Hendersonville residents will soon have the chance to get an insider’s look at police work, as applications for the Citizens Police Academy open on April 1.

 

The program runs for 10 weeks from September through November, inviting community members to participate in weekly, two-hour sessions packed with interactive, hands-on experiences.

 

Attendees can expect open discussions, behind-the-scenes tours, and real engagement with local officers, all designed to build trust and understanding.

 

With just 22 spots available, the academy aims to connect residents with the men and women protecting their city, strengthening bonds and sparking interest in public safety.

 

Applications are available at the Hendersonville Police Department’s front desk or can be printed and submitted at 3 Executive Park Drive.

 

Contact Community Engagement Officer J. Lackey at jlackey@hvillepd.org for questions.

Gallatin’s beloved Oreo Festival returns Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Gallatin Civic Center, promising a day packed with sweet creations like Oreo balls, deep-fried Oreos, creamy Oreo cheesecake, and ice-cold Oreo ice cream.

 

Over 100 local vendors and an array of food trucks will offer something for everyone to enjoy.

 

Sumner County brims with additional festivities in April.

 

The Sumner County Museum launches its historic sites initiative on April 4, offering residents a fresh way to connect with local history.

 

On April 11, music and laughter fill the air at the museum’s annual Barn Dance.

 

Meanwhile, the Sumner County Bar Association hosts a CLE session on juvenile court updates on April 17 at 11:30 a.m. at the courthouse.

 

April bursts with opportunities for connection, celebration, and community pride in Sumner County.

Get ready to celebrate the Earth Day Bash in Downtown Gallatin on Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

 

The historic Public Square will come alive with farm-fresh produce, vibrant plants, handmade goods, eco-friendly products, and unique vintage finds.

 

Stroll among local vendors while enjoying live music and savoring delicious food from community favorites.

 

This event makes it easy to connect with neighbors and support small businesses while showing love for our planet.

 

Don’t miss other local Earth Day celebrations!

 

The Earth Day 5K at the Gallatin Civic Center returns April 26, 2025, offering a fun and active way to foster environmental awareness in Sumner County.

 

Join these inspiring events and make a positive impact close to home.

Square Fest will light up downtown Gallatin on Saturday, April 25, 2026, running from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

 

This beloved annual event attracts over 30,000 visitors, cementing its place as a signature celebration in Sumner County.

 

More than 230 vendors will line the streets, offering unique arts, crafts, and regional culinary favorites.

 

Live music will energize the crowd from three stages, ensuring a lively atmosphere for all ages.

 

New this year, the Kids Entrepreneurial Zone spotlights young innovators and encourages creativity in future leaders.

 

Admission remains free, making the festival accessible for families and residents throughout the area.

 

Vendor applications are open until February 13, 2026, providing opportunities for local artisans and businesses to connect with the community.

 

Square Fest celebrates Gallatin's vibrant spirit and is a can’t-miss highlight of the spring season.

The 85th Annual Middle Tennessee Strawberry Festival returns to Portland on May 8 and 9, 2026, honoring both a cherished local tradition and the nation’s 250th anniversary with the theme “Berry Proud to be an American.”

 

Festivities start Friday evening with the lively Strawberry Jam Concert, food trucks, and fireworks lighting up the sky at 8:30 p.m.

 

Saturday’s main event overflows with community spirit—more than 250 vendors, live music across several stages, a kids’ area, and magic shows create a fun-packed atmosphere for all ages.

 

The beloved parade at 4 p.m. unites the crowd along Main Street, bringing energy and festive flair.

 

Vendor spots filled up months in advance, reflecting soaring interest and guaranteeing a great mix of local crafts and food—including plenty of farm-fresh strawberries.

 

Admission, parking, and shuttle rides are all free, promising an enjoyable and convenient visit for everyone.

 

Celebrate Sumner County’s sweetest tradition with family, friends, and countless berries.

The Gallatin Civic Center in Sumner County is offering American Red Cross lifeguard certification classes, tailored to local interest and demand.

