Holiday Shows in Franklin, TN: Ballet, Concerts & Christmas Theater
Holiday shows in Franklin, Tennessee, take center stage each December, making it one of the most festive times of year in Williamson County. As holiday lights brighten downtown, theaters and performance venues across the area fill their calendars with Christmas concerts, ballet, comedy, family-friendly performances, and seasonal theater. From large-scale productions featuring world-class dancers to intimate jazz concerts, country Christmas events, and beloved community shows, holiday entertainment in Franklin offers something for every age and interest.
This guide highlights the top holiday shows in Franklin and Williamson County to help you plan where to go, what to see, and how to make the most of the season.
The Franklin Theatre: A Month of Holiday Concerts and Films
At The Franklin Theatre, December programming offers a little bit of everything: country, jazz, vintage holiday music, tribute acts, and Christmas movies. The historic Main Street venue transforms into a festive setting throughout the month, making it a popular gathering place for locals and visitors alike.
Rock the Halls: A Christmas Celebration – December 2
The Franklin Theatre’s holiday season begins with Rock the Halls: A Christmas Celebration, a lively concert led by Rich Jacques and Friends. The show features upbeat holiday arrangements, guest performers, and a celebratory feel. For audiences who enjoy modern takes on Christmas classics, this is a must-see.
A Very Merry Nashville Christmas – December 8
A Very Merry Nashville Christmas brings a Music City twist to holiday favorites. This performance blends Christmas melodies with Nashville-style harmonies, instrumentation, and arrangements. It’s a great way to enjoy the sound that Nashville is known for, right in downtown Franklin.
Christmas with the King: A Holiday Tribute to Elvis – December 13 & 14
Mid-month, the Franklin Theatre welcomes back one of its most popular seasonal events. Christmas with the King: A Holiday Tribute to Elvis combines Elvis-inspired vocals in a tribute show that honors Presley’s iconic sound. With two performances on the calendar, it’s a highlight for fans of both Elvis and traditional holiday music.
The Best of Christmas: A Musical Celebration! – December 15
The Best of Christmas: A Musical Celebration! stars Ryan J. Driscoll, Julie Marie Hart, and guest performers. The show features nostalgic arrangements and timeless Christmas songs performed with warmth and musical precision. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a traditional holiday concert.
David Ian Vintage Christmas Experience – December 17
Continuing the theme of timeless holiday music, the David Ian Vintage Christmas Experience brings jazz-influenced arrangements to the Franklin Theatre stage. Ian’s smooth, elegant style creates a cozy evening of seasonal favorites, perfect for a night out in the middle of December.
The Gatlin Brothers’ Country & Christmas – December 20
The season closes with The Gatlin Brothers’ Country & Christmas, a concert that blends holiday songs with their signature country harmonies. Known for rich vocals and heartfelt delivery, the Gatlins create a nostalgic Christmas atmosphere.
Franklin Theatre Holiday Movies – All Month Long
In addition to its live performances, The Franklin Theatre offers a lineup of holiday films throughout December. From classic black-and-white Christmas movies to animated family favorites, these screenings provide a relaxed way to enjoy the season in the heart of downtown Franklin. The theatre’s holiday film series has become a favorite annual tradition for many families.
Williamson County Performing Arts Center: Ballet and Holiday Concerts
The Williamson County Performing Arts Center at Academy Park opens the month with three standout performances, beginning with internationally acclaimed ballet and ending with high-energy holiday rock ’n’ roll. Together, these three productions create a festive early-December lineup, giving the Williamson County Performing Arts Center a prominent place in Franklin’s holiday entertainment scene.
Grand Kyiv Ballet: Swan Lake – December 1
The month begins with Swan Lake, presented by the Grand Kyiv Ballet. The production features choreography rooted in classical ballet tradition, stunning wardrobe designs, and dancers recognized for technical excellence. It’s a chance to see an internationally recognized ballet company perform a classic work right here in Williamson County.
Grand Kyiv Ballet: The Nutcracker – December 2
The holiday season continues with The Nutcracker, one of the most beloved Christmas traditions in the world of dance. Families can enjoy Clara, the Nutcracker Prince, the Mouse King, and the Sugar Plum Fairy in a performance that honors the timeless staging and technique that audiences expect. The Nutcracker is often a child’s first introduction to ballet, making this show a memorable choice for families and an excellent way to usher in the holiday season.
