Located right across from Vanderbilt’s bookstore, Centennial Park showcases a little piece of Music City every September. For a series of Friday nights, the park hosts “Musician’s Corner,” a free live music festival featuring more than 35 different performers over the course of six weeks. With stunning views of the Parthenon and Vanderbilt’s Zeppos Tower, attendees can explore a range of local vendors and food trucks while enjoying the music.  

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View of Zeppos Tower from festival, as photographed on September 12. (Hustler Staff/Siena Austin)

Growing up in Nashville, “Musician’s Corner” was a staple Friday night activity for my family. Each week features free live music with new artists, pop-up tents with local businesses and a myriad of food options. The event is always packed with college students, local families and furry friends.  

According to their website, Musician’s Corner is a program organized by the Centennial Park Conservancy, with “aims to preserve, enhance, and share the Parthenon and Centennial Park.” Located right on the corner of the park, it is the perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy live entertainment. 

My friends and I attended last Friday to check it out from the perspective of college students. The first thing to note is how quick a walk it is. For those unfamiliar, Centennial Park is located on West End Avenue, directly across from Vanderbilt’s campus. This location means there’s no need to scour for parking, although the park and nearby side streets have plenty of available spots for those commuting.  

There is also no entry fee, so anybody is welcome to enjoy the music and browse the selection of local candles, jewelry and other unique products. Past these pop-up vendors are several food trucks which serve anything from coffee to tacos to vegan burgers. 

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A few of the food trucks at Musician’s Corner event, as photographed on September 12. (Hustler Staff/Siena Austin)

After many visits, I would recommend sampling different items at each food truck. A few must-try items include the Pan con Chicharròn (Pork Belly Sandwich) at The Inka Trailer and an ice cream–stuffed snow cone from Retro Sno. Regardless of what you’re craving, “Musician’s Corner” has you covered. Another option is to pack your own food and have a picnic at one of the park’s tables or on a blanket in the grass. 

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Pan con Chicharròn from The Inka Trailer, as photographed on September 12. (Hustler Staff/Siena Austin)

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Dreamsicle and Peaches 'n Cream snow cones from Retro Sno, as photographed on September 12. (Hustler Staff/Siena Austin)

Each Friday features multiple musicians who perform throughout the night. Last Friday’s lineup included Ron Gallo, Ryman Wooten and several other up and coming artists. In the past, they have even welcomed artists as big as Chris Stapleton. Online is a full calendar of the show lineup and food trucks for those who want to plan ahead. 

Musician’s Corner will be hosted one last time this fall before it returns in May. Be sure to check it out  to experience live music and local vendors right near Vanderbilt’s very own campus.