LAUNCHES FIRST-EVER HOLIDAY TOUR
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mor e With incoming or der, at time of pur c hase only Expir es 12/31/25 Of fer not v alid in all r e gions
As the year winds down and the twinkling lights of December begin to glow, I want to take a moment to wish all of you a joyful and peaceful holiday season. Whether you're celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa or simply enjoying the magic this time of year brings, may your days be filled with warmth, love and the comforting presence of family and friends.
This season invites us to pause, reflect and embrace the true spirit of giving, not just through gifts, but through kindness, generosity and connection. It's a time to gather close, to share stories and laughter, and to carry the light of gratitude into the new year.
As always, we'd like to thank you, the readers, for the overwhelming support you've shown us this year. Murfreesboro City Lifestyle continues to flourish, and we hope we're creating and publishing exceptional content that provides value, ideas and benefits to the community. Many, many thanks to our advertisers for trusting us with your insights, services, products and initiatives while collaborating.
From my family and colleagues to yours, wishing you health, happiness and a bright start to the new year. And, see you at this year's parade.
JON GREGORY, PUBLISHER @BOROCITYLIFESTYLE
December 2025
PUBLISHER
Jon Gregory | jon.gregory@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Stacie Gregory | stacie.gregory@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Julie Brown Patton | julie.patton@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Angela Lynn Dugger
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Lynn Caldwell/Parks & Recreation marketing coordinator, Julie Brown Patton
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Meagan Reynolds, Janie Jones
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick
At MMC Pediatrics, we prioritize compassionate, personalized care that helps children feel at ease. Our goal is to create a supportive environment where families feel confident and kids feel comfortable because every visit should be more than just a check-up.
Now Accepting New Patients at our South Church Location
1: Jennifer West retires after 28 years of service with Murfreesboro Police Department and to residents. 2: Communications Supervisor Erica Sewell recognized for 20 years of service with Murfreesboro Police/Fire Rescue Departments. 3: Capt. Samuel Smith received his 20-year service plaque with the Murfreesboro Police Department. Photography Courtesy of Murfreesboro Police Department
Winterfest has returned! Get ready for another magical season of outdoor ice skating, festive lights, and family fun.
From November 21 through February 1, we invite you to come make lasting memories here at Fountains. Whether you’re gliding under the stars, enjoying a cozy drink, or celebrating the holidays with friends, Winterfest is the perfect way to embrace the season.
Visit FountainsWinterfest.com for hours and admission.
Martha-Marie Edwards, Pure Glow Skin Refinery owner/aesthetician, says for the holidays they offer special skin care kits, luxurious PJ sets, weighted blankets, neck wraps and eye pillows, plus new gift cards (purchase gift card for $150; receive $15 gift card for free). They also will host a holiday open house on Saturday, Dec. 13, 2-5 p.m., with food, hot chocolate and apple cider bar (spiced if anyone wants), free goodie bag, lots of product giveaways.
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"All of our products are on sale for the holidays," says Pure Glow Skin Refinery owner/aesthetician Martha-Marie Edwards. "Everything is 10% off; when you spend $250 you get 15% off, spend $350 or more you get 20% off. There's also a sale on some of our signature treatments. The buccal sculpting facelift is 15% off. The afterglow, normally $400, sale is $350. Laser genius plus micro needle normally $600, sale is $450."
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What's New Salon & Barber, 412 Uptown Square, offers 12 days of specials, states co-owner Nick Haynes. That includes shampoos/conditioners 15% off; Warlord beard oil free option; world's softest socks, buy three, get one free; $5 off hairsprays; double rewards with Amika purchases; half off of Pai Shau masks; special pricing on curling irons; 15% off Color Wow hair care products and buy a conditioning treatment, get a second one free. Call 615.890.5020 with questions.
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“IT MUST BE CHRISTMAS, AN ACOUSTIC EVENING WITH CHRIS YOUNG”
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON
“Music’s tied to the season’s spirit for me; I want to celebrate that feeling with everyone on the road!”
