But if the idea of celebrating with nearly 250K of your closest friends gives you some anxiety (as does the traffic afterwards…), here are some other great ways to celebrate our nation’s birth!

Celebrate at home by placing an All-American catering order with Park Cafe – orders due by noon on July 1!

July 3

Freedom Festival

If you don’t mind a short drive out to the burbs, Hendersonville offers food trucks and vendors, live music, activities for the kids (including princess photo ops!!), and a fireworks show! The fun kicks off at 5 pm and fireworks are scheduled around 9.

Half Batch Brewing

While you’re in Hendersonville, check out the backyard party with music, vendors, and more – plus a view of the city fireworks!

Nashville Shores

Fireworks at the waterpark in Hermitage (they have events Fri-Sun!)

Nashville Sounds

Baseball – as American as apple pie. Maybe even more American as far as folklore goes, but either way, it’s one of my favorite Independence Day past times.

The Sounds kick off a 3 day Independce Weekend run, Friday-Sunday. Each show ends in fireworks, and they have other promotions going, as well, so check them out!

A little extra: If you want to see the fireworks (and the game), but enjoy a more adult atmosphere, Tailgate Brewery and Third and Home have great outdoor patios with views of the field.

Cheekwood

America the Beautiful: National Parks & Landmarks by rail – this is a fun one for all ages, and Cheekwood is always beautiful, of course. Open all weekend in Belle Meade.

July 4

Nashville

Music City 5K

Burn off some of the beer you’re going to drink later with this run/walk through downtown!

Music City Hot Chicken Festival and Fire Truck Parade

This annual free festival brings the heat – literally and figuratively. If you’ve ever wanted to try all of the best hot chicken Nashville has to offer, this is your chance! It’s also the only place in Nashville proper to find a parade on the 4th – so get there early!

Fat Bottom

All Day family-friendly party in the Nations.

White Limozeen

Country pool party (Day party) on the Graduate rooftop in Midtown

Fait La Force

Patriotic cupcake decorating with Hoamsy in WeHo

Red, White, and BOOM

With plenty of activities for the kids, a great view of the downtown fireworks, and easy parking (!!), the Adventure Science Center’s Red, White, and BOOM event is well worth the price of admission! Go early to take advantage of both the museum entry and the special activities.

This will sell out, so don’t procrastinate!

A Fourth of July Celebration at the Pool Club

If you’d still like the rooftop fireworks-viewing experience but not the masses and traffic, this might be the event for you. Right on Music Row, the Pool Club at the Virgin Hotel should be pretty easy to escape without getting too stuck in everyone else leaving downtown.

Pinewood Social

Patio celebration with AYCE backyard cookout, fireworks views, cocktails, music, and more. (Fair warning, traffic getting out of here will likely be tough.)

Pontoon Saloon

View the fireworks from the Cumberland and park at the marina, which is well out of the traffic fray!

Nashville Sounds

The Sounds kick off a 3 day Independce Weekend run, Friday-Sunday. Each show ends in fireworks, and they have other promotions going, as well, so check them out.

Nashville Shores

Hot dog eating contest and Captain America showing at the waterpark in Hermitage (they have events Fri-Sun!)

Tall Tales at Waymore’s

Rooftop fireworks view with hot dogs, cocktails, music, and more in East.

Hampton Inn Capitol View

If the Hampton Inn isn’t your first thought for a party, maybe it should be! Tickets include pool access, live music, and a rooftop view of the fireworks!

General Jackson

Fourth of July cruise – see the fireworks from the water!

Stateside Kitchen

Start the party early with patriotic vibes and bottomless mimosas. (FYI, this is a DJ brunch…it will not be chill.)

Coa

A new rooftop in the Gulch, this party will feature a full performance by Waka Flaka Flame, other live music, firework views, and probaby easier in/out than if you were actually downtown

—

If for some reason you do REALLY want to go downtown…Nashville Guru has all the best downtown options. I personally love seeing the Symphony accompany the fireworks from Ascend Amphitheater – but you will not be spared the traffic.

