FRANKLIN, TN (March 1, 2021) – The Heritage Foundation of Williamson County, TN, parent organization of the Downtown Franklin Association (DFA), is excited to reveal some additional detail about the organization’s 2021 festival season which includes the 37th Annual Main Street Festival (July 17-18), 36th Annual Pumpkinfest (October 30) and 36th Annual Dickens of a Christmas (Dec. 11-12). The Heritage Foundation’s Main Street Festival is the area’s largest artist / craft festival, Pumpkinfest is the state’s largest fall themed festival, and Dickens of a Christmas features dancers, performers, characters and holiday artisans. After a year of COVID-forced cancellations, all events are scheduled to take place on Franklin’s historic Main … [Read more...]
Northeast Corner of Main Street Sees Infusion of New Life Alongside Some Old Favorites
With the opening of several new Downtown Franklin Association businesses alongside some traditional favorites, the northeast corridor of Main Street is seeing vibrant, new life. Anchoring the newest corner in downtown in the Franklin Square development at First and Main is Franklin Bakehouse, 100 E. Main St., which brings a bakery, deli, market, flower shop, bar and coffee shop all wrapped into one. With counter seating and patio tables for warmer days, the bakehouse serves breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as grab-and-go selections and coffee, craft beer and wine throughout the day. Founder Angie Muir said she chose this particular location because she loved the idea of being on the corner of … [Read more...]
Downtown Franklin working hard to #KeepItGoing amid uncertain environment
BY: JILL BURGIN DIRECTOR, DOWNTOWN FRANKLIN ASSOCIATION As the weather gets warmer in Middle Tennessee, Downtown Franklin is showing signs of life that come with a typical spring – store doors are propped open, the trees are blooming, and more people are filling the sidewalks and restaurant patios. The year 2020, however, has been anything but typical. Since Gov. Bill Lee announced earlier this month that stores and restaurants could reopen after the Covid-19 stay-home order, the guiding principle seems to be … trepidation. While some shoppers and diners are eager to resume their usual habits, others are not. Personal preference is guiding their actions, but business owners downtown have another factor to consider: … [Read more...]
Downtown Franklin businesses #KeepItGoing!
Carry out and carry on Two short months ago, merchants and business owners in historic downtown Franklin looked forward to a thriving spring season as one of Middle Tennessee’s favorite destinations. Since then, the response to the COVID-19 virus has stopped the world in its tracks, and even downtown Franklin has not been immune to its threat. From the first days of awareness that this would be a massive event, the business owners downtown proved that they are resilient and creative. As the public adjusted to new concepts like “social distancing,” our downtown businesses began to adapt. Restaurants pivoted to curbside pick-up, delivery and carry-out. Retailers increased their online presence. Those who didn’t already have … [Read more...]
Greetings from the Dr. McPhail Building
Greetings DFA Members! I am thrilled to be working as executive director of the Main Street Program, and I look forward to meeting you all in the next few weeks. I have lived in Williamson County for almost 30 years now, the first 10 in Franklin and the past 19 in Brentwood. In my most recent position on the City Commission there, I have gotten to work with many elected and civic officials in Franklin, and I am so glad to be able to continue those relationships in this position as well. My interest in history has been lifelong, and my hobbies include genealogy and historic cemeteries. The fact that my office will be located in the historic Dr. McPhail building is a unique opportunity to “walk the walk” when it comes to historic … [Read more...]
From Franklin to Silicon Valley–Julie Walton serves on Facebook’s Small Business Council
There are big things happening everyday--right here in downtown Franklin! Julie Walton Garland of Walton’s Antique and Estate Jewelry, located in the heart of America's Favorite Main Street, was recently hand-picked to serve on Facebook's U.S. Small Business Council for 2017! While participating in Facebook’s Boost Your Business panel held last year in Nashville, Julie connected with the company’s small business experts, who provided tips and tricks on Facebook’s best practices and strategies for success. A year later, the company sought Julie out again due to her business’ activities and advertising success on Facebook. After a series of interviews, the social media platform (which boasts five million business advertisers!) … [Read more...]
Announcing the 2016 Main Street Brewfest Beer Lineup!
The 13th Annual Main Street Brewfest is just a few short weeks away, and lead sponsor Lipman Brothers is once again bringing a first-rate lineup of local, national and international beers to the festival in downtown Franklin. More than 35 different breweries will offer a selection of over 80 craft beers at tasting sites in and around Franklin’s famous Main Street on Saturday, May 7. From 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., attendees will “tap into history” as the Public Square and Main Street play host to 37 different tasting locations. “We hand-picked this year’s lineup to include something for everybody and I’m really excited about what we put together,” said Claire Crowell, 2016 Main Street Brewfest chair and chief operating officer of A. … [Read more...]
