Carousel of Dreams Anniversary Events Coming to The Factory at Franklin
The Carousel of Dreams at The Factory at Franklin will celebrate its first anniversary with two special events on May 30th and 31st, including a free family celebration and a ticketed evening event for guests 21 and older.
The milestone weekend highlights the carousel’s larger purpose. The Circle of Giving was founded in 2024 by Holladay Properties, developers of The Factory at Franklin, to operate The Carousel of Dreams by Ken Means and direct its proceeds to local charitable organizations. Every ride helps generate support for an annually selected group of Williamson County nonprofits.
The free One Year Anniversary Celebration will take place Saturday, May 30, 2026, from 10 am to 2 pm at the Carousel of Dreams at The Factory at Franklin. Families can enjoy Touch-A-Truck with the Franklin Fire Department, face painting, superheroes and princesses, and the Department of Curious Things art bus led by Anna Skates. Children can also meet “Nugget” the turtle during a hands-on activity experience.
On Sunday, May 31, 2026, The Circle of Giving will debut The COG Experience, a 21-and-over ticketed evening at the Carousel of Dreams from 6:30 to 8:30 pm. The inaugural event will feature a curated tasting experience with favorites from The Factory at Franklin, including Edley’s Bar-B-Que, etch, Five Daughters Bakery, Hattie B’s, Mojo’s Tacos, and Slim & Husky’s Pizza, along with Suzette Catering and Events. Guests can also enjoy craft cocktails and refreshments from The Skylight Bar, live entertainment from Jake Burman & Co. on the Red Wheel Stage, and a silent auction featuring items from Factory at Franklin retailers and partners. The event will benefit FrankTown Open Hearts, Friends of Franklin Parks, Hard Bargain Association, and Needs of Our Kids (NOOK). Tickets are available online.
Both events will be held at the Carousel of Dreams at The Factory at Franklin, located at 230 Franklin Road in Franklin. The weekend offers the community a chance to celebrate the carousel’s first year while supporting the mission behind it.
