It seems these days that almost everyone’s budget is tight. The good news is that there are tons of free activities to do around Nashville to keep you occupied for the rest of the summer. Here is a list of absolutely free events, ranging from festivals, art, music, and family friendly events that will make you and your wallet happy.
For Art Lovers
1. Hillsboro Village Art Walk
On the first Thursday of each month from 5 p.m.-8 p.m., the trendy Hillsboro Village shops host bands, raffles, food and more. You may be tempted to spend some money in these wonderful boutiques and shops, but if you can refrain, you can enjoy great company, food, and music for absolutely free. Plus, parking is free behind Cornerstone Financial after 6 p.m. For more info, call 615-294-5441 or visit their Facebook Page.
2. First Saturday Art Crawl
Looking for something to do on a Saturday night? Jump on the bandwagon and enjoy one of the cities best art crawl– The First Saturday Art Crawl in downtown Nashville. Jump on the free shuttle and check out some amazing art! Many of the galleries offer free wine and refreshments. This event is from 6 p.m.-10 p.m. and you can learn more here.
3. 5 Points Second Saturday
The Historic 5 Points area of East Nashville hosts this wonderful event from 6 p.m.-9:30 p.m. every second Saturday. Art galleries and other small businesses in the neighborhood will open their doors for visitors to discover this historic part of town. A DJ will be spinning and each month a different food truck will be spotlighted. Of course, to keep this event completely free, you’ll have to steer clear of the food trucks. Come enjoy this area of town by browsing the shops, checking out the galleries and walking the streets of this hip neighborhood. Visit their event page on Facebook.
If you’re looking for a cheap date idea, an art crawl should be at the top of your list. What better way to spend the evening then by walking around some of Nashville’s coolest neighborhoods, discussing art. The aforementioned art crawls are an amazing reason why to see not only national and regional talent, but to also see local talent. Visiting museums can be expensive, so why not support your local artists by browsing the galleries around town. With all of these crawls on opposing days, you can fill your month with art.
For Dance Lovers
1. Tales at Twilight: Nashville Ballet
Can’t afford tickets to the ballet? Don’t sweat it. Metro Parks and Red Caboose Playground, Inc. have teamed together to offer a free, family friendly event at the Red Caboose Park in Bellevue. On Aug 17 at 7 p.m., bring a blanket, your friends and family and watch a free performance by the Nashville Ballet! This is a wonderful opportunity for those with children to enjoy the outdoors while also watching an amazing performance.
For Festival Lovers
1. Tomato Art Fest
No one respects the tomato like East Nashville. On August 11, the area known as 5 Points in East Nashville will be teaming with live music, art, contests and a parade. This is the ultimate summer festival. In fact, this festival was deemed the best festival by the Nashville Scene from 2007-2010. From the costumed parade, food, art and general festive atmosphere, you and your family will have a blast at this event. For more on this fantastic festival, check on their website. Once you go to the Tomato Art Fest once, you’ll be hooked and find yourself going year after year.
For Music Lovers
1. Big Band Dances in Centennial Park
Every Saturday until August 25 at the band shelter in Centennial Park, enjoy great free music. The band shell will be rockin’ from 7 p.m.-10 p.m. each Saturday, with various genres of music. For more information, call 615-862-8424
2. Music in Berry Hill
The community of Berry Hill erupts in music on the fourth Friday of every month. At 6 p.m. on the lawn of Curious Heart Emporium, located at Bransford and Heather Place, enjoy free live music. This musical treat runs until Sept 2012. For more, click here.
I highlighted these particular music events, not only because they are free but because they are in great parts of town. Centennial Park has so much to offer, including wonderful gardens, walkways and historic statues to visit, as well as the Parthenon. Berry Hill is a charming community with cute boutiques and eateries, including vegetarian restaurants. These music events are a great way to relax after a hard week of work.
With all of these free events, there’s sure to be something for everyone. Having a tight budget doesn’t mean you can’t have fun in Music City!
