There’s a familiar chill in the air coupled with a craving for all things pumpkin spice that can only mean one thing: Fall has arrived in Music City.
Along with this eagerly anticipated season comes the return of one of Nashville’s most beloved traditions, Cheekwood Harvest. With an exciting array of seasonal activities against a backdrop of acres of gorgeous autumnal hues, the annual Cheekwood Harvest is a must-visit destination for all things fall. Part of Cheekwood Estate & Gardens’ year-round lineup of signature seasonal festivals, Cheekwood Harvest runs now through October 30. Whether you’re looking for a serene solo stroll through the gardens, a festive family day out, or a daytime date venue to cozy up and take in the sights of the season, there is something for everyone to discover at this beloved fall festival.
Bask in the beauty of countless oaks, maples, dogwoods, and more as the trees’ leaves change colors, unveiling stunning shades of the season. And take pumpkin picking to a whole new Instagrammable level with Cheekwood’s iconic Pumpkin House and Village. A third pumpkin house is being added to the picturesque Pumpkin Village landscape with a jaw-dropping total of 10,000 pumpkins and approximately 3,000 mums being incorporated into this year’s display.
Scarecrows, another unforgettable Cheekwood Harvest tradition, also make their return this year. Over 30 local organizations, families, and schools signed up to craft scarecrows that comprise this cherished display. Walk through the Turner Seasons Garden and catch a glimpse of 35 clever creations of scarecrows ranging from frightening to friendly and everything in between. On the weekends, gather your crew and head to the Cheekwood Beer Garden for lively full- band musical performances and an assortment of seasonal beers, cocktails, and spirits available for purchase. On Sundays, the Beer Garden comes alive with the sounds of world class performances from jazz quartets comprised of members of the Nashville Musicians Association. Guests can expect an impressive range of styles including straight-ahead swing, syncopated Latin rhythms, smooth jazz, bebop, and beyond.
Or, get the weekend fun started early with Cheekwood’s Thursday Night Out. Every Thursday night throughout the Harvest Festival, Cheekwood offers extended hours of 5 – 9 p.m. where guests can enjoy live music, delicious regionally sourced food and spirits, lawn games, wellness classes, evening strolls through the gardens, and more. And on October 20, don’t miss the last installment of this season’s Thirsty Third Thursdays cocktail crawl. Tickets are required to attend, so be sure to reserve them ahead of time and enjoy samples of specialty cocktails from a selection of spirit providers.
On October 9, the night of the Harvest Moon, in partnership with the Consulate General of Japan and Japan American Society of Tennessee, Cheekwood will host the eighth annual Japanese Moon Viewing festival, Otsukimi. From 4 – 9 p.m., attendees can enjoy a dreamy moonlit evening of tea ceremony demonstrations, origami, and hands-on activities. The evening will also include music and dance that celebrates Japanese art, gardens, and culture. And Cheekwood brings the traditions of Mexico and Latin America to Nashville on October 29 and 30 with El Día de los Muertos, The Day of the Dead. One of the most important celebrations of the Latin American culture, the festival’s signature colorful decorations, energetic music, and extravagant displays represent a strong love and respect for ancestors and celebrate the continuance of life. The festival will be filled with lively music and dance, vibrant art activities, and authentic cuisine. Additionally, attendees can explore stunning altar displays and enjoy marketplace shopping while learning about Latin American Culture.
No fall festival is complete without an ode to Halloween, and Cheekwood Harvest offers a holiday tradition to delight visitors and their four-legged friends alike. The Halloween Pooch Party, held October 22 and 23, offers a paw-sitively perfect photo- op at the Pumpkin Village to dress your pup in the perfect costume and capture the memories made. Dog friendly vendors will also be in attendance serving up special treats.
From the breathtaking scenery to the variety of activities and offerings, Cheekwood Harvest is an unbe-leaf-able celebration of the season.
(1200 Forrest Park Dr., 615-356-8000; cheekwood.org)