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Summer Travel Hot Spots in Nashville's Big Back Yard

As summer approaches, the allure of travel beckons, and there's no better place to consider than Nashville's Big Back Yard. This vibrant region consists of 13 enchanting communities in Tennessee along with The Shoals of Alabama, all intricately connected by the scenic 100 miles of the historic Natchez Trace Parkway. This summer promises an array of exciting activities, cultural festivals, and outdoor adventures waiting to be explored.

Upcoming Festivals and Events

One of the highlights this June is the Summertown Bluegrass Reunion, scheduled for June 19-21 in Summertown, TN. A three-day extravaganza, this festival celebrates all things bluegrass music. Visitors can anticipate outstanding performances, engaging workshops, and activities suitable for families, making it a perfect weekend getaway for music enthusiasts and new fans alike. To learn more about the festival, you can visit their official website here.

Adding to the summer festivities is the Helen Keller Festival, taking place from June 26-29 in Tuscumbia, AL, where Keller was born. The celebration is filled with events including downtown parades, live music, arts activities, and presentations of The Miracle Worker. This annual festival pays tribute to the remarkable legacy of Helen Keller and offers a variety of events for all ages to enjoy. For more details, check out the festival's site here.

On July 4th, those attending A Stars & Stripes Night with JT Hodges can enjoy an unforgettable evening at Fox & Locke in Leiper's Fork. This performance will include classic American songs that are sure to evoke a sense of nostalgia and pride. For those unable to make it on the 4th, tickets are also available for the Super Songwriters event on July 18, creating more opportunities to engage with Nashville's vibrant music scene. More about the shows can be found here.

Outdoor Activities

Nashville's Big Back Yard isn’t just about music! For outdoor enthusiasts, kayaking on the Buffalo River in Linden offers invigorating adventures amidst nature. Paddleboarding under a starlit sky during guided night kayaking is a surreal experience, allowing visitors to see luminous environments coming alive around them. You can find more information and book your adventure here.

For a unique exploration, consider E-Biking in Florence, AL. Offering an excellent way to traverse the scenic trails of The Shoals, these easy-to-ride electric bikes allow visitors to see more in less time than on foot. Rentals are available for those aged 16 and up, with transportation conveniently provided by the Florence-Lauderdale CVB. Take a look at the available trails here.

Celebrations of Americana

The spirit of small-town celebrations is alive on July 3rd in Waynesboro City Park, with performances by Chance Beckham and Drake White. This event not only includes live music but an unforgettable display of fireworks at nightfall. For all the details of this Independence Day celebration, check out here.

Mount Pleasant, TN is another destination to celebrate America's birthday with their own fireworks event on July 5th, featuring food trucks and activities for the kids. The evening culminates with a spectacular fireworks display that begins at 9 p.m.

Conclusion

Nashville's Big Back Yard offers a blend of culture, adventure, and community spirit this summer that appeals to a wide array of visitors. From the charming festivals to exhilarating outdoor activities, there is something for everyone. As you plan your summer adventures, make sure to include Nashville’s Big Back Yard in your travel itinerary for an unforgettable experience!

For accommodations, several lodging options are available including The Commodore Hotel in Linden, GunRunner Hotel in Florence, and more charming places that provide a cozy and welcoming base for your summer explorations.