Dickens of a Christmas in Franklin, TN: The Must-See Christmas Festival Near Nashville
Each December, Dickens of a Christmas in Franklin, Tennessee, transforms downtown into a bustling Victorian village, making it one of the top Christmas festivals near Nashville and a signature holiday event in Middle Tennessee. Thousands of residents and visitors line Main Street to enjoy costumed characters, live entertainment, artisan vendors, seasonal food, and the classic Christmas atmosphere Franklin is known for. Whether you’re planning a December trip to Franklin, looking for holiday events in Williamson County, or searching for festive things to do near Nashville, Dickens of a Christmas remains a can’t-miss tradition that captures the spirit of the season.
The Story Behind Franklin’s Dickens of a Christmas
The Heritage Foundation of Williamson County launched Dickens of a Christmas 40 years ago as a way to celebrate the holidays while supporting downtown Franklin’s historic preservation. The very first event was a modest gathering that covered just two blocks of Main Street and attracted a small crowd. Even so, it planted the seed for a holiday tradition that would soon take hold in the community and grow into one of Franklin’s most beloved annual celebrations.
As Franklin’s reputation for historic beauty gained national attention, tourism increased, and the festival expanded along with it. Today, Dickens of a Christmas includes seasonal food vendors, a beer garden, live music, a whiskey lounge, and dedicated family-friendly zones. These offerings have helped the event become one of the largest outdoor Christmas festivals in Tennessee. In recent years, attendance has surpassed 150,000 visitors across the weekend, bringing a significant boost to downtown Franklin’s shops, restaurants, and hotels during one of the busiest times of the year.
What to See and Do at Dickens of a Christmas in Franklin, TN
Charles Dickens’ stories serve as the inspiration for much of what visitors experience at the festival. His 19th-century writings, especially A Christmas Carol, shaped many traditions associated with the modern Christmas season and introduced characters like Ebenezer Scrooge, Tiny Tim, and the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future. The festival brings these classics to life through costumed performers, themed entertainment, and a Victorian-era setting that reflects the world Dickens wrote about.
During the event, Franklin’s historic Main Street takes on the feel of an open-air stage. The preserved brick buildings and walkable blocks create a backdrop that naturally echoes the Victorian era, giving the festival a sense of immersion from the moment visitors arrive. Seasonal décor, costumed characters moving throughout the street, and the steady flow of activity all contribute to an environment that feels theatrical, as if the entire downtown district has been transformed into a living set inspired by Dickens’ world.
Costumed Characters Bring the Classics to Life
Meeting Dickens’ characters is always a highlight for families. Throughout the festival, you’ll spot Ebenezer Scrooge scowling and muttering “humbug,” the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future making their rounds, and Bob Cratchit and Tiny Tim greeting visitors. Characters from other Dickens works appear as well, including Fagin and the Artful Dodger from Oliver Twist, along with Victorian-era lamplighters, vendors, and townsfolk who help bring the 19th-century atmosphere to life. These characters don’t just pose for photos; they interact, perform short scenes, and give visitors the feeling of being inside a living storybook.
The Victorian Village
The Victorian Village is one of the central features of Dickens of a Christmas, a dedicated area filled with holiday dancers, costumed characters, and live entertainers. In addition to performances, the Village hosts a large artisan marketplace where visitors can browse handcrafted goods, ornaments, artwork, candles, soaps, children’s items, Christmas décor, and specialty gifts.
Live Music and Entertainment
The festival features multiple stages with a full lineup of live entertainment. Throughout the weekend, you might hear traditional carolers in Victorian dress, choirs and youth ensembles, and bluegrass, folk, or acoustic holiday sets. The steady flow of performances keeps every part of Main Street feeling festive and lively.
Food, Drinks, and Treats
The festival offers a wide variety of food and drink options. Guests will find booths offering snacks and meals, from sweets and treats to hearty fare, alongside traditional offerings like kettle corn or hot chocolate. For adults, there’s a dedicated beer garden and a whiskey lounge, creating a space to mingle. Meanwhile, downtown Franklin’s restaurants and cafés stay open through the weekend, inviting visitors to experience the city’s local dining scene as part of their festival visit.
