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City Cast Nashville

Margaret Kingsbury

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 will strap on their skates for a Halloween-themed scrimmage-a-thon — 

 — at The Fairgrounds. Skaters are dressing up as Mothman, Bigfoot, and other cryptids for this longstanding derby tradition making its Nashville debut. Ahead of the game, I spoke with two skaters to learn more about the Nashville Roller Derby.

How did you get started in the Nashville Roller Derby, and what do you love most about it?

Elita One: “I found roller derby in 2015 and was hooked right away. What started as a fun way to stay active turned into a community I can't imagine my life without. Derby brings together people from every walk of life, and we all show up for each other because we love the sport. When I moved to Nashville, finding the local league was one of the first things I did. It's the best way I know to make friends fast and feel at home in a new city.”

Brannan #24: “I started skating roller derby in Nashville when I was 11 years old with the 

 team, back when I was spending most of my weekends at the 

. Lots of my teammates were daughters of Nashville's adult team skaters, and so many of them volunteered their time to coach us and share their expertise. The roller derby community raised me to feel empowered, like I could accomplish anything with hard work and dedication. Maybe that's corny and simplistic, but as a young lady in the South, I was often discouraged from certain activities, interests, styles, attitudes, and spaces. Roller derby gave me courage, and I now bring that to all facets of my life.”

Is there anything that makes this league particularly Nashville?

Elita One: “Southern hospitality, for sure! When we travel, other teams tell us how welcoming and kind our skaters are, and they love having us because we're good sports, win or lose. Our roster is also a great snapshot of Nashville itself: longtime locals, people who've moved here from all over the country, and students who came to town for school.”

Brannan #24: “Our longstanding history! Established in 2006, we're one of the oldest recognized flat track roller derby teams in the country and have never disbanded. We're also lucky enough to have the largest, bestest, and most knowledgeable skate shop in the country, 

, one of our longstanding sponsors. They've kept us ready and rolling for decades and are an unrivaled institution in the skating community. Nashville Roller Derby has evolved alongside the sport and seen many eras of rule changes, leadership turnovers, and venue losses, but our foundations remain unshaken! I assure you, we're entering our best era yet!”

How can people get involved in roller derby?

Elita One: “There's a spot for everyone, whether you want to skate, officiate, volunteer, or just cheer from the sidelines. No experience is needed to start. Reach out at 

, or find us on social media @nashvillerollerderby. And coming out to 

 on Oct. 3 is a great way to see what it's all about!”

🛼 Learn more about the team

 Ahead of their Halloween scrimmage, we interview two skaters from the Nashville Roller Derby.

 3 Questions With the Nashville Roller Derby

The Nashville Roller Derby Celebrates Halloween

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Marie Cecile Anderson

Whitney Pastorek

, our brutal summer heat has now cooled down, and Halloween season is upon us. Here are the City Cast Nashville team’s picks for the 

Nashville loves scary movies, or at least we do this month! Catch a free movie and popcorn at 

 on the patio at Honeytree Meadery, or head to Franklin for 

, running all month featuring movies like “The Shining,” “Misery,” “Psycho,” and more. The Belcourt’s 

 brings horror classics back to the big screen, while 

 hosts outdoor movie nights for ages 21 and up Oct. 22-24, featuring “Obsession,” “Hocus Pocus,” and “Scream.” Catch the free 

 on Oct. 3-4 at Regal in Green Hills. Creative producer Marie Cecile Anderson’s short film “Manifested” screens in block 3 on Oct. 3 at 6 p.m.!

🧶 Get Hooked on the Tennessee Craft Fair

Or maybe crafting is more your scene. The 

 runs Oct. 9 through 11 at Centennial Park. It’s a great place to support local artists, get a head start on holiday shopping, and stock up on all your crafting needs. It’s considered one of the best craft fairs in the nation. There will be around 200 vendors, lots of food trucks, and a children’s crafting tent. It also has free admission!

