September 17, 2026
Happy Thursday, Mt. Juliet! 👋
Is anyone else ready for this heat to finally give us a little break?! 🥵 While we wait for cooler days, there’s still plenty happening around town.
This week’s issue has a really special local story, some community happenings we think you’ll enjoy, a few fun events coming up, and some local news and updates worth knowing about.
So grab your coffee and take a few minutes to see What’s Up Mt. Juliet! ☕️❤️
Denise & Mike
THIS WEEK IN MT. JULIET
Your Quick Look at What’s Inside
🦋 Live Like Ambria Day
🧇 Around Town: Updates
📚 Free Little Libraries
🥒 Pickles for Pups
🐶 Pooch Pool Party
🍦 Ice Cream Festival
🐶 Pet of the Week
💰 Insider Deals: Exclusive Coupon
📆 Things to Do in Mt Juliet This Week
☀ Weekly weather forecast
Finding Purpose beyond the Pain: The Story Behind Ambria’s Oasis 💜
I recently had the privilege of meeting with local resident Brittney McGregor to hear the story behind Ambria’s Oasis. Hearing Brittney open her heart about their family’s journey, their faith and the reason they chose to turn their deepest pain into a way of helping others really touched me.
Almost four years ago, the McGregors experienced every parent’s worst nightmare. They lost their sweet 16-year-old daughter, Ambria.
There were prayers, heartbreak, anger, questions and a grief that no parent should ever have to know. Over time, Brittney came to realize that while she may never understand why Ambria was taken from them so soon, she could choose to trust God and believe that Ambria’s life, though far too short, still had a purpose.
That realization led to something beautiful.
Brittney and Ryder created Ambria’s Oasis, a local nonprofit dedicated to walking alongside families grieving the loss of a child. Their goal is simple: no parent should have to walk through this kind of loss alone.
About every six weeks, grieving parents come together in a safe, supportive environment where there is room for both tears and laughter. Sometimes that means sharing their child’s favorite snack while watching the sunset at Shutes Branch. Other times it's bowling, a hibachi dinner, breakfast at the park or even a Nashville Predators hockey game.
The setting may change, but the purpose stays the same: connection, understanding and the comfort of being with people who truly understand what they're going through.
Ambria’s Oasis also provides grief care packages, meals and other resources to families at no cost. Through their private Shining Light Parents Facebook group, families can stay connected between gatherings, share memories and photos, and find extra support during especially difficult times.
And the McGregors are looking ahead, too. They hope to expand their efforts to include siblings, recognizing that brothers and sisters experience the loss of a sibling in their own unique way and deserve support as they navigate life after loss.
Live Like Ambria Day 💜
One of the biggest ways Ambria’s Oasis brings the community together is through its annual Live Like Ambria Day, happening Saturday, September 19, at Charlie Daniels Park.
From 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., families can enjoy live music, inflatables, a foam party, petting zoo, face painting, vendors, food trucks and more. There will also be volleyball, a 5K walk/run and a pickleball bash for those who want to get active.
Admission is free, with registration required for the 5K and Pickleball Bash.
But Live Like Ambria Day is about much more than a fun day at the park. It's about honoring a young girl whose life touched so many people and helping other families find their way through unimaginable loss.
Ambria’s Oasis is proof that even in the middle of tremendous pain, something beautiful can grow. The McGregors have taken their grief and created a place where other families can find connection, comfort and hope.
If you or someone you know has experienced the loss of a child, you can connect with Ambria’s Oasis at [email protected] or through their social media pages.
And if you're looking for something to do with the family on September 19, head to Charlie Daniels Park, enjoy the day and support a local family whose mission is making a difference right here in our community.
Come Live Like Ambria. 💜
👀 Around Town: A Few Things You Should Know
🧇 North MJ Waffle House Is Now Open!
Mt. Juliet's newest Waffle House at 12085 Lebanon Road opened last weekend. Because sometimes you need waffles at 10 p.m. 😂
🚧 Central Pike Interchange Moves One Step Closer
Mt. Juliet is moving ahead with plans for a new I-40 interchange at Central Pike, along with widening South Mt. Juliet Road to six lanes. The projects are designed to improve traffic and connectivity in the area, with construction on the interchange expected to begin in 2030.
🥤 Nutrition Oasis Is Open in MJ!
