End of Summer Events in Franklin & Williamson County: September’s Best Activities
As summer winds down and fall begins to peek through, Franklin and Williamson County come alive with a variety of events celebrating this seasonal transition. Whether you’re soaking up the final warm days with outdoor concerts, indulging in farm-to-table dining, or embracing cooler evenings with nature hikes and stargazing, September offers the perfect opportunity to experience the beauty of both seasons.
Here, we’ve rounded up the top events happening this September in Franklin and Williamson County, Tennessee.
Southall Farm and Inn
As fall approaches, Southall Farm and Inn invites you to embrace the season with special events celebrating autumn’s arrival in style. • 2200 Osage Lp, Franklin, TN 37064, (615) 282-2000 •
The Rambling at Southall
September 27, 2024 and September 28, 2024
Set against the stunning backdrop of a picturesque farm and inn, spend your evening enjoying the crisp air and starlit skies. As the sun sets, you’ll experience a warm, rustic atmosphere, with chefs serving a multi-course meal that highlights seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Live music adds to the relaxed, communal vibe, making “The Rambling” a celebration of food, sustainability, and community. Each weekend’s menu features a unique ingredient produced at Southall, with September focusing on honey.
Murdoch Hill Winemaker Dinner
September 20, 2024
Experience a remarkable evening at Southall with a specially curated 5-course tasting menu, expertly paired with exceptional wines from the renowned Australian winery, Murdoch Hill. Michael Downer, winemaker at Murdoch Hill, has recently been awarded the Prime Minister of Australia National Wine Competition Trophy for the best wine in the country. This exclusive event offers the unique opportunity to be among the first in America to explore his prestigious portfolio of wines.
Morning Glory Orchard
Morning Glory Orchard is a family-owned orchard located in Nolensville, Tennessee. It offers visitors a variety of seasonal experiences, including picnics in the orchard, and special events like farm tours and mixology classes. The orchard also features a farm market where guests can purchase fresh produce, baked goods, and locally made products. As autumn arrives, Morning Glory Orchard offers a range of events perfect for enjoying the season. • 7690 Nolensville Rd, Nolensville, TN 37135, (615) 395-4088 •
Picnics in the Orchard
September 14, 2024 and September 28, 2024
Relax and enjoy a two-hour picnic in the scenic orchard, available for groups of 2, 4, or 6 people. A deluxe, artisan charcuterie box, fresh fruit, ice-cold slushies, and fruit-infused water will be provided. Guests will also receive tableware, organic bug spray, and tasty samples of items from the farm store.
Taste & Tour
September 12, 2024, September 20, 2024, and September 24, 2024
Enjoy an evening adventure at the orchard! Sip on a refreshing slushie as you take a guided tour through the orchard, where you’ll hear about the family’s history and learn about their farming practices. Afterward, gather with fellow visitors to sample a variety of delicious food and drinks. This event offers a fun, relaxed way to learn more about the orchard beyond a typical visit.
Mixology Craft Cocktail Class
September 13, 2024
Learn how to use award-winning hard cider in your favorite drinks and how non-alcoholic ciders can serve as mixers for classic cocktails. This 21+ class offers insight into the art of making hard cider and the story behind its creation. Participants will enjoy the equivalent of three alcoholic drinks, each paired with complimentary food. A recipe card is provided, ensuring you can recreate these drinks at home.
Wines in the Fork
Wines in the Fork is a charming wine-tasting venue located along Leiper’s Creek in Franklin, Tennessee. Guests can enjoy a relaxed, creekside setting while sampling a variety of wines, perfect for casual visits or small gatherings. • 4165 Old Hillsboro Rd., Franklin, TN 37064, (615) 614-3555 •
Farmstead Roots Creek Dinner Series
September 27, 2024 and September 28, 2024
Creek Dinners at Wines in the Fork offer a truly unique dining experience, featuring a 5-course prix fixe menu crafted by local chefs and perfectly paired with wines from Farmstead Cellar and Crown Winery. Set in the creek under twinkling lights in the picturesque Leipers Fork, these evenings also include live music, a cocktail hour, local artisan demonstrations, and a cozy bonfire during cooler months.
Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary
Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary is a private, non-profit wildlife sanctuary in Brentwood, Tennessee, dedicated to environmental education and conservation. The sanctuary spans 300 acres and offers a variety of programs, including nature hikes, wildlife encounters, and educational workshops focused on native plants and animals. Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary offers a variety of engaging events this fall, providing a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of the season. • 545 Beech Creek Rd S, Brentwood, TN 37027, (615) 370-4672 •
Dinner in the Forest
September 15, 2024
Dinner in the Forest returns to Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary in Brentwood. This unique outdoor event celebrates the beauty and serenity of Owl’s Hill, featuring cocktails, farm-to-fork fare, and more.
