How to have a low-key New Year’s Eve in Nashville

New Year’s Eve is just around the corner, but celebrating the holiday doesn’t have to mean huge ticket prices to fancy events. There are plenty of ways to have a low-key celebration while still taking advantage of the city’s rich offerings.

This free party at Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park is a great way to ring in the new year with incredible performances. Keith Urban is headlining the event, which will also feature 6 other performers including CMA New Artist of the Year Maren Morris. The night of entertainment will be topped off with the Music Note Drop at midnight, along with a stunning fireworks display against a backdrop of the State Capitol and the Nashville skyline.

When: Dec 31, 4pm – midnight

Where: 600 James Robertson Pkwy

This venue is incredibly laid-back and the perfect place to enjoy a chill night of great music from Matt Ferranti Band. The regular cover charge includes party admission and a champagne toast, while VIP tickets include access to the green room and a drinks package. You won’t find any pretentious people at this event, just those who love having a good time while listening to good music. This is a quintessentially Nashville place to be on New Year’s Eve.

When: Dec 31, 9pm – 1am

Where: 1516 Demonbreun St

There’s never been a better reason to get all dressed up and dance the night away. This black tie optional event is dedicated to breast cancer research, and proceeds are donated to the Breast Health Center at Williamson Medical Center. Tickets include entertainment from Memphis Soul Revue, as well as dinner and drinks. You’ll also have the chance to purchase a pink boa in honor of a breast cancer survivor or someone who lost their battle with the disease.

When: Dec 31, 7:30pm – 1am

Where: 230 Franklin Road, Franklin

Acme Feed & Seed is hosting two floors of celebrations on December 31. Listen to the musical stylings of Dynamo and Ping Rose on the 1st floor, or head to the 3rd floor for a Back to the Future dance party. The venue itself is incredibly cool, as downstairs is virtually unchanged from its previous life as a feed store. Its location on Lower Broadway also allows you to check out the area’s other hip bars and honky-tonks before heading inside for the party.

When: Dec 31, 7pm – 2am

Where: 101 Broadway

Located inside a former movie theater, this rock ‘n’ roll–themed space is one of the coolest places to hang out in Nashville. You can customize your experience on New Year’s Eve, opting for a 3-course dinner or a small buffet. Cocktails will be on offer no matter what, as this venue is known for its cinematic-themed concoctions. Bring your dancing shoes, as a guest DJ will be spinning tunes all night. Take special note of how the lounge has kept elements of the Melrose Theater, including its original staircase. Classic films also play on the massive projection screen.

When: Dec 31, 9pm – 1am

Where: 2600 8th Ave S, Ste 102

If you love seafood and beautifully cooked steaks, head to this popular Nashville restaurant for dinner on New Year’s Eve. Choose between 3 and 4 courses, with headliners including miso sea bass with shrimp and flame-grilled salmon. Be sure to save room for a delicious dessert trio. The great food will be accompanied by music from smooth jazz artist Michael Fair. The restaurant’s chic interior is as classy as its menu offerings and handcrafted cocktails.

When: Dec 31, 7pm and 9:30pm seatings

Where: 601 12th Ave S

Concert lovers looking to experience a lesser-known genre of music can head to Marathon Music Works on New Year’s Eve, where Papadosio will be performing space rock, defined by the band as a mix between rock, jazz, and “electronic mayhem.” Zoogma and Push/Pull will also be taking to the stage. The venue is industrial chic, comprising an open floor design, exposed brick walls, and a steel beam ceiling.

When: Dec 31, doors 8pm, show 9pm

Where: 1402 Clinton St

Music City is always ready to entertain, especially on New Year’s Eve. Whether you fancy a formal event or throwing on a pair of jeans and cowboy boots, Nashville has something for everyone on December 31.