT COOLSPRINGS GALLERIA See Monday, Dec. 6.

TUE 14 FREE HOLIDAY FAMILY MOVIES AT EDGEHILL: HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS See Tuesday, Dec. 7.

nashvilleparent.com

Stop by the Hermitage Library (3700 James Kay Lane, Hermitage) Tuesdays in November and create a unique craft for the holidays from 4:30 - 5:30 p.m. All supplies provided.

FREE MEET ICE PRINCESS & SILLY SNOWMAN 615-771-2050 coolspringsgalleria.com

Come out to CoolSprings Galleria (1800 Galleria Blvd., Franklin) near the Santa Set on from 5 - 7 p.m. for free photos with “Ice Princess” & “Silly Snowman!”

MOVIE NIGHT AT CAPITOL THEATRE: POLAR EXPRESS 615-784-4014 capitoltheatretn.com/tickets

Head to Lebanon’s Capitol Theatre for this special showing of Polar Express. Tickets are $5. Doors open at 5:30; movie starts at 6:30 p.m.

Concessions available.

NASHVILLE PREDATORS HOCKEY See Thursday, Dec. 2.

WED 15 FREE HIKE WITH A NATURALIST 615-799-5544 bowiepark.org/news-events

Embark on a guided hike through the trails at Bowie Park (7211 Bowie Lake Road, Fairview) from 9 - 10:30 a.m.

FREE NEW BEGINNINGS HEALTH AND FITNESS CLASS FOR WOMEN See Wednesday, Dec. 1.

FREE HOLIDAY MOVIE SERIES AT INGLEWOOD: HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS See Wednesday, Dec. 1.

THINGS TO DO JUMPAROO TODDLER TIME See Wednesday, Dec. 1.

THU 16 FREE BALANCED YOGA See Thursday, Dec. 2.

FREE READ WITH MAGGIE 615-930-0948 rclstn.org

Children working on their reading skills can sit and read to certified a therapy dog, Maggie, at Smyrna Public Library from 3:30 - 5 p.m. Registration is required and each session with Maggie is 15 minutes.

FREE READING PAWS OLD HICKORY 615-862-5869 library.nashville.org

PJ STORY TIME WITH MILK, COOKIES, AND CRAFT

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

Your girl and her doll can come in their favorite PJs to the American Girl Store (1800 Galleria Blvd, Franklin)! They’ll serve a selection of cookies and drinks for both kids and adults from 6:30 7:30 p.m. After story time, girls will enjoy a festive penguin craft. $15 per participant. Reservations required. For girls ages 3 and up.

WINTER SOLSTICE CELEBRATION

wpnc@nashville.gov

Join Warner Park Nature Center (7311 TN-100, Nashville) for wreathmaking, warming campfires, music, a luminary trail, and a host of activities celebrating the beginning of winter from 4 - 7 p.m.

Join a trained reading dog with Reading Paws between 4:30 - 5:30 p.m. for a reading session at Old Hickory Branch Library (1010 Jones Street, Old Hickory). Pick a book from the library or bring your own.

CANDLELIGHT & CHRISTMAS GHOST TOURS

FREE MARVEL MOVIE NIGHT

Celebrate the most magical time of year with the Nashville Symphony for a night of holiday fun at the Schermerhorn (1 Symphony Place, Nashville), featuring dancers, Broadway singers and special guests, including Santa.

Tickets start at $40.

See Thurday, Dec. 9

MICHAEL W. SMITH CHRISTMAS CONCERT 800-733-6779 ryman.com

Michael W. Smith and America’s Got Talent winner Darci Lynne are thrilled to co-bill “A Very Special Christmas” at the Grand Ole Opry House (2804 Opryland Drive, Nashville). Show starts at 7 p.m. and tickets start at $29.75.

See Friday, Dec. 3.

MUSIC CITY CHRISTMAS 615-687-6400 nashvillesymphony.org

SAT 18 FREE ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS AT WILDERNESS STATION

Bryant Swords and Madeline Morales star as Buddy & Jovie in Bravo Creative Arts musical based on the modern holiday classic ELF! Performances are December 11 & 12 at Father Ryan Theater.

