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NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Feb. 10, 2026) – Tennessee invites visitors to savor food in an entirely new way through Sound Bites, a new campaign launched today by the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development (TDTD). The campaign pairs two of the state’s most cherished traditions—music and food—and treats music as an intentional part of the dining experience rather than background noise. Sound Bites features Tennessee chefs and artists collaborating to create new dishes and original songs that are designed to be experienced together.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Feb. 3, 2026 – Jefferson Street Sound Museum and the Museum of Christian and Gospel Music are officially designated as sites along the U.S. Civil Rights Trail, the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development (TDTD) announced today.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Jan. 20, 2026 – Aspiring songwriters and musicians will share their original songs on stage as Tennessee Songwriters Week qualifying rounds kick off Jan. 25-Feb. 7. More than 60 participating music venues, including cafes, listening rooms, lounges, breweries, distilleries, museums, hotels, historic theatres and bookshops will spotlight songwriters on stages across the Volunteer State – from small towns to vibrant cities.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Jan. 8, 2026) – As Tennessee icon Dolly Parton prepares for another milestone year, the global ambassador graces the cover of the official 2026 Tennessee Vacation Guide, unveiled today by the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development (TDTD). The free planning resource highlights the people, places and experiences that define the Volunteer State and invites travelers to explore all 95 counties through music, food, history, outdoor adventure and more. Available now, travelers can order a free printed copy and download the guide at TNVacation.com, or pick one up in person at any of Tennessee’s 16 Welcome Centers.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Dec. 11, 2025 – Songwriters in all genres of music are encouraged to share their original music, as signups officially open today for the eighth annual statewide Tennessee Songwriters Week. Songwriters can sign up to perform in qualifying rounds all over Tennessee and compete for a chance to play their original music at iconic venues across the state, including The Bluebird Cafe in Nashville. In 2026, the program will celebrate more than 6,000 songwriters who have shared their original music on Tennessee stages since the program launched.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – (Dec. 2, 2025) Tennessee unveils immersive maker experiences, outdoor adventure, unique attractions, and more in 2026 with new restaurants, distilleries, hotels, exhibits, music venues, iconic anniversaries and impressive expansions. Here’s a sneak peek at some of the most-anticipated openings to check out in Tennessee this year.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (November 24, 2025) – Tennessee is glowing brighter than ever this holiday season as warm spirits, dazzling displays and millions of twinkling lights transform the state into a true winter wonderland. Each year, families bundle up and set out to discover a festive kaleidoscope of color, tradition and cheer blanketing every corner of the state. From charming small towns to show-stopping light festivals, Tennessee shines with unforgettable ways to celebrate the season.

Nashville, Tenn. (November 10, 2025) - Tennessee celebrates all that is merry and bright this holiday season with charming holiday towns and a wish list full of Hallmark holiday memories waiting to be made. From twinkling lights illuminating the night sky and old-fashioned Christmas parades to seasonal sweet treats around every corner, there’s no better way to celebrate the magic of the season.

Nashville, Tenn. (November 12, 2025) - Tennessee Department of Tourist Development (TDTD) Commissioner Mark Ezell announced today that 30 communities will receive more than $2 million in Tourism Enhancement Grants to strengthen local tourism assets and drive Tennessee’s continued growth as a world-class destination.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Nov. 3, 2025) – 36 Tennessee restaurants have been recognized in the first-ever MICHELIN Guide American South, marking a milestone moment for the state’s culinary scene. The globally renowned guide debuted tonight in Greenville, South Carolina, honoring chefs and restaurants that define the South’s distinctive flavors and creativity

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Oct. 16, 2025) – In a world that moves faster than ever, Tennessee gives travelers the chance to savor life with an array of slow travel experiences. This approach to vacationing encourages meaningful, unhurried experiences and personal restoration. From the misty peaks of the Smoky Mountains to the rolling hills of Middle Tennessee and the soulful rhythms of the West, the state offers a natural setting for rejuvenation, reflection and reconnection.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Oct. 1, 2025) – The crisp fall air echoes with the stories of Tennessee’s haunted past, in historic prisons, hotels, theatres, caves and on walking tours. Add these immersive Halloween experiences to your spooky season bucket list. For additional inspiration, if you dare, meet Tennessee’s ghosts this fall.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Sept. 22, 2025 – Fall in Tennessee brings unique ways to experience fall colors, immersive seasonal festivals, ghost tours, new locally owned restaurants, breweries and handmade harvest crafts. Here’s a look at what’s new and happening this season in Tennessee.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Aug. 21, 2025) – Red, orange and yellow autumn leaves burst through the trees; colorful hikes, campfires, fall fun at pumpkin patches and festivals await, the aroma of pumpkin, apple and s’mores waft through the crisp air; and ghost stories echo through the haunted hills. Here’s what to add to your bucket list this fall in Tennessee.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – July 16, 2025 – Visitors are invited to have a ball this summer with a full roster of exciting baseball events happening across the state. Home to four Minor League teams, Tennessee is embracing the All-American pastime on a grand slam scale. Whether it’s hot dogs, popcorn and ice cream dreams drawing you to the diamond or the crack of the bat and roaring cheers of the crowd, these summer games are sure to be a home run.