December 18 & 19

At the onset of the Winter Solstice, music, poetry, and community come together in a luminous celebration of hope and renewal for all. The Longest Night returns to the OZ Arts stage for the first time in seven years, inviting audiences to embrace the beauty of the season through soaring original music, stirring spoken word, and expressive movement. Created by Nashville’s acclaimed Portara Ensemble, saxophonist Jeff Coffin, poet Ciona Rouse, and dance collective Di Mossa, this multidisciplinary collaboration honors the traditions that connect us while offering space for reflection, joy, and collective belonging.

Featuring an ensemble of some of Music City’s most celebrated artists and surprise guests, The Longest Night draws inspiration from diverse cultural and spiritual traditions that mark the return of the light after the year’s darkest evening. This triumphant return of a cherished Nashville holiday tradition offers a moving way to welcome the turning of the season.