. If you’ve never been to Bridgestone Arena for a Preds game, we promise it’s worth the trip — even if you know nothing about hockey. Grab a sweater and give it a try! And 

 continues its record-breaking season with a playoff spot already clinched. They’ve got two home games this month, and remember: 

Chow down at cultural food fests like the 

 at Bearded Iris a couple weeks later. We’re also excited to check out 

 in Wedgewood-Houston. (Check out our recent 

 not too far from there in Berry Hill, but this will be more of a market for picking up dry goods in addition to baked treats.

👻 More October Activities

October is here, which means it's time for fall fests, scary movies, and festivals. Here's our Nashville October guide.

The Best Things To Do in Nashville in October 2026

Your Guide to Nashville in October 2026

Find the best of everything that Nashville has to offer.

Nashville’s Best

Nashville's Best

 building can still be found in Wedgewood-Houston, it feels like every time I blink there’s a new hot spot opening. Here’s your guide to spending a day in Wedgewood-Houston. (And listen, respectfully, I refuse to call it WeHo.)

, where the breakfast burrito will easily give you enough fuel to last you until lunch. Or head over to 

 for a Palestinian-inspired menu with lattes, matchas, and sweet and savory bites, like sabah toast and a Dubai chocolate croissant.

Now that you’re sufficiently caffeinated, it’s time to shop ‘til you drop. 

 is one of Nashville’s newest independent bookstores, and has a wonderful selection of recent hits and classics, with a staff more than willing to chat about their favorites. 

 is a recently opened grab-and-go market, where you can stock up on snacks, produce, and other goodies. Their patio is a great place to hang out (and maybe read a book from Bell Bird).

Grab a portable meal for your journey at 

. Their Italian deli sandwiches get bonus points for having so many veg-friendly and gluten-free options. Or, if you’ve got some time, sit down and split a pie at 

. The patio is especially nice this time of year.

After lunch, take yourself on a neighborhood art tour. While you’ll see plenty of murals and art installations (like The Finery’s 

) walking around, Wedgewood-Houston has perhaps the highest concentration of galleries in Nashville, like the 

. Make sure to check hours before stopping by. On the first Saturday of every month, there’s a 

The ultimate Wedgewood-Houston dinner is at 

, but if you forgot to make that reservation several weeks in advance, 

 serves the restaurant’s fan-favorite (and surprisingly filling) nachos — offered with smoked pork or vegetarian chorizo. If you want a sit-down meal at a locally owned joint, try 

After relocating in 2025, 20-year-old gay bar 

 now calls the neighborhood home, and it’s always packed at night. If you’d prefer a calmer way to end the night, coffeeshop-by-day 

 will serve you a coffee cocktail on a velvet couch. Or support one of Nashville’s last-standing craft breweries, 

, across the street. (In the fall, keep an eye out for a chai version of their beloved Bear Walker maple brown ale!)

A local’s guide to 12 South

Wedgewood-Houston is one of Nashville's fastest-changing and hippest neighborhoods. Here's your guide.

Your Neighborhood Guide to Wedgewood-Houston

How To Spend a Day in Wedgewood-Houston

Everything to know about Nashville neighborhoods: Where to go, eat, shop, drink, and more.

Nashville Neighborhood Guides

Neighborhood Guides

Fall is here, which means it’s pumpkin patch time! My family and I go to a different one every year. Some are pretty basic, while others are like Halloween-themed amusement parks. Here are my picks for the best pumpkin patches and fall festivals in the Nashville area.

 This fall festival has a ton of activities, especially for kids: playgrounds, a corn maze, wagon ride tours, tire swings, farm animals, and more. Don’t miss the delicious pumpkin bread. If you only want pumpkins, no need to buy a ticket. The corn maze can get dusty, so avoid wearing open-toed shoes or really nice clothes. This is the best bang-for-your-buck fall festival, since most activities are included in the ticket price.

 With 40+ activities for kids, Lucky Ladd Farms is the amusement park of pumpkin patches. Visit zoo animals, ride a pony, milk cows, go down a giant slide, and mine gems. They have activities all year round, so if you live close enough, it’s probably worth springing for a season pass. It can get crowded, and some activities cost extra.

