Celebrate Ben Franklin’s Birthday in Franklin With These Events!
Benjamin Franklin’s 320th birthday falls on January 17th, making this a fitting time to celebrate the Founding Father whose legacy is woven into the identity of Franklin, Tennessee. Established in 1799, the community honors Franklin for his lasting influence on early American civic life, science, and diplomacy.
Franklin is marking Ben Franklin’s birthday with a series of events that bring his story out of the history books and into public spaces. From live theatre and public art to books and interactive experiences, these programs offer ways to engage with Franklin’s legacy right here in his namesake town.
Ben Franklin Lives
Date: January 16, 2026
Location: The Franklin Theatre
This immersive theatrical experience blends history with live performance, drawing directly from Benjamin Franklin’s original writings and correspondence. Set in September 1775, Benjamin Franklin Lives places audiences inside a secret meeting called by Franklin shortly after his dramatic escape from England. Recently returned to America and facing political danger abroad, Franklin recounts his adventures, ideas, and observations with humor and insight.
Performed by Tony Rollo, the show removes traditional boundaries between performer and audience, creating an interactive setting. Rollo brings decades of experience as a media producer and theatrical performer, offering a thoughtful portrayal of Franklin as a polymath, diplomat, and keen observer of human nature.
Learn more and get tickets here.
Ben on the Bench Statue Unveiling
Date: January 17, 2026
Location: Williamson County Archives and Museum
Benjamin Franklin will gain a permanent presence downtown with the unveiling of Ben on the Bench, a bronze statue by acclaimed sculptor George Lundeen. The statue depicts Benjamin Franklin seated on a bench, inviting passersby to stop, sit, and reflect.
The unveiling will be held outside the Williamson County Archives and Museum near the Five Points Post Office, a nod to Franklin’s role as America’s first Postmaster General. The project was funded by a donation from Pamela Lewis in support of America250, the nationwide commemoration of the United States’ 250th anniversary in 2026.
The ceremony includes fife and drum music, a Color Guard musket salute, living history elements, and a public reception with birthday cake. A companion historical marker and a new gallery wall exhibit inside the museum will further explore Franklin’s legacy, with displays on view through the end of 2026.
Immediately following the statue unveiling, author Pamela Lewis will host a book signing at noon featuring her two Franklin-focused titles: Benjamin Franklin: America’s First Rockstar and Benjamin Franklin Visits Franklin for a Day. The signing offers an opportunity to meet the author and explore Franklin’s story through a local lens. Copies will be available for purchase on site.
Learn more and RSVP by emailing BenontheBenchTN@gmail.com.
Meet Ben Franklin! Special Walking Tour
Date: January 17, 2026
Location: Downtown Franklin Public Square in front of the courthouse
Hosted by Franklin Walking Tours, this family-focused walking tour invites kids to meet Benjamin Franklin himself. Portrayed by Tony Rollo, “Ben” shares stories of his life, inventions, travels, and ideas in an age-appropriate format.
The tour is designed to be interactive, with time for questions and photos, and connects directly to the day’s earlier statue unveiling downtown. Guests will also have the chance to purchase the special children’s book created for the weekend at a discounted price.
Learn more and get tickets here.
Meet America’s First Rock Star: Benjamin Franklin at the Moore
Date: January 19, 2026
Location: Moore-Morris History and Culture Center of Williamson County
The celebration continues with a special presentation of Benjamin Franklin Lives at the Moore–Morris History and Culture Center. This one-day engagement offers an intimate setting for Franklin’s story.
Set after Franklin’s return from Paris, the performance reflects on his diplomatic career and his evolving role as the nation prepares for its future. A reception with food and drink will precede the program, and commemorative books for children and adults will be available for purchase. The event is part of the City of Franklin’s observance of the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary.
Learn more and purchase tickets here.