FREE HOLIDAY CANDY HOUSES 615-371-0090 brentwood-tn.libcal.com

THE POLAR EXPRESS AT FRANKLIN THEATRE 615-538-2076 franklintheatre.com

FREE COMICS AND GRAPHIC NOVELS GROUP AT LINEBAUGH

FAMILY PROGRAM: BEGINNER UKULELE WORKSHOP

Come build and decorate a holidayinspired home out of graham crackers and candy at 12 or 2 p.m. at Brentwood Library (8109 Concord Road, Brentwood). Register for one of the two sessions online.

Fans and novices can check out this monthly comics and graphic novel book club at Linebaugh Library in Murfreesboro at 6:30 p.m.

Learn ukulele basics through the music of Felice Bryant at Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville at 10:30 or 11:15 a.m. Included with museum admission. Free to museum members.

CHRISTMAS THROUGH THE AGES: A VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS AT WYNNEWOOD See Saturday, Dec. 4.

Bring the family out for a showing of The Polar Express at The Franklin Theatre (419 Main Street, Franklin) at 10 a.m. Please note that The Franklin Theatre does not show previews. The feature film will start at the listed showtime. Tickets start at $10.50.

FREE THE HILARIOUS HO HO HOLIDAY SHOW

SHOW ME SNAKES REPTILE & EXOTICS SHOW

PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT AT SOAC

This safe and family friendly event introduces people to reptiles and exotics from 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. at the Wilson County Expo Center (945 East Baddour Parkway, Lebanon). Learn with industry leading breeders. Cost is $7 until after 1 p.m., when military, veterans, first responders and small children ages 12 and under get in free.

Drop off the kids for a night of fun activities at Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center (100 Sam Ridley Pkwy E.) from 6 - 10 p.m. S’mores will be provided. Intended for ages 7 - 13 and cost is $10 for members, $15 for non-members.

615-893-4131 rclstn.org

NASHVILLE PREDATORS HOCKEY See Thursday, Dec. 2.

WAY LATE PLAY DATE: WIZARDING WORLD 615-862-5160 adventuresci.org

Enjoy the chance to let your inner kid out to play as you explore all the museum has to offer – from hands-on exhibits and experiments to planetarium features – all with an adult beverage in hand from 7 - 10 p.m. For ages 21 and up. Tickets are $30 for nonmembes.

FRI 17 LITTLE LEAPERS MURFREESBORO See Friday, Dec. 5.

See Saturday, Dec. 4.

615-416-2001 countrymusichalloffame.org

springhilltn.libcal.com

Santa Sam, Hyena the Red-Nosed Chicken and Mr. Barry are bringing holiday magic to Spring Hill Public Library (144 Kedron Pkwy, Spring Hill) at 10 a.m. Kids can enjoy a story or two and learn about holiday traditions around the world.

FREE WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA 615-451-3738 members.gallatintn.org

Wreaths Across America will be at Gallatin City Cemetery (250 Cemetery Ave, Gallatin) to remember and honor veterans through the laying of wreaths on the graves of our country’s fallen heroes and the act of saying the name of every veteran aloud. Program is from 10 - 11 a.m.

615-450-3049 showmesnakes.com

FREE READ WITH LUCY 615-595-1244 wcpltn.org

Kids ages 6 - 12 are invited to come read with a trained therapy dog from 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. in the Children’s Story Theater at Franklin Main Library (1314 Columbia Avenue, Franklin).

Attendance is limited and registration is required.

615-459-9710 townofsmyrna.org

MUSIC CITY CHRISTMAS See Friday, Dec. 17.

(Please turn the page)

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december 2021 45

FREE BANJO BY THE FIRE

615-862-8580 beamanpark@nashville.gov

Stop by Beaman Park Nature Center (5911 Old Hickory Boulevard, Ashland City) from 10 - 11 a.m. to learn about the banjo, listen to some old time tunes and warm up by the outdoor fire pit.