Lantern Hikes
September 20, 2024
Embark on a nighttime adventure through the woods! Guided by lantern light, you’ll listen for the calls of nocturnal creatures like owls, coyotes, crickets, and frogs while learning about the rich history of Owl’s Hill. The 1.5-mile trail is moderately challenging with uphill and downhill sections and uneven terrain. Bring your own dinner and arrive early to enjoy a picnic on the grounds.
Naturalist Workshop: Native Plant Gardening
September 21, 2024
Discover how native plants can support wildlife, enhance local ecosystems, and benefit communities. This session will introduce the Tennessee Smart Yards program and provide practical tips on creating a wildlife-friendly habitat in your own backyard. Learn how to select the right plants, where to plant them, and how to care for your garden to encourage pollinators and other wildlife.
Wild About Creepy Critters
September 28, 2024
Kick off spooky season with a fun and educational celebration of all things creepy and crawly! Meet fascinating wildlife ambassadors like bugs, snakes, and bats, and discover why these creatures are important, amazing, and not so scary after all. Learn how to coexist with and even attract some of the coolest, spookiest wildlife to your own backyard. A special presentation on bats will be given and participants will have the opportunity to build and take home their own bat box, with all tools and guidance provided—no experience necessary!
Naturalist Workshops: Into the Trees
September 28, 2024
This workshop explores the incredible functions of trees, including their growth, reproduction, and the fascinating ways they communicate and interact with their environment. Participants will learn how to identify local tree species and uncover the many roles trees play in maintaining healthy ecosystems. The workshop combines classroom learning with hands-on fieldwork, so be sure to bring both a notebook and hiking boots for this engaging experience in the forest.
Dyer Observatory
Dyer Observatory, operated by Vanderbilt University, is an astronomical observatory located in Brentwood, Tennessee. It serves as a hub for public education and outreach, offering telescope nights, star-gazing events, and educational programs designed for students and astronomy enthusiasts. The observatory also hosts public lectures, special events, and concerts throughout the year, blending science and culture. This season, the observatory offers a range of events and programs designed to engage astronomy enthusiasts and music lovers. • 1000 Oman Dr, Brentwood, TN 37027, (615) 373-4897 •
LIVE! Telescope Night
September 13, 2024
Explore the wonders of the universe as Vanderbilt University Dyer Observatory opens its doors for a special evening. Visitors can view unique exhibits, engage with astronomers, and, weather permitting, observe various celestial objects through telescopes. The event follows an open house format, allowing you to arrive and depart at any time during the evening. Suggested for ages 8 and up.
Bluebird on the Mountain Concert
September 21, 2024
Enjoy an unforgettable evening as top songwriters from Bluebird Café fame perform their hits and share the stories behind them. Located on one of the highest points in Nashville, the concerts are timed to coincide with breathtaking sunsets on the portico of the Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets, lawn chairs, food, and drinks to relax on the Observatory’s front lawn. After the concert, as the stars begin to emerge, visitors can enjoy telescope views of celestial wonders, making for a perfect night of music, sunsets, and stargazing.
Meet the Astronomer Talk + Telescope Viewing
September 26, 2024
In the nearly three years since its launch, the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has been at the forefront of astronomical breakthroughs, delivering stunning images and uncovering new cosmic mysteries. This presentation will explore what makes JWST so successful, highlighting its most significant findings, what they reveal about the cosmos, and what future discoveries may lie ahead. The event will feature breathtaking images captured by this remarkable telescope. This talk is designed for teens and adults and will be presented by Dr. Aaron Stemo, an astrophysicist working at Vanderbilt University.
Deer Run Camps and Retreats
Deer Run is a scenic retreat and camp located just south of Franklin, Tennessee. Set on a private 150-acre property, Deer Run provides a range of activities, from summer camps and weekend retreats to corporate team-building and outdoor adventures. • 3845 Perkins Rd, Thompson’s Station, TN 37179, (615) 794-2918 •
Deer Run’s Mother-Daughter Getaway Weekend
September 13 through 15, 2024
This special weekend getaway is designed to help mothers and daughters connect on a deeper level and enjoy quality time together. The retreat kicks off on Friday evening with an outdoor movie night under the stars, complete with cozy blankets and pillows. Don’t forget to stop by the Camp Store for popcorn, snacks, and drinks. On Saturday, enjoy a glow night dance party, followed by nighttime wagon rides, stargazing, and a campfire with s’mores. This weekend retreat is ideal for moms with daughters aged 5-14, though daughters of all ages, as well as grandmothers, aunts, foster moms, and mentors, are welcome.