A professed fan of all things Christmas, Murfreesboro's hometown country music performer Chris Young is super-enthused about his first-ever holiday tour: “It Must Be Christmas –An Acoustic Evening with Chris Young.”
This month, for the holiday tour, the band will perform in Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Massachusettes, Virginia, New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, concluding on Dec. 20. The tour's start during mid-November included performances in Iowa, Illinois, Michigan and Wisconsin.
The tour comes on the heels of Chris releasing a brand-new, bold album during October: "I Didn’t Come Here To Leave." As his tenth album, and first with Black River Entertainment in Nashville, it's being deemed a landmark project that features 14 fresh songs with 11 co-writes. The album’s fall release date also coincided with another special milestone: the GRAMMYnominated vocalist’s 8th anniversary of his induction into the exclusive membership of the Grand Ole Opry.
Chris first teased this album project with the 2025 single “Til The Last One Dies.”
Born in Murfreesboro, 40-year-old Chris attended Trinity United Methodist Church, 2303 Jones Blvd. His grandfather, Richard Yates, was a performer on the Louisiana Hayride, a radio and television show that launched the careers of legends susch as Elvis Presley and Hank Williams.
Chris reportedly was interested in music from an early age, performing in various children's theater productions around Murfreesboro. While attending Oakland High School, he sang in its choir and began playing in local clubs. In 2000, he performed with his high school's Winter Drumline in a performance, "A Night at the Palladium," where he was a mariachi singer. In 2003, he was a national YoungArts winner and
Presidential Scholar of the Arts as part of the Presidential Scholars Program.
While attending college, he performed more than 150 shows a year.
Nearing 20 years in the country music spotlight, Chris is considered a long-haul superstar. One of Billboard ’s top country artists of the decade, the prolific hitmaker boasts 14 No. 1 singles and 9 billion-plus streams. His songwriting and style balance country roots with a modern edge.
Breaking out with 2009’s romantic classic “Gettin’ You Home (The Black Dress Song),” his early success had him charting alongside contemporaries, such as Taylor Swift, Carrie Underwood, Zac Brown Band, Darius Rucker, Lady A and Dierks Bentley. From there, he hit the road with icons such as Rascal Flatts, Martina McBride, Brad Paisley and Alan Jackson. His 2025 summer tour included headlining shows with festivals alongside Lainey Wilson, Brooks & Dunn and Luke Bryan.
The CMT Award winner and ACM, AMA, CMA and GRAMMY nominee has written and co-produced much of the work behind his 54 RIAA certifications.
Re-centering his foundation of timeless romance, while embracing the energy of his legendary live shows (and bringing his deep vocal rumble “back to my baritone roots”), the new set of songs represents what he calls the most complete cross-section of his creative vision and the highest level of craftsmanship in his career.
Chris says passionate attention to detail was poured over every syllable of every lyric, accompanied by old-school recording dynamic found only in a live studio band. He adds, “It’s wild to step back and see a really long list of things I’ve gotten to do already. But I didn’t come here to leave.”
COUNCILMEMBER SHAWN WRIGHT’S STEADFAST
OBJECTIVE IS TO KEEP TRAFFIC MOVING
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JON GREGORY
Lifelong resident of Murfreesboro and Rutherford County, Shawn Wright was elected to the Murfreesboro City Council in 2020 and re-elected in 2024. Halfway through his current term that expires in 2028, he shares remaining objectives he hopes to accomplish.
"People are the best part of our community. City council meetings are open to the public, or residents can view them on CityTV, Channel 3. Get involved; we love to see everyone participating," encourages Shawn.
His personal background enables him to serve on and contribute to the Murfreesboro Planning Commission in a variety of ways. As a Realtor/real estate broker with CENTURY 21 Wright Realty, Shawn helps small businesses and Middle Tennessee homeowners with housing needs. Graduating from Oakland High School in 1999, he earned a bachelor's degree in business administration with an emphasis in economics/ finance from Middle Tennessee State University. He continued at the University of Memphis where he received a master's degree in business administration. Additionally, he earned certifications in business analytics and lean process management at University of Tennessee Knoxville.
