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Break out the flannels and the pumpkin spice because fall is officially upon us.
To accompany the arrival of the highly anticipated season, Cheekwood is bringing back its beloved annual fall festival, Cheekwood Harvest, to delight autumnal lovers of all ages. As part of Cheekwood’s year-round lineup of signature events, Cheekwood Harvest provides an exciting assortment of activities to celebrate the season.
Running now through Oct. 31, Cheekwood Harvest provides a picturesque paradise for all things fall. Whether you’re looking for a serene solo stroll, a fun-filled family outing, or a daytime date to remember, there’s something for everyone at this foliage-filled festival.
Take pumpkin picking to the next level with a walk through Cheekwood’s iconic Pumpkin House and Village. With two 11-foot-tall pumpkin houses to explore, the whole family can enjoy this immersive experience. In addition to discovering the pumpkins that help brighten Cheekwood’s various gardens, pumpkins can be purchased to take home for carving and painting. Scarecrows, another cherished Cheekwood tradition, will also return this year after a year off. This time they’re better than ever and arriving at the Turner Seasons Garden with a new theme: Favorite Artists. Guests can walk through the pathway to the beloved trains exhibit and catch a hay-filled glimpse of the likeness of artists such as Frida Kahlo, Jackson Pollock, Salvador Dalí, and even learn about new artists along the way.
If you’re in the mood for some weekend fun, garden tours are available every Saturday during Cheekwood Harvest. The interactive, discussion-based tours are led by Cheekwood docents with a Historic Garden Tour beginning at 10 a.m., and a Modern Garden Tour beginning at 2 p.m. Tours last 45 minutes to one hour, and are available on a first come, first serve basis with a limit of 20 participants. Also available during the weekends are plenty of local food trucks offering tasty fare.
But the fall festivities aren’t just limited to weekends: Enjoy live music, food trucks, wellness programs, and more during Thursday Night Out every Thursday evening. Or, check out Thirsty Third Thursday—a specially ticketed cocktail crawl through the gardens on Oct. 21. And in the spirit of sipping, guests can enjoy seasonal beers, specialty cocktails, wine, and champagne accompanied by live music at the Cheekwood Beer Garden. Open during Thursday Night Out, along with every weekend, this beer garden (in an actual garden) is the perfect place for a stunning sunset picnic among friends.
There’s fun for all ages at Cheekwood. With the return of Tots, little ones can learn about plants and art through hands-on activities, story time, and more! Located in the Bracken Foundation Children’s Garden, the beloved children’s program is held Tuesday through Saturday mornings. Adults, too, can enjoy a variety of activities, classes, and educational talks with Cheekwood Harvest’s adult workshops and wellness programs. Whether it’s learning the art of Japanese calligraphy, picking a customized fall bouquet, or embracing the serenity of nature with yoga and meditation, there are ample opportunities to find inspiration and rejuvenation this season.
Round out the month with a Halloween Pooch Parade on Oct. 23, where pups donned in their finest Halloween attire can enjoy treats from vendors along with plenty of festive photo opportunities. And on Oct. 30 and 31, Cheekwood brings the traditions of Mexico and Latin America to Nashville with a lively festival featuring traditional music and dance, vibrant art activities, and authentic cuisine. Here, attendees can explore breathtaking altar displays and marketplace shopping.
With so much to see and experience, Cheekwood Harvest is sure to have you falling in love with all the season has to offer. (1200 Forrest Park Dr., 615-356-8000; cheekwood.org)