 If you only want a pumpkin (or three), mums, and a fall-themed selfie, this farm stand is the place for you. It’s right across from the White Bridge Road Target. I purchase my pumpkins here every year. They also have a few games for kids (pumpkin bowling, anyone?), but it’s mostly just a quick stop.

This fall festival has all the classic activities like corn mazes, tractor rides, and kid activities, but unlike other festivals, it also has live music, a sunflower field, and for extra cost, hot-air balloon and pony rides (not at the same time). It’s a lovely location, right on the Harpeth River and surrounded by forest.

 With fair swings, a carousel, and a bungee trampoline, this pumpkin patch also has an amusement park feel. It’s a bit quirkier than the other fall festivals, with singing chickens, pumpkin cannons, pig races, and mechanical bulls. Plus, they have fireworks some nights! Kids will have a blast, but it does get loud, as a warning. A lot of activities cost extra.

🎃 Best Neighborhoods for Trick-or-Treating

From corn mazes to sunflower fields and hot-air balloon rides, here are the best pumpkin patches and fall festivals in Nashville. 

5 of the Best Pumpkin Patches & Fall Festivals Near Nashville

The Best Pumpkin Patches & Fall Festivals in Nashville

Margaret Littman

 (because who can resist a crossianwich?), and we started talking about 

, the quirky collective in Germantown. I eyed it with interest when the building was closed last year for some Codes repairs. It’s now reopened, and with easy access, lots of light, and clear signage, it feels like a place you want to explore.

And you should! It’s chockful of beautiful, interesting, and weird galleries, boutiques, and tattoo parlors. Every shop has its own hours, so they may not all be open when you’re there, but some have art out front and a Venmo honor system when they’re closed. That’s the case with 

 that look like they’re frying on the sidewalk — exactly how I felt during the “heat dome.” (R.I.P. heat dome, don’t hurry back.)

Crystal Shade runs this gallery and is the director of the 100 Taylor space, so obviously, this is the place to pop in for any and all intel. In addition to selling works like 

 (I need one of my dog Raja, right?), Shade teaches classes and workshops where you can get your hands dirty. Coming soon: 

Speaking of Raja, she thinks lots of stuff in this store made just for her is adorable, like the stuffed 

. They also carry cat treats and toys, plus some 

There were so many little bookends, vases, and 

 in this micro store, I had to put on my reading glasses to make sure I wasn't missing anything.

Donated musician instrument strings are turned into jewelry — and hope — through this innovative program. Strings of Hope teaches survivors of abuse and exploitation to make jewelry from the strings, either as a path to long-term employment or as an interim step to a new career.

From egg sculptures to dog toys, the artisan shops inside Nashville's 100 Taylor Arts Collective have inspiration for all.

Your Guide to Nashville's 100 Taylor Arts

Exploring the 100 Taylor Arts Collective

Keep It Local

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Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you know that Friday, a.k.a. tomorrow, is 

 (Sept. 25 = 9/25 = workin’ 9 to 5). There are a bunch of events going on way longer than just 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., but my job here at Keep It Local is to share local shopping finds. A few favorites:

, Nashville’s leading independent yarn store, will match it dollar for dollar (up to $1,000 total). The White Bridge store will also send you a free digital version of their 

. It’s the cutest, but I don’t knit, so I’ll need to find someone to whip that up for me.

. On Friday, they’re discounting a one-hour lane rental to $9.25 and promising to play some of Dolly’s hits while you shoot. They give great instruction for newbies.

, you can grab free (yes, free!) Dolly Day buttons, stickers, and bookmarks from

, which carries lots of locally made goodies. Or, nab 25% off all pink products at 

, the Broadway bar owned by local Strategic Hospitality alongside Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood, 

of its sales on Friday will go to the Imagination Library and the 

. Other watering holes, including José Andrés’ 

 in the Gulch (Dolly loved butterflies), 

 downtown, all have drink deals with a portion of the proceeds benefiting Imagination Library.