THINKING BACK, WHY WERE YOU INTERESTED IN SERVING ON CITY COUNCIL?
"My family's deep roots in Murfreesboro go back multiple generations. This was a way I could give back to the community that's been so important and helpful to my family."
WHAT NEW ELEMENTS OF MURFREESBORO DID YOU DISCOVER THROUGH YOUR COUNCIL PARTICIPATION?
"There's so much going on here, like worthy charitable events, the average person doesn't have a chance to know about them all. I've learned how long it really takes for city-managed projects to be passed or denied. In fact, by the time a project gets approved, I've worked with it at least four times."
WHAT'S YOUR VISION FOR THE REMAINDER OF YOUR TERM?
"Keep working on our infrastructure. I enjoyed working with the state to get Old Fort Parkway widened. I remember when it used to only take 10-12 minutes to get from one side of town to another."
MOST IMPORTANT OPPORTUNITY FOR THE BORO'S FUTURE?
"Job creation. We're Nashville's largest suburb, so many people want to come here, but growth takes solid planning and can be expensive."
615.895.9710
ShawnWright.Realtor
Preventia Security specialists in Middle Tennessee confirm they know security-related peace of mind depends on more than just cameras on a wall: it requires intelligent, adaptable and future-ready surveillance. John Duncan, Preventia regional manager, says that’s why they partner with Eagle Eye Networks, a global leader in cloud video surveillance, to deliver smarter, more secure video solutions for homes, businesses and organizations of all sizes.
For those still relying on DVR or NVR systems, it may be time to rethink how to secure what matters. John says Eagle Eye Networks, a trusted partner of Preventia, is changing the game.
Gone are the days of needing to be on-site to see what’s happening. With Eagle Eye’s cloud platform, clients can access live or recorded video from any device: phone, tablet or computer, anywhere in the world. Through a secure setup, get instant visibility with zero hassle.
Jacob "JD" Liber, Preventia senior sales consultant, verifies this type of access is perfect for business owners, property managers and families who want real-time peace of mind.
Whether expanding to a second retail location or building out a nationwide operation, Eagle Eye’s system grows with each project. Add cameras, users or entire sites without complex infrastructure or IT headaches. "Our Preventia teams make scaling simple, all managed through a centralized cloud dashboard," states JD.
Preventia takes security seriously, both physical and digital. Eagle Eye Networks offers end-to-end video encryption; secure, role-based access controls; automatic software and security updates; and compliance with industry standards such as SOC 2 and GDPR.
"With Eagle Eye, there are no open ports or exposed devices, dramatically reducing cyber risk," says JD.
Video should do more than just record; it should help people act. Eagle Eye’s intelligent features, enabled by AI and analytics, give clients deeper insight into what’s happening: license plate recognition; smart motion detection; heatmaps and people counting; and custom alerts. "We configure these tools so clients' systems work smarter, not harder," assures JD.
With Eagle Eye’s cloud-first design and hybrid backup options, video footage is safe, even if one's internet isn’t. Cameras continue recording locally and sync to the cloud once the connection is restored. JD says Preventia ensures each system is protected with local and cloud redundancy built in.
Traditional systems come with high capital costs and ongoing maintenance. Preventia’s cloud video model offers a simple, affordable subscription, with no bulky servers, software fees or surprise bills. "Get enterprise-grade security without the enterprise price tag," suggests JD.
From retail stores and office buildings to schools and industrial sites, John says Preventia tailors every solution to fit those specific needs. With Eagle Eye’s open API and wide range of integrations (access control, POS, alarms), video systems become a central piece of one's entire security ecosystem.