Mt. Juliet's newest spot at 3193 S. Mt. Juliet Rd. is officially open! Stop in for loaded lemonades, energy teas, protein shakes, and fresh açaí bowls—perfect for a quick, healthy boost to your day. 🍋🍓
🍣 Rock N Roll Sushi Is Almost Here
The new restaurant is set to open September 23 at 1913 N. Mt. Juliet Road. I'll definitely be curious to hear what everyone thinks!
☕ Coffee With a Cop Is Friday
MJPD is inviting residents to grab a cup of coffee and chat with officers this Friday morning from 8 - 10 am at the new Starbucks at 2059 N. Mt. Juliet Road.
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📚 Neighborhood Treasure Hunt: Discovering Mt. Juliet’s Little Free Libraries
Have you ever spotted one of those cute little wooden book boxes while walking around Mt. Juliet and wondered what it was all about?
They're Little Free Libraries, and they're one of those small things that can make a community feel a little more connected.
The idea is simple: Take a book, share a book. Anyone can stop by, grab something to read and, if they have a book they're finished with, leave one behind for the next person.
But there's something pretty special about these little libraries. They're not just boxes filled with books—they're often a reflection of the people who created them. Some are colorful and whimsical, some are beautifully handmade, and others have been built as community service projects by local Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts.
Behind many of them are neighbors who took the time to build, paint, stock and maintain a little place where someone else could discover their next favorite book. That kind of generosity deserves a little credit. ❤️
You'll find official Little Free Library charters around town, along with other book boxes created by caring local residents and organizations. One you'll spot along the Town Center Trail at Eagle Park was painted and is maintained by Mt. Juliet's own “Biking Librarian.” It's more than a place to grab a book—it's a welcoming little stop where people can pause, connect and swap stories while enjoying the greenway.
And here's the fun part: finding them can become its own little neighborhood treasure hunt.
So, the next time you're out walking, visiting a park or exploring a trail, keep your eyes open. You just might stumble across a tiny library waiting for you.
Want to find one near you?
Check out our list of Mt. Juliet's Little Free Libraries → https://www.whatsupmtjuliet.com/p/mt-juliets-little-free-libraries
And if you've got books sitting on your shelves that you've already read and don't need anymore, consider giving them a second life. Drop one off at a Little Free Library and you never know who might pick it up next. Maybe it'll be the book that makes someone else's day. ❤️
🐾 Looking Ahead: Pickles for Pups Returns October 3!
Pickleball, pups and a good cause? Sounds like a pretty great Saturday to us. 🥒 🐶
The 4th Annual Pickles for Pups Pickleball Tournament returns to Charlie Daniels Park on Saturday, October 3, 2026.
This fun day of pickleball will raise money to support shelter pets in our community. All proceeds benefit Mt. Juliet Animal Care & Control, helping make a difference for local animals in need.
Whether you're playing for bragging rights, prizes or just a good time, the event promises a day filled with pickleball, raffles, food and fun—all while supporting a great cause.
The tournament has become a fun local tradition, bringing together pickleball players and animal lovers for one simple goal: playing for a better tomorrow for our four-legged friends.
So grab your paddle, bring your competitive spirit and get ready to play for the pups! 🐶💚
📅 When: Saturday, October 3, 2026, 8:00 am
📍 Where: Charlie Daniels Park, Mt. Juliet
🐾 Benefiting: Mt. Juliet Animal Care & Control
So grab your paddle, round up your pickleball crew and come play for the pups! For more info click here.
🐶 Nashville Shores Is Going to the Dogs!
Okay, this might be one of the cutest events of the year. As Nashville Shores wraps up its regular waterpark season, it opens the gates for a very special group of guests—DOGS!
The 9th Annual Pooch Pool Party, hosted by New Leash on Life, is coming up Saturday, September 26, and your pup gets to take over the waterpark for the afternoon. We're talking wave pool, lazy river and plenty of four-legged friends to splash around with. 🐾💦
And while the dogs are having the time of their lives, there's a great reason behind the fun. Every ticket helps support animal care, adoptions and low-cost spay/neuter services through New Leash on Life.
Whether your dog is ready to cannonball into the pool or would rather cautiously dip one paw in at a time, this sounds like a pretty pawsome way to spend a Saturday!