[The Nashville Scene] Chef Jason McConnell to Cook ‘Southern Sophisticate’ Dinner at the James Beard House
![[The Nashville Scene] Chef Jason McConnell to Cook ‘Southern Sophisticate’ Dinner at the James Beard House](https://downtownfranklintn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/mcconnell_jason.jpg)
This was written on February 15, 2016, by Nashville Scene writer Chris Chamberlain on their Bites Blog. I have often said I think that Jason McConnell is the best combination of chef and restaurateur in Middle Tennessee. Not only does he operate three excellent Franklin-area restaurants with Cork & Cow, 55 South and Red Pony, but he also runs McConnell House and has a hand in both Two Ten Jack and Lucky Belly through his association with Seed Hospitality. Back in the days before food trucks spread like weevils in a cotton row, McConnell fitted a food truck with professional-grade cooking equipment and had the smarts to actually keep it parked most of the year except for a couple of events that he knew he could make bank … [Read more...]
JONDIE Expanding in Downtown Franklin!
JONDIE, a locally owned women's clothing and accessories boutique, recently announced plans to move into a new larger space on Main Street and will be opening a new boutique, Mimi and Dottie, in their current retail space. The shoppe will be renovating and restoring the historic building at 412 Main Street and moving their studio and design space into the offices above. Their current location at 407 Main Street has been home to JONDIE since 2010. “Our customers will love the new space. It will be about three times the size of our current location and will allow us to bring in a wider selection of our unique product lines. There will be more room to explore and we will be able to provide better service because there will no … [Read more...]
{Forever Franklin} Stuff Your Stocking: $700 December Giveaway
The #ForeverFranklin series of giveaways CONTINUES, just in time for the holiday season! This month (December 2015), you have ANOTHER chance to win gift packages valued at $600 (!!!!) from local downtown Franklin businesses. Downtown Franklin, Tennessee is an authentic, eclectic community… really, the perfect place to spend an entire day or weekend exploring with friends and family. So we designed a giveaway to encourage you and your loved ones to do just that, tab on us! Keep reading to see how you can "Stuff Your Stocking" with the December package, valued at $700. Thank you to The Smokey Cigar, Kilwins, Frothy Monkey, Baya Designs, GRAY'S on Main, and Carriage House Custom Homes and Interiors for each offering gift certificates to … [Read more...]
Small Business Saturday [2015] Make it Magical in Downtown Franklin!
Time to put the J-O-Y back in holiday shopping, are we right y’all?! The season is all about giving, and there’s nothing that invokes that warm fuzzy feeling quite like strolling America’s Favorite Main Street and finding a perfect gift for your loved one. With family in town for Thanksgiving festivities, we encourage y’all to start a new tradition on Small Business Saturday (SBS): it’s the perfect opportunity to #ShopSmall and support indie businesses, all the while creating sweet memories! This year the big event falls on Saturday, November 28. Below, we've put together a quick list of Downtown Franklin Association members (and locally owned businesses) who are offering specials that will make your shopping an even more enchanting … [Read more...]
Holiday Story Time at the Visitor Center
Holiday Story Time returns to the Visitor Center in downtown Franklin, TN! Your favorite holiday characters will be reading beloved holiday stories to boys and girls of all ages this holiday season. The magic of the season comes to life during the special meet ’n’ greets with all the characters immediately following their stories. This year, you can meet the Sugar Plum Fairy, Buddy the Elf, Princess Elsa and even Santa Claus himself! This is a great way to celebrate the holiday season with the entire family. So, pack up the kids (or just yourself), and come on down to the Visitor Center to share in the spirit of the holiday season! Holiday Story Time with Santa Saturday, December 5 @ 11:45 AM Story Time returns to … [Read more...]
Merriest Main Street Reveal
We're adding another enchanting moment to the community’s holiday season by inviting them to take part in its Second Annual “Merriest Main Street” Reveal on Monday, Nov. 23, 2015 that includes an exclusive Studio Tenn performance at The Franklin Theatre and a grand Main Street window reveal! We're kicking off the holiday magic in Franklin, as well as put guests in the spirit to get a jump on spending money with downtown’s independently owned merchants and restaurants this season. The free program, presented by Franklin Synergy Bank, will start at The Franklin Theatre at 3:30 p.m. on November 23 with Christmas characters in costume greeting guests--presenting the perfect photo opportunity for families. Inside the theatre, participants will … [Read more...]
{Forever Franklin} Shop Small Spree: $700 November Giveaway
The #ForeverFranklin series of giveaways CONTINUES, just in time for the holiday season (AND Small Business Saturday)! This month (November 2015), you have ANOTHER chance to win gift packages valued at $700 (!!!!) from local downtown Franklin businesses. Downtown Franklin, Tennessee is an authentic, eclectic community… really, the perfect place to spend an entire day or weekend exploring with friends and family. So we designed a giveaway to encourage you and your loved ones to do just that, tab on us! Keep reading to see how you can “Shop Small Spree” the November package, valued at $700. Thank you to 55 South, Delivery Dudes, Finnley's, GRAY'S on Main, It's Vintage Baby, Red Pony Restaurant, Walton's Jewelry, and Kevin Wimpy … [Read more...]