As a trusted regional provider of smart security and automation solutions, Preventia Security technicians handle everything, from complimentary consultations and installations to ongoing support. Preventia offers a full suite of security solutions, including camera systems, access control, fire alarms and cloud-based security platforms. John states these technologies seamlessly integrate with smart home features such as thermostats, garage doors and lighting controls, ensuring comprehensive protection.
877.720.2527
PreventiaSecurity.com
Explore Plentiful Options From Fountains At Gateway Retailers
While shopping at Fountains At Gateway, pamper yourself, or those special folks in your life, to delicious treats and beverages at the following eateries: Edible Arrangements; Five Daughters Bakery; Goodness Gracious; Just Love Coffee; Love Thai Sushi; Nothing Bundt Cakes; The Sodabar; Steakhouse Five; and Penne Pazze.
"Always be a little kinder than necessary,” recommended J.M. Barrie, a Scottish novelist and playwright, best remembered as the creator of Peter Pan. Furthermore, kindness through giving gifts can be uplifting and thoroughly satisfying, particularly during this time of year.
Gift cards are a popular gift-giving method because they reduce decision fatigue and make giving easier while still preserving thoughtfulness. So, go ahead and swipe with love because it's the card that counts! Additionally, take a look at what products the following shops offer, all at the Fountains At Gateway, a popular go-to place in Murfreesboro for restaurants, shopping and greenspace. Conveniently located at 1500 Medical Center Parkway, the locale is the perfect place to grab everything desired for the holiday season.
Here's a glimpse of those shops' options:
| 615.962.7610
Add floral charm to yours or someone else's holiday vibes. Browse the shop's wonderful green plants, blooming plants and dish gardens for gifts that add life to any room or office. One of their gift baskets filled fruit and goodies would make a thoughtful and tasty choice, too. They also offer plush stuffed animals, balloon bouquets, candy, chocolates, silk arrangements, baby items, home décor and scented candles. These all make excellent hostess gifts, as well.
| 615.266.0477
Woodworking techniques combined with the latest sign trends and custom graphics are available at this creative studio. Partake in a workshop for an ultimate paint and BYOB sip experience or a fun night out with co-workers, friends or relatives. CONTINUED >
615.278.7581
Retail therapy comes from wearing and giving these women's clothing, outerwear, sweaters, game day apparel, loungewear, baby items and accessories, including jewelry, candles, shoes and rancher hats. Be sure to ring in the New Year with new, fresh looks.
615.896.2110
Embrace this curated brand, e.Allen, in elevating women's wardrobes with capsule pieces, creating a closet that compliments both personality and lifestyle. e.Allen offers an array of styling services, stemming from designer collections spanning various categories — from tailored denim to statement-making jewelry and timeless dresses. Accessories include belts, earrings, hand-painted hairbrushes, combs, claw clips, caps, scarves, gloves and clutch purses.
629.772.8990
On-staff master stone setters, hand fabricators, gold smiths and laser operators make jewelry repairs and custom designs a delight. They also engrave pieces upon request, as well as buy, sell and trade jewelry, coins, gold and silver. This family-operated business is full service, especially when it comes to oneof-a-kind concepts.
Also, while at the Fountains, consider securing a fresh look at The Social Chair blowout bar. The staff there also offers gift cards.
“Creating a magical experience that also strikes a balance between nostalgia and new memories is one of my favorite things about planning the Murfreesboro Christmas Parade each year," shares Rachel Singer, Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation assistant director.
Soon, the city's streets will be lined with children and adults alike, all eagerly awaiting the parade of floats, marching bands and holiday melodies to come. The Murfreesboro Christmas Parade is always held on the second Sunday in December; this year that falls on Dec. 14.Thousands of spectators will be packed along the parade route; many will come early to secure the perfect spots. Homeowners along the route often host “watch parties,” and the storefronts around the square are decorated to perfection.
Much planning and preparation goes into coordinating a special event of this magnitude. It takes teams of people throughout the city who work together with the parks and recreation staff. The planning includes Murfreesboro Police Department officers
to help with road closures and safety, City TV staff to offer a live broadcast of the entire parade, the Stones River Radio Club help manage the logistics throughout the parade and each year there are special judges.