🐾 Pooch Pool Party
📅 Saturday, September 26
⏰ 11 AM–4 PM
📍 Nashville Shores
🎟️ $25 advance
🐾 A few things to know: Dogs must be friendly, spayed/neutered and up-to-date on their rabies vaccination to attend.
Now, who else is already picturing their dog flying down the lazy river? 😂🐶
This Week’s Poll…
🐾We've been talking a lot about adoption events and are curious... How did your pet become part of your family?
Last Week’s Poll Results…
🏈It's Saturday or Sunday during football season. Where can we find you?
📺Watching every game- 35.9%
🤷♀️I couldn't care less about football- 35.9%
🛍️Running errands while everyone watches football- 17.95%
🍿Watching... but mostly for the snacks- 10.26%
Scoop Up the Fun: Party on The Property is Back!
Looking for a fun way to spend Sunday afternoon while supporting a fantastic local cause? Empower Me Center is hosting its annual Ice Cream Festival...
It’s part nostalgic ice cream social, part giant backyard block party, and 100% focused on bringing our community together. Whether you're coming to taste-test your way through the homemade ice cream competition, grab a bite from local food trucks, or let the kids burn off energy with games and live entertainment, there’s a little something for everyone.
Best of all, every scoop supports Empower Me Center’s mission to enrich the lives of local kids and adults with special needs through adaptive sports, summer camps, and life-skills programs. You’ll also get to see the exciting progress on their future home and recreational campus right here in our backyard!
📌 Event Details
When: Sunday, September 20 | 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Where: Empower Me Center Campus (1160 South Hartmann Drive, Lebanon)
What to Expect: Homemade ice cream tasting, food trucks, live music, games, and family fun.
Details & Tickets: Click here to learn more or enter your own ice cream recipe!
Bring your lawn chairs, your sweet tooth, and your neighbors—we’ll see you on the property!
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🐾 Pet of the Week:
🐶 Happy Tails: Picnic Table Found Her Forever Home!
Remember sweet Picnic Table from our Pet of the Week feature? We are thrilled to report that she officially headed off with her brand-new family last week! 🐾❤️
There is truly nothing better than seeing one of our featured rescue pups step into the loving home she deserves. A giant thank-you to everyone in our community who liked, commented, and shared her story to help make this match happen—you directly helped write Picnic Table's happy ending!
This Week: Meet Bases Loaded!
Bases Loaded was featured previously but is currently MJ Animal Shelter’s longest resident and is still patiently waiting for her forever family. She is a 5-year-old Lab/Terrier mix who is ready to knock your heart right out of the park! This chatty, joyful girl is full of fun energy, loves kiddos, and is a certified "Velcro dog" who just wants to be right by your side.
She’s got plenty to say and endless affection to give! Bases Loaded prefers to be the single, undisputed queen of her castle—meaning she'll need to be your only pet—but with this much personality and sweetness, she is more than enough love for one home. Come meet this spunky girl today and help her find the loving forever family she deserves!
❤️ Interested in adopting Bases Loaded? Visit the Mt. Juliet Animal Shelter (115 Industrial Dr, MJ) during business hours or call 615-773-5533 to set up an appointment.
💸 Insider Deals
If you haven't tried GIF Bar & Kitchen yet, this might be a good week to change that!
They serve up really good Indian food right here in Mt. Juliet, with plenty of flavorful dishes to choose from. Whether you're already a fan of Indian cuisine or you've been meaning to give it a try, GIF is definitely worth checking out.
And this week, they're our Insider Deal of the Week! 👀
Check out the coupon below and give GIF Bar & Kitchen a try. You might just discover a new local favorite! 😋
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This Week’s Line Up
$= There is a charge for these events
Friday, September 18
Vendors on Main
☕ Coffee With A Cop | Starbucks 2059 N. Mt Juliet Rd. | 8 - 10 - am
Grab a morning brew and chat with local officers during Coffee with a Cop. There are no speeches or agendas—just a friendly, casual opportunity to ask questions, discuss community safety, or say hello!
🛍 Vendors on Main at Main St Market | Circle P Ranch | 4 - 7 pm
Spend time shopping with local vendors, eating, and supporting local bakers and makers in the heart of Mt. Juliet.
