Gaylord Opryland to Really Kick Off Christmas 2005 in Style

Gaylord Opryland to Really Kick Off Christmas 2005 in Style

A Country Christmas(R) set for November 17, 2005 through January 8, 2006

NASHVILLE, Tenn., Oct. 10 /PRNewswire/ -- Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center's "A Country Christmas(R)" presented by Cracker Barrel Old Country Store returns for its 22nd year. Headlining this world-famous holiday tradition is the return of the "Radio City Christmas Spectacular(R)" presented by Allstate Insurance Company, starring the world-famous Radio City Rockettes(TM). Also included in the year's offerings is a debut of "The Pam Tillis Christmas Dinner Party(TM)" presented by Christie Cookies. The season's most beloved events return including ICE!(TM), two million lights, an outdoor nativity display and much more.

Back by popular demand, the timeless tradition of the "Radio City Christmas Spectacular" returns to Nashville where the Rockettes will call the Grand Ole Opry(R) House home this holiday season. The "eye-high" kickers will debut three new scenes, including the tap-infused "12 Days of Christmas," where every day brings a different kind of fun; "Everybody's Waitin' for the Man with the Bag," in which Santa and Mrs. Claus provide a sweet moment together in their much-anticipated duet; and the Santa Claus focused, "I'm There."

In addition to the new scenes, the Rockettes will also perform some of the classic favorites, such as the legendary "Parade of the Wooden Soldiers" and the awe-inspiring "Living Nativity." The spectacular event with dazzling lighting, scenery and costumes, as well as a cast and crew of nearly 100 members, including Santa himself, is a must-see for your entire family this holiday season.

"We are excited about this year's 'A Country Christmas,' especially the return of the 'Radio City Christmas Spectacular,'" said Arthur Keith, senior vice president and general manager of Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center. "We strive to provide the best entertainment and combination of shows and activities scheduled for this year will make this long-running Christmas tradition better than ever."

Debuting this year is "The Pam Tillis Christmas Dinner Party(TM)" presented by Christie Cookies. This traditional holiday dinner combines all of the favorite culinary Christmas delights with an intimate show featuring Grammy Award winner Pam Tillis and her band.

Tillis and her band will celebrate the holiday season with traditional Christmas music, as well as some of her top-ten hits. The magical tastes combined with a legendary performer are sure to please all!

One of the hottest events - and definitely the coldest - is back this year by popular demand. "ICE!(TM)" presented by BellSouth(R), a chilly, one-of-a- kind adventure through a frozen world of larger-than-life ice sculptures all carved from 1.5 million pounds of ice. "ICE!(TM)" is an experience for all ages. Take your picture in front of an ice Grand Ole Opry(R) stage, or slide down a 10-foot slide made completely of ice. The only place in the country to see this world-class display is at a Gaylord Hotel.

"A Country Christmas" wouldn't be complete without the ever-popular horse- drawn carriage rides that explore the grounds of Gaylord Opryland and showcase the outdoor lights. "The Outdoor Nativity Display, Treasures for the Holidays" crafts and gifts, lavishly decorated trees and nearly two million lights are sure to get everyone in the Christmas spirit. It's everything Christmas all in one place.

"It's the perfect place for families, friends, and neighbors to get together to share in the holiday spirit," Keith said. "There truly is something for everyone and it's all here at Gaylord Opryland."

Don't miss the unique experiences of the 22nd annual "A Country Christmas."

"Cracker Barrel Old Country Store is proud to be the presenting sponsor of 'A Country Christmas,'" said Chris Tomasso, vice president of marketing for Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. "The events and festivities that are planned will create wonderful memories, which will be cherished for years to come."

For individual event ticket information or details on vacation packages call 1-888-999-OPRY or visit http://www.gaylordopryland.com/.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT RADIO CITY ENTERTAINMENT Visit: http://www.radiocity.com/.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT GAYLORD OPRYLAND NASHVILLE Visit http://www.gaylordentertainment.com/ or http://www.gaylordopryland.com/.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT CRACKER BARREL OLD COUNTRY STORE Visit http://www.crackerbarrel.com/

Source: Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center

CONTACT: Allison Lanquist, +1-615-458-2877, alanquist@gaylordhotels.com or Jeffrey Zimmer, +1-615-458-2873, jzimmer@gaylordhotels.com, both of Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center

Web site: http://www.radiocity.com/

Web site: http://www.crackerbarrel.com/

Web site: http://www.gaylordentertainment.com/ http://www.gaylordopryland.com/

------- Profile: Ent