However, one of the first items that must be decided months in advance of the actual parade is the theme. The 2025 theme was announced during July, and this year’s theme is “A Sweet Christmas."
Leslie Wright, of the Cultural Arts of Murfreesboro staff, details how the theme was selected this year: “As we reflected, the Christmas season stirs up memories of childhood — sticky fingers from candy canes, the smell of cookies in the oven and that extra bit of kindness we all seem to carry. It’s a time when sweetness isn’t just in the treats, but in the way we treat each other. That’s why this year’s parade theme was an easy choice, because when we remember the Christmases of our past, we can all agree the sweetest memories are the ones that warm our hearts year after year.”
Once the theme is announced, businesses and organizations immediately start gathering ideas. The registration for the parade opens on Oct.1 of each year, and there are many that register that very first day.
“Building a float for the Christmas parade is always a labor of love,” says Roger Goodson, general manager of Consolidated Utility District. “We feel blessed to have a number of employees with hands-on creative skills and knowledge of how to turn a rough sketch into reality. Our team of builders really pour their hearts and souls into crafting something memorable each year.”
Craig Harvey, Cubmaster of Pack 92 and two-time Best of Show Float winner shares, “This is one of the annual events that really brings not just our pack together, but entire families, too. We start thinking about possibilities as soon as the theme is released to the public, then we generally give ourselves about two weeks of construction time to focus on the float.
The leadership team works very hard to come up with ideas that are creative and fun to hold the attention of not only the Cub Scouts, but spectators of the parade, as well.”
“WE
FEEL BLESSED TO HAVE A NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES WITH HANDS-ON CREATIVE SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE OF HOW TO TURN A ROUGH SKETCH INTO REALITY. OUR TEAM OF BUILDERS REALLY POUR THEIR HEARTS AND SOULS INTO CRAFTING SOMETHING MEMORABLE EACH YEAR.”
Whether cold and brisk air, sleet or snow, this year is looking to be one of the best with entries from new local businesses, and of course the returning crowd favorites that seem to just get more creative every year. There will be dance groups, marching bands, the Grinch, a magical snow machine and fire trucks. But the end of the parade is always the same, giving the community a promise of the upcoming holiday season: a beautiful, big red sleigh carrying Santa and a few of his elves wishing Murfreesboro the sweetest Christmas ever.
October always reminds me that the market is going to be just fine. Year after year—since 2020—we’ve seen October median home prices climb from September, and 2025 continues that trend. Even though showings have slowed as the weather cools, the homes that are selling are generally higher in price, and total closings actually went up slightly this month. Even with longer days on the market, these numbers tell a strong story—stability. Prices are holding steady and even trending upward in some segments, especially condos. Sellers are still getting solid offers, while buyers have more time and leverage to negotiate.
For Buyers: As we head into November, motivated sellers are becoming more flexible. Many want to close before the holidays and are open to credits or rate buydowns—making this a great time to find a deal. For Sellers: Well-presented, well-priced homes are still moving. With inventory tightening slightly heading into winter, your listing can shine if marketed correctly.
DECEMBER 2025
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
DECEMBER 1ST-21ST
Lucky Ladd Farms | 5:00 PM
All ages will enjoy this magical Christmas festival featuring nearly a milelong, walkable trail of thousands of twinkling lights, a live nativity scene with favorite farm animals, and some of the best holiday light displays with fun photo ops in all of Tennessee. Ticket options: general admission (Ages 2-plus) $16; children younger than 2 free. Parking free.
DECEMBER 5TH
Cannonsburgh Village | 9:00 AM
Step into a quaint, nostalgic village featuring candle-lit rooms adorned with rustic holiday decor, offering glimpses into the charm of bygone Christmases. Cannonsburgh offers special extended holiday hours on Fridays and Saturdays from 4-8 p.m. on Dec. 5/6, 12/13 and 19/20. Admission during this time will be $5 per person (ages 5 and younger are free). Call 615.890.0355 with questions.
