Nashville in the fall has a personality all its own. Crisp air, changing leaves, and a calendar full of festivals, fairs, and tastings make it a season to get out and roam. Spooky season is creeping in, with pumpkins, art, craft brews, and live music filling the weekends. If a fall getaway is on your mind, here’s a guide to Nashville events from early September through late October.
The Nashville Fair
September 11 – 20, 2026
Thrilling rides, games, and local food bring the fairgrounds to life. Balloon sculpting, axe throwing, and nightly live music keep the excitement going well into the evening. From traditional fair favorites to unique local experiences, there’s plenty to see and do. If you’re looking for thrills, tasty bites, and a lively atmosphere, The Nashville Fair has it all.
Wine on the River
September 12, 2026
Kick off the fall season at Riverfront Park with a tasting journey featuring wines, beers, and spirits from around the world. Live music provides a mellow soundtrack as visitors stroll the waterfront, glass in hand. VIP tickets include early entry and access to a quieter lounge for specialty pours. Pairing seasonal sips with city views makes this a standout way to start the autumn weekends in Nashville.
Nashville Film Festival
September 24 – 30, 2026
The spotlight shifts to the big screen with the Nashville Film Festival, showcasing nearly 140 films from around the world at venues across the city. The NashFilm Creators Conference at Hilton Green Hills offers panels, networking, and industry insights for anyone curious about the craft behind the camera. Evening screenings and Q&As make it easy to move between venues while taking in the films and the sights of Nashville.
Artville
September 25 – 27, 2026
Artville turns downtown Nashville into a canvas of public art, murals, and interactive installations. The American Artisan Festival brings local and national artists to show their work and share what inspires them. As the sun sets, lights and music fill the streets, creating an inviting atmosphere to explore. From bold murals to hidden installations, there’s plenty to spark curiosity and inspiration along the way.
Kidsville Family Festival
September 26, 2026
Centennial Park hosts arts, crafts, games, and live music for children and families. Face painting, character meet-and-greets, storytime, and fun games keep kids busy, while food trucks provide plenty of options for hungry visitors. The festival blends entertainment, learning, and play, making it a top option for families looking to spend quality time outdoors.
Fall Tennessee Craft Fair
October 9-11, 2026
The Fall Tennessee Craft Fair at Centennial Park brings award-winning artisans, live demonstrations, and hands-on activities. Festival-goers can watch pottery, glasswork, and woodcraft come to life and chat with the artists creating each piece. The kids’ tent offers engaging activities while local food vendors keep everyone fueled for the day. With crafts, flavors, and hands-on fun, the fair has something to capture every interest.
BOOze at the Zoo
October 15, 2026
Spooky season gets wild at the Nashville Zoo. BOOze at the Zoo is an adults-only bash with unlimited samples from local breweries and distilleries, a costume contest, trick-or-treating trails, and animal encounters. Ride the Scary-Go-Round, snap pics with Gourdon the Talking Pumpkin, and maybe meet a tiger who doesn’t mind staying up late. Costumes are strongly encouraged!
Southern Festival of Books
October 17 – 18, 2026
Bookworms unite at Bicentennial Mall and the Tennessee State Museum for the Southern Festival of Books. With panels, readings, signings, and food trucks, it’s a literary playground for all ages. Hundreds of authors attend, leaving plenty of opportunities to pick up a new favorite read or meet with the creators of the stories.
Cheekwood Harvest
TBD
Cheekwood Estate & Gardens transforms into a fall wonderland, with 75,000 pumpkins, a Jack-o’-Lantern topiary, and a Pumpkin Village featuring three whimsical pumpkin houses. This year introduces Harvest Nights on Thursdays, where the gardens glow under string lights with live music, food trucks, and seasonal drinks. Wander along the scarecrow trail and through the pumpkin paths, taking in all the playful details and festive charm along the way.
Fall Into Fun with GoodNight Stay
Fall in Nashville is full of seasonal events, and there’s no better time to plan your getaway. Save 15% on select Tennessee homes when you book by September 27, 2026, with code TNFALL15 for stays from September 1–30, 2026. From fall festivals to pumpkin-filled weekends, make the most of the season with a GoodNight Stay.
