Frosty, Fun, and Five Million Lights

Imagine stepping into a frosty fairytale where ice sculptures dazzle, carolers sing, and five million twinkling lights transform the nation’s largest non-gaming resort into a sparkling holiday haven. And all of this in Nashville, Tennessee.

The centerpiece tree at Gaylord Opryland Resort in Nashville, Tennessee. Image courtesy Michael C. Upton
The centerpiece tree at Gaylord Opryland Resort in Nashville, Tennessee. Image courtesy Michael C. Upton | Michael C. Upton

A Country Christmas, Gaylord Opryland’s yuletide extravaganza, turns the sprawling 2,888-room resort into a festive playground for all ages. Now through January 4, 2025, this enchanted retreat invites guests to immerse themselves in merriment, magic, and a touch of frostbite (not really, they have parkas to keep everyone warm).

Chill Out with Frosty

“Happy Birthday!” A snowman comes to life—actually, larger than life! Perhaps the coolest holiday tradition in the American South is ICE! Featuring Frosty the Snowman. Created with over two million pounds of ice, hand-carved and formed by master artisans flown in from Asia, this walkthrough attraction brings the story of everyone’s favorite snowman to life. Guests walk through an indoor trail of 11 mesmerizing scenes and enjoy thrills on a two-story ice slide. Bundle up—the icy wonderland is a crisp 9 degrees, but the jaw-dropping artistry will warm even the most miserly heart.

INSIDER TIPS: Get there soon, Nashville Nights bring special perks like half-off ICE! tickets, free hot cocoa, and a scavenger hunt for Nashville area residents. Overnight guests get VIP access with a complimentary “Chill Pass” for front-of-line access and an “Extra Cool Hour,” which provides early entry into ICE! one hour before it opens to the general public.

Joe Bonsall, Duane Allen, William Lee Golden, Richard Sterban
The Oak Ridge Boys' Christmas Show | Beth Gwinn/GettyImages

Sleigh the Season

Holiday fun is around every corner of the resort. Guests in Delta wing rooms can enjoy the sights of a majestic 48-foot Christmas tree and people-watch as couples and families try for the perfect selfie. More than 15 miles of garland, 10 miles of hand-tied ribbons, and thousands of poinsettias make the season bright. Feeling competitive? Set off on the Snowman Scramble scavenger hunt or unleash the inner architect at the Gingerbread Decorating Corner.

Outside, Pinetop Village is located next to Ice! and offers a winter carnival atmosphere. There is ice tubing, skating, and even snowball target practice courtesy of Santa’s elves. And in true Nashville fashion, live music takes the stage at select times.

Sit down to Christmas Dinner

Experience holiday classics and toe-tapping country hits at Gaylord Opryland's A Country Christmas Dinner Show. The Gaylord’s top chefs prepare meals meant to please everyone. Two shows run throughout the season: Terri Clark's It's Christmas...Cheers! and The Frontmen's Holidays & Hits. Award-winning songstress Terri Clark is responsible for six number one hits including “If I Were You” and “Emotional Girl.” The Frontmen are comprised of Larry Stewart of Restless Heart, Tim Rushlow formerly of Little Texas, and Richie McDonald formerly of Lonestar.

Kellie Pickler
Kellie Pickler Promotes Her Starring Role In Hallmark Channel's 'Christmas at Graceland' at Opryland | Jason Kempin/GettyImages

Relax, Recharge, Repeat

Need a break from the holiday hustle? Escape to SoundWaves, the resort’s year-round water attraction with 84-degree pools, lazy river, and the Status Cymbal Bar. Or unwind at the Relache Spa with a Winter Wellness treatment—because even Santa needs self-care.

For over 40 years Gaylord Opryland’s A Country Christmas has been providing sparkling lights and unforgettable experiences. The seasonal escape promises to dazzle, delight, and deliver the harshest humbug from winter doldrums to holiday happiness.

And there is more …

  • Capture memories with a keepsake photo during Photos with Santa.
  • Enjoy a magical journey on the Delta Riverboat Christmas Cruise.
  • Witness a synchronized display of light, water, and holiday music in the Delta Atrium’s fountain show.
  • Craft personalized furry friends at the Build-A-Bear Workshop.
  • Join Mrs. Claus for a jolly North Pole Breakfast filled with pancakes and storytelling.
  • Embrace outdoor activities like carriage rides, Dickens Carolers, and a stunning nativity display.