Nashville is a town that never stops inspiring me. It’s a place where art isn’t just something you hang on a wall—it’s a way of life. Walk down any street, and you’ll see it everywhere, from colorful murals to pop-up galleries. But if you really want to experience the creative pulse of this community, you have to check out its art events and festivals.
Whether you’re a lifelong art lover or just looking for a fun way to spend a weekend, Nashville has something for you. Let me walk you through some of the best events you won’t want to miss.
Tomato Art Fest: The Can’t-Miss Summer Tradition
Let’s start with one of Nashville’s biggest and quirkiest traditions: the Tomato Art Fest. Every August, thousands of people flood the streets of Five Points to celebrate one thing—tomatoes.
But here’s the kicker: It’s not just about food. This festival is a full-blown art experience.
But here’s the kicker: It’s not just about food. This festival is a full-blown art experience.
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Tomato-Themed Art – Local artists create paintings, sculptures, and even fashion inspired by tomatoes.
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Live Music & Performances – Multiple stages feature everything from folk to rock.
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Parades & Contests – The festival kicks off with a costume parade, and there’s even a contest for the best tomato-themed attire.
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Local Vendors & Pop-Up Shops – Dozens of artists, makers, and small businesses set up booths with unique crafts, prints, and handmade goods.
It’s wacky, it’s fun, and it’s one of the best ways to experience Nashville’s creative energy. Whether you’re there to shop, people-watch, or enjoy the performances, this festival is a must-attend event.
First Saturday Art Crawl: A Monthly Dose of Creativity
Now, let’s talk about an event that connects all of Nashville’s creative communities: the First Saturday Art Crawl.
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Local Galleries Open Their Doors – Walk through independent art spaces and discover new talent.
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Live Art Demonstrations – Watch artists paint, sculpt, and create right in front of you.
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Meet the Creators – Many participating artists are on-site and happy to talk about their work and process.
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Free & Open to the Public – No tickets, no hassle—just a night filled with incredible art.
If you want to immerse yourself in the local art scene, this is the perfect opportunity to do it. The best part? You can make a night of it by stopping into one of Nashville’s many restaurants or cocktail bars before or after the crawl.
Defy Film Festival: A Celebration of Indie Cinema
Art isn’t just about paintings and sculptures—it’s also about storytelling. That’s why I love the Defy Film Festival, an independent film event that takes place right here in East Nashville.
This festival is known for showcasing bold, thought-provoking films from around the world. It’s the kind of event that attracts filmmakers, critics, and movie lovers who appreciate stories that push creative boundaries.
This festival is known for showcasing bold, thought-provoking films from around the world. It’s the kind of event that attracts filmmakers, critics, and movie lovers who appreciate stories that push creative boundaries.
Some of the festival’s highlights include:
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Indie & Experimental Films – Expect to see everything from avant-garde shorts to powerful documentaries.
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Q&A with Filmmakers – Many screenings include discussions with directors, producers, and actors.
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Outdoor & Alternative Venues – Screenings take place in creative spaces across East Nashville, making the experience even more immersive.
Whether you’re a die-hard film buff or just looking for something different to do on a weekend, this festival is a hidden gem.
Porter Flea: The Ultimate Handmade Market
If you love discovering handcrafted goods and original artwork, Porter Flea is the place to be. This event has become one of the most anticipated markets in Nashville, drawing top designers, artists, and makers from across the region.
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Handmade & Modern Goods – From pottery and home decor to jewelry and fashion, Porter Flea features one-of-a-kind, handcrafted items.
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Independent Artists & Designers – Many of the vendors debut new collections at this market before selling them anywhere else.
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Seasonal Events – The market happens twice a year, with a Holiday Market in December and a Summer Market in July.
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Perfect for Gifts & Collectors – Whether you’re shopping for yourself or looking for a special gift, this is the best place to find something truly unique.
This isn’t just a market—it’s an art event in its own right. Whether you’re looking for home decor, gifts, or a statement piece for your walls, Porter Flea always delivers something special.
Mural & Street Art Tours: A Walking Gallery
One of the things I love most about Nashville is that you don’t need to step into a gallery to experience incredible art. The streets themselves are filled with murals that tell the story of the community.
A few of my favorite spots include:
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The Fox Mural on Gallatin Avenue – A stunning piece of street art that has become an East Nashville landmark.
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Marathon Music Works Mural – A colorful tribute to Nashville’s music scene.
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Hidden Alleyway Murals – Tucked away throughout the neighborhood, these smaller pieces make for fun discoveries.
If you’re up for a self-guided tour, grab a coffee, and take a walk—you’ll be amazed at how much creativity is on display.
Let’s Talk About Your Next Move
Thinking about making East Nashville your home? I’d love to help. This area isn’t just a great place to visit—it’s an amazing place to live.
With my deep knowledge of the local market, I can help you find a home that fits your lifestyle, whether you want to be near the heart of Five Points or in a quieter corner of the neighborhood.
If you’re ready to explore your options, let’s connect. Reach out to me, Shane McCarty, and let’s find the perfect place for you in East Nashville!
With my deep knowledge of the local market, I can help you find a home that fits your lifestyle, whether you want to be near the heart of Five Points or in a quieter corner of the neighborhood.
If you’re ready to explore your options, let’s connect. Reach out to me, Shane McCarty, and let’s find the perfect place for you in East Nashville!