Spring Hill Outdoor Music Series
The Spring Hill Outdoor Music Series is a monthly event held at Harvey Park, a community park in Spring Hill, Tennessee. • 4001 Miles Johnson Pkwy, Spring Hill, TN 37174, (931) 487-0027 •
Pickin’ In The Park
September 21, 2024
Don’t miss the final Pickin’ In The Park for 2024! This outdoor music series showcases talented local musicians and songwriters, offering a fun and relaxing evening for the community. Guests are encouraged to bring chairs and blankets to enjoy the performances, and food trucks will be on-site for refreshments. This free, family-friendly live music event is perfect for all ages.
Westhaven Porchfest
Porchfest is a beloved annual event that brings together friends and neighbors to enjoy the rich musical heritage of Middle Tennessee in the scenic Westhaven community. • 191 Front St, Franklin, TN 37064 •
Journey Resurrection & Child’s Anthem -The Music of Toto
September 21, 2024
Throughout the day, free live music will be performed around the Westhaven neighborhood, complemented by delicious food and drinks. The festivities culminate in a ticketed evening concert featuring Resurrection – A Journey Tribute and Child’s Anthem – The Music of Toto. Resurrection will deliver a true 1980s Journey concert experience with top-tier Nashville musicians. Meanwhile, Child’s Anthem, featuring Westhaven favorites Keith and Janna Landry, is a tribute to the legendary music of Toto, performed by some of Nashville’s finest studio musicians. Proceeds from the event benefit The Westhaven Foundation.
The Park at Harlinsdale Farm
The Park at Harlinsdale Farm is a historic, 200-acre park in Franklin, Tennessee. Once a renowned horse breeding farm, it now offers walking trails, a dog park, fishing ponds, and also hosts community events. • 239 Franklin Rd, Franklin, TN 37064, (615) 794-2103 •
Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival 2024
September 28 – 29, 2024
The Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival is an annual two-day outdoor event that draws thousands of attendees of all ages. The festival features a diverse lineup, including Rock & Roll, Americana, Alt-Country, Bluegrass, Jazz, Indie, Gospel, Pop, and Blues across multiple stages. Along with the music, the festival showcases local artisans, food trucks, restaurants, and makers. Pilgrimage is family-friendly and, through the Pilgrimage Foundation, supports various local causes, donating to organizations such as Friends of Franklin Parks, MusiCares, Dark Horse Institute, and others.
More Pilgrimage Fun
For even more Pilgrimage Festival fun, Downtown Franklin offers a variety of activities to explore throughout the weekend.
The Harpeth Hotel
The Harpeth Hotel is joining in the excitement of the Pilgrimage Festival weekend! As festival-goers enjoy the rich lineup of performances at the Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival, they can extend their experience with intimate performances at the hotel, making it a perfect complement to the weekend’s festivities in Downtown Franklin. • 130 2nd Ave N, Franklin, TN 37064, (615) 786-0840 •
Harpeth Courtyard Barbeque
Friday, September 27th: Enjoy live music from Troy Doherty and a grilling experience in the Courtyard from 4 pm to 9 pm, featuring wings, pork belly, BBQ chicken, craft beer, and cocktails.
1799 Kitchen & Cocktails
Thursday, September 26th: Listen to live music from Anna Ferris from 3 pm to 6 pm and enjoy late night food and live music from Dallas Duff from 7 pm to 10 pm.
Friday, September 27th: Enjoy food and live music from Nick Jackson from 2 pm to 5 pm, Troy Doherty from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm, and Drew Whitehead from 9 pm to midnight.
Saturday, September 28th and Sunday, September 29th: Enjoy food and live music from Steven Gary from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm and Brian Ashley Jones from 9 pm to midnight.
McGavock’s
Saturday, September 28th: Listen to live music from Mary Lou from 10 am to 1 pm.
Sunday, September 29th: Enjoy live music from Melissa Duval from 11 am to 2 pm.
Five Points Franklin Market
Stop by the Five Points Franklin Market on September 26th from 4 pm to 8 pm for the special Pilgrimage Market, featuring live music from Thom Ellis Band & Back 2 Rock. Browse the offerings from over 30 local farm, art, and food vendors. Enjoy food trucks like Lil Cancun On-the-Go and Ellie’s Doughnuts, plus entertainment, including dancing by the Rocky Top Revue and a Kids Zone with inflatables and activities for children. It’s the perfect way to complement your festival experience! • Franklin, TN 37064, (615) 419-7177 •
Wrapping Up September in Franklin and Williamson County
With the perfect blend of summer warmth and fall charm, September in Franklin and Williamson County offers endless opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, indulge in local flavors, and connect with the community. From concerts and festivals to nature walks and unique dining experiences, there’s something for everyone to savor this month. Don’t miss out on the chance to embrace the changing season and create lasting memories!
