Holiday Magic on Stage: Can’t-Miss Theater and Concerts in Franklin
The holiday season in Franklin and Williamson County brings with it a lineup of festive entertainment that captures the spirit of the season. From cherished holiday traditions to fresh interpretations of beloved classics, the area’s arts scene shines brightly with something for everyone. Whether you’re drawn to nostalgic melodies, classic tales, or lively musical performances, Franklin offers a variety of shows that embrace the warmth, joy, and magic of this special time of year.
With such a rich selection of holiday performances to choose from, you’re sure to find a show that resonates with you and your loved ones, adding a little extra sparkle to your season. So, gather your family and friends, bundle up, and get ready to experience the best holiday entertainment right here in Franklin, Tennessee.
Here’s a look at the holiday shows and concerts in Franklin that are sure to light up your holidays.
Christmas with the Nelsons
If you’re looking for a nostalgic, family-friendly show, Christmas with the Nelsons is a must-see this season. Telling the heartwarming story of three generations of holiday celebrations in America’s beloved Nelson family, this multimedia live concert experience combines Everly Brothers-style harmonies, Smothers Brothers-style humor, and Christmas classics reimagined with the signature Nelson touch. Featuring multi-platinum recording artists Matthew and Gunnar Nelson, the show blends family stories, sibling vocals, and big-screen visuals to take audiences on a joyful journey through Christmases past and present. It’s a holiday celebration full of music, laughs, and holiday magic, inviting fans of all ages to join in the fun.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of the Nelsons or simply in the mood for a feel-good holiday experience, Christmas with the Nelsons is sure to lift your spirits and brighten the season. Get tickets here.
When: December 1st
Where: The Franklin Theatre, 419 Main St, Franklin, TN 37064
Christmas in Paradise Musical
Presented by About the Town Productions, Christmas in Paradise is a heartwarming and humorous musical set in the quaint town of Paradise. As Christmas Day approaches, thrift store owners Matthew and Mary face numerous personal challenges, from caring for a parent with dementia to managing meddling neighbors. Written by Wally Nason, this 90-minute show is filled with laughter and inspiration, highlighting themes of overcoming life’s obstacles during the holidays.
In partnership with the Tennessee Alzheimer’s Association, this production shines a light on important issues while delivering a magical holiday experience. Get tickets here.
When: December 5th, 6th, and 7th, and December 14th
Where: Franklin Playhouse, 130 Seaboard Ln, Franklin, TN 37067, and Jenkins Cumberland Presbyterian Church, 2501 York Rd, Nolensville, TN 37135
Studio Tenn Presents: Million Dollar Quartet Christmas
Studio Tenn brings back its hit musical Million Dollar Quartet Christmas to the Turner Theater at The Factory at Franklin, following a sold-out run last season. This high-energy production celebrates the legendary 1956 recording session that brought together Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins for an unforgettable evening of music.
Set during the holiday season, this special Christmas edition of the show combines the iconic rock ‘n’ roll hits of these music legends with festive holiday classics, creating the perfect blend of holiday spirit and rockabilly flair. Audiences can expect a thrilling performance filled with favorite songs, lively characters, and electrifying energy that captures the magic of the holidays.
Get ready for an unforgettable night filled with holiday magic and nostalgic hits like Run Rudolph Run, Jingle Bell Rock, and I’ll Be Home for Christmas. With its nostalgic charm and toe-tapping tunes, Million Dollar Quartet Christmas is sure to entertain music lovers and holiday enthusiasts alike. Get tickets here.
When: Select days December 5th through 29th
Where: Turner Theater, The Factory at Franklin, 230 Franklin Rd, Franklin, TN 37064
Winter Wonderettes
Enjoy a festive and nostalgic journey with Winter Wonderettes at Pull-Tight Players Theatre. This seasonal celebration takes place at the annual Harper’s Hardware Holiday Party, where the Wonderettes are set to entertain. However, when Santa goes missing, the talented women must use their creativity and charm to save the day.
The show features lively ’60s renditions of holiday classics like Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town, Jingle Bell Rock, Run, Rudolph, Run, and Winter Wonderland. With plenty of humor, heart, and timeless tunes, Winter Wonderettes delivers a marvelous mix of holiday spirit and retro fun. Tickets go on sale on November 25th.
When: December 6th through 8th, 11th through 15th, and 18th through 21st
Where: Pull Tight Players Theatre, 112 2nd Ave S, Franklin, TN 37064
Christmas with the King: A Holiday Tribute to Elvis
Celebrate the holidays in style at Christmas with the King: A Holiday Tribute to Elvis Presley, hosted at the historic Franklin Theatre. This isn’t just any Elvis show—it’s a full-blown holiday extravaganza that brings the magic and music of Elvis to life. Expect dazzling performances of timeless songs like Blue Christmas and Santa Claus is Back in Town, mixed with other beloved Elvis favorites.
Presented by the Nashville Elvis Festival, this 7th annual event stars Graceland’s 2023 Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist World Champion, Cote Deonath. Known for his incredible portrayal of Elvis, Cote leads this high-octane holiday concert that has become a beloved Franklin tradition. Backed by the Infinit-E Tribute Band, the official house band of the Nashville Elvis Festival, the show also features festive costume changes, a visit from Santa Claus, and a mix of the King’s biggest hits.
This two-hour show is perfect for families and anyone looking to add a nostalgic rock ‘n’ roll twist to their holiday season. Get your tickets here before they sell out.
