Illustration of Santa in a red knitted suit reading a paper list with a small child beside a lit tree and fireplace (Lipscomb University Lighting of the Green)

Lipscomb University Lighting of the Green

Guests gather inside Allen Arena for an evening of holiday music hosted by singer-songwriter Ellie Holcomb and musical guests, followed by the lighting of the green. Visitors can shop for Christmas gifts from local vendors at the Merry Marketplace to benefit student scholarships. The celebration also features opportunities to take pictures with Santa, as well as concessions and dining options across campus.

Map It Details Official site

Advertisement

Plan Your Visit

When

Tickets

Admission is free and the event is open to the public. Photos with Santa are free. Food and beverages are available for purchase.

Hours

Merry Marketplace begins at 4 p.m. CST; free photos with Santa begin at 4:30 p.m. CST; the concert begins at 6 p.m. CST and is followed by the lighting of the green. Shuttles run from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Ages

All ages

Food & Drink

Lipscomb Dining Services sells food and beverages at Allen Arena concession stands and in the Bennett Campus Center.

Parking

Parking is available in the north campus garage and nearby surface lots; a shuttle runs from Lipscomb Academy's McCadams Athletic Center Football Field parking lot.

Accessibility

Accessible parking is available on the gold level of the Allen Arena parking garage.

Going?

Location

Allen Arena · One University Park Drive, Nashville, TN 37204 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families and christmas-music fans

Vibe

Festive and musical

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive early for arena seating, which is first come, first served, so you have a better chance of finding seats.
  • Use P2 North Parking Garage or nearby north-campus surface lots; the walk to Allen Arena is under 10 minutes.
  • Take the shuttle from McAdams Athletic Center Football Field parking lot; it runs from 3 to 10 p.m. and drops guests near Allen Arena.
  • Arrive by 4 p.m. to browse Merry Marketplace, and note that free Santa photos begin at 4:30 p.m.
  • Use accessible parking on the gold level of the Allen Arena parking garage if you need accessible parking.

Special Events & Promotions

  • The event is free and open to the public.
  • The concert and green lighting take place in the evening.
  • Free photos with Santa are offered during the event.
  • A live stream is available for people unable to attend in person.
  • This year, the event takes place inside Allen Arena, with all festivities under one roof.

Links & Contact

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Lighting of the Green suitable for families?

Yes. The event is open to the public, and families and friends are invited. There are also free photos with Santa.

How does seating work?

Seating is first come, first served.

What food and drink can I get?

Lipscomb Dining Services offers food and beverages for purchase at Allen Arena concession stands and in Bennett Campus Center.

Where should I park, and is there a shuttle?

Guests are encouraged to use the north campus parking garage or nearby surface lots. Shuttles run from Lipscomb Academy's McCadams Athletic Center Football Field parking lot and drop off near Allen Arena.

Can I attend remotely or take part as a vendor?

A live stream is available for those unable to attend in person. Vendors interested in Merry Marketplace can contact the Alumni Office about securing a booth.

Featured Video

Browse Christmas in Nashville

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

Event details verified: