Soulful Legends and Radiant Lanterns: What’s On in Nashville Today
Resilience and Rhythm in Music City
Nashville continues to shine this Saturday, January 31, 2026, as the city moves forward in the wake of Winter Storm Fern. Despite the recent inclement weather, the local entertainment scene is in full swing, offering a variety of soul-stirring music, cultural exhibitions, and family-friendly activities. Whether you are looking to escape the chill in a historic theater or wander through a glowing outdoor wonderland, today’s schedule has something for everyone.
Iconic Music and Stage Performances
The spotlight tonight is firmly on the historic Ryman Auditorium, where soul and gospel legend Mavis Staples takes the stage at 8:00 PM. This highly anticipated performance was recently rescheduled, making tonight’s show a special treat for fans who have been waiting to hear her powerful vocals in one of the world’s most famous acoustic spaces. Additionally, the Ryman is offering a community gesture following the storm, providing free admission to daytime tours for anyone with a valid Tennessee ID.
Just down the road, the Grand Ole Opry continues its legendary run at the Grand Ole Opry House. The show starts at 7:00 PM and features a mix of country music’s rising stars and iconic legends. For those looking for a more intimate musical experience, the Bluebird Cafe is hosting its famous "Songwriters In The Round" at both 6:00 PM and 9:00 PM, though tickets for these sessions are known to go fast.
Family Day and Community Gatherings
For families, the Tennessee Performing Arts Center (TPAC) is the place to be this afternoon. Starting at 1:30 PM, the annual Family Day event offers world-class arts experiences designed to support education and arts access. It is a fantastic opportunity for children and parents to engage with live performance and creative workshops in a welcoming environment.
As the sun sets, the Nashville Zoo transforms into a luminous landscape for the Zoolumination Festival of Lights. Opening at 5:00 PM, this event is the country’s largest Chinese lantern festival, featuring over 1,000 custom silk lanterns. Visitors can walk through a magical backdrop of towering illuminated creatures and whimsical holiday scenes, complete with live performances and seasonal treats.
Public Exhibitions and Art
The Frist Art Museum is celebrating its 25th anniversary today with several must-see exhibitions. Art lovers can explore "In Her Place: Nashville Artists in the Twenty-First Century," which highlights the work of 28 celebrated local women artists. Additionally, the museum is featuring "Sistah Griot: The Iconoclastic Art of Barbara Bullock," a monographic exhibition that showcases bold, colorful paintings reflecting the artist's lived experiences and social commentary. These galleries provide a quiet, inspiring retreat for those looking to appreciate the depth of Nashville's visual arts community.