With a seemingly endless selection of live entertainment options and accommodation choices, Nashville, Tennessee, is a destination with something to offer everyone. The Music City is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with the Warner Parks and Radnor Lake State Natural Area in close proximity to the downtown area. It won't take long for travelers to realize why this is one of the most visited cities in the region, with an estimated 13.9 million visitors in 2016.
Nashville Boogie is the ultimate celebration of Mid-20th Century American music, fashion, and automobiles. It will take place May 18-21 at three locations including the Grand Ole Opry House, Opryland Hotel Resort, and Nashville Palace. Attendees will have the opportunity to listen to 90 music acts on five stages, representing genres including rock n’ roll, country, folk, and more. Ryman Hall at the Grand Old Opry will be the location of the indoor auto show, which will feature a variety of cars, motorcycles, and trucks made before 1972. Patrons will also encounter a large scale vintage market with over 50 vendors from around the country selling a variety of goods including clothes, collectibles, and art. Additional activities include a western fashion show, pin-up pageant, and record convention. We got the chance to interview Jason Galaz, a representative of the event, to learn more about this unique showcase of Americana.
RAL: How long has the event been running?
JG: This is the third year for the Nashville Boogie.
RAL: How many annual participants do you draw?
JG: The event organizers anticipate more than 10,000 attendees.
RAL: What demographic does your event attract?
JG: The crowd primarily consists of adults between the ages 25-55.
RAL: What makes this event unique?
JG: The Nashville Boogie Vintage Weekender is a celebration of Mid-Century American music, fashion, and cars. It's the 2nd largest event of its kind in the world.
RAL: What activities can I expect as an attendee?
JG: 90 acts on five stages over four days at three venues (I know that’s a lot of numbers). Other activities include a western fashion show, indoor car show, record convention, and grand finale at the Grand Ole Opry House.
RAL: Will there be any guest appearances?
JG: Yes, pinup model Sabina Kelley will make an appearance.
RAL: What dining options will attendees encounter?
JG: There will be 17 restaurants on site, serving up a variety of tasty meal options.
RAL: Are there any lodging specials that are set up specifically for the event?
JG: The Opryland Hotel Resort will have rooms available for event goers at around half of the retail price. Here is the link.
RAL: Is there maybe one place in particular that guests have been flocking to since the event started?
JG: The indoor car show and vintage vendor market as you don't need a full weekend festival pass to attend. It's just $5 to the public.
RAL: Does this drive business to your local economy?
JG: Yes, the event brings international and regional tourists that spend money at local attractions, hotels, shops, and restaurants.
RAL: Why should people come to your event?
JG: Attendees can hear bands directly from or inspired by the 1950's, and 1960's creating a nostalgic American Rock n’ Roll or Country Western experience.
For more information about the Nashville Boogie, please visit the event website.