4 Things to Do in Clarksville This Weekend (July 18–19)
Summer in Clarksville is in full swing, and this weekend gives you every reason to get out and explore the city. Whether you’re a longtime local, a family that just PCS’d to Fort Campbell, or someone weighing a move to Middle Tennessee, weekends like this are the best way to get a feel for the neighborhoods and lifestyle that make Clarksville home. Here are four things worth putting on your calendar.
Downtown @ Sundown: Kid Kentucky
Kick off the weekend downtown. Kid Kentucky, a high-energy Kid Rock tribute, takes the stage at Downtown Commons (215 Legion St.) on Friday, July 17 from 7–10 p.m. Admission is free, food trucks will be on site, and the plaza fills up with families and friends spreading out blankets and lawn chairs.
Downtown Commons is the heartbeat of Clarksville’s revitalized city center, and the neighborhoods around it are some of the most walkable in the area. If you love the idea of live music a short stroll from your front door, this is the pocket of Clarksville to keep an eye on.
When: Friday, July 17, 7–10 p.m.
Where: Downtown Commons, 215 Legion St.
Cost: Free
Summer Fest at North Branch
Saturday afternoon is made for the family. Summer Fest at the Clarksville-Montgomery County Public Library North Branch (435 Jordan Road) runs from 2–5 p.m. and it’s completely free. Expect Country Music Hall of Fame artists giving instrument demonstrations, an interactive Instrument Petting Zoo the kids can actually touch, indoor and outdoor games, face painting, and crafts.
The North Branch sits on the growing north side of town, an area popular with families thanks to its newer construction, room to spread out, and easy access to shopping and schools. A free community event like this is a great window into the family-friendly rhythm of the neighborhoods out this way.
When: Saturday, July 18, 2–5 p.m.
Where: CMC Public Library, North Branch, 435 Jordan Road
Cost: Free
Clarksville Roller Derby: Superhero Bout
Bring your cape. Clarksville Roller Derby hosts a superhero-themed bout against Marble City Mayhem at Magic Wheels Fun Center (1671 Fort Campbell Blvd.), with doors at 11 a.m. and the whistle at 11:30 a.m. There’s a costume parade and contest, games, concessions, and photo ops, so dress as your favorite hero or villain. Kids 12 and under get in free.
Magic Wheels sits right along the Fort Campbell Boulevard corridor, the everyday spine for so many of our military families. If you’re relocating with the Army and want a quick sense of where the action is on the north side of town, a fun, budget-friendly outing like this is a perfect first taste.
When: Saturday, July 18, doors 11 a.m., bout at 11:30 a.m.
Where: Magic Wheels Fun Center, 1671 Fort Campbell Blvd.
Cost: Kids 12 and under free; general admission at the door
Cooling at the Cave with the Cumberland Winds Jazz Project
For a grown-up evening out, head to Dunbar Cave State Park (401 Old Dunbar Cave Rd.) for Cooling at the Cave. The Cumberland Winds Jazz Project performs live jazz right at the mouth of the cave, where the naturally cool air makes for a gorgeous summer-night setting. Gates open at 6 p.m. and the concert runs 7–9 p.m. This is a fundraiser for the Friends of Dunbar Cave, so your night out supports the park too. Tickets run $65 per vehicle for a parking pass or $25 per person for walk-ins, and you’ll want to bring your own chairs.
Dunbar Cave is one of Clarksville’s most beloved green spaces, with miles of trails and a lake tucked into an established, tree-lined part of town. Buyers who prioritize outdoor living and mature neighborhoods often fall in love with the areas surrounding this park.
When: Saturday, July 18, gates 6 p.m., concert 7–9 p.m.
Where: Dunbar Cave State Park, 401 Old Dunbar Cave Rd.
Cost: $65 per vehicle (parking pass) or $25 per person (walk-in), plus fees
Make Clarksville Home
Weekends like this are exactly what make Clarksville such a great place to put down roots — free live music downtown, family fun on the north side, and state parks minutes from your door. If exploring these events has you thinking about where you’d want to live in the area, I’d love to help you find the neighborhood that fits your lifestyle.
Call or text Katie Childs or visit callkatiechilds.com.
Sources: ClarksvilleNow.com (This weekend in Clarksville) and Eventbrite (Cooling at the Cave w/ CWJP). Event details are subject to change; confirm with organizers before heading out.