 

Applicants must be at least 15 years old and complete a swimming pre-test, which includes a 150-yard swim, two minutes of treading water without arms, and a timed 50-yard swim with a 10-pound brick retrieval from a 10-foot depth.

 

The $250 course fee covers comprehensive CPR/AED, First Aid, and rescue skill training, with certification granted after passing final evaluations.

 

For details or to sign up, residents can reach the Gallatin Civic Center at 615-451-5911.

 

The Sumner County YMCA also provides lifeguard training—including First Aid, CPR, and Oxygen Training—with programs available for those 15 and older and sessions slated for May 2026.

 

With summer approaching, these certifications offer vital skills while supporting community safety.

Experience St. Patrick’s Day with a festive dinner at the Ole Milliken Store in Bethpage, Tennessee.

 

On Saturday, March 14th, from 4 PM to 7 PM, enjoy a spread of Irish-inspired favorites in a historic, inviting atmosphere.

 

Guests can savor classics like corned beef, shepherd’s pie, cabbage, and a tempting variety of root vegetables, including roasted baby carrots and both mini and mashed potatoes.

 

Sweet treats such as mint chocolate pie and apple cake promise a delicious finish to your meal.

 

This special event is a wonderful chance to gather with friends, family, and neighbors, surrounded by community spirit.

 

Whether it’s a beloved tradition or a brand-new celebration, the Ole Milliken Store welcomes everyone to join in the St. Patrick’s Day festivities this March.

 

1196 Harve Brown Road, Bethpage.

Sumner County residents are experiencing higher natural gas bills, with Gallatin Public Utilities pointing to colder weather and spiking wholesale gas costs as the main causes.

 

During the recent cold snap and ice storm, local usage soared by about 40% as temperatures plunged below freezing for nearly two weeks, pushing heating needs higher.

 

At the same time, the price GPU paid for natural gas climbed—from $3.51 per dekatherm last year to $4.47 in January, and further to $7.46 in February.

 

Because bills reflect real-time market prices, some January usage was charged at February’s elevated rate, increasing totals.

 

This is a market-based price adjustment—not a utility-approved rate hike—with costs fluctuating monthly.

 

March gas costs have since dropped to $2.97 per dekatherm, so customers should expect relief on upcoming bills.

 

For questions, contact GPU at 615-451-5922.

The Buttercup Festival returns to South Water Manor in Gallatin, Tennessee, on Saturday, April 11, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

 

This outdoor celebration welcomes families for a day of shopping, live music, and children’s activities, set against the lively charm of local vendors and artisans.

 

Guests can browse handcrafted products, savor local food favorites, and enjoy upbeat performances throughout the festivities.

 

From crafts to kids’ entertainment, there’s something for every age to discover and enjoy.

 

Sumner County also hosts major spring events, including the County Sumner Irish Festival on March 7 and the Historic Nolensville Buttercup Festival on May 2.

 

Interested vendors are invited to apply now to join the celebration at South Water Manor and share their unique creations with the community.

 

Experience a vibrant spring day full of music, food, and local talent.

Spring is approaching, and the Sumner County Master Gardeners are welcoming the season with the Seed Library 2026 Grand Opening.

 

Join local gardeners on Saturday, March 21st at 10:30 AM at the Hendersonville Public Library on Saundersville Road for a vibrant community event.

 

Everyone, from beginners to experienced green thumbs, is invited to attend and participate.

 

This free gathering features a variety of seeds to take home, gardening advice from experts, and a chance to connect with like-minded neighbors.

 

The Seed Library stands as a beloved tradition, promoting accessibility and inspiration for all local gardeners.

 

Mark the date, invite a friend, and get ready to jumpstart your garden in Sumner County for 2026!

 

Sponsored by the Master Gardeners of Sumner County and the Hendersonville Public Library.

The Hendersonville Planning Commission has approved a site plan for a new commercial project at 120 Sanders Ferry Road.