The Burbs

Franklin on the Fourth

Festivities by day downtown (including pets and children’s parades) and fireworks. (Fair warning, this sounds like a fun day, but I expect it will also be quite crowded and have a lot of traffic).

Red, White, and Boom

Music, fireworks, Revolutionary War music & color guard, and fun for the kids in Brentwood

The Nashville Distillery

Fourth of July Party with fireworks, skydivers, food trucks, and more in Whites Creek.

East Nashville Beer Works

Block party with the Lion’s Cage, food trucks, music, and more in Lebanon (day party)

July 5

Nashville Sounds

The Sounds kick off a 3 day Independce Weekend run, Friday-Sunday. Each show ends in fireworks, and they have other promotions going, as well, so check them out.

Nashville Shores

Fireworks at the waterpark in Hermitage (they have events Fri-Sun!)

Holiday Specials

In addition to all the events listed above, there are typically some holiday specials around town. Check back here for announcements!

Did I miss any? Which event are you most excited about? And if you attend any, please drop some tips for next year below or via email! Happy 4th, y’all! Nashville 4th of July: Things to Do, Fireworks, Concerts & More

XO,
SB

P.S. Did you know I send out a weekly events guide newsletter? In addition to holiday activities, it includes all the Xennial-approved events for the upcoming week (typically 40-50 events!), as well as any future events that have been announced so you can plan ahead. You can sign up here and have it sent directly to your inbox every Monday morning!

P.P.S. Visiting Nashville for the first time? Be sure to check out my packing list for all of your Nashville essentials!

The post Nashville 4th of July: Things to Do, Fireworks, Concerts & More first appeared on The Tip Jar.

While most any bartender would be glad to throw a little cranberry juice into club soda, the following bars and restaurants are very friendly to non-drinkers, offering at least three mocktail/zero proof cocktail options so everyone can still have a fun, delicious (and Instagramable!) drink.

12 South

Buttermilk Ranch

Of course the very trendy BMR has plenty of juices, coffees, and ice cream shakes/floats to choose from. But, they also offer several craft mocktails – in addition to their impressive alcoholic beverages menu. Just be sure to go at an off-time or get on the wait list early! It’s popular for a reason.

Downtown/SoBro

City Winery

City Winery is obviously known for, well, wine. But, they also offer an impressive cocktail list, which includes quite a few inventive zero proof cocktails.

Mimo

Mimo is the flagship restaurant in the Four Seasons. Their cocktail list is extensive, creative, and inclusive – it includes 3 mocktails (and a non-alcoholic beer thrown in!).

Oak Steakhouse

The swanky steakhouse downtown offers five mocktail selections – some with zero proof liquor, some just with fun, tasty ingredients.

Pushing Daisies

This underground margarita bar is a vibe. It simultaneously gives speakeasy and Vegas club – a rare combo. But have no fear if you’re not a tequila drinker or a drinker of anything for that matter. They have three different craft cocktails that will both taste delicious and save you quite a bit of money over the stronger stuff.

Yolan

Located in the Joseph hotel, Yolan is a fine dining experience with a seasonal menu that includes several mocktail options. Be sure to follow their socials for special events, including tastings and pasta making courses.

East Nash

The Fox Bar and Cocktail Club

The Fox is a dramatic step back in time, and its menu is designed to fit the ambience. But, among all the Old Fashioneds and Manhattans, you’ll also find an impressive trio of craft non-alcoholic cocktails so good the liquor will not be missed.

KillJoy

Not a bar, but any mocktail list would be remiss without an inclusion of Killjoy, Nashville’s only N/A bottle shop! You can find non-alcoholic beer, wine, “liquors”, mixers, and even some small gifts!

Noko

Everything Noko does is excellent. That’s all that really needs to be said.

Sid Gold’s Request Room

Sid Gold’s hosts arguably the most creative, fun events in town, and thanks to an inventive non-alcoholic cocktail list, everyone can join in the fun!

Edgehill

Old Glory

One of New Nashville’s originally speakeasies, Old Glory was early on the craft cocktail train. While they only offer two zero-proof cocktails, they also carry kombucha and Liquid Death water, so you can look like you’re drinking a beer, anyway.

