“Phil the House with Art & Friends” invites Nashville to a FREE afternoon of art, history, and connection
Friends of Two Rivers invites the public to kick off its 2026 season in style with the 15th Annual “Phil the House with Art & Friends,” a free community open house and art exhibit at historic Two Rivers Mansion on Sunday, May 3, 2026, from 1:00–4:00pm.
Named in honor of founder and President Emeritus Phil Claiborne, the beloved annual event celebrates his artistic legacy and longstanding impact on the preservation of Two Rivers Mansion. The event has traditionally featured Claiborne’s artwork alongside that of noted artist Phil Ponder, continuing a meaningful tradition that blends art, history, and community.
“While Two Rivers Mansion was closed for two years going through its most significant restoration in its almost 170-year history,” says Friends of Two Rivers President Jeff Syracuse. “The Friends of Two Rivers were hard at work to prepare for our grand re-opening, and we created our most exciting and extensive event and tour calendar to date. We look forward to welcoming you back to Two Rivers this year to experience all the events, tours, and educational programs we offer.”
This year’s featured exhibit, “Timeless Passages” by Robert MacDonald, offers a fresh and visually striking look at Two Rivers Mansion through changing seasons, light, and atmosphere. Guests will see the property in ways that feel both familiar and entirely new. In addition to the featured collection, a wide variety of MacDonald’s work will be on display — from bold abstracts to more traditional styles — with pieces available for purchase.
Guests are invited to enjoy a relaxed afternoon of art, community, and the beauty of one of Nashville’s most treasured historic properties. Admission is free and open to all. Special thanks to Nashville Adventures for sponsoring this year’s event.
Upcoming Events at Two Rivers Mansion
Phil the House with Art & Friends — Sunday, May 3, 2026 | 1:00–4:00pm
Free community open house and art exhibit. Admission is FREE.
Spirit of Two Rivers Historic Tours — June 1 through October 28, 2026
Guided tours offered Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays at 9am, 10am, 11am, and noon.
Music At The Mansion: Nashville Symphony — Saturday, June 6, 2026 | 6:00–9:30pm
Outdoor performance on the mansion grounds. FREE admission.
Whispers From the Past: Paranormal Investigation Series — one weekend each month from June through September
Overnight experiences from 7:00pm–1:00am
Music At The Mansion: Timbo & Lonesome Country — Saturday, August 8, 2026 | 6:00–9:30pm
Music At The Mansion: Two Rivers Community Orchestra — Sunday, August 30, 2026 | 3:00–6:00pm
Music At The Mansion: The Moonlighters Big Band — Saturday, September 19, 2026 | 6:00–9:30pm
After Dark Tours — October 16–18, 2026
Evening paranormal tours with immersive experiences.
Movies at the Mansion — Details coming soon
In addition to public programming, Friends of Two Rivers offers specialty educational tours, private group experiences, and event rentals at both Two Rivers Mansion and nearby historic Stone Hall, providing a distinctive setting for weddings, corporate gatherings, and creative productions.
For tickets, membership information, and event details, visit friendsoftworivers.com.
ABOUT FRIENDS OF TWO RIVERS
Friends of Two Rivers was established in 2010 to protect, preserve, restore, and promote the historic Two Rivers Mansion in partnership with the Metro Parks Department and the Metro Historical Commission. The organization was officially incorporated on August 20, 2010, and received 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status later that year. Since then, its mission has expanded to include the historic Stone Hall site, located on the scenic bluffs of the Stones River. Today, Friends of Two Rivers is dedicated to honoring and sharing Nashville’s rich past by preserving these treasured landmarks through community engagement, fundraising, and educational initiatives.