Hop & Shop Trolley: Free Holiday Rides to Downtown Franklin!
For the second year, we're partnering with The Factory at Franklin + Franklin Transit Authority to provide FREE TRANSPORTATION during select Saturdays in November and December (2015) as part of our "Hop & Shop Trolley" initiative! To help encourage friends and family to experience the joy of “shopping small,” the Hop & Shop ride--which is heated and handicap accessible--will make its first roll from The Factory parking lot at 10 a.m. on Small Business Saturday, Nov. 28. The Hop & Shop Trolley will also run Saturday, Dec. 5 and Saturday, Dec. 19 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with a short break around 1 p.m. for the drivers. Participating passengers will enjoy festive music on the decked-out trolley, which will run from the front … [Read more...]
Sheryl Crow: Guest Vendor at City Farmhouse Holiday Pop-up Fair!
Those who have ever wanted to own a piece of rockstar royalty in their home will have the chance at the City Farmhouse Holiday Pop-up Fair next month at Jameson Hall at The Factory at Franklin! City Farmhouse announced today that Sheryl Crow will be a featured guest vendor at the seasonal market, happening November 13 through November 15. This is a first for the Grammy-winning artist, who will donate all of her City Farmhouse Holiday Pop-up sales to the World Food Program U.S.A. Sheryl Crow will offer a range of goods from her personal stash to shoppers over the three-day event, selling everything from antique and vintage home decor pieces she has personally collected over the years to clothing and other items. First dibs on shopping … [Read more...]
City Farmhouse Pop-up Fair, Antique & Design Event Draws Thousands of Guests, Local Celebrities
There’s something about Kim and David Leggetts’ style that draws visitors from around the globe to shop at the City Farmhouse Pop-up Fair, a design and shopping show that hosts dozens of curated vendors in the tiny village of Leiper’s Fork, Tenn. The Leggett—owners of the popular downtown Franklin antiques shop from where the event derives its name—announced earlier this year that the brand would host three pop-up events in 2015, due to mounting popularity. The Fall antiques and vintage show, happening October 16 and 17, will once again take place at the stunning “lost-in-time” gardens and mansion of the late music publisher Buddy Killen, located off Old Hillsboro Road. City Farmhouse’s holiday pop-up fair, which will round out the … [Read more...]
#ForeverFranklin Giveaway {$700 Value} | September 2015
Last month we launched the #ForeverFranklin series of giveaways, and it was such a success we're continuing through the fall season! This month (September 2015), you have ANOTHER chance to win gift packages valued at $700 (!!!!) from local downtown Franklin businesses. Downtown Franklin, Tennessee is an authentic, eclectic community... really, the perfect place to spend an entire day or weekend exploring with friends and family. So we designed a giveaway to encourage you and your loved ones to do just that, tab on us! Keep reading to see how you can win the September package, valued at $700. Thank you to SCARLETT SCALES ANTIQUES, JAMBA JUICE, WALTON'S JEWELRY, THE REGISTRY, PUCKETT'S BOAT HOUSE, HEYLEE B. AND CHAPMAN'S PIE WAGON … [Read more...]
City Farmhouse Is Moving To The Factory at Franklin
For the past six years, Kim and David Leggett have offered downtown Franklin shoppers a wide selection of vintage and antique items--”picked” by trusted sources from honeyholes across the country--through the City Farmhouse store on Bridge Street. This week, the nationally recognized “pickers” and interior designers announced that their brick-and-mortar shop will be permanently relocating to The Factory at Franklin, located at 230 Franklin Road. Kim Leggett said the versatility of the space is what first drew them, followed by the Factory’s community. “We’re thrilled with the fresh opportunities and new creative vision we’ll be able to implement now,” Leggett said. “There are already several impressive antique stores here, and … [Read more...]
Heritage Tour: Experience History Behind the Door (June 6-7)
Each summer, members and supporters of the Heritage Foundation open their homes and businesses as part of the Heritage Tour, showcasing the community’s dedication to protecting those resources as part of our legacy. Now in its 40th year, the Tour will invite the public inside historic residences, commercial structures and notable examples of sensitive infill within historic districts on Saturday and Sunday, June 6th and 7th, 2015. The event acts as a fundraiser for our non-profit preservation organization, and underscores the importance of protecting the architectural and cultural heritage of Williamson County. BUY YOUR TICKET HERE! J. Edward and Brenda Campbell, a husband-wife team of real estate brokers in Franklin, have been named as … [Read more...]
City Farmhouse Hosts Second Pop-up Fair {June 19-20} in Leiper’s!
For the last two years, the City Farmhouse Pop-up Fair has drawn visitors from around the globe to the tiny village of Leiper’s Fork, Tenn., to score antique and vintage goods from dozens of curated vendors. Kim and David Leggett—owners of the popular downtown Franklin shop from where the event derives its name—announced that due to mounting popularity, a second pop-up fair has been added June 19-20, 2015, in addition to its annual October event. The Leggetts, who are nationally recognized “pickers,” say the second show was due to both attendance popularity and their fans’ requests: the pair manage the City Farmhouse Facebook page, which boasts more than 100,000 followers—many of whom lobbied for an additional show. “We had an … [Read more...]