A little extra: If you’ve not been to Old Glory, here’s a tip – the entrance is in the alley off of Edgehill and behind Sadies, Bella Napoli, etc. There is no sign, but there is a gold triangle that marks the door.

Sadie’s

Another favorite of mine, Sadie’s has got to be one of the prettiest restaurants in Nashville – and their margarita is one of the best. While they only offer two zero-proof drinks, Sadie’s also features two low-proof options. So, if you want to indulge very moderately, you’re in luck!

Germantown

Le Loup

When the menu is basically just oysters and cocktails, you know the drinks are going to be good. But, Le Loup doesn’t leave the designated drivers out of the fun! Their menu includes four zero proof cocktails, and in true craft cocktail fashion, I don’t even know what half of the ingredients are!

Green Hills

The GreenHouse Bar

The GreenHouse is one of the most original bars I’ve ever been to. Despite being in the middle of the Green Hills hustle and bustle, when you step inside the GreenHouse (literally in a green house), you’re transported to an oasis full of plants and cozy nooks for seating. They offer four different mocktails, so there’s something for everyone’s taste.

The Gulch

Proof

Located at the top of the W hotel, Proof offers great views, a great Happy Hour, and mocktail options (which are included in the HH specials!)

Sylvan Park

Lola

Lola is the stuff of Spanish tapas dreams. Warm, intimate, and featuring a rotating drink menu that includes both cocktails and mocktails, everyone can enjoy a unique, seasonal drink.

West End

Avo

Avo is not only one of the healthiest restaurants in Nashville, it’s also one of the most inventive. Their drink menu has lots of alcoholic choices, of course, but several mocktail selections, as well as kombucha, sparkling tonic, CBD drinks, and several other NA options.

Multiple Locations

Common Ground

Common Ground has locations in Sylvan Park and Berry Hill, featuring a great happy hour, the most delicious boursin toast you can imagine, and several craft mocktails and a N/A beer that rivals any of their harder stuff (which is also delicious).

Southern Grist

I love a good brewery, and I love a good brewery that caters to all types of customers. Southern Grist does just that with their non-alcoholic beer options! As with their regular beer options, varieties may vary, so be sure to check their website or socials for the latest at both their East Nash and the Nations taprooms.

The Burbs

Darfons

Darfons just keeps making every list, y’all! This Donelson mainstay has a great happy hour, is diet-friendly, and features three different delicious craft mocktails on their extensive cocktail list. Hip Donelson is where it’s at!

Pinky Ring Pizza

Just up Gallatin into Madison is a new pizza joint that has SO much to love. But, most exciting of all, it was designed with sobriety in mind. Currently, they offer about 10 non-alcoholic beers, with N/A wines and mocktails soon to follow! Nashville Scene did a great write-up of the new spot – it’s definitely worth a read (and a visit!)

Did I miss any? Where is your favorite spot for a mocktail – or do you have a special recipe yourself? Leave us a tip below, or shoot me an email!

XO,
SB

If you’re abstaining from alcohol for health reasons, you may want to also check out this guide to healthy restaurants in Nashville!

The post Places that Serve Mocktails in Nashville first appeared on The Tip Jar.

So, by request, below is your guide to restaurants, bars, and breweries that are open on Monday (some are closed on Tuesday instead, though, so I’ve noted that where applicable).

12 South

bartaco

Burger Up

Downtown

1 Kitchen

Assembly Food Hall

Blanco Cocina and Cantina

Blue Sushi Sake Grill

Boqueria

Calacas

Tennessee Brew Works

Etch

Hampton Social

Husk

Oak Steakhouse

Sixty Vines

Stateside Kitchen

East Nash

The 5 Spot

Attaboy

Bay 6

Cafe Roze

East Nashville Beer Works

The Fox Bar and Cocktail Club

Jane’s Hideaway

Lockeland Table

Love and Exile

The Pharmacy

Rock’n Dough Pizza and Brewery (Dickerson Pike location only)

Sid Golds’ (closed Tuesday)

Xiao Bao (closed Tuesday/Wednesday)

Edgehill

Barcelona Wine Bar

Sadie’s

Germantown

312 Pizza Co

5th and Taylor

Butchertown Hall

Germantown Cafe

Monday Night Preservation Co.