 

The development will feature two single-story retail buildings along Sanders Ferry Road and a larger building serving as the headquarters for Panera Roofing.

 

Commissioners granted three waivers, including permission for architectural metal siding on the rear building, fewer required canopy trees, and a reduced pervious area—offset by the use of pervious pavers and added green treatments.

 

These waivers come with conditions to maintain Hendersonville’s visual and environmental standards.

 

The developer will also extend a two-way left-turn lane, easing traffic flow and improving safety, in line with the city’s 10-Year Transportation and Capital Improvement Plan.

 

The property’s General Commercial zoning, updated last year, now excludes residential uses to ease strain on city resources and taxpayers.

 

The project is expected to energize the local economy, create jobs, and enhance services for residents.

Sumner County Schools and Highpoint Health are launching a new school-based health clinic at J.W. Wiseman Elementary School in Portland, Tennessee.

 

Slated to open before the 2026-2027 school year, this clinic is designed to make healthcare more accessible to students, families, and the wider Portland community.

 

The clinic will provide a variety of services, from illness diagnosis and injury care to routine check-ups, screenings, and immunizations, all managed by a dedicated nurse practitioner.

 

Both walk-in and scheduled appointments will be available, helping reduce student absences and relieve working parents from missing work for medical visits.

 

Importantly, the clinic will also offer free care to uninsured patients through a unique system that credits these services toward rent, directly supporting Portland’s most vulnerable children.

 

With a separate entrance and no school access, student safety and privacy are ensured as the clinic brings essential healthcare services to the heart of the community.

Gallatin residents are invited to a public meeting to discuss the expansion of multi-use fields at Triple Creek Park.

 

The Gallatin Parks and Recreation Department will host the event on Friday, March 6, 2026, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Gallatin Civic Center.

 

Officials plan to seek state grant funding to develop a newly acquired property at 1255 Touchdown Drive, right beside the park.

 

This proposed expansion will improve recreational options for the area’s rapidly growing community.

 

The meeting offers a chance for residents to learn more and share feedback before decisions are finalized.

 

The city is also partnering with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to construct a stormwater berm at Triple Creek Park, aiming to reduce flooding along Town Creek and in downtown Gallatin.

 

Construction is expected to start early this year and finish by summer.

Gallatin’s Public Works crews have made significant progress in clearing massive amounts of storm debris left behind by January’s severe ice storm. Since February 5, workers have removed over 7,550 cubic yards of brush—surpassing totals from the 2023 tornado—and processed 642 loads with trucks running at an impressive 89% capacity per trip.

 

More than half the city has already seen a first round of debris pickup, with additional sweeps planned to clear every neighborhood. Residents are urged to stay patient and keep placing only tree limbs and brush at the curb as collection continues.

 

All loads are documented at Gallatin’s Steam Plant Road collection site before processing. Nearby Nashville is also conducting vigorous debris collections without size limits, and aims to reach all homes within weeks, weather allowing.

 

While some Tennessee counties will receive FEMA debris removal aid, Sumner County’s recovery remains a local effort. Residents should avoid blocking key infrastructure and document any property damage for insurance claims.

Spring excitement is blooming in Sumner County as families prepare for an enchanting Easter Bunny Brunch in Gallatin.

 

Set for Sunday, March 29, 2026, The Gathering Place by Bit O Heaven at 450 West Main Street will transform into a festive wonderland from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

 

Kids can enjoy hands-on crafts and take home unique keepsakes, while a creative balloon artist delights with whimsical balloon art.

 

The real highlight is the Easter Bunny himself, ready for professional photos and cherished memories.

 

Buffet-style breakfast favorites set the backdrop for a joyous community gathering, ideal for families eager to celebrate the season.

 

Tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for children, with space limited to 145 guests, making early registration essential.

 

Experience spring’s magic and share smiles in the heart of Gallatin at this highly anticipated event.

Sumner County, Tennessee is celebrating impressive health inspection results, with several local food establishments earning perfect scores for food safety and cleanliness.