🍺 Cider Fridays Happy Hour | Breeden’s Orchard | 4:30 - 9:00 pm
Come hang out at the orchard, sip your favorite Breeden’s cider or beer, and make the most of your weekend on the farm. 🍎🍺
🔥 Harvest Season Smokeouts | Breeden’s Orchard | 6 - 8 pm
Kick off the weekend with Martin’s BBQ at Breeden’s Orchard! Enjoy Martin’s legendary BBQ, fresh Breeden’s cider donuts, cold drinks, music, and a laid-back Friday night at the orchard.
🎭 You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown | MJHS Theatre | 7 pm | $
Gather the whole family and head to the Golden Bear Theatre at MJHS as they bring the classic “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” to life!
Just around the corner:
🚗 21st Annual Redneck Rumble | Wilson County Fairgrounds, Lebanon, TN | 10 am - 7 pm
👕 Statemint Adult Consignment Pop-Up | The Mill at Lebanon, Lebanon, TN | 10 am - 8 pm
🏈 Football Family Fun Night | Chick-Fil-A, Hermitage, TN | 5 - 7 pm
👻 Ghost Tours: Tragedy & Mystery at the Hermitage | The Hermitage, Hermitage, TN | 6:30 & 8:30 pm | $
Saturday, September 19
Live Like Ambria 5k
Concert with the Cows
🍅 Farmer’s Market | Charlie Daniels Park | 8 am - 1 pm
This event brings together local farmers, artisans, and food vendors to create a lively, welcoming community market. It’s a fun way to shop while supporting local small businesses
🦋 Live Like Ambria Day | Charlie Daniels Park | 8 am - 2 pm
Get ready for an unforgettable day of fun, community, and making memories. The 4th Annual Live Like Ambria Day is a family-friendly event packed with activities for all ages!
🐶 Mt Juliet Animal Shelter Adoption Event | Compassion Coffeehouse | 9 - 11 am
Come grab your morning coffee, love on some adorable adoptable pups and kitties, and maybe leave with a new best friend!
🌻 ”Grow Where You’re Planted” Biscuit Pop-Up | Sweet Biscuit Co. | 9 am - 12 pm
Visit Sweet BIscuit Co. for a sweet morning filled with sunflower decor, family-friendly fun, supporting local, and of course… the best biscuits in Middle TN!
🌞 23rd Annual Gladefest | Gladeville Elementary School 8840 Stewarts Ferry Pike, MJ | 9 am - 3 pm
Join the Gladeville Community for a free family-friendly day filled with inflatables, games, live music, a car show, food trucks and more!
🍎 Apple Celebration | Breeden’s Orchard | 9 am - 9 pm
Celebrate the start of fall at Breeden's Orchard's Apple Celebration, a full weekend dedicated to everything apple. Enjoy fresh-picked apples from our market, indulge in delicious apple-inspired treats, and experience a full lineup of family-friendly activities.
🎭 You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown | MJHS Theatre | 2 pm & 7 pm | $
Gather the whole family and head to the Golden Bear Theatre at MJHS as they bring the classic “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” to life!
🐮 Concert with the Cows | Southern Rhythm Cattle Co. | 5:30 pm | $
Spend a one-of-a-kind evening listening to great music, petting friendly animals, savoring delicious food, and soaking in the relaxed charm of a night on the farm.
🌴 Family Night | Caribbean Vibes Venue | 6 - 9 pm | $
Come enjoy a fun night out including pickleball, basketball, cornhole, food trucks and live music.
🎹 Dueling Pianos | MJ Sport & Social Co. | 7:30 - 11:30 pm
With friendly banter and plenty of classic sing-along moments, this evening will be lots of fun and a great way to celebrate a Saturday night.
Just around the corner:
⛳ Birdie for ERDie Golf Event | The Club at Five Oaks, Lebanon, TN | 9 am
🚗 21st Annual Redneck Rumble | Farm Bureau Expo Center, Lebanon, TN | 10 am - 7 pm
🥓 Bacon Fest | Copperline Ranch, Hermitage, TN | 10 am - 4 pm
👕 Statemint Adult Consignment Pop-Up | The Mill at Lebanon, Lebanon, TN | 10 am - 8 pm
🃏 Card Club | Hermitage Library, Hermitage, TN | 10:30 am - 4:30 pm
🍺 Eastoberfest | East Nashville Beer Works, Lebanon, TN | 11 am - 8 pm
👻 Ghost Tours: Tragedy & Mystery at the Hermitage | The Hermitage, Hermitage, TN | 6:30 & 8:30 pm | $
🎵 Live Music: Stacy Mitchhart | Stars & Stables Farm, Lebanon, TN | 7 - 10 pm | $
Sunday, September 20
Breeden’s Apple Celebration
🍎 Apple Celebration | Breeden’s Orchard | 9 am - 5 pm
Celebrate the start of fall at Breeden's Orchard's Apple Celebration, a full weekend dedicated to everything apple. Enjoy fresh-picked apples from our market, indulge in delicious apple-inspired treats, and experience a full lineup of family-friendly activities.
