Travelbiz joins the Trade at Music City USA celebration

Aer Lingus, Tennessee Tourism and the Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp teamed up to celebrate the all-new Aer Lingus direct service to Music City USA which commences on April the 12^th direct from Dublin.

The very lucky travel trade and media partners were treated to an amazing night in Dublin’s iconic Music venue Whelan’s on Wexford Street where they got to hear two of Music City’s leading songwriters, four-time grammy award nominee Jessi Alexander and Grammy, CMA and ACM Award winner Jon Randall. It does not get much better than that!!

The night was nothing short of inspiring with amazing food and entertainment that will last long in the memories of all who attended on the night.

Jenny Rafter and Ivan Beacom from Aer Lingus were joined by Deana Ivey, President and CEO of the Nashville Convention and Visitors Corporation, Heather Middleton from the Nashville Convention visitors Corp, Jodi Hanson, Tennessee Tourism (UK & Ireland), Jasmine Cowler, Account Director from Tennessee Tourism and Tryphavana Cross who will be supporting media and trade partners in the Irish Market.

New direct flights and international connections

Nashville is expanding its international reach with the announcement of two new direct flights. Starting on 12 April, Aer Lingus will launch the first-ever non-stop flight between Dublin and Nashville, offering easy access to the city’s renowned music scene, culinary offerings, and sports culture. Icelandair will also begin seasonal direct flights from Reykjavik to Nashville on 10 April connecting travellers not only to Iceland’s stunning landscapes but also to more than 30 European destinations, including London.

Grand Ole Opry celebrates 100 years

2025 marks the 100th anniversary of the Grand Ole Opry, the world’s longest-running radio show, which first aired in 1925. Over the decades, the Opry has hosted iconic artists like Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, and Willie Nelson, and continues to shape the future of country music. This year, music lovers will have the opportunity to witness both legendary stars and rising talent on its iconic stage. A highlight of the centennial year will be Ringo Starr’s debut performance at the Opry on 21 February. Opry Executive Producer Dan Rogers says, “What an honour that after all the extraordinary music he has made and all the incredible history he’s been a part of Ringo Starr will be making his Opry debut during this, the Opry’s milestone 100th year. It’s going to be a night like no other.”

New hotel: The Printing House

Nashville’s hotel scene also welcomes a fresh addition-The Printing House. This modern gem blends mid-century contemporary style with nods to the city’s printing history, offering 187 design- forward rooms and suites. Located just steps from Honky Tonk Highway and the iconic Ryman Auditorium, it’s an ideal base for exploring Music City. Enjoy stunning views from the rooftop terrace, live music at the Letterpress Lounge, and delicious bites at the Press House café. With event spaces, a 24/7 fitness centre, and pet-friendly rooms, The Printing House offers everything you need for both work and play. Rooms from $582.

Hotels coming soon:

Hilton Garden Inn Nashville Opryland (March 2025), The Gilmore Hotel by AvantStay (April 2025),  Canopy by Hilton Nashville Downtown, The Gulch (April 2025),  Homewood Suites by Hilton, Nashville Downtown The Gulch (April 2025),  The Printing House (Tapestry Collection by Hilton) (June 2025), Tempo by Hilton Nashville Midtown (September 2025) , The Chloe Nashvillen, 2025) and  Motto by Hilton Nashville Downtown (2025)

Nashville Yards, opening through 2025

Nashville Yards is a 19-acre project located in the heart of downtown Nashville. When complete, the project will be a walkable, urban community featuring high-end hospitality offerings, including the 591-room luxury Grand Hyatt Nashville and the newly renovated Union Station Nashville Yards; exceptional retail and restaurant options; a world-class 4,500 capacity concert venue, The Pinnacle, and entertainment offerings.

• The Pinnacle music venue officially opened on 20th February 2025. Dozens of concerts and events are already scheduled for the brand new live music venue, beginning with Kacey Musgraves’ show on 27th February Journey, T-Pain, Zac Brown Band and Jack White are booked in the coming months, representing a lineup of acts defying country music’s dominance in Nashville.

New culinary experiences

Nashville’s culinary scene continues to flourish in 2025 with exciting new venues. Fly Pelican Fly, located in East Nashville’s The Wash, is a relaxed all-day spot offering cocktails, food, coffee, and juice..Gramp’s Garage  , from Sean “Big Daddy” Porter of Daddy’s Dogs, brings a lively bar to Gallattn Pike. Home Run Burger is the new go-to for handcrafted, premium burgers. Perfectly Fine in The Nations offers a casual cocktail bar and kitchen, perfect for unwinding. Finally,  Twenty First, located in a two-story venue that once housed Kabob and HQues, serves upscale American cuisine in a rustic yet lively setting with a bar, patio seating, DJs, and a reverse happy hour. Late night Laos-American inspired spot Bad Idea, situated in a converted church in East Nashville was named in the New York Times as one of the “The 25 Best Restaurants in Nashville Right Now” for 2025 and in “America’s Best Restaurants” of 2024.

With these exciting new developments, 2025 promises to be an exceptional year to visit Nashville, a city where music, culture, and culinary innovation continue to thrive. For more information on flights, events, and Nashville’s vibrant offerings, visit  Visit Music City.