 

Welch College Cafeteria and Station Camp Elementary Food in Gallatin both received flawless 100 ratings during inspections on February 6, 2026.

 

In Hendersonville, Jack Anderson Elementary Cafeteria and Crumbl Cookies matched that achievement on February 5, 2026.

 

These outstanding scores highlight the diligence of staff and management in protecting community health and maintaining strict hygiene standards.

 

The Sumner County Health Department conducts routine inspections across restaurants, cafeterias, and food trucks to ensure food safety rules are met.

 

Residents are encouraged to check posted inspection reports and to report any concerns to the state hotline at 800-293-8228.

 

These perfect scores are a proud reflection of Sumner County’s commitment to safe and reliable dining for everyone.

Get ready for the Gallatin Daycare Spring Fest on Saturday, March 14, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM at Triple Creek Park in Gallatin, Tennessee.

 

This lively community festival brings live music, delicious food trucks, and one-of-a-kind shopping alongside fun activities designed for families and children.

 

Organizers invite boutiques, crafters, artisans, local businesses, and food trucks to become vendors, especially those offering Kids Zone entertainment like face painting, bounce houses, and games.

 

Vendor setup kicks off at 8:00 AM, with a $125 fee supporting the nonprofit Gallatin Day Care Center, proudly serving local families since 1969.

 

Triple Creek Park, at 363 Blythe Ave, offers sprawling green spaces, sports fields, ADA-friendly playgrounds, disc golf, and trails—perfect for a day of fun.

 

Contact Gallatin Day Care Center for vendor details and help make this cherished community event a huge success.

Dr. Jason Hulme, a Hendersonville native and leading sports chiropractor, has been unanimously elected President of the Tennessee Board of Chiropractic Examiners for 2026.

 

He brings over sixteen years of clinical and leadership expertise, anchored by his role as founder of Active Sports Therapy in Hendersonville.

 

Since opening the clinic in 2009 with his wife, Cassie, Dr. Hulme has championed community-focused care and earned national recognition for his approach to chiropractic evaluation and mentorship.

 

His work has also been highlighted in The Business of Movement, where he contributed as a subject matter expert.

 

Dr. Hulme will serve as team chiropractor for Nashville Soccer Club in 2025 and 2026, and previously led medical planning for the Hendersonville Half Marathon for eight years.

 

Honored as 2020 Chiropractor of the Year by the Tennessee Chiropractic Association, he remains committed to advancing public safety and professional standards across the state.

Families in Sumner County can now apply for Pre-K programs for the 2026–27 school year.

 

Children who will be 4 years old by August 15, 2026, are eligible, while those turning 5 by that date should enroll in kindergarten.

 

Sumner County Schools offers three Pre-K choices: the Tennessee Voluntary Pre-K (state-funded for qualifying families), the Head Start Pre-K Partnership (federally funded for eligible applicants), and tuition-based Pre-K for typically developing children.

 

Review requirements and complete the Universal Pre-K Application, which covers all options.

 

After applying, be ready for possible screening requests or paperwork.

 

Placement is decided after reviews and potential lottery draws, with notifications sent afterward.

 

Seats for VPK and Head Start are based on eligibility, not application timing, and waitlists are possible.

 

For help with disabilities or language access, families can call (615) 451-6352 or email Early Learning for support.

Firefighters from several local agencies responded swiftly to a house fire in Shackle Island this week, joining forces to battle intense flames and ensure the safety of residents.

 

The Shackle Island Fire Department received crucial support from Gallatin Fire, White House Community Volunteer Fire Department, Gallatin Public Works, Sumner County Sheriff’s Office, Sumner County EMS, and Cottontown Fire Department, underscoring the power of teamwork in emergencies.

 

Authorities acknowledged that while the outcome was not as hoped, the coordinated response and mutual aid between crews made a vital difference throughout the ordeal.

 

Fortunately, all family members and pets escaped unharmed, and no injuries were reported among the responding fire crews, offering relief after the tense event.

The 2026 winter storm has caused widespread property damage across Sumner County, prompting swift action from local agencies.

