Every year, Gaylord Opryland Resort in Nashville, Tennessee transforms into one of the most magical holiday destinations in the country. From November 6, 2026, through January 2, 2027, the resort hosts its celebrated A Country Christmas event. This guide covers everything you need to plan your perfect visit — from ICE! tickets and event dates to food, parking, hotels, and family activities.
What Is A Country Christmas at Gaylord Opryland?
A Country Christmas is the flagship holiday celebration at Gaylord Opryland Resort. It runs for nearly two months, making it one of the longest holiday events of its kind in the United States. The resort decorates its iconic glass atriums with millions of lights and thousands of poinsettias. Guests can explore themed displays, attend live shows, and enjoy seasonal food and beverages throughout the property.
The centerpiece of the celebration is ICE!, a walk-through attraction carved entirely from two million pounds of colorful ice. Each year features a new theme, and skilled artisans from China spend weeks carving every sculpture by hand. Inside the ICE! pavilion, temperatures drop to nine degrees Fahrenheit, so guests should dress in layers before entering.
Additionally, the resort offers over a dozen other experiences, making it a full multi-day destination for families, couples, and groups.
ICE! 2026: Dates, Theme, and What to Expect
ICE! runs from November 6, 2026, through January 2, 2027. The attraction is open daily during this period, though hours may vary. It is best to check the official Gaylord Opryland website for the most current daily schedule.
The 2026 ICE! theme will be announced closer to the opening date. However, past themes have celebrated beloved stories and classic holiday imagery. Regardless of the theme, guests can expect towering ice sculptures, glowing slides for kids and adults, and breathtaking frozen tableaus lit from within.
Guests receive heavy parkas at the entrance to wear during their visit, so there is no need to bring your own cold-weather gear for the attraction. The experience typically lasts 20 to 40 minutes, depending on how long you spend at each sculpture.
Ticket Information and Pricing
Tickets for ICE! and other A Country Christmas events must be purchased in advance. The resort strongly recommends booking early, as popular time slots sell out weeks ahead. Below is a general pricing guide based on recent years. Actual 2026 prices will be confirmed on the official site.
| Ticket Type | Estimated Price |
| ICE! – Adult (13+) | $38 – $45 |
| ICE! – Child (4–12) | $28 – $35 |
| ICE! – Child (3 and under) | Free |
| Christmas Package (multi-attraction) | $55 – $75 |
| Snowfall Pass (season pass) | $90 – $110 |
Purchasing a multi-attraction bundle is often the best value. Bundles typically include ICE!, Rudolph’s Holly Jolly Christmas Light Show, and a visit to SoundWaves, the resort’s indoor waterpark.
Tickets are available online at the Gaylord Hotels website. Members of the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program may receive early access or discounted rates.
Event Calendar: Key Activities and Shows
The A Country Christmas celebration goes far beyond ICE!. The resort schedules dozens of events throughout the holiday season. Therefore, guests who plan ahead can fill an entire weekend without repeating a single activity.
Rudolph’s Holly Jolly Christmas Light Show
This outdoor light show uses thousands of synchronized lights set to holiday music. It runs multiple times each evening and is included with most ticket packages. The show is a crowd favorite for families.
Christmas on the Cumberland Boat Ride
This narrated boat tour takes guests along the indoor waterway through beautifully decorated holiday scenes. The ride is calm and gentle, making it ideal for guests of all ages.
Holiday Maze
A festive maze built inside the resort offers fun and a mild challenge for families. It is especially popular with children and typically takes around 15 minutes to navigate.
Live Entertainment and Shows
Throughout the season, the resort hosts live musical performances, carolers, and special ticketed shows. Past years have included country music acts and theatrical holiday performances on the resort’s stages.
Christmas Scavenger Hunt
Guests can pick up a holiday scavenger hunt map at the resort’s concierge desk. The activity takes you through all the major decorated areas of the resort, making it a fun and free way to explore.
Family Activities at Gaylord Opryland
Families with young children will find no shortage of things to do. The resort designs many of its holiday activities with kids in mind. However, there is also plenty for adults to enjoy independently.
- Meet and greet with Rudolph and Clarice (scheduled times posted daily)
- Letters to Santa drop box available throughout the resort
- Holiday arts and crafts workshops for children
- Story time sessions with holiday-themed readings
- Ice slides inside the ICE! attraction (open to all ages)
- Snowfall of fake snow in select areas of the resort
Parents should check the daily activity schedule posted at the concierge desk or on the resort’s app. Times and availability change throughout the season.
