Things To Do

There's never a lack of fun things to do in the Franklin area. Each year visitors have the opportunity to join in many observances of our mountain heritage through festivals, arts & crafts shows and other special celebrations. The following upcoming events provide great fun for everyone in the family. Read on for a listing of annual events as well or click here for our events calendar.

Whatever activities you chose, you can't go wrong when you discover the many mountain treasures and simple pleasures of Franklin, North Carolina.

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Gemboree Shows
May, July and October

This gem & mineral shows are annual favorites of visitors and residents. Dealers from across the United States will offer everything from fine jewelery to rough and cut gems and minerals. Three shows are offered during the year. Mother's Day weekend, the fourth weekend in July and the third weekend in October. For additional information call 800-336-7829.

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Authentic Mountain Arts & Crafts

The skills of mountain artisans are featured at several Art & Craft Show throughout the year. During the fall color season and into the holidays you'll find the best of authentic mountain arts and crafts during these events. See the events calendar for further information.

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Annual Pumpkin Fest

This great family event begins on Friday in East Franklin and concludes with a street festival in uptown Franklin on Saturday, typically the 4th weekend of October. Don't miss the nationally known "Pumpkin Roll", costume contest and parade, entertainment, authentic mountain crafts and more. See the events calendar for further information.

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Tree Lighting Ceremony To Kick Off Holiday Season in Franklin

The holiday season Franklin will officially begin on the Friday after Thanksgiving. Reminiscent of years past, a tree lighting ceremony will be held at the Clock Tower Square on Town Hill beginning at 7:00 p.m.

This event will light up the square and will be accompanied by special music and refreshments. Many merchants will be open for holiday shopping. Plus Santa Claus will be on hand strolling along the streets greeting children and even taking their holiday wish lists.

Santa will also be at the Burrell Building the Saturday morning after Thanksgiving from 10 to 12 noon. Children will be able to have cookies with Santa and be sure to bring your camera for some memorable moments.

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Mistletoe Magic

One of the most enjoyable ways to entertain your family and friends during the Thanksgiving Holiday weekend will be to visit the 4th Annual Mistletoe Magic Holiday Art and Craft Show. The handmade products of 65 of the areas most talented Artisans will be featured along with strolling musicians and carolers; several Appalachian Christmas Trees decorated by various organizations; Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus; Great food and over 80 free hand crafted door prizes will be given away --- and the Admission is FREE for everyone.

This festive event is being sponsored by Smoky Mountain Crafters and supported by the Franklin Tourism Development Committee, and by the active participation of 8 of the community's leading business and civic organizations. For more information please contact : Laurie Keneipp 828-524-6630

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Franklin Christmas Parade

While enjoying the holidays in Franklin you can't miss the Franklin Christmas Parade. Scheduled for the Sunday after Thanksgiving beginning at 3:00 p.m., this event is great fun for the entire family.

There's plenty of parking along the route to enjoy the parade and see Santa Claus!

For additional information contact the Franklin Chamber by calling 828-524-3161.

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Window Wonderland

The first two Fridays following Thanksgiving, Franklin will again be transformed into an old-fashioned holiday of yesteryear. Window Wonderland will take Franklin back in time as "windows come alive" with living scenes from Franklin’s past.

Franklin businesses will be open to warmly greet visitors with hot chocolate, hot cider, cookies, or other refreshments reminiscent of the season. Strolling carolers will entertain shoppers with seasonal music and contribute to the holiday atmosphere as well as other entertainment throughout town.

Luminaries will line Main Street, creating the soft glow which makes the evening so magical. There will be vintage horse-drawn carriage rides, seasonal music in the Burrell Building and at the Gazebo, and children of all ages can meet Santa Claus at the Macon County Historical Museum on Main Street.

Highlands Road will be illuminated with Christmas lights and numerous restaurants on will be open for patrons.

Window Wonderland is a family event with something for all ages. Step into the past and experience an old-fashioned Christmas in Franklin. It will be an evening you and your children will forever remember.

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Discover the Rich History of the Franklin area

Our roots run deep in these majestic mountains. While visiting Franklin be sure to visit the Cowee West's Mill Historic District. Located off Route 28 North, you'll discover man-made structures dating back more than 1,400 years and many other great finds. Click on their highlighted name to learn more.

The Macon County Historical Museum is another great treasure waiting to be discovered. Check out Franklin's Civil War connections at the museum and along town hill with our two markers that are part of the Civil War Trails project.

Our Scottish heritage is celebrated at the Scottish Tartans Museum in downtown Franklin. This museum is the only one of its kind in the United States and is a direct extension Scottish Tartans Society in Keith, Scotland.

Gem & Mineral lovers will find thousands of specimens on display at the Franklin Gem & Mineral Museum. Must sees include the 2.25 pound ruby from one of our local mines and the flourescent room.

More Great Fun to Discover!

There are many other exciting activities to enjoy during your stay in Franklin. While you're visiting the area, take to the skies for breathtaking sight seeing tours. Discover one of the nations top family entertainment centers. Take in a movie or simply go for a peaceful stroll along the Little Tennessee River.

Whatever activities you chose, you can't go wrong when you discover the many mountain treasures and simple pleasures of Franklin, North Carolina.

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Amusements/Attractions

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