You would have to living completely off the grid to have not heard of Nashville, TN by now. It is possible that you have not been to Frankin, a suburb just 20 mins south though. If you have been, it is most likely a place you love. If not, it should be on your Nashville list. It’s a town that hosts several festivals throughout the year and has plenty of eating and shopping options to satisfy just about anyone.
The most popular festival is the Pumpkinfest, which is held annually each October. The Heritage Foundation of Franklin and Williamson County holds it in the downtown district, which is nationally recognized as a “Great American Main Street”. This year we took the advice we have been hearing and went to check the festival for ourselves.
Who should come?
Anyone and everyone looking to experience a fun fall festival in a quintessential American small town. Whether you are a few hours or a few minutes away, this is a fun day. Folks come dressed in regular clothes or Halloween costumes. You may even bring your dogs dressed in their Halloween best!
How to get there:
By car. Either your own, rental, or Uber. The closest airport is located in Nashville, TN. If you are coming from Nashville, Franklin is located 25 miles south of Nashville. If you are coming from Huntsville, AL, it’s 140 miles North. Franklin is a fantastic day trip option for either location.
Where to Park:
The festival is held downtown, so you will want to park within a few blocks of Main St. This site offers areas where free parking is available. There are other paid lots available in church parking lots and various businesses in the area during high visitor times.
http://downtownfranklintn.com/map/
Where to eat:
There are food trucks available as well as coffee houses and restaurants within walking distance. We chose to eat lunch at Puckett’s Grocery and Restaurant, which offers fantastic reasonably priced dining options for the entire family.
If you do not feel like waiting for a table at one of the sit down restaurants, food trucks are great options. One popular truck for drinks was Wild Bill’s Soda General Store
Strolling, Shopping and Show Watching
For families with kids, there are many options to keep the kids engaged. There are costume contests, face painting, and arts and craft tents.
For adults, there are tents with local craftsmen selling jewelry, pottery and art. There are also stores in the area with high end retail to browse, do some shopping and take a break from outside elements. It is after all early Fall, which in the South, could either mean it is bitter cold or summer is still hanging around.
Be sure to make your way to the stage area in the square to listen to the local talent which includes singers, bands and local champion square dancers and cloggers. The enthusiasm this community has for their talent is contagious, making for a fun experience.
If you want a break from Main St and the Square, we recommend a stroll to nearby historical neighborhoods and admire the grand beautiful historical homes.
Have you been to Franklin, TN? Have you been to a festival there? If so, tell us about your experience.
