As December unfolds, our Middle Tennessee towns are lighting up for the season — with tree-lightings, parades, boat parades, and plenty of chances to make memories with family. Here’s an updated roundup of Christmas and holiday events happening this week, including the weekend. Be ready, you may want to bookmark this page.

Cross Plains

Don’t miss the Christmas Tree Lighting on Wednesday, December 3rd at 6:00 p.m. at Kilgore Park. Expect carols, hot cocoa, and a cozy community gathering to kick off the season. It's a wonderful, small-town way to begin the holidays — perfect for families wanting a peaceful, heartwarming evening out.

Springfield

This Saturday, December 6th, Springfield shows off their holiday magic with their Christmas parade at 5:30 p.m. while the Winter Wonderland celebration continues at J. Travis Park. The activities this weekend feature carriage rides (first-come, first-served), a visit from Santa, a petting zoo, pony rides, inflatables, food trucks and plenty of holiday cheer for kids and families. It’s a fantastic opportunity for a family outing — whether you live nearby or want to take a short drive. If you go early, you’re likely to beat the crowds and enjoy the full magic of the event.

Hendersonville

The festive fun includes the 2025 Deck The Hulls - Hendersonville Christmas Boat Parade on Saturday, December 6th, at 5:30 p.m., with boats decorated for the holidays cruising along Drakes Creek, passing Mallard Park, and ending at Sanders Ferry Park. Click here for more info.

On Sunday, December 7th, join the HolidayFest: 2025 Hendersonville Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting Ceremony — parade down Main Street starting at 2:00 p.m., followed by the Tree Lighting at Memorial Park. Expect floats, music, candy, Santa, and family-friendly holiday cheer. Click here for more info.

These additions make Hendersonville a must-visit this weekend if you’re up for a festive, full weekend — water parade, classic street parade, and tree lighting all in one go.

Gallatin

The much-loved Gallatin Tree Lighting takes place on December 5th— adding to the holiday spirit that remains alive in the downtown area with decorations, lights, and the cozy small-town charm of the season. You may want to consider topping off the evening at The Palace Theater with a viewing of National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation. Hey, deep belly laughs lead to dreams sweeter than sugarplums.

Christmas fun continues all weekend long with "A Merry Little Christmas Market" on the square December 6th. Carolers, Photos with Santa, Letters to Santa, and more promise to make this weekend full of merriment. Click here for more info.

Goodlettsville

Goodlettsville offers a robust event weekend — making it a great pick for families wanting a full dose of holiday cheer. You'll want to plan on hitting the Christmas Tree Lighting on Friday, December 5th at 6:00 p.m. and staying for the Candy Cane Village reveal. Santa's Holiday Party rounds out the evening's entertainment with plenty of cocoa and cookies. Click here for more info.

The Goodlettsville Christmas Parade is scheduled for Saturday, December 6th at 4:00 p.m., heading from Delmas Long Community Center along Main Street. Check out more parade information here.

White House

Yuletide festivities kick off in White House on Saturday, December 6th, with the parade at 3:00 p.m. followed by the town's tree lighting and plenty of family fun. Check out their Facebook page here.

Planning Tips

• Since some towns have multiple overlapping events, you could easily plan a “holiday-hop” weekend — hit one event Saturday morning/afternoon, then another Saturday evening.
• Dress warm: many outdoor festivities will run rain or shine, so layered clothes are smart.
• Be sure to check local city or chamber-of-commerce websites — new holiday activities may be added as we get closer to Christmas.
• Events are family-friendly and free or low-cost — perfect for stretching your holiday fun without stretching the budget.

Here's to having a magical, wonderful weekend!