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Nashville Christmas Festival Expands to Four Days in 2026

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Thursday, February 5th 2026 at 16:15 GMT by WLAX La Crosse
      Locales: UNITED STATES, AUSTRALIA

Nashville, TN - February 5th, 2026 - What began as a heartwarming, artist-driven event is rapidly evolving into a cornerstone of Nashville's holiday season. The Ashley McBryde Presents: Nashville Christmas Festival, currently slated for its third iteration in December 2026, is undergoing significant expansion, fueled by the success of its first two years and a growing desire to establish a lasting, philanthropic holiday tradition.

The festival, initially launched with Ashley McBryde at the helm alongside co-producer Brad Paisley, has quickly become a highly anticipated event for both country music fans and families seeking a festive atmosphere. The 2024 lineup, featuring powerhouse performers like Ashley McBryde, Lainey Wilson, and Keith Urban, demonstrated the festival's ability to attract top-tier talent and draw substantial crowds to Ascend Park. The festival's immediate success prompted organizers to begin planning for long-term growth.

For 2026, the festival is expanding from a two-day event to a four-day celebration, running from December 4th - 7th. Ascend Park will undergo a significant transformation, with organizers promising a dramatically expanded holiday light display, a larger artisan market featuring local crafts and gifts, and an enhanced "Santa's Workshop" area for children. "We want to create an immersive experience," says festival spokesperson, Sarah Jennings. "Something that truly captures the magic of Christmas and provides a memorable day - or four days! - for families."

This year's musical lineup, expected to be announced in late spring, will feature an even wider range of artists, branching out beyond strictly country to include bluegrass, Americana, and even a touch of holiday pop. Rumors are swirling around potential performances by Kacey Musgraves, Zac Brown Band, and even a possible appearance by Dolly Parton, though organizers remain tight-lipped. The festival is also introducing a dedicated stage for up-and-coming artists, providing a platform for emerging talent to reach a wider audience.

However, the festival's core remains deeply rooted in giving back to the community. Proceeds from the event continue to benefit Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt and the Nashville Humane Association, two organizations that hold a special place in McBryde's heart. In 2025, the festival increased its charitable giving by 40% compared to its inaugural year, and organizers are aiming for an even larger impact in 2026. New initiatives include a pre-festival fundraising gala, silent auctions featuring signed memorabilia from performing artists, and a percentage of merchandise sales directly donated to the charities.

"Ashley and Brad always envisioned this festival as more than just a concert," explains Jennings. "It's about bringing people together, celebrating the spirit of the season, and making a real difference in the lives of children and animals in need."

The expansion also includes logistical improvements based on feedback from previous attendees. Organizers are significantly increasing parking capacity, adding more food and beverage vendors to reduce wait times, and implementing a more efficient shuttle service to and from downtown Nashville. A VIP experience is also being upgraded, offering exclusive access to a heated lounge, premium viewing areas, and meet-and-greet opportunities with select artists.

Tickets for the 2026 Ashley McBryde Presents: Nashville Christmas Festival will go on sale Friday, February 6th, at 10 a.m. CT via Ticketmaster. A tiered ticketing system will be available, offering a range of price points and packages to accommodate different budgets. Early bird discounts will be offered for the first 24 hours of sales. With its growing popularity and commitment to philanthropy, the Nashville Christmas Festival is poised to become a beloved holiday tradition for years to come. The festival isn't just about the music anymore, it's become a vital part of the Nashville holiday experience, enriching the city's cultural landscape and demonstrating the power of music to do good.