The Holiday Village on Historic Jefferson Street was a spectacular success, bringing the community together for two unforgettable days of holiday cheer, cultural celebration, and joyful connection. Hosted on December 6th and 7th at Kossie Gardner, Sr. Park, this free, family-friendly event captured the spirit of the season in a way that was both unique and deeply meaningful.
From the moment the Village opened, the park was alive with holiday magic. Families and children enjoyed activities that celebrated the season while embracing the cultural richness of our community. Crystal Joy, beloved host of 92Q’s “Joy in the Morning,” masterfully guided the event, ensuring a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere throughout both days. Her presence kept the energy high and the community spirit alive as attendees explored the Village.
The event truly had something for everyone. A’Raya Light captivated young attendees with her engaging and heartfelt storytime readings, while live musical performances from Mossy and Friends and Saanneah filled the air with soulful and festive melodies, providing a joyous soundtrack for the celebration. For children, a highlight of the event was the Nashville Predators Gaming Truck, where kids could stay warm and enjoy the latest sports and video games. This attraction quickly became a favorite, giving families a chance to relax and have fun together in a cozy, festive environment.
Another cornerstone of the Holiday Village was the opportunity for children and families to meet Black Santa, a beloved and iconic figure who brought joy and representation to countless attendees. The smiles on the children’s faces and the excitement in their eyes as they met Santa created moments of pure holiday magic.
Meanwhile, the Holiday Market, presented in partnership with the Nashville Black Market and Nashville Farmers Market, showcased an array of talented local artisans and vendors. Attendees enjoyed browsing and shopping for unique, handmade gifts, all while supporting Black-owned businesses. The market created a perfect opportunity to highlight the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit within our community during the holiday season.
The event also featured a visually striking Kwanzaa tribute, in the form of a Kwanzaa inflatable that stood as a powerful reminder of the values of unity, self-determination, and community. This cultural centerpiece added depth and meaning to the festivities, celebrating the traditions that bring us together during this special time of year.
The goal of the Holiday Village was clear: to celebrate the Jefferson Street community, uplift Black culture and traditions, and provide a space where families could come together and create lasting holiday memories. Additionally, the event served as an important platform to support local businesses, giving them an opportunity to connect with attendees and share their work in an impactful way during the holiday season.
We are thrilled to say that the event exceeded all expectations. Over the two days, hundreds of community members joined us to experience the joy and magic of the Village. The park became a lively and welcoming environment that truly embodied the spirit of the season. The overwhelming support from attendees, vendors, and partners—including the Civic Design Center and the Local Farmers Market—made this celebration an undeniable success.
Looking ahead, we are excited to continue building on the momentum of the annual Holiday Village. Plans are already in motion for future community events that will further strengthen and celebrate the vibrant spirit of Jefferson Street, ensuring that this tradition continues to grow and thrive.
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