Summer in Nashville is hot – both temperature and in terms of fun! Whether you’re looking for free ways to cool off, events to mark on your calendar, or sweet traditions to share with your kids, we’ve got you covered. Here are our favorite summer things to do in the Nashville area with kids (and kids-at-heart!).
(Updated for 2025)
Splash Pads Galore
Nashville and the surrounding suburbs are home to so many great splash pads—free, shaded, and perfect for kids who just need to run. Check out the one at Cumberland Park downtown, or head to the splash pads in Nolensville or Brentwood.
Father’s Day Fun (June 15, 2025)
Celebrate the dads, grandpas, and father figures in your life with a picnic, a DIY craft, or a special local outing. Cheekwood often hosts Father’s Day weekend events – check out the Enchanted Castles while you’re there – and many local museums offer discounted admission.
Summer Solstice (June 20, 2025)
The longest day of the year is the perfect excuse for all-day fun. Try a sunrise walk at Radnor Lake, an afternoon splash pad run, and a sunset picnic at Sevier Park to make the most of it.
National Doughnut Day (June 6, 2025)
Mark your calendars – this sweet little holiday is a dream! Donut shops like Five Daughters Bakery and Krispy Kreme often offer free or discounted treats.
Summer Movie Deals
Keep it cool indoors with the Regal Summer Movie Express ($1 tickets) or AMC’s Summer Movie Camp ($3 tickets). These family-friendly movies are G or PG.
CMA Fest (June 5-8, 2025)
While this iconic country music festival draws big crowds downtown, there are also free, family-friendly daytime shows and street entertainment. Scope out the Riverfront Stage and Broadway in the early morning for a kid-friendly experience.
Happy Juneteenth (June 19)
Nashville celebrates Juneteenth with festivals, parades, and community events. Look out for family-friendly programming at Fort Negley or the National Museum of African American Music.
Tennessee Free Fishing Day (June 14, 2025)
No license required! This is a perfect time to introduce your child to fishing at a local pond or lake, with fishing events all around Middle Tennessee.
Edwin Warner Nature Programs
Edwin Warner offers nature programs year-round, with summer programs featuring butterflies, birds, art, fairy gardens, and all kinds of fun designed for children. It’s a low-key, low-tech celebration of summer – just how we like it.
Touch-A-Truck
Big trucks, diggers, fire engines, and more! Your kids (of all ages) will be in heaven. Franklin’s annual Touch-A-Truck event usually happens in May or early June and is packed with hands-on fun and photo ops.
Agricultural Museum Farm Fun Day (July 19, 2025)
Farm Fun Day at the TN Agricultural Museum has live animals, kids’ crafts, and interactive nature exhibits. A fun peek into farming and agriculture.
Fireworks Displays
Beyond the massive downtown show on July 4, look for smaller, kid-friendly displays in Franklin, Brentwood, and Nolensville. These often come with music, food trucks, and a little more room to breathe.
Summer & Fall Consignment Sales
Don’t forget the seasonal kids’ consignment sales – like Little Sprouts, Encores, and Reruns. Score clothes, toys, books, and gear at major markdowns. (Pro tip: Shop early for the best selection, late for the best deals.)
Celebrate Pride Month
Nashville Pride includes a family area at its main festival and a parade; Franklin’s Pride Festival at Harlinsdale Farm includes live music, entertainment, local vendors, food, and fun; plus there are smaller events around the city. It’s a great time to talk about love, inclusion, and kindness, with rainbow crafts and plenty of sparkles, of course.
Library Events & Reading Programs
Free crafts, shows, and prizes for reading books! Check out the Children’s Library at NPL or your local library.
Farmer’s Markets with Kids’ Activities
Check out Franklin’s Saturday market, Richland Park, or the Nashville Farmer’s Market. They often have themes for the week with fun and crafts to go with it.
Pick-Your-Own Fruit
Berries in June, peaches in July! Try Circle S Farms or Kelley’s Berry Farm. See the options near you on Pick TN Products.
And don’t forget your summer mom kit: sun hats, sunscreen, water bottles, snacks, bug spray, and a chill attitude. Summer can get sweaty and chaotic, but also fun and memory-filled. Have a great summer, Moms!
