Hallmark Channel Stars Kick Off Countdown to Christmas in Nashville

Hallmark Channel’s at it again, proving it’s never too early to dive headfirst into the holiday spirit. Their *Countdown to Christmas* bash just rolled out in Nashville, Tennessee, and it was every bit as magical as you’d hope.

Over two days, twenty-four Hallmark stars gathered to celebrate, meet fans, and bring that trademark warmth everyone’s come to expect. From sunrise meet-and-greets to a glitzy night at the Grand Ole Opry and a concert at Luke Combs’ Category 10 bar, the weekend was a blur of festive chaos and genuine moments.

The Magic Begins: Fans Line Up at Dawn

Way before sunrise, Hallmark fans were already lining up outside two Hallmark Gold Crown stores. Coffee in hand, nerves buzzing, they waited for a chance to meet their favorite stars.

The actors split into two groups so fans at both spots wouldn’t miss out. One group had Lacey Chabert, B.J. Britt, Ashley Williams, Brooke D’Orsay, and Benjamin Ayres. The other included Tyler Hynes, Andrew Walker, Paul Campbell, Kimberley Sustad, and Rachel Boston.

Inside, the vibe was pure joy. Ashley Williams played hostess, greeting every fan personally and making introductions.

One sweet moment? A young fan handed out handmade friendship bracelets, which just about melted everyone. Lacey Chabert said meeting so many wonderful people filled her heart, and honestly, it showed.

Heartfelt Encounters and Unforgettable Surprises

The morning was a mix of laughter, hugs, and a few surprises. B.J. Britt gave one of his biggest fans a thrill by answering the store’s phone, cracking everyone up.

Fans weren’t just there for autographs—they were celebrating the stories that bring their families together every holiday season. The actors took their time, making each person feel seen. Isn’t that what it’s all about?

The Grand Ole Opry: Where Holiday Dreams Take Center Stage

Later, the party shifted to the legendary Grand Ole Opry. The stars reunited with Nikki DeLoach, who leads the cast of *A Grand Ole Opry Christmas*, and she took everyone on a backstage tour.

Exploring the Opry’s themed dressing rooms, you could feel the history in the air. There’s something about vintage décor and old wood that just makes you pause.

Standing together on that famous stage, the Hallmark crew shared a real moment. Rachel Boston led an impromptu singalong—*Can the Circle Be Unbroken (By and By)*—which felt like a nod to Nashville’s musical roots and maybe even something more personal for her.

Festive Fun on the Opry Plaza

By afternoon, the crowd swelled outside on the Opry Plaza. Fans in Santa hats and Christmas sweaters packed the space, ready for whatever came next.

Radio hosts Kelly Sutton and Eryn Cooper introduced the stars, movie by movie, and gave everyone a sneak peek at the upcoming *Countdown to Christmas* slate. Tyler Hynes, Paul Campbell, and Andrew Walker—those three from *Three Wisest Men*—made quite the entrance with a piggyback chain that had people howling.

Fans snapped photos with the stars, grabbed treats from Cowboy Cannolis, and soaked up the holiday energy. Erin Cahill, from *Christmas at the Catnip Café*, called it surreal. Ginna Claire Mason, a Nashville native, seemed extra proud to see her city so full of Hallmark magic.

From the Opry Stage to a Star-Studded Celebration

As night fell, the Hallmark stars joined the crowd for the Opry’s 100th Birthday Show. Hallmark talent introduced country acts from *A Grand Ole Opry Christmas*, and the night was packed with music and laughter.

Drew Baldridge, Mickey Guyton, and Tigirlily Gold all performed. Tyler Hynes, B.J. Britt, and Jonathan Bennett took the stage in matching pink Opry sweaters, joking about shameless brand promotion and keeping things light.

At one point, a fan handed her phone to Sarah Drew from *Mistletoe Murders*, asking her to collect selfies from the male actors. They went for it, and the moment quickly became a crowd favorite. The Opry event was Hallmark at its best—heartfelt, a little silly, and totally entertaining.

Giving Back and Gearing Up for More Fun

The next morning, Hallmark shifted gears to give back to Nashville, supporting local causes and spreading some goodwill. Details were kept hush-hush, but the gesture fit their reputation for kindness.

By evening, it was time for more holiday cheer—this time, a red-carpet event at Luke Combs’ Category 10 bar.

A Night to Remember at Category 10

The takeover at Category 10 was a full-on celebration. Stars posed for photos, chatted with press, and then headed in for a private event with speeches and live music.

Chief Brand Officer Darren Abbott spoke about why Hallmark’s holiday programming hits home—love, connection, and joy. Maybe it’s a little cheesy, but isn’t that what we all need?

Ashley Williams introduced her brother-in-law, country superstar Brad Paisley, who apparently is a huge Hallmark fan. Brad took the stage with Megan Moroney for a private concert, including a duet that had everyone swaying.

More Opry artists performed, including a lively *Joy to the World*—which you’ll hear in this year’s *Countdown to Christmas* promos.

Star Power, Sparkle, and Sentimental Moments

Autumn Reeser turned heads with a glamorous red-carpet look she called a last-minute miracle. Lacey Chabert had her own fangirl moment meeting musician Forest Blakk.

Stars mingled with fans, took selfies, and even tried some line dancing. Tyler Hynes joked his moves were more like “falling in different directions,” but honestly, no one cared—the joy was the point.

When 11 p.m. rolled around, the official event wrapped up, but the party didn’t. Brad Paisley hosted the Hallmark crew at his private bar for an after-party that kept the holiday spirit alive way past midnight.

The Heart of Hallmark: Where Love Happens

After 48 hours of music, laughter, and heartfelt connections, one thing stood out. Hallmark Channel’s *Countdown to Christmas* isn’t just a lineup—it’s a community.

The stars, the fans, and the folks behind the scenes all share a real love for what they’re building together. As the season rolls on with new movie premieres every weekend, there’s even more to look forward to.

The *Hallmark Christmas Cruise* sets sail in November. There’s also the *Hallmark Christmas Experience* coming to Kansas City later this year.

In a world that could always use a bit more kindness and cheer, Hallmark has a knack for delivering that spark. Maybe that’s why the holidays just feel a little brighter with them around.