Christmas celebrations and country music can be a match made for many Americans — country music is the nation’s most listened to genre, after all — and where better to bring them both together than Nashville.
Families, fans and travelers enjoy both Christmas and country music together under one roof during Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center’s 35th annual A Country Christmas celebration.
Fans of the event will be happy to know a few staples are back this year, including ICE! Check out themed ice sculptures, some 2 million pounds of them, decked out in holiday-themed décor, like Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas
from the 1957 classic. The kids will enjoy seeing the whole gang from Cindy Lou Who to Max and the Grinch himself in the ice-covered Who-ville, created by 40 master artists and ice sculptures. One new addition to the old class, guests can feast with the Grinch or head out on a scavenger hunt through the resort’s nine acres of indoor gardens.
Another fan favorite, Cirque Dreams Holidaze arrives with an eclectic show and live performance. Expect incredible performances by singers, dancers, contortionists, artists and more with this family-friendly, circus-style show — all Christmas themed and over the top.
Amid the literal millions of holiday lights decorating the resort, guests will find an 8,000-square-foot indoor ice-skating rink, occasionally hosting a 30-minute show, as well as an Opryland Express train ride for kids. Hop on fun carnival rides like Santa’s Spinners for a tea cup (or in this case, hot cocoa) ride, or make your way to the gingerbread decorating corner.
Bring the little ones to the Build-A-Bear Workshop for a personalized cuddle buddy, or bring the older kids to the ice tubing hill for a thrill.
The Grand Ole Opry is synonymous with big things in the country world. An event of this scale wouldn’t be complete without a performance by a country music star such as Trace Adkins. The Grammy winner’s new Christmas album, “The King’s Gift,” offers the perfect excuse to embrace the holiday season and enjoy a special night of dining, live music and Christmas cheer.
The event welcomes about 1 million visitors each year and offers miles of ribbon, garland and endless decorations.
Check out dates, times and ticket prices online and read more about the grand event before your trip. The indoor celebration welcomes fans of both Christmas and country to enjoy the festivities, with enough whimsy to impress the whole family.
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