CANDLELIGHT & CHRISTMAS GHOST TOURS

See Friday, Dec. 3.

SUN 19 FREE MEET THE GRINCH AT THE CHRISTMAS PLACE MT. JULIET See Sunday, Dec. 5.

SHOW ME SNAKES REPTILE & EXOTICS SHOW

See Saturday, Dec. 18.

TENNESSEE TITANS VS. PITTSBURGH STEELERS tennesseetitans.com

The Titans take on the Pittsburgh Steelers at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, with kickoff scheduled at noon.

CREATIVE ZONE: HIP HATS

EARLY EXPLORERS

Using hats on view throughout the museum as inspiration, aspiring young designers can make and decorate paper hats at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. at Country Music Hall of Fame (222 5th Avenue South, Nashville). Included with admission; free for members and kids 5 and under.

TUE 21 FREE WISHING CHAIR PRODUCTIONS STORY TIME

FOR KING & COUNTRY: CHRISTMAS AT THE OPRY HOUSE

615-538-2076 franklintheatre.com

615-416-2001 countrymusichalloffame.org

615-871-6779 opryinfo@opry.com

From holiday staple “Little Drummer Boy” to No. 1 smash “God Only Knows,” this annual concert features Christmas classics and brand new songs at Grand Ole Opry House (2804 Opryland Drive, Nashville) at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $35.

MUSIC CITY CHRISTMAS See Friday, Dec. 17.

MON 20 FREE PET PHOTO NIGHTS WITH SANTA AT RIVERGATE MALL See Monday, Dec. 6.

See Monday, Dec. 6.

See Tuesday, Dec. 7.

IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE AT THE FRANKLIN THEATRE Bring the family out for a showing of It’s a Wonderful Life at The Franklin Theatre (419 Main Street, Franklin) at 10 a.m. Please note that The Franklin Theatre does not show previews.

The feature film will start at the listed showtime. Tickets start at $10.50.

MOVIE NIGHT AT CAPITOL THEATRE: NATIONAL LAMPOON’S CHRISTMAS VACATION 615-784-4014 capitoltheatretn.com/tickets

Come out to Lebanon’s Capitol Theatre for this showing of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. Tickets are $5.

Doors open at 5:30; movie starts at 6:30 p.m.

JUMPAROO TODDLER TIME See Wednesday, Dec. 1.

DREW AND ELLIE HOLCOMB’S NEIGHBORLY CHRISTMAS 615-687-6400 nashvillesymphony.org

Drew and Ellie Holcomb and their band The Neighbors return to the Schermerhorn (1 Symphony Place, Nashville) at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $45.

THU 23 MARSHMALLOW HIKES 615-370-4672 owlshill.org/events

How does a nice hike in the winter woods followed by hot chocolate and roasted marshmallows sound? Come

by Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary (545 Beech Creek Road South, Brentwood) starting at 9:30 a.m. Cost is $10.

FREE READ WITH BISCUIT See Thursday, Dec. 2.

MOVIE NIGHT AT CAPITOL THEATRE: WHITE CHRISTMAS

Bring the family out for a showing of White Christmas at The Franklin Theatre (419 Main Street, Franklin). The feature film will start at the listed showtime. Tickets start at $10.50.

Come out to Lebanon’s Capitol Theatre for this special showing of White Christmas. Tickets are $5. Doors open at 5:30; movie starts at 6:30 p.m.

Concessions will be available.

NASHVILLE PREDATORS HOCKEY

IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE AT THE FRANKLIN THEATRE

615-784-4014 capitoltheatretn.com

See Thursday, Dec. 2.

See Tuesday, Dec. 21.

FREE GAME NIGHT AT MGL

TENNESSEE TITANS VS. SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS

615-907-3429 rclstn.org

This is a come and go, all ages family game night between 5 and 6:30 p.m.

Each month they will highlight four different games for you to rotate through with friends and family. MGL Library is located inside Patterson Park Community Center (521 Mercury Boulevard, Murfreesboro). Center membership is not required to visit the library.