Jamba Juice Opens This Saturday, May 23
Fruitful Living LLC, the local Jamba Juice franchise partner, have just revealed the opening date of their third location in Tennessee in Historic downtown Franklin..... and it's oh, so soon! The new Jamba Juice, located at 504 W. Main Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenue, will open on Saturday, May 23, 2015 at 8 a.m. The downtown Franklin location will also host their Grand Opening celebration on Saturday, May 23--with all smoothies and juice being half price, all day! Plus: From 11AM to 2PM, festivities will include menu sampling, a prize wheel of giveaways, and entertainment by Jamba's banana man, a fun balloon artist, and professional hoola-hoop dancer. Fruitful Living LLC franchise owner Cynthia Townsend--who formerly owned … [Read more...]
City Farmhouse Kicks Off The Fling
Local “pickers” and City Farmhouse store owners David and Kim Leggett have made a name within the design world of late, using their trained eye for antique and vintage pieces to establish three large-scale shopping fairs, and gather more than 100,000 page fans on Facebook. The downtown Franklin-based duo recently announced they will add a monthly pop-up store to their repertoire: The Fling at the Factory at Franklin, a four-day event that will feature recently picked displays of curated antiques and vintage finds that is unique from what shoppers may find at their brick-and-mortar store over here on Bridge Street! The Leggetts are launching The Fling on Thursday, May 7, 2015 with a preview party, and the event will continue through … [Read more...]
Woman Discovers 50 Pearls at Franklin Restaurant – And Goes Viral! [ABC News]
![Woman Discovers 50 Pearls at Franklin Restaurant – And Goes Viral! [ABC News]](https://downtownfranklintn.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Pucketts-Boat-House-Shrimp-and-Grits-Hushpuppies-copy-880x400.jpg)
Re-blogged from PuckettsBlog.com So how’s this for a lucky day? One sweet lady was feasting on oysters at Puckett’s Boat House [in Downtown Franklin, Tennesee] on Thursday, and grabbed her last oyster. And when she did……… 50 PEARLS SPILLED OUT! Yes, fifty. Crazy stuff. And this has gone viral! We’re talking ABC News and Eater–and it’s jumped the Atlantic to The Daily Mail. We’ve been getting asked: yes, of course we let her keep her pearls! We hope she does something pretty with them. And nope: these are NOT farm-raised oysters. All our oysters at the Boat House are freshly harvested from the Gulf Coast. Anyhoo: Talk about flashing those pearly whites. We’ll have what she’s having, from here on out! Learn more about this … [Read more...]
Franklin in the Running For “Best Southern Town” Bragging Rights
March Madness inspires a host of spin-off bracket-style contests, and Franklin is in the thick of one such wave: we've secured a Final Four spot in Garden and Gun’s “Best Southern Towns” tournament that began with 32 small cities below the Mason-Dixon line. The competition is based on an online readers’ poll. Garden and Gun magazine, a Southern lifestyle magazine based in Charleston, S.C., launched the poll on March 17 to gage its audience’s favorite American city. The publication says it saw around 700,000 votes cast during the first round. The Final Four round, which opened today at 9 a.m. and closes tomorrow mid-evening, pits Franklin against Hot Springs, Ark. Previously, Franklin won close battles against Fairhope, Ala., and Florence, … [Read more...]
2014 Main Street Brew Fest: the breweries
Beer. Bagpipes. Irish cheer. Pub food. What about that doesn't sound like a party? Each year for the past decade, Main Street Brew Fest has been an opportunity for beer lovers to taste some of the latest local, national and international additions to an exploding micro-brewery market... all the while exploring Downtown Franklin’s historic retail district! Join us on Saturday, March 15, to taste dozens--and dozens--of craft beers at 30-plus tasting sites from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Get more details here, or buy tickets here (we've sold out well in advance the past several years). {PSSST: we're using the hashtag #FRANKLINBREWFEST. Join in on the fun y'all!} Itchin' to know which brewers are participating? Our generous sponsor, R.S. Lipman … [Read more...]
Don’t Miss These Special Deals This Valentines Day in Downtown Franklin
Valentine’s Day is right around the corner here in Franklin, Tenn., and that means it’s time to start shopping around for your special someone! The stores and boutiques of downtown Franklin are offering some great deals for Valentine’s Day. Find the perfect gift for your sweetie or yourself! After all, we were named one of America’s “Most Romantic Towns” by Travel + Leisure, so what better place to spend February 14? Stores and Boutiques Bink’s Outfitters For the adventurous, Yeti coolers are the perfect gift for any outdoorsman! And guys: these Hunter boots will look great on your special lady! Visit the Bink’s Outfitters website here. Early's Honey Stand The historic mini-grocery story on E. Main Street is offering somethin' sweet … [Read more...]