Mother’s Ruin

Pelato

Sonny’s Patio Pub & Refuge

Green Hills

Char

etc.

The GreenHouse Bar

True Food

The Gulch

404 Kitchen

Carne Mare

Marsh House

Proof

Saint Anejo

Sambuca

STK Nashville

Sunda New Asian

Virago

Midtown/Hillsboro Village

Halls Chophouse

Jasper’s

The Patterson House

The Nations

Midnight Oil Pizza

Nicky’s Coal Fired

Sylvan Park

Answer

Lola (Closed Tuesday)

Park Cafe

West End

The Local

Wedgewood Houston

Bastion (Big bar only)

Never Never

New Heights Brewing Company

Multiple Locations

Bearded Iris

Edley’s Bar-B-Que

Emmy Squared

M.L. Rose

Martin’s BBQ

Otaku Ramen

Party Fowl

Southern Grist

Tailgate Brewery

Did I miss one of your favorites? Let me know in the comments, and I’ll be sure to add it.

As always, be sure to check with the restaurant before heading out, as hours are subject to change. Happy Monday!

XO,
SB

P.S. For a bonus, cross-check this list with my guide to happy hours after 5 – and save some money while you Monday dine!

The post Places Open on Mondays in Nashville first appeared on The Tip Jar.

Most restaurants offer some sort of wine option, but I’ve compiled a lists of bars and restaurants that are truly wine-centric – think, long-stemmed glasses above the bar and places where you feel strange ordering anything other than wine (even if they offer it). Places where you can ask your server or bartender about the wine and they can give you an informed recommendation. Places where wine is the muse.

Downtown/SoBro

Boqueria

Boqueria in 5th and Broadway has one of the prettiest bar set-ups around, and their wine list is as equally impressive. Stop by for a unique Spanish tapas spin on brunch, or find them on the guide to Happy Hours after 5 pm (on Thursdays from 5-6 you can get a free pour of cava with every order of tapas at the bar).

A little extra: Parking downtown is always a challenge…but Boqueria will validate in the 5th and Broadway garage for up to 1 hour.

By the Bottle

Appropriately named, By the Bottle in the Fairlane Hotel, sells wine primarily, well, by the bottle. Owned and operated by Kate Cunningham, By the Bottle features a rotating collection of natural wines, selected by Kate. When you go, ask Kate about the wines and she’ll fill you in on the selection process (she looks for unique wines you might never have encountered!), the type of wine (I didn’t know what skin-contact meant), and anything else you might want to know. And if you’re not up for a full bottle, they do have a few by-the-glass options, as well.

A little extra: Ask about private events and tastings for a unique work, girls’ night, book club, etc. activity.

City Winery

Most people think of City Winery as a music or event venue. But, did you know they have a traditional restaurant, as well? There you can order from their house-made wines (that house is not in Nashville, but you know what I mean) and have a great meal, too. And, if you have a chance to see a show in their Lounge, I highly recommend it. It’s a very intimate, cozy venue and perfect for catching an up-and-coming artist.

Sixty Vines

Sixty Vines, also in 5th and Broadway, is so wine-centric, the tables come set with wine glasses! They offer an extensive selection of wines, including a full wall of wines on tap. It’s a great option for brunch or a classy night on the town!

East Nash

Love and Exile Bar

Love and Exile has been through a lot – a name change, a tornado, Covid…but they have emerged better than ever. This is one of my favorite spots in town, and I cannot say enough good things about it. A good happy hour, fantastic house-made wine, delicious food, friendly staff, an amazing outdoor space, a trendy indoor space with plenty of room to accommodate groups…it’s really the best. And, you can sign up for a tour of their winery – yes, there really is a winery right in the heart of East Nash!

Parlor Wine

I LOVE a wine bar in a historic home, and Parlor Wine is just gorgeous. Located inside the Urban Cowboy hotel, Parlor Wine has a beautiful bar where you can order from their rotating collection of wines – or a wine-based cocktail! – and then you’re welcome to sit in one of the home’s parlors, on the stately front porch, or in their cozy back garden area (where, of course, they occasionally have live music).

