If the thousands of fall flowers were not enough there were also clever Scarecrows crafted by locals to see. The theme for this year's figures were the colors of the rainbow. Folks were very creative and we were drawn to a tribute to Prince in purple and a menacing model of Medusa. But wait there was even more to enjoy! Cheekwood's Beer Garden - which is surrounded by all this fall fauna - showcased some of the city's favorite foods paired with seasonal libations. Of course, live music was featured each weekend of the festival which began September 14th and will run through October 27th, 2024. On the 19th, Denny Jiosa a top studio and touring guitarist performed rock and jazz with his quartet. Quite a few kids seemed to be enjoying Denny's tasty grooves at this family friendly event.

Music, mums and more were just a few of the reasons to enjoy Cheekwood in October.

Cheekwood Harvest is one of many reasons to visit but even on a "regular" day a trip to this park is worthwhile. Each season has signature flowers to be appreciated plus the walkways leading to the mansion are enchanting. The historic home has much to explore. Inside each room is painted in a distinctive color to compliment the decorative arts, furniture, paintings, silver and textiles that are part of the Cheek's collection. Some of the masterpieces on display include William Edmondson sculptures, portraits of Andy Warhol & Jamie Wyeth, pieces by Childe Hassam, John White Alexander and William Merritt Chase.

Pumpkin themed sculptures and more on display inside the Cheekwood mansion.

During our visit we had the pleasure of viewing British artist Ann Carrington's ornate sculptures and works of art crafted from discarded and found objects. Carrington's installation included 33 works place throughout the period rooms as part of Cheekwood's INTERVENTIONS - an arts initiative to activate the historic period rooms. The series invites renowned artists from around the globe to imagine and implement a connection between their contemporary work and the Cheekwood Mansion.

Part of the permanent exhibit at Cheekwood to go along with the site's abundant natural beauty.

Cheekwood Estate & Gardens is an accredited historical park located in Middle Tennessee. The property was the former home of Mabel and Leslie Cheek. Among its many wonders is the mansion which is now a museum surrounded by cultivated gardens. Natural beauty abounds and as you explore their grounds you will encounter large scale sculptures. Cheekwood is a peaceful and pretty place to spend the day. Throughout the year, Cheekwood hosts events such as concerts, their aforementioned Harvest Festival and coming soon their 10th Annual Holiday Lights!

Denny Jiosa added some fall colors of his own during a long set at Cheekwood.

If you needed a reason to embrace the Christmas spirit this year, well the Cheekwood website says it best - "Experience Nashville's classic holiday tradition as you embark on a magical one-mile walk through Cheekwood's gardens illuminated by more than a million lights. A delightful experience for all ages awaits, complete with s'mores, seasonal libations, and a Holiday Marketplace. Tour the Historic Mansion, specially decorated this year by former White House florist Laura Dowling.”

A large crowd gathered at the Beer Garden on Saturday.

Related Links: For more information on CHEEKWOOD ESTATE & GARDENS and the other organizations mentioned please visit the following links - Cheekwood Estate & Gardens | Denny Jiosa | The Dirty Dozen Brass Band Brought the Sound of New Orleans to Cheekwood | Cheekwood Estate & Gardens Sets Up a Whimsical Trail Full of Trolls