Dining and Food Options
Gaylord Opryland Resort features numerous restaurants and food stands during the holiday season. Guests can choose from casual bites to full-service dining experiences. Reservations are strongly recommended for sit-down restaurants, especially on weekends.
| Restaurant / Venue | Style | Highlights |
| Cascades American Café | Casual buffet | Holiday-themed brunch and dinner |
| Ravello | Fine dining | Italian-inspired seasonal menu |
| Old Hickory Steakhouse | Upscale | Premium steaks, holiday specials |
| Fuse Sports Bar | Casual | Burgers, cocktails, large screen TVs |
| Jolly Holiday Bar | Seasonal pop-up | Festive cocktails and hot chocolate |
| Delta Island Outpost | Quick service | Snacks, sandwiches, holiday treats |
Additionally, seasonal food kiosks are set up throughout the atrium areas. These stands offer warm cider, roasted nuts, holiday cookies, and other snacks perfect for a cold-weather stroll through the resort.
Guests with dietary restrictions can request allergen menus at any sit-down restaurant. The resort is generally accommodating to vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free needs.
Parking at Gaylord Opryland
Parking is available in the resort’s large garage and surface lots. However, during peak holiday weekends, the parking areas fill up quickly. Guests are advised to arrive early or consider off-peak visit times.
| Parking Option | Rate |
| Self-parking (day visitors) | $10 – $20 per day |
| Self-parking (hotel guests) | Complimentary or discounted |
| Valet parking | $35 – $45 per day |
Overflow parking is sometimes available in nearby lots with shuttle service to the resort. Signage along the main roads leading to the resort directs guests to available spaces during busy periods.
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are a popular alternative. The drop-off and pick-up area is clearly marked at the resort entrance. Using a rideshare can save time and eliminate the stress of finding a parking spot on busy nights.
Hotels: Staying at Gaylord Opryland
Staying at the Gaylord Opryland Resort itself is the most immersive way to experience A Country Christmas. Hotel guests enjoy extended access to the property, early entry to select events, and the unique experience of sleeping inside a fully decorated holiday resort.
| Room Type | Estimated Nightly Rate |
| Standard King or Double | $250 – $400 |
| Garden View Room | $300 – $450 |
| Atrium View Room | $350 – $500 |
| Suite | $500 – $900+ |
Rates vary significantly by date. Weekend nights in December, especially around Thanksgiving and Christmas week, are the most expensive. Booking several months in advance is the best way to secure a good rate.
Marriott Bonvoy points can be used toward stays, and the resort often runs package deals that bundle the room with ICE! tickets and breakfast. These packages can offer considerable savings compared to purchasing everything separately.
If the resort is outside your budget, several nearby hotels in the Nashville area provide convenient access. The Opryland area has a range of options from budget chains to mid-scale hotels, all within a short drive or rideshare ride.
Tips for Planning Your Visit
A little preparation goes a long way when visiting during the holiday season. The resort is large, and the crowds can be significant on popular dates.
- Visit on weekdays for smaller crowds and shorter waits.
- Book ICE! tickets for morning slots, as evenings tend to sell out first.
- Download the Gaylord Hotels app for real-time schedules and maps.
- Dress in warm layers if you plan to visit ICE!, but wear comfortable shoes overall.
- Arrive 30 minutes before your ticketed event to allow time for entry.
- Check the resort’s website regularly for newly announced shows and events.
Conclusion
Gaylord Opryland’s A Country Christmas is one of the most spectacular holiday events in the United States. Running from November 6, 2026, to January 2, 2027, the celebration offers something for everyone. ICE! remains the star attraction, drawing visitors with its stunning hand-carved sculptures and colorful ice slides. Beyond ICE!, the resort packs the season with live shows, family activities, festive dining, and beautifully decorated spaces that feel like stepping into a holiday storybook.
Planning ahead is essential. Buy tickets early, book your hotel well in advance, and use rideshare or arrive early to navigate parking with ease. Whether you are a local Nashville family or a visitor traveling from across the country, A Country Christmas at Gaylord Opryland delivers an unforgettable holiday experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does ICE! 2026 open at Gaylord Opryland?
ICE! opens on November 6, 2026, and runs through January 2, 2027. The attraction is open daily during this period, with hours varying by day. Checking the official Gaylord Hotels website before your visit is recommended.
How much do ICE! tickets cost for 2026?
Adult tickets are estimated between $38 and $45, and children aged 4 to 12 are estimated between $28 and $35. Children aged 3 and under enter for free. Multi-attraction bundles typically offer the best overall value.
Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
Yes. Tickets for ICE! and other A Country Christmas events sell out quickly, especially on weekends. Buying tickets online several weeks in advance is strongly advised to secure your preferred date and time.
Is parking free at Gaylord Opryland during Christmas?
Parking is not free for day visitors. Self-parking generally costs between $10 and $20 per day. Hotel guests often receive complimentary or discounted parking. Rideshare services are a popular and convenient alternative.
Can I visit Gaylord Opryland for Christmas without staying at the hotel?
Yes. Day visitors are welcome to purchase tickets and attend the holiday events without staying at the resort. However, hotel guests benefit from extended access, early entry perks, and the full immersive experience of living inside the decorated resort.
