NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — The countdown to 2025 is on and hundreds of thousands of people are expected to pack Bicentennial Park for Nashville’s Big Bash. Names like Keith Urban, Jelly Roll and Kane Brown are set to take the stage.
“The fact that we’re looking at 200,000 people coming to the event is just incredible,” Metro’s nightlife director, Benton McDonough, said.
That’s part of the reason why the Metro Nashville Police Department (MNPD) plans on being “highly visible” in downtown Nashville. In a Friday press release, the department urged attendees to report anything suspicious to the many officers who will be stationed around town.
“It’s going to be a really big deal. It is every year,” McDonough, said. “It just keeps getting bigger and bigger.”
McDonough said his office plans to make sure everyone rings in a safe and happy new year.
“We’re putting a pretty big emphasis, like we do any time, on public safety, but also wanting people to enjoy their time and their experiences,” McDonough said.
Not only will the MNPD be out in full force, but nonprofit Red Frogs USA will be on the streets to help anyone in need. The nonprofit assisted with CMA Fest in June and has since established a permanent post in downtown Nashville.
“We try and be early intervention — harm minimization — so we’re charging phones. We’re walking people home,’ Red Frogs USA director Dan Terry said. “We’re being a listening ear, just helping people any way that we possibly can to make sure they have an enjoyable experience when they come to Nashville and they make the memories that they want to remember for the rest of their life.”
There will be a Red Frogs USA tent in State Lot 4 off Sixth Avenue where volunteers will give away cups of water. Volunteers will also roam around the event site to ensure everyone is having a fun and safe time.
There are a couple new additions to the Big Bash this year, including a Sober Space. That space is meant for individuals in recovery, families and allies of those in recovery from addiction and alcoholism. It will be located on the south side of the event near the Celebrate Responsibly tent.
Additionally, there will be sensory bags that include noise-canceling headphones, strobe-reduction sunglasses, fidget tools and more.
“We want this to be as enjoyable an experience, and as safe an experience, for everyone,” McDonough said. “We’re looking forward to everyone having a great time.”
If you want to donate to Red Frogs USA, follow this link.
