Did you know that today is Tennessee Day? What an exciting way to kick off the week, Nashville.

Never heard of Tennessee Day? Don’t worry, it’s only been around for a couple of years. In 2017, the folks over at National Calendar Day decided to celebrate all 50 states with their own official day.

These state holidays are meant to celebrate and recognize the best that each state has to offer, from important cultural and historical information to recognizing its beauty + sharing quirky facts.

Here are some fast facts about our state’s capital city:

🎙️ The Grand Ole Opry is the world’s longest running radio show. This fall, the concert hall celebrated its 96-year anniversary + will host its 5,000th Saturday night broadcast on Sat., Oct. 30.

🗳️ Metro Nashville was the first fully unified government in the US with the passage of the Metro Charter in 1962. Davidson County + the City of Nashville combined 2 separate forms of local government to boost service efficiency and strengthen the community.

🏛️ Centennial Park is the location of the only replica of the Greek Parthenon. The full-scale structure contains a 42 ft statue of Athena, which is the tallest indoor sculpture in the Western Hemisphere.

🐎 Iroquois Steeplechase is named after the first American-bred horse to win the English Derby, which retired at Belle Meade Plantation (now Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery).

🎶 Nashville’s Tin Pan South is the largest songwriter’s festival in the world. While the 2021 event was cancelled, next year’s 30th anniversary celebration promises to be bigger than ever.

Here are a few ways to celebrate Tennessee Day:

Radnor Lake State Park | ~20 minutes outside of downtown Nashville, this protected area + wildlife refuge is the perfect peaceful getaway. Go on a hike around the lake, observe wildlife, or participate in ranger-led programs.

John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge | This bridge — dating back to the early 1900s — offers the most picturesque skyline views of Music City + the Cumberland River.

Nashville Farmers Market | This indoor-outdoor market offers a wide variety of products and produce from local vendors, a garden center, night market events, and more. Be sure to explore the neighboring Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park when you go.

Ryman Auditorium | Former home of the Grand Ole Opry, the Ryman Auditorium dates back to 1885 and boasts a rich history. Snag tickets to a show or or take a behind-the-scenes tour.

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