Gaylord Opryland is a holiday tradition for many local families (even if just for the Christmas lights and décor).
My husband and I, along with our 3-year-old daughter, were lucky enough to be there when the A Country Christmas events kicked off this year. Here are some activities that we fit in and a few that we wished we’d had more time for:
MRS. CLAUS’ CHRISTMAS
$18.99 per person
During this 30-minute show in the Events Center, families sit around a small stage and are served a warm chocolate chip cookie as Snowflake the Elf, (Mrs. Claus’ not so little helper, as she called herself) entertains the audience.
Then, Mrs. Claus comes on stage to read The Night Before Christmas and to sing a few Christmas songs. Recomended for small children. At the end, kids can go on stage for pictures!
GINGERBREAD DECORATING
starts at $34.99
Staff members in Christmas aprons set up festive tables for this workshop in the Delta Atrium with light and fountain shows within view. Choose from a variety of kits, including traditional gingerbread houses and cookies.
Go to the decorating corner anytime on the day you purchase a ticket. Our cookies didn’t quite turn out like the ones on the box (icing fail), but my tot enjoyed hers!
CHARLIE BROWN BREAKFAST
starts at $32.99
Arrive hungry to this breakfast buffet featuring an omelet station and Charlie Brown-themed dishes. Our tot filled up on strawberries, blueberries, eggs and a blueberry muffin.
Charlie Brown, Sally and Snoopy all made appearances to the delight of our toddler. A line will form when the characters show up, so jump in for a complimentary digital picture (or take one of your own)!
ICE! FEATURING THE POLAR EXPRESS
starts at $22.99, children 3 and younger are free
This year’s signature holiday event from Gaylord features scenes from The Polar Express. These realistic, amazing sculptures are carved from more than 2 million pounds of ice! The experience takes you through the story and you will marvel at the “hard-to-believe-they’re-ice” sculptures.
My daughter loved going through the ice tunnel, seeing the larger-than-life ice Santa and climbing the bridge of gifts. The ice slide was definitely the highlight for her and she had no hesitation going down twice by herself!
Don’t forget to bring your own hat and gloves. The resort provides you with a blue parka to be worn inside the nine-degree facility.
THINGS WE MISSED, BUT YOU DON’T HAVE TO:
- Pictures with Santa
- Ice Skating
- Delta River Boat Christmas Cruise
- Ice Bumper Cars
Find out more about the Gaylord Opryland A Country Christmas event here.