Valentine’s Day 2014 in Downtown Franklin
Valentine's Day: love or hate it, you might as well take full advantage of the restaurants' fabulous prix fixe menus and boutiques' big sales! Plus, Travel + Leisure named us one of America's "Most Romantic Towns"... so obviously you should be spending February 14 with us! To help, here's our Downtown Franklin Guide to the holiday. We'll be adding new content as it rolls in, so check back soon! RESTAURANTS & SWEETS Cork & Cow Swank it up at the upscale restaurant just off Main Street: for $150 (not including tax & gratuity) a couple, you get a four-course gourmet meal + one paired cocktail. See the full menu here. Reservations are required, and available by phone at 615-538-6021. Frothy Monkey This coffee, cafe and restaurant … [Read more...]
ABC’s Nashville Filming in Franklin, Feb. 10
The ABC show Nashville will be filming in Downtown Franklin on Monday, Feb. 10. The crew will be around from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., working mostly inside the Franklin Theatre on Main Street.Main Street will stay open to traffic, and businesses will stay open as usual. So come stroll downtown Franklin!Street closures will include Fourth Avenue South, which is scheduled to be closed from Main Street to the parking garage entrance, and parking along Main Street (4th to 5th); Fifth Avenue (Main to Church); and West Main (next to the Archives building). The show is asking businesses in the 400 block to keep their lights on Monday evening, to keep the street looking lively. Let's let #AmericasFavoriteMainStreet™ shine on primetime television! If … [Read more...]
Tickets Are Now On Sale For The 7th Annual Three Blind Vines Supporting The Franklin Theatre
The Next Generation Heritage Foundation of Franklin and Williamson County has announced that tickets are now on sale for their 7th annual Three Blind Vines fundraiser supporting The Franklin Theatre. Tickets may be purchased in advance on their website - threeblindvines.com – for $35. They will be $45 at the door. The event takes place on Friday, February 21, 2014 from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. in Liberty Hall at The Factory in Franklin. The group recently announced a “Classic Hollywood” theme, offering attendees all the glitz and glamour of a red carpet movie premiere. Admission includes live entertainment, food from your favorite local restaurants (including Presenting Sponsor GRAY'S on Main) and the wine, of course. Back by popular … [Read more...]
New Year’s Eve 2013 in Downtown Franklin
Downtown Franklin knows how to throw a party, and New Year's Eve is no exception! In the past, we've had many a party to ring in the fresh season, and this year is no exception. Folks we know hosting bashes and special occasions are: Bunganut Pig The restaurant on Columba Avenue will produce another fun New Year’s Eve party, with fan-favorite Resistance Band--who offers '70s tunes for plenty of dancing opportunities! Don’t miss the Pig’s energetic pub atmosphere and live performance. Call 615-794-4777 to make reservations.To make a reservation ahead of time, it is $15 per person. Pricing includes the show, party favors plus a midnight champagne toast. For those procrastinators, it is $10 per person at the door the night of NYE. That … [Read more...]
Small Business Saturday: SHOP SMALL!
#SmallBizSat in Downtown Franklin, Tennessee Our downtown Franklin community is joining together to support Small Business Saturday on Nov. 30, as part of a national effort to support independently owned merchants! Many of our 150 shops and restaurants in the surrounding historic core are offering special sales and other promotions the day after “Black Friday.” The following merchants will offer a 10% discount on your ticket when you present a receipt from another Downtown Franklin shop or restaurant: Arbor Antique Mall (see below for sale exclusions); Avec Moi; Bittersweet Primitives; Boutique MMM; Bunganut Pig; Chapman’s Pie Wagon; Coffee House at Second & Bridge; Landmark Booksellers; Main Street Toy Shoppe; McCreary’s Pub; Mellow … [Read more...]
Puckett’s Boat House Wins Franklin Scarecrow Contest
An estimated 60,000 people filled Franklin's Main Street during the 30th Annual Pumpkinfest on Oct. 26. Adding to this year's fall festivities was Downtown Franklin Association (DFA)'s Franklin Scarecrow contest, where nearly of our 20 merchants and restaurants participated by creating their own one-of-kind scarecrows. Leading up to the festival we encouraged the public to vote for their favorite straw ornament. Last Thursday, we announced that Puckett's Boat House won its first-ever scarecrow competition for the life-size "fisherman" that was perched on the Southern seafood restaurant's roof throughout the month of October. "We're excited about holding the bragging rights for the contest until next year," said Boat House General Manager … [Read more...]
2014 Small Business Saturday, Nov. 30
Time to put the JOY back in holiday shopping, y'all! Small Business Saturday (SBS) is a national effort to help independently owned merchants gain more exposure during one of the biggest shopping weekends of the year. Basically, it's a day dedicated to supporting the people that make our country thrive. This year, the big event falls on Saturday, November 30. Two days after Thanksgiving, many of our 150 shops and restaurants in Historic Downtown Franklin will be offering special sales and other promotions the day after “Black Friday"--additional encouragements for patrons to shop local! We'll be gathering those offers and will be sure to let you know about 'em. This year, merchants and downtown Franklin building owners are also banding … [Read more...]