, a bar named after a Dolly song with a giant pink sculpture of Dolly on the roof, has it going on: In addition to a sweet tea drink, the proceeds from which will go to Imagination Library, they’ll have a Dolly Parton impersonator on stage, and pop-ups from 

 City Cast Nashville has all sorts of other Dolly intel for you, including where to 

While you're celebrating Dolly Day this 9/25, check out these local options for great deals on everything from gifts to Dolly-inspired cocktails.

Local Deals on Dolly Day in Nashville

The Best Dolly Day Deals in Nashville

Hungry? Nashville has so many excellent new restaurants and bars opening every month. Here are our favorites!

This farmhouse-inspired new restaurant is bringing modern Southern cuisine to Whites Creek. Be sure to try their signature Big Oak Burger and chicken and waffles.

Wedgewood-Houston’s new corner store and sandwich shop hopes to become a neighborhood hangout spot. Grab a 

 and hit up their patio now that the weather’s nice. It’s 

Wedgewood-Houston is also getting a new coffee shop. Originally launched in Clarksville, Asulon Collective aims to cultivate connection through craft coffee. In addition to the café, Asulon will also have mobile coffee bars.

This 16-seat French bistro run by the folks behind East Nashville’s 

 opens in Donelson on Monday, Sept. 28. Some of the recipes come from 

co-owner Philippine Maillard’s grandmother

. The menu includes crepes, omelets, and quiche, with plenty of gluten-free and vegan dishes.

Green Hills’ latest upscale restaurant serves house-made pasta, pizza, and Italian entrees like chicken parmigiana and bistecca. The decor is bright with wallpaper that looks straight out of a fairy tale.

I missed this family-owned South Nashville coffee shop over by ThriftSmart when it opened in July. The peaceful decor features cream walls and lots of greenery, while pastries, lunch bowls, and smoothies are served alongside plenty of coffee options.

Florida-based Nigel’s Bananas recently opened its first Tennessee location in Hillsboro Village. Snag chocolate-dipped bananas with elaborate toppings. Gluten-free and vegan options are available.

Nashville’s newest boba tea place has found a home in The Nations. This chain also serves sweet treats and popcorn chicken.

Downtown Nashville has landed this popular taco chain, which has its 

 on Friday, Sept. 25. The celebration will have live music, and the first 100 people will receive a free order of birria tacos.

Centennial Park now has an on-site restaurant! The 

 and includes charcuterie boards, pimento sandwiches, and soft-serve ice cream. Personally, I’m excited to see several gluten-free and vegan options on the menu. Proceeds from the nonprofit cafe will benefit the Centennial Park Conservancy.

This Tennessee Brewery has opened a second Nashville location in the former home of Southern Grist, right by Nicky’s Coal-Fired in The Nations. Expect green velvet lounge chairs, horror-themed art, and taproom exclusives.

East Nashville has landed another LGBTQ+ bar! Girlcrush is owned by the twin sisters behind the 

, and the bar will host local queer musicians plus other community events. Check out their 

This New York City favorite has opened inside East Nashville’s Lakeside Lounge, serving delicious Ukrainian food. It’s open daily, and 

 includes pierogi, kielbasa, latkes, and much more.

We’ve got another contender for best hot chicken in Nashville. Chef and owner Chen Chen was born in China, raised in Nashville, but later moved to Toronto, where he first opened this restaurant. Now he’s returned to Nashville. His hot chicken infuses Asian flavors with the Nashville culinary tradition.

Grab yourself some chicken katsu and spicy poke bowls at this Antioch Hawaiian barbecue joint, which is part of a chain that launched in O‘ahu in 1952. This is its first Tennessee location.

Looking for something more upscale? Serrato’s has expanded from Williamson County to its first Nashville location in One Bellevue Place. You’ll find hand-cut steaks, fresh seafood, and an extensive wine selection.

Nashville’s first Colombian coffee shop is now open in Midtown! In addition to coffee choices like golden honey and cardamom rose lattes, you’ll find Latin-inspired brunch options and Colombian sweet treats. It’s a beautiful, inviting space.

 has opened this exclusive, 14-seat European-inspired spot in the Neuhoff District. It’s only open three days a week, Tuesday through Thursday, with a menu centered on seafood specialties like a squid-ink crepe and tuna belly. Cauponor also has an extensive wine list.