DECEMBER 5TH
Main Street Murfreesboro | 6:00 PM
Gather around historic Rutherford County Courthouse for the annual lighting of the Christmas tree by Santa. Arrive for dinner, view live nativity, shop unique stores, enjoy an hour-long program full of choir music, dancing and acting. The fun starts with carriage rides. Stage performances begin at 6:30 p.m. Santa goes into the courthouse for free photos from 7:30- 8:30 p.m.
DECEMBER 5TH-6TH
39th Annual Candlelight
Christmas Tour
By Murfreesboro
Historical Association
Historic District | 5:00 PM
Enjoy candle-lit walkways, live greenery decorations, horse-drawn carriage rides, a blacksmith demonstration, refreshments and live music. Sites on the tour include the Agriculture and Transportation Museum, Murfree-Smith Law Office, Village Print Shop, William Rea Museum, Evans Tin Shop, Vincent-Deale Blacksmith Shop, Winborne Country Store, John Wheeler House and Hertford Academy as well as the Roberts-Vaughan House located on Main Street.
DECEMBER 7TH
Luna's Night Club | 6:30 PM
J. Whitty and the Xmas Cowboys, a group from Murfreesboro dedicated to spreading joy and raising funds for local charities, will perform a concert to benefit the Isaiah 117 House of Rutherford County. Dinner is factored into the ticket price of about $50, and additional bar service is available. Tickets on sale at XmasCowboys.com
DECEMBER 14TH
Annual Christmas Market
Hop Springs Beer Park | 11:00 AM
Celebrate the festive season at the annual Christmas Market until 4 p.m., immerse in a delightful holiday shopping experience set against the scenic backdrop of Hop Springs Beer Park. Admission is free, making it an accessible and enjoyable for all. Support local artisans, enjoy great music and experience the hopeful holiday spirit.
A luscious holiday cocktail with warming spices, rich texture, and a beautiful cinnamon garnish.
• 2 oz dark or spiced rum
• 3/4 oz cinnamon simple syrup
• 1 oz heavy cream
• 1 whole egg
• Dash of ground nutmeg
• Dash of vanilla extract
Garnish: cinnamon stick and a light dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon
Make Cinnamon Simple Syrup:
Combine 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water, and 2 cinnamon sticks in a saucepan. Simmer for 10 mins, let cool, and strain. Store in the fridge.
Add rum, cinnamon syrup, cream, egg, vanilla, and a pinch of nutmeg to a shaker. Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds to emulsify the egg. Strain into a coupe or stemmed glass like the one in your photo. Top with a cinnamon stick across the rim and a dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon. Optional: Add 1/2 oz chilled espresso for a coffee kick.
A bright, elegant cocktail with a foamy top and a hint of holiday spirit.
INSTRUCTIONS:
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 oz gin
• 1 oz cranberry juice
• 3/4 oz lemon juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• 1 egg white
Optional: splash of sparkling water or club soda
Garnish: fresh rosemary or thyme sprig
INSTRUCTIONS:
In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, cranberry juice, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white. Shake vigorously for about 20 seconds to create the frothy top. Double strain into a chilled coupe glass to get that smooth, foamy top. Add a small splash of sparkling water if you’d like a bit of fizz. Gently place a sprig of rosemary or thyme on top of the foam.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these holiday drinks are guaranteed to bring a little extra cheer to your cup.
Center Director, Catherine Clinton-Edmond
Assistant
Our Promise: To provide parents with peace of mind by giving children an exceptional education every fun-filled day in a place as nurturing as home.
Cadence Academy Preschool is a private Christian preschool in Murfreesboro providing a high-quality, fun, Faith-Based learning environment for all children to develop and grow. We offer programs focused on values, for children ranging from 6 weeks to 5 years old. The Christian message of God’s grace, love, and forgiveness is the foundation of all learning here at Cadence. If you are looking for the best preschool in Murfreesboro, look no further!
