Memorial Day weekend is one of Nashville's biggest party weekends of the year. The city is at peak energy — outdoor events, packed Broadway, festivals launching the summer season, and a crowd that's ready to celebrate. If you're planning a trip to Nashville for Memorial Day, here's your guide.
Why Nashville Is Perfect for Memorial Day Weekend
Memorial Day in Nashville means warm weather, long days, and a city fully in summer mode. The honky-tonks are packed, rooftop bars are overflowing, and events are everywhere. It's a popular bachelor and bachelorette party weekend, group birthday trip weekend, and summer kickoff trip destination. Expect crowds — and bring your energy.
Memorial Day Weekend Events in Nashville
Several music venues and promoters put on special Memorial Day weekend lineups — check the schedules at Ascend Amphitheater, Brooklyn Bowl Nashville, and Ryman Auditorium in the weeks leading up to the holiday. Country radio stations often host outdoor events and concerts. The Nashville Sounds minor league baseball team typically plays a Memorial Day home series at First Horizon Park.
Outdoor Activities for Memorial Day Weekend in Nashville
Percy Priest Lake is the Memorial Day destination for Nashville locals — boating, swimming, and day-drinking in the sun. Rent a boat or find a boat rental service through Nashville Party Cruises. Shelby Park and Centennial Park both host outdoor gatherings. If you want to get out of downtown, the Natchez Trace Parkway is a scenic drive that's popular on holiday weekends.
Best Honky-Tonks and Bars for Memorial Day Weekend
Every bar on Lower Broadway is in full swing — Tootsies, Kid Rock's Big Ass Honky Tonk, FGL House, Luke's 32 Bridge, and Dierks Bentley's Whiskey Row all throw holiday weekend parties. Expect covers at most doors. Arrive early for good spots — crowds on Memorial Day weekend rival New Year's Eve. Rooftop bars fill up by early afternoon.
Arrive Stocked for a Full Memorial Day Weekend
Memorial Day weekend in Nashville is a multi-day event — you need supplies to match. Music City Weekend Co. delivers groceries, beverages, and essentials to your Nashville Airbnb, VRBO, or hotel before your group arrives. Stock your fridge before you land so the weekend starts immediately. Shop the full catalog at musiccityweekend.co/shop, or learn more about Nashville grocery delivery and fridge stocking.
Where to Stay in Nashville for Memorial Day Weekend
Book months in advance — Memorial Day is one of Nashville's most in-demand weekends. A large Airbnb or VRBO works well for groups. Downtown hotels fill up fast and prices spike significantly on holiday weekends. If you're coming for a bachelorette or birthday trip, a house rental in East Nashville or The Nations gives you the space to get ready and pre-game before heading out.
Nashville Memorial Day Weekend FAQs
Q: How busy is Nashville on Memorial Day weekend? A: Very busy — it's one of the top 3 party weekends of the year. Book accommodations and restaurant reservations months out. Q: What are the best outdoor things to do in Nashville on Memorial Day? A: Percy Priest Lake for boating and swimming, outdoor concerts at Ascend Amphitheater, and rooftop bars across the city. Q: Does Music City Weekend Co. deliver groceries on Memorial Day weekend? A: Yes — order in advance at musiccityweekend.co/shop and your fridge is stocked before you arrive.