30th Annual Pumpkinfest Fills Main Street Oct. 26; Public Participates in Scarecrow Contest
30th Annual Pumpkinfest One of the community’s favorite street festivals turns 30 this year. On Saturday, Oct. 26, Main Street will host thousands of guests for the annual Pumpkinfest event, taking place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. throughout five blocks in Historic Downtown Franklin’s core. Presented by Bank of America, the festival includes stages at both Five Points and the Public Square that will feature all-day music for attendees, the yearly costume contest, a chili cook-off, and rows of arts and crafts booths. In addition, the Downtown Franklin Association (DFA) has asked merchants to decorate their windows and doors with one-of-a-kind scarecrows to complement the season’s spirit. Leading up to Pumpkinfest, the public is encouraged to … [Read more...]
2013 Scarecrow Contest
2013 SCARECROW CONTEST Hey downtown Franklin fans… we’re “scarin’ up scarecrows” for y’all during the month of October! Beginning Friday, Oct. 4–the evening of the Franklin Art Scene–Downtown Franklin Association (DFA) members are decorating their windows and doors with one-of-a-kind scarecrows to add to the festivity of the season. If you can’t make it to come see the creations around downtown Franklin during the art crawl, we’re hoping that you’ll visit places on and around #AmericasFavoriteMainStreet™ to see what they’ve cooked up! VOTE IN THE SCARECROW CONTEST: We’re asking that our downtown Franklin friends vote for your favorite scarecrow through our social media channels leading up to Pumpkinfest! We will stop counting votes on … [Read more...]
Downtown Franklin Association’s New Logo
Over the past several months, the Downtown Franklin Association (DFA) partnered with member JLB in order to design a new logo our organization! Through this representational piece, we wanted to convey downtown Franklin's historical legacy, its architectural ambiance (through the color palette) and the various appealing aspects that draw folks from all over to to #AmericasFavoriteMainStreet™. Hope y'all enjoy! … [Read more...]
Downtown Franklin Merchants Collaborate in Dog Days of Summer Fundraiser; Raised $7,000 in 2012
More than 20 downtown Franklin merchants will support local charities together Tuesday, Aug. 27 through the second annual “Dog Days of Summer,” a collaborative fundraising effort coordinated by the non-profit Downtown Franklin Association (DFA). Participants will donate 10 to 15 percent of sales between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. to a non-profit organization of their choice. Each shop or restaurant is within a four-block walking distance, and all of the involved merchants are leaving their doors open later for the benefit. In its second year, the unified effort among local merchants helped raise more than $7,000 in July 2012. Several of the businesses –Mellow Mushroom, Kimbro’s and Shoppes on Main, among others—are choosing animal welfare … [Read more...]
DOWNTOWN FRANKLIN’S CITY FARMHOUSE HOSTS FIRST POP-UP SHOW
David and Kim Leggett have been “pickers” for more than 20 years. Their trained eye and vivacious personalities have attracted a following from around the globe, from individuals interested in following popular vintage trends to those who love the thrill of the hunt. So much so that the Leggett’s popular downtown Franklin antique shop--City Farmhouse, a Downtown Franklin Association (DFA) member--has accumulated nearly 30,000 fans on Facebook. [psst: read our story on the Leggetts here.] On Oct. 11-12, 2013, the pair will parlay that pickin’ and social media success into the first-ever City Farmhouse Pop-up Barn Show on the banks of the Harpeth River in Franklin, Tenn. The event, which is slated to host a wealth of curated vintage, … [Read more...]
Five Downtown Franklin Association Restaurants Participating in #NashvilleRestaurantWeek
More than 30 locally owned fixtures of the middle Tennessee dining scene are offering special menus and price points as part of Nashville Restaurant Week, August 19-25--and five downtown Franklin restaurants are in on the deal! 55 South, Bunganut Pig, Puckett's Boat House, Puckett's Gro. & Restaurant, Red Pony Restaurant, and Saffire Restaurant and Bar -- all Downtown Franklin Association members -- are providing three-course offerings for a fixed $20.13 or $30.13 price, Monday through Sunday. The restaurants are also members of the Nashville Originals, the city’s not-for-profit independent restaurant association that coordinates the bi-annual event each year. [fun side note: The non-profit is encouraging diners to share their … [Read more...]
“Taste of GRAYS” Event to Close Main Street Aug. 4, Re-lighting of Historic Sign
For the better part of the last decade, one of the most recognized and photographed landmarks in downtown Franklin remained unlit, only occasionally stuttering to life for special events and annual festivals. Now, after more than a year of intensive renovations, the building will once again serve as a hub on one of the country’s most celebrated Main Streets: GRAYS on Main is commemorating its grand opening Sunday, Aug. 4 with a street closure from the Public Square to Fourth Avenue, 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. The restaurant and entertainment venue will offer tours, tastes and live music, with the historic Gray’s neon sign coming alive as darkness falls. Previously, it had been announced that the grand opening would be held July 28. However, a … [Read more...]