WED 22 WHITE CHRISTMAS AT THE FRANKLIN THEATRE See Tuesday, Dec. 21.

FREE HOLIDAY MOVIE SERIES AT INGLEWOOD: POLAR EXPRESS See Wednesday, Dec. 1.

THE POLAR EXPRESS AT FRANKLIN THEATRE

46 december 2021

See Thursday, Dec. 2.

WHITE CHRISTMAS AT THE FRANKLIN THEATRE 615-538-2076 franklintheatre.com

Enjoy another fun-filled season of ice skating and seasonal festivities for the 4th annual Winterfest at Fountains at Gateway in Murfreesboro!

CANDLELIGHT: HOLIDAY SPECIAL FEATURING THE NUTCRACKER & MORE

See Saturday Dec. 18.

nashvilleparent.com

tennesseetitans.com

The Titans take on the San Francisco 49ers at Nissan Stadium, with kickoff at 7:20 p.m.

THE POLAR EXPRESS AT FRANKLIN THEATRE See Saturday Dec. 18.

WHITE CHRISTMAS AT THE FRANKLIN THEATRE See Tuesday, Dec. 21.

FRI 24 CHRISTMAS EVE!

See December’s ongoing events on pages 32 - 33 for fun things to do on Christmas Eve.

CANDLELIGHT & CHRISTMAS GHOST TOURS See Friday, Dec. 3.

SAT 25 CHRISTMAS DAY!

See December’s ongoing events on pages 32 - 33 for fun things to do on Christmas Day.

NASHVILLE HOLIDAY MUSIC SPECIAL See Saturday, Dec. 4.

SUN 26 IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE AT THE FRANKLIN THEATRE See Tuesday, Dec. 21.

MON 27 FREE MAKE & TAKE MONDAY Kids ages 3 - 12 can come out to Linebaugh Library (105 West Vine Street, Murfreesboro) for a Make & Take craft with a variety of supplies and themes from 3 - 4:30 p.m.

JUMPAROO TODDLER TIME See Wednesday, Dec. 1.

TUE 28 MARSHMALLOW HIKES See Thursday, Dec. 23.

FREE WISHING CHAIR PRODUCTIONS STORY TIME See Tuesday, Dec. 7.

CANDLELIGHT: HOLIDAY SPECIAL FEATURING THE NUTCRACKER & MORE See Thursday, Dec. 2.

OLD CROW MEDICINE SHOW AT THE RYMAN 615-889-3060 ryman.com

Come out to Ryman Auditorium for this two-night, New Year’s special featuring Old Crow Medicine Show. Tickets start at $59.50.

WED 29 FREE HOLIDAY MOVIE SERIES AT INGLEWOOD LIBRARY

615-862-5160 adventuresci.org

IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE AT THE FRANKLIN THEATRE See Tuesday, Dec. 21.

MARSHMALLOW HIKES See Thursday, Dec. 23.

FREE NEW BEGINNINGS HEALTH AND FITNESS CLASS FOR WOMEN See Wednesday, Dec. 1.

Come to the biggest pajama party in Murfreesboro at Discovery Center from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Enjoy a dance party, glow game room, art activities, and the iconic balloon drop at noon! Included with admission, free for members.

See Thursday, Dec. 23.

NEW YEAR’S EVE!

Enjoy a free family holiday movie every Wednesday in December from 3:30 - 6 p.m. at Inglewood Library (4312 Gallatin Pike, Nashville).

explorethedc.org

MARSHMALLOW HIKES

FRI 31

615-862-5866 library.nashville.org

COUNTDOWN TO NOON

THU 30

FREE WIC MOBILE LAB See Thursday, Dec. 9.

CBS will broadcast a five-hour “New Year’s Eve Live: Nashville’s Big Bash” live at Bicentennial Mall with nearly 50 performances, including Dierks Bentley, Zac Brown Band, Dan + Shay and more.

HAPPY NOON YEAR! Join ASC (800 Fort Negley Boulevard) for a morning of games, activities, experiments and more leading up to their New Year’s Eve “ball drop” at 12 p.m. Festivities begin at 10 a.m. and end at 1 p.m., but the science center will remain open until 6 p.m. Ages 2 - 12 are $14 and adults are $18.