Located inside L&L Market in West Nashville, Hattori Nori is the city’s first handroll sushi bar. After his success with local catering company 

, local chef Art Stacks decided to open his first restaurant. The menu and design are an 

This 21+ restaurant in Hillsboro Village offers craft cocktails and elevated tapas. Designed for a sexy vibe, they ask customers to dress in “stylish, fashion-forward attire.” Menu items include oysters, Caribbean oxtails, and jambalaya. Don’t sleep on their late-night happy hours, from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m.

Nosh Desserts has expanded into a second location at oneC1TY, right next to the SandBar. Expect the same delicious grab-and-go desserts you can find at their OG Nashville Farmers Market location, from red velvet cake to fresh fruit tarts.

Local country musician Chris Young has opened a sports bar in Midtown. Unlike other celebrity-owned bars, Young aims for Famous Friends to be a more casual, neighborhood hangout. The classic bar food menu has corndogs, wings, and burgers, with vegan options. Craft beers, cocktails, and non-alcoholic drinks are also on the menu.

We listed this Midtown Indian restaurant as one of our 

, and now it’s expanded to East Nashville! Located in Lost & Found’s outdoor hangout space, you’ll find all kinds of delicious cold treats, from masala chai to fig ice cream.

Nashville’s first nitrous cold-brew coffee shop is on Music Row. Originally launched at local farmers markets and later at grocery stores, Blue Hound serves cold-brew lattes and specialty coffees. You can also find pastries and a dog-friendly patio.

Just weeks after opening in Wedgewood-Houston, Culture Club, Nashville’s first frozen Greek yogurt cafe, has already expanded to a second location at Chief’s on Broadway. There’s a walk-up window and indoor seating. As a warning, there might be a bit of a line!

This farm-to-table restaurant in The Arcade changes its menu depending on seasonal produce, but everything’s always freshly prepared. With locations in Florida and North Carolina, Naked Farmer plans to expand to The Gulch with a second Nashville location later this year.

While you’re at The Arcade, stop at this Italian gelato shop for a sweet treat. Originally launched in Memphis, Zio Matto Gelato is also sold at markets around town.

This popular New York-style pizza place got its start in West Nashville in 2010, and after expanding to Franklin and Hendersonville, it’s now opening downtown in the Capitol View district. Several people wrote in to tell me it’s their 

Restaurateur Kevin Boehm has opened three Nashville restaurants this month right next to each other in Wedgewood-Houston. Momotaro serves elegant Japanese fare, Alla Vita focuses on wood-fired pizza and handmade pasta, with Middleman, a cocktail and spirits lounge, between them.

Hungry? These are the best new restaurants and bars in Nashville to check out this year.

Check Out These New Nashville Restaurants and Bars in September 2026

Nashville's Best New Restaurants and Bars

The latest on the best and newest restaurants and bars in Nashville. We'll help you find where to eat, drink, and socialize.

Nashville Food & Drink

Food & Drink

Nashville has officially declared Sept. 25 as 

! In honor of Tennessee’s queen, participating businesses will be celebrating with Dolly-inspired food and drink specials, lighting up their buildings in pink, and featuring Dolly’s music. Here are six ways to celebrate Dolly Day around town.

 that serve issues close to Dolly’s heart by donating to the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee and Music Community Foundation from Sept. 25 through Sept. 27.

Leave a message at Bridgestone Arena about how you plan to carry on Dolly’s kindness. Then head to the 

, which will donate $9.25 from every ticket to the Imagination Library, and to the 

, which will host Dolly events all day, including a free screening of “9 to 5” at 7 p.m. The movie will end just in time to see fireworks at 9:25 p.m.

 is celebrating Dolly Day with discounted admission, story time with the Imagination Library, Dolly-themed eats, face painting, and more.

 is donating 10% of all sales to the Imagination Library. Plus, the children’s indoor playground will have butterfly crafts, cupcake decorating, and Dolly drinks.

From fireworks to ice cream, here are six ways to celebrate Dolly Day in Nashville.

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