Annual Events in Franklin TN: A Year-Round Calendar

What are the biggest annual events in Franklin, TN?
Franklin's signature events include Main Street Festival in April, Franklin on the Fourth and fireworks at Harlinsdale Farm in July, Pumpkinfest in October, and Dickens of a Christmas in December.

Downtown Franklin is one of the best small-town event scenes in Tennessee. Almost every season brings a festival to Main Street or to the Park at Harlinsdale Farm, and most are free to attend.

This calendar walks through Franklin's annual events by season so you can plan ahead, whether you live here or you're thinking about moving to Franklin. Exact dates change each year, so confirm details on the City of Franklin events page or Visit Franklin.

Spring Events in Franklin

• Kids Arts Festival (March): performances, workshops, exhibits, and an art sale for young artists at Bicentennial Park.
• Arbor Day (April): free tree saplings, tree climbing, and environmental activities at Pinkerton Park.
• Main Street Festival (April): a weekend of arts and crafts, food vendors, live music, and a kids' area across downtown Franklin.
• Touch-a-Truck (May): kids climb on public works vehicles and other big trucks at Jim Warren Park.

Summer Events in Franklin

• Movies in the Park: a free outdoor movie series on summer evenings.
• Franklin on the Fourth (July): a patriotic downtown festival hosted by the Franklin Lions Club.
• Fireworks at Harlinsdale Farm (July): an evening fireworks show with music, games, and food trucks.
• Bluegrass Along the Harpeth (July): bluegrass, fiddling, buck dancing, crafts, and food.

Fall Events in Franklin

• Pumpkinfest (October): one of Franklin's biggest festivals, with vendors, entertainment, kids' activities, and costume contests downtown.
• Family Day (November): free farm activities and entertainment at the Park at Harlinsdale Farm.
• Wine Down Main Street (November): a downtown wine tasting that supports the Boys & Girls Club of Franklin/Williamson County.

Holiday Events in Franklin

• Christmas Tree Lighting: local performers, music, and a visit from Santa to kick off the season.
• Franklin Christmas Parade: a holiday parade through historic downtown.
• Flashlight Candy Cane Hunt: kids search the grounds at Harlinsdale with flashlights.
• Dickens of a Christmas: a downtown festival with period musicians, dancers, and characters from the Victorian era.

Tips for Enjoying Franklin Events

Parking fills quickly downtown during big festivals, so arrive early or use the city's public garages. Many residents walk or bike in from nearby neighborhoods. For everyday things to do between festivals, see our guides to the best restaurants in Franklin, Franklin coffee shops, and Franklin parks and greenways.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the biggest festival in Franklin TN?
Main Street Festival in April and Pumpkinfest in October are two of downtown Franklin's largest annual festivals, both drawing big crowds to Main Street.

When is Dickens of a Christmas in Franklin?
Dickens of a Christmas takes place in downtown Franklin in December. Check the City of Franklin or Visit Franklin calendars for this year's dates.

Where are Franklin's Fourth of July fireworks?
Franklin's fireworks show is held at the Park at Harlinsdale Farm, and the Franklin on the Fourth festival takes place downtown.

Thinking About Living in Franklin?

Community events are a big part of life in Franklin. Nik Shewmaker, Nashville's Nik with Real Broker, helps buyers find the right Franklin neighborhood. Browse Franklin TN homes for sale or call (615) 585-0022.