🎭 You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown | MJHS Theatre | 2 pm | $
Gather the whole family and head to the Golden Bear Theatre at MJHS as they bring the classic 🎭 You’re You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown to life!
Just around the corner:
🍦 Party on the Property Ice Cream Festival | Empower Me Center- 1160 S. Hartmann Dr., Lebanon, TN | 2 - 5 pm
👻 Ghost Tours: Tragedy & Mystery at the Hermitage | The Hermitage, Hermitage, TN | 6:30 & 8:30 pm | $
Monday, September 21
😎 Teens 7th and Up Club | Mt. Juliet Library | 4:15 - 5:15 pm
In this club, they chat about books, do activities & crafts, play games, and more! This is a free program and all supplies are provided.
🀄 Mahjong Night | Braingineers Lab | 6 - 8:30 pm | $
Mahjong night is a great excuse to get out, have some fun, and enjoy a little friendly competition! Bring your game face, grab your friends, and join in for a fun night around the table.
🏢 A Referendum to Appeal Home Rule | MJHS | 6:30 pm
In the first of 5 meetings, District 1 Commissioner Art Giles will host the meeting to provide information and answer questions regarding the referendum to repeal Home Rule that will appear on the November ballot.
Just around the corner:
🎨 Art Night at the Library | Hermitage Public Library, Hermitage, TN | 6 - 7 pm
Tuesday, September 22
⛳ Mt Juliet Chamber Annual Golf Tournament | Pine Creek Golf Course | 8 am
Grab your team, bring your A-game, and enjoy a day of golf that supports the Mt. Juliet business community.
Just around the corner:
🎮 Teen Hangout | Hermitage Public Library, Hermitage, TN | 4:30 - 5:30 pm
Wednesday, September 23
🚲 Cyclists in Cadence Getting Coffee | Hamilton-Denson Park | 8 - 11 am
Join the Veloteers as they ride from Hamilton-Denson Park to Breeden’s Orchard for coffee and conversion using Mt. Juliet's greenways, backroads, and bicycle infrastructure.
🀄 Mahjongg Afternoon | Billy Goat Coffee Cafe | 1 - 4 pm
Enjoy a friendly game of Mahjongg, meet new friends, and have fun each week. Whether you're a seasoned player or still learning, everyone is welcome!
Just around the corner:
✏ Writer Support Group | Hermitage Library, Hermitage, TN | 5:30 - 7:30 pm
🧘♀ Gentle Yoga | Hermitage Library, Hermitage, TN | 6 - 7 pm
Thursday, September 24
Just around the corner:
🧪 Library Lab: A STEAM Program | Hermitage Library, Hermitage, TN | 4:30 - 5:30 pm
Our Weekly Weather Forecast
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Meet the Team
Denise is a SoCal native who has called Middle Tennessee home for 25 years. A self-proclaimed foodie, she’s always on the hunt for the area's latest and greatest restaurants—though during football season, you’ll likely find her locked into a game.
Mike originally hails from New Jersey and has lived in Mt. Juliet for over 30 years. When he isn’t cheering on his favorite college and pro football teams, he loves getting out to catch some live local rock music.
Together, we started What’s Up Mt. Juliet because we believe there is so much to love about this great city. Each week, our goal is to bring you the best of Mt Juliet…and hopefully brighten your day along the way!
Thanks for letting us be a small part of your week!
Publication Disclaimer:
While we work hard to keep all information accurate and up to date, event details can change unexpectedly. We highly recommend double-checking the event links directly before heading out to ensure you have the latest updates. This newsletter contains affiliate links, meaning we may receive a commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. We deeply appreciate your support, which helps keep our content running.