By Maggie Adams
I love Bonnaroo just as much as the next gal, what with the discovery of new music, the sense of community you have with your gROOp camping crew and Bonnaroovians at large and the freedom of silent disco...but sometimes you have to give yourself a break. The driving, the parking, the setting up and tearing down of the campsite - it's very involved and not for the faint of heart. Some years, you just have to accept the fact that you need to save money, stay in town and find something to do that'll satisfy your need for adventure. ENTER - this list of awesome things to do if you're staying in Nashville this weekend instead of heading to Manchester. (Full disclosure, I am going to Bonnaroo Saturday and Sunday, but I will be bummed to miss out on the following activities in this list.)
*Events listed in chronological order*
1. Movies in the park - Thurs, 6/7
Last week, I discovered the innocent splendor of Movies in the Park, brought to you by the Nashville Scene. Every Thursday, they project a family friendly movie at the park that begins at sundown. PRO TIP: go early to scope out your spot, bring picnic supplies and a couple chairs then you're all set for a free night of entertainment. This Thursday they'll play Wonder Woman.
2. Musicians Corner - Thurs, 6/7 - Sat, 6/9
COME ON, PEOPLE, if you didn't know about this already where have you been? You don't need me to tell you about this FREE, local music festival that happens throughout the summer and features incredible artists while promoting local conservancy efforts. No, you don't need me to do that, but I'm doing it because, who knows, maybe too much time has passed since last summer and you've forgotten. Thursday, June 8th, go check out Angel Snow, Dylan Leblanc, Andrew Combs and The Nashville Symphony. Friday, June 9th features Liz Longley, Leah Blevins and Dan Layus (remember when The Secret Sisters sang on his record?) to name a few. On Saturday, locals Jack Berry, Sarah Zuniga and Beth White (who recently received praise from the goddess herself, Sheryl Crow, on Instagram) perform on Lightning 100's Acoustic Stage. Taking the main stage are Nashville sweethearts The Weeks, Lasso Spells, The Aquaducks and Tristen. And if you still need a reason beyond the wild talent, the featured non-profit is the Oasis Center and there will also probably be dope food trucks.
3. laugh at third coast comedy - Sat, 6/9
They have so many events it will boggle the mind! If you want to escape the madness of CMA Fest, then go check out a comedy show at Third Coast Comedy in Marathon Village and get your giggles on. This Saturday, June 9th, they have an afternoon show that looks promising: "If you thought your favorite thing about Nashville is music, you just might be surprised by the depth of talent of Nashville's comedy scene." Go check it out!
4. Listen to "Live From Here" on NPR - Sat, 6/9
The great thing about radio is that you can listen to it from anywhere. Stay in with your cat and a glass of wine. Sit in your car, enjoy the AC and crank up Chris Thile's mandolin. Even if you ARE at Bonnaroo and need a breather from the EDM stylings of Boogie T B2B Squnto (don't worry, I've never heard of them either) around 5pm CST you can tune into Live From Here with Chris Thile and catch The Secret Sisters! Tune into your local public radio station from 5-7pm CST on Saturday or listen online here.
5. Go see Escondido at the cowan - sun, 6/10
Still debating on whether or not I'm leaving Bonnaroo early to see this one! Escondido opens for The Wallflowers at The Cowan on Sunday, June 10th. Have you checked out The Cowan yet? You need to. It's technically connected to Top Golf, but not so connected that the rowdiness of a sports bar atmosphere interferes with the venue (although it might be nice to throw a couple back with a round of golf beforehand). It's a very good vibe. And it's sure to be a very good show. 10/10 would recommend. GET TICKETS HERE!