Holiday Shopping During the Festival
Downtown Franklin’s shops play a major role in the festival weekend, and most extend their hours to welcome the influx of visitors. Boutiques, galleries, specialty stores, and antique shops along Main Street and the surrounding blocks stay open throughout Dickens of a Christmas, giving guests the chance to browse for gifts, holiday décor, clothing, books, and locally made goods. Many businesses offer seasonal displays or in-store specials, creating a blend of the festival atmosphere and the shopping experience. It’s an ideal time for both locals and visitors to explore Franklin’s retail district while taking in the sights and sounds of the celebration.
Experience Dickens of a Christmas in Franklin, TN
Dickens of a Christmas takes place each December in the heart of historic downtown Franklin, stretching along Main Street and into the surrounding blocks. The festival runs over a full weekend, transforming the area into a Victorian-themed holiday celebration. Admission is free, making it one of the most accessible and family-friendly Christmas events in Middle Tennessee.
Parking and Transportation
Because downtown parking fills quickly, visitors are encouraged to use the event’s convenient transportation options. Park-and-ride shuttles operate from designated lots, including at Franklin High School and the Park at Harlinsdale Farm, and public parking garages remain available throughout the weekend. Once you’re downtown, Franklin’s pedestrian-friendly layout makes it easy to explore the event on foot.
Tips for a Smooth Experience
A little planning goes a long way in making the most of the festival.
- Arrive early to avoid the heaviest crowds, which typically build in the afternoon.
- Dress for the weather, as the festival continues rain or shine.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking several blocks.
- Bring a bag if you plan to shop the artisan marketplace.
- Plan ahead for dining, since downtown restaurants fill quickly; reservations can help secure a spot.
Accessibility
Dickens of a Christmas is designed to be welcoming for all guests. Shuttles and public areas include accessible options, and the festival’s wide street layout accommodates strollers, wheelchairs, and mobility devices.
Plan Your Visit
With so much to see along Main Street, many visitors make Dickens of a Christmas part of a full holiday weekend in Franklin. From the Victorian Village and artisan marketplace to entertainment, shopping, and dining, the festival offers plenty to enjoy at your own pace. Reviewing parking details, shuttle information, and your must-see stops ahead of time can help you make the most of your visit. For current schedules and official updates, visit the Heritage Foundation of Williamson County’s events page.
Dickens of a Christmas Through the Years: A Photo Gallery
Step into the history of one of Franklin’s most beloved holiday traditions with this look back at Dickens of a Christmas over the years. From early Main Street gatherings to today’s bustling Victorian celebration, these photos capture the costumes, characters, decorations, and festive moments that have shaped the event. Browse the gallery to see how Franklin’s streets transform each December and how the community has embraced this holiday tradition season after season.
More Holiday Attractions in Franklin, TN
With so many people traveling to Franklin for Dickens of a Christmas, the festival weekend has naturally become a popular time to explore other seasonal events and attractions around town. Many visitors turn the outing into a full day, or even a full weekend, by pairing the festival with local holiday lights, live performances, shopping destinations, or historic tours.
Franklin offers a wide range of December activities that complement the Victorian atmosphere of the event, giving families and visitors even more ways to enjoy the holiday season.
- FrankTown Festival of Lights – Drive-through Christmas lights at the Williamson County Ag Expo Center.
- Holiday movies and concerts at The Franklin Theatre.
- Christmas shopping at The Factory at Franklin, McEwen Northside, or CoolSprings Galleria.
- Historic home tours at Carnton, Carter House, or Lotz House.
Keep Discovering Franklin, Tennessee
If you’re planning a holiday visit or want to learn more about what Franklin offers year-round, these articles provide helpful insights into local lodging, dining, shopping, and historic experiences:
Where to Stay in Franklin, TN for the Holidays: Best Hotels, Inns & Vacation Rentals offers a practical guide to the area’s most welcoming places to stay during the holiday season, including boutique inns, family-friendly hotels, and locally owned accommodations close to downtown.
Antique Shopping in Franklin, TN and Williamson County: Best Antique Stores and Vintage Finds looks at the region’s well-known antique shops and hidden gems, offering everything from furniture and artwork to collectibles and architectural pieces.
Best Ghost Tours in Downtown Franklin: Exploring Tennessee’s Haunted Past gives an overview of the guided tours that explore Franklin’s historic streets, notable landmarks, and long-told stories of the town’s past.
Fine Dining Guide Franklin, TN: Upscale Restaurants and Bars features a curated list of high-end dining spots and cocktail bars, ideal for those looking to enjoy a special night out before or after festival events.