MARSHMALLOW HIKES See Thursday, Dec. 23.

MIDNIGHT AT NOON! townofsmyrna.org

Celebrate the New Year without staying up at Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center (100 Sam Ridley Pkwy. E., Smyrna) from 10 a.m. 12 p.m. Activities include New Year Bingo, 2021 Scavenger Hunt, write a New Year wish and more. Balloon confetti pop happens at noon.

NEW YEAR’S EVE WITH STUDIO TENN

615-538-2076 studiotenn.com/new-years-eve

Join your friends at The Franklin Theatre (419 Main Street, Franklin) for New Years Eve with Studio Tenn, hosted by Patrick Cassidy and featuring John Mark McGaha and Jackie Burns. Afterwards strollto The Harpeth Hotel for an after party. Show starts at 7 p.m.

OLD CROW MEDICINE SHOW AT THE RYMAN See Thursday, Dec. 30.

FREE NEW YEAR’S EVE LIVE: NASHVILLE’S BIG BASH CBS will ring in the New Year with this nationally-televised special, live show at Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park. The five-hour television celebration will feature nearly 50 performances from a dozen locations in downtown. It will be aired on CBS and available to stream live on Paramount+ from 7 to 10 p.m. and resume at 10:30 p.m. after a 30-minute break for news.

Gates for the live show will open at 4 p.m.

nashvilleparent.com

ON YOUR RADAR

615-893-4131 rclstn.org

U.S. FIGURE SKATING CHAMPIONSHIPS Jan. 3 - 9 Bridgestone Arena

bridgestonearena.com

DISNEY’S THE LION KING Jan. 6 - 23 TPAC’s Jackson Hall tpac.org

NASHVILLE AUTO FEST Jan. 15 - 16 Fairgrounds Nashville nashvilleautofest.com

NASHVILLE BOAT SHOW Jan. 20 - 23 Music City Center

nashvilleboatshow.com

NASHVILLE OPERA PRESENTS FAVORITE SON Jan. 21 - 23 Noah Liff Opera Center nashvilleopera.org

MONSTER JAM

Jan. 29 - 30 Bridgestone Arena bridgestonearena.com

december 2021 47

The

Salon, Spa, Party Destination & Boutique!

Party Pages A Festive Advertising Section

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Thank you for voting us the Best Party Entertainer!

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48 december 2021

nashvilleparent.com

9:37 PM

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december 2021 49

AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIES

& ENRICHMENT OPPORTUNITIES

A SPECIAL ADVERTISING DIRECTORY

ACTING ALL AROUND

410 Verandah Lane, Franklin 615-375-3565 | actingallaround.com | skzanotti@gmail.com

Registration is now open for fall classes! Group and private lessons available. Register for Let’s Do A Show group acting class, Acting for the Very Young, or our group improv class. Classes meet once each week on Monday. Fall semester runs August through November. Classes held at Calvary Chapel, 1652 Sunset Road.

MY GYM OF BRENTWOOD 330 Franklin Road, Brentwood 615-371-5437 | mygym.com/brentwood

Creating Moments That Matter! From first steps to handstands My Gym grows with your child.

My Gym was born out of our passion to teach children in a fun, physically engaging environment.

We delight in seeing children’s eyes light up for all those incredible milestones, from the tentative first steps to tumbling down soft mats. Sharing the parents’ excitement with their children’s accomplishments is the high point of our day.

SCHOOL OF NASHVILLE BALLET 3630 Redmon St., Nashville 615-297-2966 ext. 910 | nashvilleballet.com/snbclasses

Experience the joy of dance at School of Nashville Ballet! Our Children’s classes help students ages 2 - 7 reach important developmental milestones while having fun. Open to ages 8 - 18, our Community Youth classes guide students in building upon their dance education and provides flexible classes to accommodate busy schedules. So why wait? Spark a lifelong love of movement today! Enroll for our prorated fall semester and spring classes now at nashvilleballet.com/ snbclasses or 615-297-2966 x910.