Iconic Main Street Building Comes Alive; Holds Job Fair This Week!
For more than 70 years, GRAYS Drug Store bustled with employees and customers filling their pharmaceutical needs—or locals popping in to get a piece of daily gossip. This month, the iconic neon sign will light up once again with memories, both new and old. Only this time, the building will come alive with community members visiting a new culinary and entertainment destination in downtown Franklin. Set in a ca. 1876, GRAYS on Main Owners Michael and Joni Cole have spent more than a year renovating the centuries-old building that sat vacant for a decade. Last week, the Coles received approval from the City of Franklin’s aldermen to close Main Street one Sunday evening in July to hold their grand opening. This week, the three-story … [Read more...]
Franklin on Foot Offers Staycation Options for Locals
With the summer often comes beach vacations and trips to the lake. But for those who don’t have the luxury of a brief escape, Franklin on Foot is offering several options to spice up the warm months without ever crossing the county line. The local tour company provides dozens of walking and mobile options throughout Historic Downtown Franklin, all which blend education and entertainment and cater to a wide range of interests. Owner Margie Thessin says the popularity of her tours skyrockets during July and August, a trend she attributes to both the longer days and the influx of tourists during the summer months. “People are looking for ways to beat the boredom, especially when it’s warm and stays light outside longer. They want … [Read more...]
Caroline’s Cart Donations Will Serve a Great Mission in Downtown Franklin!
Drew Ann Long, the visionary behind Caroline’s Cart, will make an important charitable donation to the GEAR Foundation Thursday, June 13 in downtown Franklin! Long will donate shopping carts, uniquely designed for special needs children, to Our Thrift Store to help facilitate the shopping experience for families that can utilize the invention. Long will join Dave Krikac, founder of the GEAR Foundation, in a special dedication ceremony on Thursday at Our Thrift Store at 1018 Columbia Avenue. The public is invited to commemorate the moment with the two organizations at 11 a.m. Caroline’s Cart incorporates a comfortable seat into a traditional cart for the transporting of special-needs children and adults, and combines the functions of both … [Read more...]
O’More Designer Show House Partners With Traditional Home Magazine
For more than 40 years, O’More College of Design has produced some of Middle Tennessee’s top interior designers. Now, alumni spanning the decades are partnering on the O’More Show House at Berry Cottage, to be held April 5-21 in Downtown Franklin with all proceeds benefiting the O’More College of Design. As part of Traditional Home magazine’s 2013 National Show House Tour, the event will feature 17 leading designers, all graduates of O’More’s award-winning interior design program. The 4,000 square-foot transitional Shingle-style home is currently under construction on Berry Circle, located just off of Lewisburg Avenue and adjacent to the College’s campus in downtown Franklin. “Traditional Home is thrilled to partner with O’More College of … [Read more...]
Outdoor Classic Structures Brings New Dimension to March’s Franklin Art Scene
Outdoor Classic Structures, a design-build firm in downtown Franklin that focuses on outdoor construction, is wielding its craft to add a unique dimension to the upcoming Franklin Art Scene. The company works on projects ranging from spectacular courtyards to green roofs, tiered swimming pools to sculpted landscapes—and this Friday at their showroom on 203 Second Avenue South, they will take their art inside. With spring right around the corner, Outdoor Classic Structures is using the monthly art crawl to demonstrate unique ideas for enjoying the outdoors. “By this point in the winter months, people are growing weary of spending so much time inside. We thought it would be fun to ‘garden up’ the studio and bring in an early spring,” said … [Read more...]
Main Street Welcomes Town’s End General Store
Town’s End General Store, a vintage and uncommon goods shop at 504 W. Main Street, will hold its grand opening Friday, March 1, 2013 during the Franklin Art Scene, 6-9 p.m. The shop's ribbon cutting will take place at 4 p.m. The new business, formally known as Kaleidoscope, has taken on a new persona—and it’s one that Owner Cynthia Townsend said has been conspicuously absent from Downtown Franklin. “This area is such a special place, and contains so much history,” she said. “I’m surprised that it’s taken this long to re-establish a general store on Main Street, because I believe the two compliment one another so well.” Townsend’s new shop will sell a mix of traditional mercantile goods, clothing and old-fashioned candies one might expect … [Read more...]
Open Your Heart in Downtown Franklin Feb. 8
In downtown Franklin, our small business owners thrive on the word "community." And that's why more than 20 merchants will support local charities on Friday, Feb. 8 through their sales as part of the "Open Your Heart" promotion coordinated by the Downtown Franklin Association (DFA). The participating DFA businesses will leave their doors open later and donate 15 percent of sales between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m. to a non-profit organization of their choice. The "Open Your Heart" was designed to show support for community organizations through a collaborative effort among downtown merchants. This is the second time the DFA has coordinated a similar event. Last year, the "Dog Days of Summer" promotion collectively donated more than $7,000! Please … [Read more...]
