Franklin, Tennessee, is a charming town that transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. If you're looking for a magical Christmas experience, Franklin is the perfect destination for you. From festive events to historic home tours, and from holiday shopping to warm cups of hot chocolate, Franklin has everything you need to get into the holiday spirit.
The town's quaint downtown area is filled with beautifully decorated shops, restaurants, and streets, making it a perfect setting for a holiday getaway. Visitors can stroll along the picturesque Main Street, taking in the sights and sounds of the season, and popping into local shops to find unique gifts and souvenirs. With its rich history and Southern charm, Franklin is the ideal place to experience an old-fashioned Christmas.
Franklin's Festive Events
Franklin hosts a range of festive events throughout the holiday season, each one more magical than the last. One of the highlights of the season is the Franklin Christmas Parade, which takes place in early December. The parade features floats, marching bands, and of course, Santa Claus himself. Visitors can also enjoy the town's annual Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony, which marks the official start of the holiday season.
Another popular event is the Dickens of a Christmas festival, which celebrates the works of Charles Dickens and the Victorian era. The festival features costumed characters, horse-drawn carriages, and traditional Victorian-era games and activities. Visitors can also enjoy the town's many holiday concerts and performances, including the Franklin Symphony's annual Christmas concert.
Historic Home Tours
Franklin is famous for its historic homes, many of which date back to the 19th century. During the holiday season, several of these homes are open to the public for tours, offering a glimpse into the town's rich history and architecture. Visitors can explore the beautifully decorated homes, learning about their history and significance, and enjoying the festive atmosphere.
Some of the most popular historic home tours in Franklin include the Carter House, the Lotz House, and the Historic Downtown Franklin Homes Tour. Each of these tours offers a unique perspective on the town's history and architecture, and is a must-do for anyone interested in exploring Franklin's past.
Holiday Shopping in Franklin
Franklin's downtown area is a shopper's paradise, with a range of unique boutiques, specialty stores, and antique shops. Visitors can find everything from handmade jewelry and crafts to vintage clothing and antiques. The town's many shops are decorated beautifully during the holiday season, making shopping a fun and festive experience.
Some of the most popular shopping destinations in Franklin include the Factory at Franklin, the Downtown Franklin Shops, and the Antique Mall. Visitors can also explore the town's many art galleries, which feature the work of local artists and craftspeople.
Warm Up with Hot Chocolate
After a long day of shopping and exploring, there's nothing like warming up with a cup of hot chocolate. Franklin has several cafes and coffee shops that serve delicious hot chocolate, made with rich, creamy milk and topped with whipped cream and chocolate sprinkles.
Some of the most popular spots for hot chocolate in Franklin include the Downtown Franklin Coffee Company, the Coffee Cup, and the Franklin Creamery. Visitors can also try the town's many other specialty coffee drinks, including lattes, cappuccinos, and mochas.
Getting into the Holiday Spirit
Franklin is a town that knows how to get into the holiday spirit. From its festive events and historic home tours to its holiday shopping and warm cups of hot chocolate, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're a local or just visiting, Franklin is the perfect place to experience an enchanted Christmas.
So why not start planning your holiday trip to Franklin today? With its rich history, Southern charm, and festive atmosphere, it's the perfect destination for a magical Christmas experience.
Insider Tips and Recommendations
- Be sure to arrive early for the Franklin Christmas Parade, as parking can be limited.
- Don't miss the Dickens of a Christmas festival, which takes place in early December.
- Take a tour of the Carter House, which offers a glimpse into the town's rich history.
- Try the hot chocolate at the Downtown Franklin Coffee Company, which is made with rich, creamy milk and topped with whipped cream and chocolate sprinkles.
- Visit the Factory at Franklin, which features a range of unique boutiques and specialty stores.
We hope you've enjoyed this article on experiencing an enchanted Christmas in Franklin, Tennessee. If you have any questions or comments, please don't hesitate to contact us.
What are the dates for the Franklin Christmas Parade?
+The Franklin Christmas Parade takes place in early December, typically on the first Saturday of the month.
Can I take a tour of the historic homes in Franklin?
+Yes, several of the historic homes in Franklin are open to the public for tours during the holiday season. These include the Carter House, the Lotz House, and the Historic Downtown Franklin Homes Tour.
Where can I find the best hot chocolate in Franklin?
+The Downtown Franklin Coffee Company is a popular spot for hot chocolate, and is made with rich, creamy milk and topped with whipped cream and chocolate sprinkles.