What We Do…
The DISTRICT is a private 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to the economic and community revitalization of three historic downtown Nashville neighborhoods—Broadway, 2nd Avenue/Riverfront, and Printer’s Alley. Originating in the late 1980s through a collaboration between Historic Nashville Inc. and the Metropolitan Historical Commission, The DISTRICT builds on the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s Main Street model. It promotes a vibrant, unified identity by supporting local businesses, preserving historic character, and fostering civic pride. Today, it serves as a collaborative partnership among property owners, businesses, preservationists, nonprofits, and government agencies, working together to create a thriving and growing area where people live, work, shop, dine, play, and visit.
2ndAveStrong is an initiative spearheaded by The District to support the immediate and long-term restoration and preservation of the Second Avenue North district, which was severely damaged in the Christmas Day bombing. The effort aims to assist building owners, businesses, and city partners in securing and revitalizing this historically significant area of downtown Nashville. The focus area includes Second Avenue between Broadway and Union Street, as well as First Avenue between Broadway and Church Street.
Events and On-going Projects:
Monthly Merchants Meeting
The Downtown Merchants Meeting is held on the last Thursday of each month at 3:00 p.m. at various downtown venues, bringing together merchants, property owners, and key stakeholders to collaborate on the continued success of downtown. The meetings provide timely updates from The District Board, Metro Police, local government officials, and guest speakers, keeping the business community informed and aligned.
Discussions focus on safety, events, marketing initiatives, development updates, and collaborative opportunities to enhance customer experience and downtown’s overall appeal. Open to business owners, managers, and downtown advocates, the goal is to maintain a unified voice, address shared challenges, and support a safe, vibrant, and welcoming downtown environment.
Want to host a meeting? Contact us!
Annual Progressive Party
SAVE THE DATE for The DISTRICT’s annual Progressive Party Fundraiser for 2026, celebrating its 40th year!
Mark your calendar for Wednesday, September 16, as we sip, savor, and stroll through an all-inclusive evening across three downtown venues.
Stay tuned or subscribe for more info!
Wine on the River
Travel the world without leaving Nashville! Join us on Saturday, September 12, 2026 as we taste from different regions spanning the globe. All beverage samples of wine, beer, and spirits are included in admission. Food is available for purchase.
Take a break from your travels and enjoy the soothing sounds of live music while taking in the beautiful views of the skyline, river and bridges from Riverfront Park. Wine On the River is a rain or shine event and no refunds will be given.
Downtown Holiday Decorations
(Deck The District)
Deck the District… A holiday celebration between November to January 6th, on the streets of Downtown Nashville! Including a large Christmas tree at 1st Avenue and Broadway. Downtown Business and Merchants Sponsor large ornaments surounding the tree
This is a great opportunity to show your Holiday Spirit and Support Downtown Nashville. The Holiday Ornaments are displayed on a Lamppost near or next your Location!! More info here.
Artists on Boards &
Downtown Murals
The DISTRICT began this project after many of the Downtown businesses needed to board up their windows either due to damage or as protection.
After the 2020 Bombing, we wanted to brighten up downtown and give some artists some work. Some that you see around are ones we spearheaded and others have been popping up to jump on “Board”! Ongoing projects include installations on vacant buildings and under construction spaces.