Watch the Big Game in Downtown Franklin
There are so many places to watch the BIG GAME this Sunday, Feb. 3 in Downtown Franklin! Check it out: Franklin Theatre The Franklin Theatre is opening its doors to anyone who wants to watch the biggest NFL game of the year on its massive screen! Admission is free and seating is general admission. In addition to the Theatre's beer and wine selections, Puckett's Trolley will be parked outside the Theatre on Main Street, before and during the game, to offer football fare, Puckett's style. The Trolley will serve a smattering of Super Bowl-themed food, including wings and their special BBQ offerings. The venue hopes that locals will join them for an evening of football, filled with contests and prizes, on the biggest projector in downtown. … [Read more...]
Join Downtown Franklin for “Open Your Heart” Community Event, Feb. 8
On Friday, Feb. 8, the Downtown Franklin Association (DFA) is asking participating businesses to leave their doors open later and donate 15 percent of sales between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m. to a non-profit organization of their choice! The “Open Your Heart,” event will (hopefully) encourage people to shop local and in Franklin, Tenn.! HOW IT WORKS: You (the merchant) may choose any charity to benefit, and the donation is between you and the charity. Each business is responsible for contacting the organization they will support, and for donating the proceeds after the event. This promotion is designed to show support for community organizations, and to promote loyalty among your customers--so please choose a non-profit organization that really … [Read more...]
Small Business Saturday Kicks Off Holiday Shopping Season
To see a complete list of Small Business Saturday special sales, please go HERE. Downtown Franklin Merchants Offer Special Incentives, Light Main Street The downtown Franklin community is joining together to support Small Business Saturday on Nov. 26, a national effort to help independently owned merchants gain more exposure during one of the biggest shopping weekends of the year. The 150 shops and restaurants in downtown Franklin are offering special sales and other promotions the day after “Black Friday,” an additional encouragement for patrons to shop local. In its third year, the event gained traction in 2011 when it turned out more than 100 million patrons across the country. “Small Business Saturday is one way the community … [Read more...]
Downtown Franklin Shop Fights Breast Cancer With “Pink Out” Party
Owner’s Diagnosis, Family History Ignites a Passion to Raise Awareness, Funding October is Breast Cancer awareness month, and DFA member Kelly Spalding Designs is throwing a party! The Downtown Franklin events and home accessories shop at 915 Columbia Ave. is holding its inaugural “Pink Out” Party tomorrow, October 30th, from 4p.m. – 6 p.m. Visitors will enjoy pink mimosas and 15 percent off any item in the store all day. Then, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., it’s cocktails, treats and music on the front porch. Thirty percent of the day’s sales will go to benefit The Breast Health Center at Williamson Medical Center. Owner Kelly Spalding, who was diagnosed with breast cancer last month, has designed special “Kelly Fights Like a Girl” T-shirts … [Read more...]
Outdoor Classic Structures Wins Big With Parade of Homes Honor
Owner Ernie Reynolds Grabs His Fifth ‘Best Landscaping’ Award The 2012 Homebuilders Association of Middle Tennessee Parade of Homes wrapped up Oct. 21, but not before handing DFA member Outdoor Classic Structures the award for “Best Landscaping. ” A panel of experts evaluated the five houses in the King’s Chapel neighborhood of Arrington for honors in a number of categories. To compliment the French cottage-style house built by Nashville-based Tradition Homes, Outdoor Classic Structures Owner Ernie Reynolds and his team implemented a lawn of curve-linear beds and leafy shrubs. A variety of woody stems and perennial plant material gave the yard a broad spectrum of color that Reynolds said will maintain its charm throughout the four … [Read more...]
Local Author and DFA Member Holds Children’s Book Release & Signing
Launch Party for Lizzies’ War at Gallery 202 on Tuesday, Oct. 23 On Nov. 30, 1864, the ground ran red. Often called the bloodiest five hours in the history of America, the story of the Battle of Franklin has been recounted through textbooks and works of fiction—but it’s never been told like this. On Tuesday, Oct. 23, the public is invited to celebrate the release of Lizzie’s War, a new historical novel by Franklin on Foot Owner Margie Thessin (Downtown Franklin Association member) that focuses on local children’s lives during the Civil War. The book launch will be held at DFA member Gallery 202 in downtown Franklin from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., and the author will be on hand during the event to sign copies of the book and speak to guests. In a … [Read more...]
Dog Days of Summer Promotion Gives Back in a big way
Downtown Franklin Businesses Donate More Than $7,000 To Charities A group of downtown Franklin merchants supported local charities through their sales one night last month, as part of a “Dog Days of Summer” promotion coordinated by the Downtown Franklin Association (DFA). Twenty-two of the participating businesses collectively donated more than $7,000—15 percent of their sales between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m. that night—to a non-profit organization of their choice. Four businesses chose to rally around Williamson County Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), an organization devoted to the best interests of abused and neglected children. City Farmhouse, McCreary’s Irish Pub, Puckett’s Gro. & Restaurant and Puckett’s Boat House all … [Read more...]