 

TEMA has activated the Crisis Cleanup Hotline at 844-965-1386, offering free help with cleanup, debris removal, repairs, and mold mitigation, although assistance is based on volunteer availability.

 

The hotline remains open until February 13, 2026, and Spanish-speaking residents can receive support at the same number.

 

Municipalities like Gallatin, Goodlettsville, Hendersonville, Portland, Westmoreland, and White House have established local debris removal guidelines, with detailed instructions available on city websites and social media.

 

United Way of Sumner County also provides recovery resources through its Community Resiliency programs, supporting those affected as they rebuild.

 

Community resilience and volunteer support remain vital during this challenging recovery.

The Sumner County Beekeepers Association announces the first-ever Beekeeper Jamboree, coming to the Gallatin Civic Center on March 28, 2026.

 

This gathering will bring together beekeeping fans from Sumner County, TN, and beyond for a day filled with education and community.

 

Acclaimed apiarist Kent Williams will headline the event, sharing his expertise and enthusiasm with attendees.

 

The Jamboree includes eight unique sessions covering the ins and outs of beekeeping, ideal for both beginners and experienced practitioners.

 

Guests can browse vendor booths featuring modern beekeeping products and equipment.

 

A pre-conference mixer on March 27 offers a relaxed chance to network over shared interests.

 

Hancock Bees is raffling a nucleus colony, with $5 tickets available through official channels—all proceeds benefit local beekeeping projects.

 

Join to learn, connect, and celebrate the essential role of bees in our community.

Sumner County, Tennessee, is grappling with widespread power outages following a severe winter storm, affecting roughly 17,517 homes and businesses as of January 27, 2026. This represents almost a quarter of local customers.

 

The county currently ranks second in total outages statewide, with utility crews working around the clock to restore service amid major infrastructure damage.

 

Cumberland Electric Membership Corporation (CEMC) reports over 35,000 customers without power, highlighting Sumner as one of the hardest-hit areas.

 

Nashville Electric Service (NES) faces even broader challenges, with about 130,000 customers affected across its service area and field crews dispatched in continuous extended shifts.

 

Officials urge residents to stay safe by avoiding downed power lines, staying off hazardous roads, and monitoring official updates for emergency instructions and restoration progress.

The Hendersonville 101 session, postponed due to expected snowfall, will now take place on Sunday, February 1 at Half Batch Brewing, beginning at 4:30 PM.

 

This free, interactive event invites new residents to explore why Hendersonville stands out as a top community in Middle Tennessee.

 

Hosted each year by Mayor Jamie Clary, Hendersonville 101 is an opportunity for newcomers to learn, connect, and feel at home.

 

Upcoming sessions include February 2 at Hendersonville City Hall, February 22 at Durham Farms Club House, and February 23 at Mansker Farms Club House.

 

Recently, Main Street saw the openings of The Emporium on Main and Spicer Greene Jewelers, injecting new excitement and choice for residents.

 

Stay updated on community events and growth by subscribing to the local newsletter – and discover what makes Hendersonville truly special!

Rock Castle Historic Site in Hendersonville will reopen in March 2026 following a major renovation, timed to coincide with America’s 250th anniversary.

 

Upgrades led by the Tennessee Historical Commission include a state-of-the-art visitor center with exhibits, expanded event spaces, and modern amenities.

 

The 2026 celebrations feature POE-etic History at Halloween, festive Jane Austen and Little Women Christmas events, candlelight tours, and a refreshed Merry Castle Christmas.

 

A yearlong heritage skills program will teach traditional arts like blacksmithing and weaving, with hopes of launching an ongoing apprenticeship to preserve these crafts.

 

Educational programs also expand, with new tours, exhibits, robust field trips, and the three-day Living History Days, reviving Daniel Smith Days.

 

The reimagined site honors all who shaped its past, from indigenous peoples to frontierswomen, making it a meaningful part of the nation’s milestone celebrations.