PROGRAMS FOR TALENTED YOUTH

On the Vanderbilt Campus 615-322-8261 | pty.vanderbilt.edu We believe that providing acceleration as well as challenging, inquiry-based educational opportunities, best serve the intellectual needs of gifted children; that being able to work alongside true academic peers provides a sense of community and belonging that helps to meet the social and emotional needs of gifted children; and that crafting authentic creative learning experiences best allows gifted students to develop their full capacities as thinkers, as problem-solvers and as compassionate people.

BELLEVUE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

BILL TAYLOR BUSHIDO SCHOOL OF KARATE

7097 Old Harding Pike, Ste. J, Nashville 615-662-8553 | bellepac.com

Calling all performers! Bellevue Performing Arts Center offers dance, acting and music all under one roof! With our new triple threat class, you receive all those services in one class! Prefer one-on-one instruction? Our music teacher is holding private lessons on Monday and Tuesday after school. Just want to dance? BellePAC has a wide selection of ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, contemporary, and musical theater.

If your dancer is passionate about performing through adulthood, our Performance Company is for you!

1911 Business Campus Drive, Murfreesboro 615-890-6755 1820 N.W. Broad St., Murfreesboro 615-893-6003

Let martial arts take your kids to new heights! Bill Taylor’s Bushido School of Karate offers programs in traditional karate for ages 3 - adult. Call now to get one month free plus a uniform.

E.T.C. GYMNASTICS

ELITE DANCE MUSIC AND ART 7177 Nolensville Road, Nolensville 615-776-4202 | elitedancemusicandart.com

for the stars!

We feature award-winning classes where students have a magical experience of ballet, tumbling, hip hop, creative movement, and singing. They will also be engaging in plenty of self confidence building activities that will have your child reaching

50 december 2021

1137 Haley Road, Murfreesboro | 615-867-6900 1932 Almaville Road, Smyrna | 615-617-7644 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 - 18 years and all ability levels. 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.

nashvilleparent.com

FRANKLIN SUZUKI ACADEMY 101 Legends Club Lane, Franklin 615-567-3723 | franklinsuzukiacademy.org

Non-profit music school in Franklin, offering high-quality Suzuki instruction on violin, viola and cello for children ages 3 - 18. Our students participate in private lessons, group classes, recitals, and community performances. Through loving encouragement, learning with other children, and listening to fine music, our students learn to play with a beautiful tone, poise, and sensitivity to others.

HARVEST MARTIAL ARTS 313 Independence Square, Franklin 615-224-3851 | harvestmartialarts.com

The Harvest Concept, formerly Harvest Martial Arts, opened in 2016, and is long known for its specialty in teaching Han Mu Do, the traditional Korean art of self defense, and is the only Han Mu Do school in the state of Tennessee. We offer classes for ages 3 through adult. We focus on optimism, balance and harmony, building mental and physical strength through movement and practices, such as martial arts, yoga, and traditional archery.

1137 Haley Rd., Murfreesboro 1932 Almaville Rd., Smyrna

615-867-6900

615-617-7644

• ages 2 and up • girls and boys • tumbling • ninja program • parents night out • school’s out camps

WINTER BREAK CAMP MOBILE MUSIC ACADEMY

615-301-8589 | 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!

DECEMBER 20-23, 27-30 AND JANUARY 3 MURFREESBORO LOCATION

Thank you Rutherford families for voting us #1 for 21 years in a row!

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find us on

ONE GOAL SPORTS Murfreesboro 615-896-7309 | onegoalsports.net

SPARTAN SOCCER

A non-profit, community-based sports league providing quality sports programming for families in a fun, Christian environment. Now registering for fall soccer, basketball, flag football and others.

ACADEMY

SPARTAN SOCCER ACADEMY 615-633-5967 | spartansoccer.org

Spartan Development Academy is a skills based training league for children ages 5 - 13. The program is designed for players looking for more than recreational soccer but not ready to commit to travel soccer. Check out our sibling discount and referral program with Mini Spartans and Spartan Development Academy. Join us anytime!

