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Franklin Christmas Tree Lighting on the Square
Join the City of Franklin for their annual Christmas Tree Lighting on the Square, a beloved Middle Tennessee tradition. This festive event features a special performance by GRAMMY nominee Matthew West, along with opening acts by John-Mark McGaha and the Freedom Intermediate School choir. Explore the inaugural Christkindlmarkt, offering traditional German music, carols, culinary delights, and unique ornaments. Capture memories with Santa, including a pet-friendly hour, and enjoy local art and community spirit.
What to Expect
Inaugural Christkindlmarkt with German music and food
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: FREE
- Parking: Parking areas are available. Refer to the provided map for details.
- Pets: Pet-friendly photos with Santa available
Other Christmas Events Near Franklin
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and individuals seeking a festive holiday experience
Vibe
Festive, community-oriented, cheerful
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
FREE
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
High
Special Events & Promotions
- Inaugural Christkindlmarkt
- Pet Friendly Photos with Santa
- Free photos with Santa
- Art Crawl
- Commemorative mugs for sale
Location
Event Details
Duration
Evening event
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Franklin
Timed Entry
No
Featured Performers
- Matthew West
- John-Mark McGaha
- Freedom Intermediate Honors Choir
- Shine Your Light Singers
- Williamson County Community Chorus
Organizer
City of Franklin
Food & Drink
Food vendors available, including funnel cake and German kebabs; free refreshments from Franklin Noon Rotary.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early to secure a good spot for the tree lighting ceremony and to enjoy the pre-event activities.
- Check the event schedule closer to the date for exact times of performances and Santa photo opportunities.
- Bring cash for purchases at the Christkindlmarkt and food vendors, as not all may accept cards.
- Consider using public parking areas indicated on the event map to avoid congestion around the square.
- Dress warmly and in layers, as December evenings in Tennessee can be chilly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony begin?
The main festivities begin at 6:00 p.m., with performances starting at 6:40 p.m. The tree is expected to be lit around 7:15 p.m.
Are there activities for children?
Yes, there is a Kinder Corner with art activities for children, and free photos with Santa.
Is the event pet-friendly?
Yes, there is a dedicated pet-friendly hour for photos with Santa from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
What kind of food will be available?
Food vendors will offer a variety of options, including funnel cakes and traditional German kebabs. Free refreshments will also be provided.
Where can I find parking?
Parking areas are available. It is recommended to consult the provided parking map for specific locations and guidance.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.