In case you are in Nashville for New Year's Eve, here are some things you should know--or maybe you should have known before coming. I guess I should have posted it a few weeks ago! Mostly, we locals don't go downtown on New Year's Eve.
Your First Nashville New Year's Eve: The Essential Guide
You picked the right city. Nashville's NYE is massive, loud, and unforgettable. But it requires some planning.
Here's what you need to know.
Two Different Parties
Nashville's celebration splits into two scenes about a mile apart:
The Big Bash (Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park)
- Free, outdoor concert with Jason Aldean, Lainey Wilson, Bailey Zimmerman
- Giant music note drops at midnight (not a ball)
- 100,000+ people standing in an open park
- Gates open around 4-5 PM
Lower Broadway (The Honky-Tonks)
- Famous bars like Tootsie's, The Stage, Kid Rock's
- Indoor, heated, live music on every floor
- On NYE there can be cover charges or advance tickets needed.
- Gets packed by 8 PM
Pick one. You can't realistically do both.
Critical Rules (Don't Skip This)
Bag Policy - They're Serious
- Only clear plastic bags allowed (12" x 12" x 6" max)
- Small clutches okay, but no backpacks
- Applies to Big Bash and most Broadway venues
- Buy a cheap clear tote before you go
Weather - It's Cold
- Low of 28°F at night
- You'll be outside for hours
- Wear: thermal layers, heavy coat, gloves, hat, warm socks
- Bring hand warmers
Transportation - Plan Your Escape
- Roads close around the park
- Uber/Lyft surge pricing will be brutal (5x+ normal)
- Pickup zones are 10-15 minutes away from events
- Best bet: Walk if you're staying downtown
Quick Logistics
- Dinner: No reservations left. Hit Assembly Food Hall on 5th Avenue for quick options.
- Bathrooms: Porta-potties at Big Bash. Broadway bars if you buy a drink.
- Phone: Bring a battery pack. Networks get overloaded.
Other Options
- Hotel Galas: Virgin Hotels (Gatsby theme) and Grand Hyatt (rooftop) have upscale ticketed parties ($150-300+). Book now if interested.
Your Checklist
- Get a clear bag
- Dress for 28°F weather
- Plan transportation home
- Lower expectations for Uber prices
- Charge your phone + bring battery pack
The Real Talk
- It's crowded. It's cold. Ubers are expensive. Lines are long everywhere.
- But you're in Music City on the biggest night of the year, surrounded by thousands of people who traveled here for the same reason you did.
- The chaos is part of it. Roll with it.
Stay warm. Stay safe. Welcome to Nashville.
No comments:
Post a Comment
Thanks for commenting. If you would like a response from me, then please leave your email address.