Once Upon a Time in France/Overlord

My absolute favorite wine bar in all of Nashville was the Authentique. Sadly, it closed in July (rumors are that this closure is temporary, though – so keep your fingers crossed and eyes peeled!). In the meantime, owner Melvil Arnt operates both Once Upon a Time in France, a beautiful and authentic French cafe, and the Overlord, a WWII themed bar with weekly live jazz and blues. While neither are a wine bar as I’ve defined it, both feature delicious wines chosen by Mel himself (and he’s Parisian, so you know he won’t steer you wrong!) and offer promise that the Authentique will rise again!

Van Gogh’s Ear

Of this list, Van Gogh’s Ear feels the least like a traditional wine bar to me. However, it is a very cool space, also in a historic home, and features over 20 wines, including several very affordable options on tap. They have a huge outdoor backyard with live music, and are as funky and eclectic as you expect (and want!) a place to be when you’re in East Nash.

Edgehill

Barcelona

Although it is a chain, Barcelona doesn’t feel like one – and offers delicious wines and tapas. So, we won’t hold their cross-country popularity against them. Check out the website for their extensive (21 pages!) wine list which features something for every budget, taste, and dietary preference (they have organic, natural, and low-sulfite wines, too!). The also have a few different wine flights if you just can’t decide – and whipped sheep’s cheese that just might change your life.

Sylvan Park/The Nations

PennePazze

Located in L&L market, PennePazze is an authentic Italian restaurant with a 4.9 Google rating from almost 1,000 reviews! Wine and Italian food are inseparable, and PennePazze makes that clear, even using bottles to decorate their beautiful industrial space. Their happy hour is 3-6 pm on Tuesdays-Fridays and features half off glasses and BOGO 50% off bottles!!

The Burbs

Wine Down

Tucked away in a shopping center in Donelson, Wine Down is a boutique wine bar, which means it has a more limited selection than some of the others on this list. However, that selection has been carefully curated by the owner, so you can be sure you’re getting something good. This place feels like you’re walking into a friend’s living room – it’s intimate and friendly, and the staff wants to make you feel at home. They also offer events (trivia, comedy, live music, etc), so be sure to check out their website for the latest.

Further Out

Arrington Vineyards

Okay, this is not a wine bar but it might be Nashvillians’ collective favorite place to drink wine. Owned by Kix Brooks of Brooks and Dunn, Arrington is a beautiful place with plenty of space for groups and enough varieties of wine to appeal to every palate! About 30 miles outside of the city, head towards Franklin, then take a left and you’ll be there!

JJ’s Wine Bar

Again with the historic homes! JJs is in a charming bungalow in downtown Franklin and features dispensable wine – with a pre-purchased debit card, you can select a 1, 5, or 8 oz pour of a variety of wines (which are 25% off during happy hour!). I loved the novelty of the machines and the freedom to try a bunch of things, but if that’s not your speed, you can buy wine off the menu by the glass or the bottle. The wrap-around porch is charming, and inside you can find romantic and cozy or casual and lighthearted (with board games).

Mystic Picnic

If you want to get away from the bustle of the city, head north to Springfield, where you will find the charming Mystic Picnic Wine. A wine and whiskey bar, I’m not sure which list of offerings is more impressive. My suggestion – order some truffles and berries and a bottle of a Le P’tit Paysan cab and treat yo’ self (as long as you’re sharing or have a DD, of course!) And be sure to take a Sunday drive sometime to enjoy their cinema brunch (reservations required).

Natchez Hills

About an hour south of Nashville, Natchez Hills Vineyard and Winery is worth the drive, because if you find a wine you love, you can pick it up in Nashville whenever you run out. They have two local tasting rooms – the Nashville Farmer’s Market, and the Hermitage!

Any wine bars I haven’t discovered yet? If I’m missing one of your favorites, leave us a tip below or send me an email. Cheers!

XO,
X

The post Guide to Wine Bars first appeared on The Tip Jar.