Hendersonville’s Veterans Park is gearing up for major upgrades, bringing new life to the beloved community spot.

 

The city is investing $800,000 to replace traditional grass with high-quality turf on three softball and baseball fields at Veterans Park, plus Field 5 at Drakes Creek Park.

 

This improvement, funded by the PIPP initiative, is set for completion by spring 2026 and aims to keep games on track with fewer rainouts, enhancing the experience for local teams and families.

 

Additionally, a state-supported $392,000 pump track will be built next to the skate park, offering an exciting new option for cyclists and adventure seekers.

 

These projects reflect Hendersonville’s ongoing dedication to quality parks and active lifestyles, with broader plans underway to make six local parks safer and more accessible through upgrades like lighting, court renovations, and repaved lots.

 

Residents can expect more vibrant, welcoming outdoor spaces on the horizon.

George Edwards, a lifelong Hendersonville resident, has been named the city’s new Fire Chief following a unanimous decision by the Board of Mayor and Aldermen.

 

Mayor Jamie Clary put forth the nomination during the January 13 meeting, acknowledging Edwards’ decades of commitment to the Hendersonville Fire Department since 1995.

 

Edwards, who most recently served as Assistant Chief, is recognized for his steady rise through five promotions and deep ties to the local community.

 

Taking over after Chief Scotty Bush’s retirement, Edwards was selected from a pool of nearly 45 applicants nationwide.

 

He plans to emphasize a strong, community-focused department that balances growth with the feel of a small-town service, ensuring residents remain closely connected to those who protect them.

 

His vision reflects both experience and a personal dedication to Hendersonville’s future.

Experience an evening of intrigue at the Spirits of Sumner Historic Haunts Bus Tour on Saturday, March 21, 2026, in Gallatin, Tennessee.

 

Guests will gather at the storied Comer House, located at 2310 Nashville Pike, before boarding a luxury bus provided by All Access Coach & Leasing.

 

This year’s exclusive itinerary adds two new stops, including a suspense-filled mystery location.

 

Stops feature the Comer House, Blythewood, Palace Theatre, and Maggie Mansion, where guests can enjoy a plated dinner.

 

At each site, discover fascinating local history and stories of hauntings that weave together Sumner County’s rich past.

 

With only 48 tickets available and high demand expected, early booking is essential.

 

Luxury amenities, dinner, and guided storytelling ensure a memorable exploration of haunted history.

 

Sumner County will bring the spirit of Ireland to Bledsoe's Fort Historic Park in Castalian Springs, TN with its annual Irish Festival on Saturday, March 7, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

 

Visitors can enjoy lively Irish music, step dancing displays, and interactive storytelling throughout the day.

 

Guided hikes will highlight local history, taking participants past an old settler cemetery and the ruins of a 19th-century spring house.

 

Food trucks and craft beer from Half Batch Brewing add local flavor, while children’s activities promise family-friendly fun.

 

Costume contests invite attendees — and their pets — to showcase their Irish-themed attire for a chance to win unique prizes.

 

Admission is $15 per vehicle, with advance ticket sales available.

 

Vendor applications remain open until February 13, 2026.

 

Experience the joy, tradition, and welcoming energy of the Sumner County Irish Festival.

Gallatin Shalom Zone is set to host its 4th Annual Sneaker Ball on Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 6:00 to 10:00 PM at the Legacy Gym, 600 Small Street, Gallatin, TN.

 

This celebrated event merges formal fashion with the ease of sneakers, inviting the community to enjoy a night of dinner, specialty cocktails, and dancing, all for a meaningful cause.

 

Guests can expect plenty of surprises throughout the evening, making it a truly memorable experience.

 

Funds raised will support Gallatin Shalom Zone’s essential programs for local children, families, and individuals.

 

Attendees will also get a first look at Phase 1 of the Legacy Gym revitalization, which aims to upgrade the community facility.

 

Tickets and customizable sponsorships for tables of eight are available now.

 

Don’t miss the chance to make a positive impact while celebrating local spirit and style.