Don’t Miss the 40th Annual Downtown Franklin Main Street Festival!
Mark your calendars and get ready for a fun-filled weekend! This Saturday and Sunday, the Main Street Festival returns to historic downtown Franklin, Tennessee. Presented by the Heritage Foundation of Williamson County, this annual event offers a unique blend of art, music, food, and community spirit.
More than 130,000 visitors are expected to flock to historic downtown Franklin this year to experience this special celebration. This year’s festival promises to be bigger and better than ever, with 160 artisans showcasing their unique crafts, a dedicated KidsZone to keep the little ones entertained, and a diverse lineup of live music across multiple stages. Craving delicious food and refreshing drinks? The festival won’t disappoint, with an assortment of food trucks and vendors offering something for every taste.
Whether you’re a returning festival-goer or a first-time visitor, here’s everything you need to know about the 2024 Main Street Festival in downtown Franklin, Tennessee.
About the Main Street Festival
2024 marks the 40th anniversary of the Main Street Festival. Originally conceived as a way to draw people to Main Street after revitalization efforts began in the 1980s, the event has evolved to not just draw people downtown but to remind them why Main Streets are important to the health of a community. The festival brings together local businesses, artists, and the community to foster a sense of place and celebrate the unique character of Franklin, Tennessee.
This celebration wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of numerous community partners and the generous support of many local sponsors.
“We are just lucky that we have an entire county that values the built environment, historic assets, and cultural heritage as a whole,” said Mary Catherine Mousourakis, Director of Sponsorships for the Heritage Foundation.
The festival also celebrates 20 years of collaboration with First Horizon, whose ongoing support has helped transform the event into a vital community and economic development event.
“Our partnership with the Heritage Foundation has been incredible. It’s one of the things that has kept our city what it is. We’ve worked hard to protect that and enhance that. We are just so grateful to be a part of it,” said Worth Peppers, AVP – Banking Center Manager III at First Horizon.
What to Expect at the 2024 Main Street Festival
Dive into a world of art, music, food, and fun! Here’s your guide to experiencing all the Main Street Festival has to offer.
Arts and Crafts
Over 160 artisans and craftspeople will be showcasing their work. Browse unique finds, from handcrafted jewelry and pottery to regional specialties and delicious treats. This year, the festival introduces a brand new Fine Arts Gallery, featuring the works of top artisans in mediums like photography, pottery, handcrafted jewelry, and more. Whether you’re searching for the perfect souvenir or a one-of-a-kind piece of art, the Main Street Festival has something for everyone.
Activities
The Main Street Festival offers a fun-filled experience for the whole family. The ever-popular KidsZone returns, with engaging activities, games, and arts & crafts to entertain the kids for hours. Spring Street promises a dynamic space filled with interactive art installations, movement activities, and surprise delights. And don’t forget your furry friends! In the parking lot next to Simmons Bank, you’ll find the fully-immersive PetZone, complete with a fenced-in turf dog park for playtime, a complimentary treat station, a photo booth, a dedicated water station, and even on-site pet adoptions facilitated by the Williamson County Animal Center.
Food and Drink
No festival is complete without lots of food options, and the Main Street Festival doesn’t disappoint. Indulge in classic fare like hot dogs, sausage, and lobster, or take your palate on a global adventure with options like empanadas, tacos, and Asian-inspired dishes. Sweet tooths won’t be disappointed with a selection of delicious choices, from handcrafted ice cream and donuts to fresh-baked cookies and funnel cakes. Festival-goers can quench their thirst with refreshing lemonade, fruity teas, beers, hand-crafted whiskies, and more.
Live Entertainment
The Main Street Festival explodes with a lively music scene across three stages. The Main Stage, presented by Nissan USA, brings high-energy performances, from crowd-pleasing classics to toe-tapping bluegrass. For a more relaxed atmosphere, the Acoustic Stage, presented by Grayline, offers soothing melodies perfect for unwinding. Don’t miss the talented street musicians at Buskers Corner, where spontaneous performances add another layer of enjoyment to your festival experience. With a diverse lineup spread across the festival, you’re never far from the next musical discovery. For the complete schedule of the live entertainment, visit the festival’s entertainment page.
Shopping
The Main Street Festival isn’t just about entertainment and eats. All the Downtown Franklin shops will be open, offering special deals and features throughout the historic district. Plus, many Downtown Franklin Association merchants will have booths at the festival, showcasing unique finds alongside their brick-and-mortar stores. From handcrafted treasures to trendy boutiques, there’s something for everyone.
Planning Your Visit to the 2024 Main Street Festival
To ensure a smooth experience, here’s a breakdown of everything you need to know to plan your visit, from parking options to can’t-miss attractions.
Dates and Times: Saturday, April 27th, and Sunday, April 28th, 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Location: Historic Downtown Franklin, Tennessee
Admission: Free
Parking and Shuttles: Limited parking is available downtown, with no street parking allowed within the festival area. For easy access, consider utilizing the Park & Ride service offered by Franklin Transit. Shuttles run from the Park at Harlinsdale Farm and Franklin High School, costing $1 per person each way. Service starts at 10:00 am on Saturday and 11:00 am on Sunday, with the last shuttle departing 15 minutes before the festival ends. All Franklin Transit vehicles are ADA-accessible. No pets (except certified service animals), non-folding strollers, or food & drink (other than bottled water) are permitted on the shuttles.
Comfort and Safety: Wear comfortable shoes and sunscreen, as there’s a lot of walking and it can get warm. Williamson Health and EMS services are available on-site for any needs that may arise during the event. Restrooms are available in City Hall, the Franklin Visitor Center, and the Fourth Avenue Church of Christ. You’ll also find restroom trailers and portable restrooms throughout the festival grounds. Need a break? Take advantage of the First Horizon rest area, offering water and a comfortable lounge area to recharge and soak in the festival atmosphere.
Connectivity: New this year, United Communications has enhanced the festival experience by providing extensive Wi-Fi connectivity for both vendors and visitors.
Pet-Friendly: Leashed pups are always welcome in Franklin, a dog-friendly city where many businesses go the extra mile with water bowls and other treats for your furry friend.
Navigation: Festival maps are available on-site to help you navigate the booths and attractions.
Photo Ops: Strike a pose with the legendary Main Street Truck, adorned with rocking chairs and spring flowers, for a perfect photo memory.
Community Projects: Get involved in interactive art installations and games provided by local businesses and sponsors.
Tours and Merchandise: The Franklin Theatre offers tours and exclusive merchandise, and many businesses have Franklin-themed items for the event. Festival posters and Main Street t-shirts are available at the Heritage Foundation booth in front of the Williamson County courthouse.
Celebrate, Connect, and Create Memories at the 2024 Main Street Festival
The Main Street Festival is more than just a fun event for all ages; it’s a family-friendly celebration of Franklin’s rich cultural heritage and community spirit. It draws people to Main Street, reminding them of the memories and experiences shared across generations. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a regular attendee, the festival offers new experiences and joys each year.
Enjoy a weekend of cultural festivities, shopping, and fun at the Main Street Festival. It’s an opportunity to celebrate, connect, and make lasting memories in the heart of Williamson County, Tennessee!