When: Dec 7th and 8th
Where: The Franklin Theatre. 419 Main St, Franklin, TN 37064
Suzy Bogguss: Swingin’ Little Christmas
Join Grammy Award-winning country music star Suzy Bogguss for Swingin’ Little Christmas, a lively and festive evening filled with traditional holiday songs and plenty of surprises. With outstanding musicianship and Suzy’s smooth vocals, the concert moves from sentimental classics like I’ll Be Home for Christmas to the upbeat Two Step Round The Christmas Tree.
Suzy herself notes that the audience plays a special role in each show, creating a warm and interactive atmosphere. This holiday concert is perfect for fans of classic country music and those looking for a fun, upbeat way to celebrate the season. Held at the historic Franklin Theatre, Suzy Bogguss’ Swingin’ Little Christmas promises to be a joyful event that will leave you humming along and feeling the holiday cheer. Get tickets here.
When: Dec 13th and 14th
Where: The Franklin Theatre, 419 Main St, Franklin, TN 37064
A Christmas Carol
Rabbit Room Theatre and Matt Logan Productions present a fresh adaptation of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. On Christmas Eve in Victorian London, Ebenezer Scrooge would rather support prisons than feed his apprentice or celebrate the holiday season. Yet, as the night unfolds, a series of ghostly visitors will forever alter his view, revealing how even the coldest heart can find warmth before the dawn of Christmas Day.
This new adaptation of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol honors the original while offering a fresh take, reminding us that our past need not define us, our future remains unwritten, and the present is a gift to treasure. Get tickets here.
When: Select days December 7th through 22nd
Where: FSSD Performing Arts Center, 1030 Excellence Way, Franklin, TN 37064
Williamson County Community Chorus Winter 2024 Concert
The Williamson County Community Chorus will be performing its Winter 2024 Concert, bringing the magic of choral music to the holiday season. This afternoon concert will showcase a selection of Christmas classics and seasonal favorites. The event is a wonderful opportunity to experience the serene and reflective side of the holiday season, with harmonies that capture the joy and warmth of this special time of year.
Bring your family and friends for an afternoon of beautiful music and let the choral performances fill you with holiday cheer.
When: December 15th
Where: Franklin First United Methodist Church, 120 Aldersgate Way, Franklin, TN 37069
BrightStone Christmas Concert
Join the community for a heartwarming evening of music at the BrightStone Christmas Concert. This free event features festive performances by the adults who attend BrightStone’s day program, celebrating the season with joyful music. In addition to the concert, guests can enjoy a reception with light hors d’oeuvres and shop for unique, student-crafted ceramics, food mixes, and Christmas decorations—perfect for holiday gifting.
The concert supports BrightStone’s mission of providing services to adults with special needs, making it a meaningful way to experience the season’s true spirit.
When: December 17th
Where: The Factory at Franklin, Liberty Hall, 230 Franklin Rd, Franklin, TN 37064
The Music of A Charlie Brown Christmas with Lori Mechem
Step into the holiday spirit with the talented Lori Mechem, a distinguished jazz pianist, educator, and composer. This concert celebrates the iconic jazz score from the classic Charlie Brown Christmas special, originally composed by Vince Guaraldi. The music has become a hallmark of the holiday season, evoking nostalgia and warmth with every note.
Lori Mechem’s live performance brings the magic of the Peanuts gang to life in an intimate and cozy setting, perfect for fans of the original special and jazz lovers alike. Whether you’re reminiscing over childhood memories or simply seeking a night of holiday cheer, this concert offers a heartwarming experience that will leave you humming these timeless tunes. Get tickets here.
When: December 17th
Where: The Franklin Theatre, 419 Main St, Franklin, TN 37064
The Gatlins: Country and Christmas
Celebrate the holiday season with Larry, Steve, and Rudy—the legendary Gatlin Brothers—as they bring their Grammy Award-winning sound to The Franklin Theatre. With more than 65 years of dazzling audiences, this iconic trio will perform a mix of their greatest hits alongside holiday classics in a show that promises a night of joy and exceptional country music.
The Gatlin Brothers are renowned for their impressive career, which spans 65 years and includes a Grammy for Best Country Song, multiple Academy of Country Music awards, and numerous hit singles like All The Gold In California. Their harmonies and timeless songs have left an indelible mark on the country music world, with a catalog that includes seven #1 singles and 32 Top 40 records.
This special holiday performance will showcase their signature sound along with festive favorites. Get tickets here.
When: December 20th and 21st
Where: The Franklin Theatre, 419 Main St, Franklin, TN 37064
Celebrate the Season in Franklin and Williamson County
From high-energy musical performances to heartwarming theatrical productions, Franklin and Williamson County have an abundance of holiday entertainment options that cater to all tastes. Whether you’re looking to enjoy the timeless charm of A Christmas Carol, rock out to Elvis and the Million Dollar Quartet, or experience the jazzy sounds of A Charlie Brown Christmas, there’s something for everyone this holiday season.
With so many festive events to choose from, you’re sure to find a show or concert that will add a little extra sparkle to your holiday. Gather your loved ones and enjoy the incredible talent and entertainment that Franklin has to offer.
Looking for More Holiday Fun?
Catch special screenings of classic holiday movies at the Franklin Theatre, where you can enjoy seasonal favorites in a charming, historic setting. Or, drive through the FrankTown Festival of Lights, Williamson County’s longest holiday light display, supporting local youth.
For a complete list of holiday happenings, visit our Events Calendar and find even more ways to celebrate!
