City: Nashville, TN

Category: Annual Events & Festivals

Telephone: (615) 591-8500

Description: This 2-day, free-admission event held during the last full weekend in April averages an attendance of about 140,000. The Southeast Tourism Society has listed it as one of the top 20 events in the Southeast. It’s a fun time and definitely worth the short drive to Franklin. The festival takes place on 5 city blocks in the historic downtown area, from First Avenue to Fifth Avenue, and encompasses the town square. Crafts and food booths line the streets. More than 200 artists and craftspeople from across the United States exhibit their works. Food vendors offer such items as barbecue, burgers, hot dogs, roasted corn, and Greek, Italian, Mexican, and Asian fare. A children’s area on Third Avenue off Main Street caters to kids 8 and younger. Bring the youngsters here for face painting, pony rides, games, a jump on the Moon Bounce, and a ride on the Ferris wheel. Four stages offer continuous entertainment, including music, dance, and storytelling. At 7 p.m. Sat a locally popular musical act performs. Park along nearby streets and in downtown lots.