Building a Stronger Franklin
Downtown Franklin Association
At the center of Historic Downtown Franklin is a 15-block National Register District that is home to more than 70 unique shops, restaurants and businesses.
You can find a sunny or shady spot along the street to enjoy ice cream or coffee, duck into a charming pub or sandwich shop or settle in for fine dining. You’ll also find the latest fashions, antiques, gifts of all kinds, estate jewelry, nostalgic toys, home décor, something great to read, resort wear and even personal services such as a facial or massage. Walk around the neighborhood and discover the antique districts along Second Avenue and three residential neighborhoods also on the National Register of Historic Places.
Historic Downtown Franklin is a nationally certified Main Street Community, winner in the first round of Great American Main Street awards given by the National Trust and the first Preserve America community in Tennessee. The Downtown Franklin Association works to keep the downtown district thriving with special events and promotions throughout the year, and other community groups use the picturesque Public Square for special events.
Here are some of the events you can count on year after year in and around Downtown Franklin:
March – St. Patrick’s festival Feile Franklin – Saturday before March 17
April – Main Street Festival – last full weekend
May – Rotary Rodeo Parade – third Saturday
June – Town & Country Tour of Homes – first weekend
July – Franklin on the Fourth – Independence Day
July – Bluegrass on the Harpeth music and dance festival – last weekend in July
August – Franklin Jazz Festival
August – Franklin Classic Race – Labor Day Weekend
October – Pumpkinfest – Saturday before Halloween
November – Wine Down Main Street – First Friday evening
December – Christmas Parade – first Saturday
December – Dickens of a Christmas – Second full weekend
For more information check out City of Franklin, which also lists annual events and festivals, shopping information, Christmas Tree Lighting on the Square, and a listing of businesses in the historic district. Walking tours are available at www.franklinonfoot.com or by calling (615) 400-3808.