Register for the fall league training today.

SOCCER • TEE BALL • COACH PITCH • FLAG FOOTBALL One Goal Sports is a Christian-based competitive, youth sports organization SIGN UP where each player’s skills are encouraged and celebrated, NOW FOR and the love of Jesus Christ SOCCER & is shared and demonstrated.

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spartansoccer.org/tournaments

SPARTAN DEVELOPMENT ACADEMY

REGISTRATION FOR FALL & WINTER SESSIONS NOW OPEN

spartansoccer.org/development-academy

SPARTAN ELITE ADVANCED TRAINING PROGRAM ADVANCED LEVEL OF TRAINING FOR AGES 11 AND OLDER

SPARTANSOCCER.ORG/SPARTAN-ELITE spartansoccer.org/spartan-elite

714 S. Church Street, Murfreesboro

(615) 896-7309 www.onegoalsports.net KICKBALL • BASKETBALL • CHEERLEADING • ROCK CLIMBING

615-633-5967

nashvilleparent.com

info@spartansoccer.org december 2021 51

MARKETPLACE

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Drop In Anytime Care Weekly Care Preschool

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Low Student/Teacher Ratio

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615-269-4150

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Robin’s Nest Academy for Academic Excellence

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nashvilleparent.com

CARING FOR YOU DURING YOUR PREGNANCY

journey

Colleen Q. Bratsch, D.O.

Lauren J. Christman, D.O.

Jason Pollock, M.D.

April L. Whitfield, M.D.

Brad S. Chesney, M.D.

Yolando McGriff-Chatman, M.D.

Gregory M. Taylor, M.D.

Kelly G. Williams, M.D.

GYN Care Only

This is one of the most important times of your life. From pregnancy, through delivery, and during your post childbirth recovery, our trusted providers are here to provide personalized care. Let us help navigate your pregnancy journey. Your health is our mission.

MMC Obstetrics and Gynecology is proud to be the first Recognized NCQA Patient-Centered Specialty Practice (PCSP) in the entire state of Tennessee.

mmclinic.com

|

615-867-8030

|

1272 Garrison Drive, Murfreesboro, TN 37129

11 Convenient Locations in Middle Tennessee the

Bellevue

academy the

academy

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

So Much More

Than Just Child Care.

Come see The Academy for yourself!

mckay’s mill 615-771-1131 seaboard lane 615-373-PLAY westhaven 615-790-6737

Hendersonville

Thank you!

indian lake village 615-824-1159

For voting us

Murfreesboro

Best of Parent Magazine

gateway 615-890-5885

for 14 years in a row!

Spring Hill

2008

2014

2015

Check out our website!

2009

2016

2010

2017

2011

2018

2012

2019

2013

2020

2021

heritage commons 615-591-4040

Take a tour and bring this in for a FREE week!

www.academychilddevelopment.com/special

May Your Smiles be

Merry & Bright!

MERRY CHRISTMAS TISTRY IC DEN OW R T IA D R PE RS IN A 23 YEA

2021

24 YEAR WINNER

27

The

Daily News Journal

FINALIST IN ORTHODONTICS

BEST PEDIATRI C DENTIST WINNE R

th Annual

ild About Pediatric D Smiles en & Orthodonttistry ics

2021 Awards The Official Community

Choice Awards

FINALIST IN S ORTHODONTIC

Call Wild About Smiles to schedule your appointment

Thank you for your vote!

W

FINALIST IN ORTHODONTIC S

Murfreesboro 615-890-0885

wildaboutsmiles4kids.com

Tullahoma 931-841-3113

NASHVILLE’ S B R I G H T E S T H OLIDAY TRADITION.

NOVEMBER 20, 2021 – JANUARY 9, 2022 OVER A MILLION LIGHTS ON A ONE MILE PATH REAL REINDEER |

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Holiday LIGHTS is presented by MARLENE AND SPENCER HAYS FOUNDATION

Special thanks for the installation to

Cheekwood is funded in part by