Jacob Tolliver’s A Million Dollar Christmas – December 4
Just two days later, the PAC shifts from ballet to high-energy holiday music with Jacob Tolliver’s A Million Dollar Christmas. Tolliver, known for his piano-driven rock ’n’ roll style inspired by the legendary Million Dollar Quartet, brings fast tempos, showmanship, and holiday flair to a concert that blends Christmas classics with rockabilly energy. It’s an ideal pick for those who want a spirited, lively performance to kick off their holiday celebrations.
Pull-Tight Players Theatre: A Holiday Comedy in Downtown Franklin
Pull-Tight Players Theatre brings community theater to downtown Franklin with an inviting atmosphere and a long-standing tradition of showcasing local talent. Founded in 1968, the nonprofit troupe is one of Franklin’s oldest arts organizations and is known for producing high-quality shows with volunteer actors, directors, and designers from the community.
Seasonal Allergies – December 10 through 14
This December, the group presents Seasonal Allergies, a lighthearted comedy that follows a family navigating the hectic pace of the holidays and the emotional ups and downs that come with gathering at home. The show offers humor, relatable moments, and heartfelt scenes woven into a fast-paced holiday narrative. With Pull-Tight’s intimate stage and close audience seating, Seasonal Allergies delivers a cozy, up-close theater experience that is perfectly suited for the season.
The Factory at Franklin: Holiday Shows at Turner Theater, Liberty Hall, and The Mockingbird Theater
The Factory at Franklin has become a major hub for holiday entertainment, offering shows across Turner Theater, Liberty Hall, and The Mockingbird Theater. Each venue brings a different type of holiday experience, making The Factory a popular destination for December nights out.
Studio Tenn Presents White Christmas – December 4–7
Studio Tenn begins the month with White Christmas at Turner Theater, the stage adaptation of the film known for songs like Sisters, Count Your Blessings Instead of Sheep, and White Christmas. Studio Tenn provides polished, professional productions, and their staging of this beloved musical delivers nostalgia, dance numbers, and classic holiday storytelling.
A Franklin Christmas: Steven Curtis Chapman & Friends – December 15
Steven Curtis Chapman headlines A Franklin Christmas at Liberty Hall on December 15. The performance includes seasonal music, storytelling, and collaborations with guest musicians. Held inside one of The Factory’s largest event spaces, the concert delivers a dynamic holiday experience.
Rachel Summers Jazz Christmas – December 18
On December 18, The Mockingbird Theater hosts Rachel Summers Jazz Christmas, an evening of smooth vocals and jazz interpretations of holiday songs. The venue’s cozy atmosphere and cabaret-style setup make it a natural choice for a stylish December concert.
Country Christmas with Kirbi and Friends – December 20
Closing out The Factory’s lineup, Country Christmas with Kirbi and Friends takes place on December 20 at The Mockingbird Theatre. The concert spotlights emerging Nashville artists performing holiday music infused with country flavor, making for another strong option for fans of Nashville-style sound.
Southall Farm & Inn: A Cozy Holiday Dinner and Music Experience
Southall Farm & Inn creates an inviting setting for seasonal celebrations, blending its winter harvest menu with live performances. Known for its emphasis on fresh, local cuisine and Southern hospitality, Southall offers a holiday experience that is both elevated and welcoming.
Sounds of the Season – December 19 & 20
Southall’s Sounds of the Season experience features a multi-course family-style dinner inspired by Southall’s winter harvest, paired with live holiday music from Cassandra Lewis. The combination of seasonal dishes, candlelit ambiance, and soulful holiday melodies makes it a unique alternative to traditional concerts or theater performances.
Plan Your Holiday Entertainment in Franklin, TN
With concerts, ballets, comedies, musicals, and holiday dinners happening across Franklin, December offers a full season of entertainment for every taste. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a date night, or simply looking for something festive to enjoy before Christmas, Franklin’s theaters deliver an impressive range of options.
Schedules may shift and holiday shows can sell out quickly, so checking individual theater calendars and reserving tickets early is recommended. Bookmark this guide for easy reference throughout the season and explore everything Franklin has to offer during the holidays!
Explore More Seasonal Guides and Holiday Stories
If you’re looking for even more ways to celebrate the season, be sure to explore our related articles. Christmas in Nashville 2025: Holiday Events, Shows, and Light Displays highlights holiday attractions just a short drive away. For local shopping, Holiday Markets in Franklin and Williamson County, TN: Handmade Gifts, Local Vendors, and Festive Fun showcases where to find unique gifts. If seasonal drinks are on your list, Sipping Through the Snow: Great Spots for Holiday Cocktails in Franklin offers plenty of inspiration. And music lovers can look ahead with Williamson County Performing Arts Center Announces 2026 Winter Tribute Series, featuring details on upcoming performances.
