As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, the city of Franklin transforms into a winter wonderland for families. From festivals and tree lighting ceremonies to ice skating and exploring the beauty of nature in winter, there are so many opportunities to create special memories with the ones you love. With so much to choose from, The Gardner School has made a bucket list full of recommendations for our favorite activities that preschoolers and their families can enjoy this winter in Franklin.
FrankTown Festival of Lights
FrankTown Festival of Lights is another must-see family friendly event. Enjoy the drive-thru display of over 200 synchronized light displays from the comfort of your cozy car. Every Wednesday is a “Walking Wednesday,” a day you can park the car and enjoy the lighted route on foot.
Christmas Tree Lighting on the Square
Watch as Franklin lights up the square during the city’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony. Enjoy the lights, live music, photos with Santa, and an art walk on December 1, with events starting at 6:00 p.m.
The Heritage Foundation’s 38th Annual Dickens of a Christmas presented by Wilson Bank & Trust
Middle Tennessee’s largest outdoor Christmas festival is returning for its 38th year! The Heritage Foundation’s 38th Annual Dickens of a Christmas presented by Wilson Bank & Trust is an outdoor Victorian-themed street festival that takes place in the perfect setting for such an event: Franklin’s historic downtown.
The Factory At Franklin
This national landmark and local treasure has recently undergone a massive renovation with an upgraded roster of shops, restaurants, and a brand new bar concept, The Skylight. The Factory has an industrial past that’s been preserved in recent renovations and is even showcased during weekly tours! It’s a great place to gather with friends and family. Be sure to check out this year’s MADE SOUTH Holiday Market that The Factory is hosting in November.
Hello Trolley Holiday Lights Tour
For a truly unique holiday experience, take a trolley ride to see some of the best Christmas light displays Franklin has to offer. Visit Hello Trolley’s website to check out rates and reservations.
Timberland Park
Located off Natchez Trace Parkway in Franklin, Timberland Park is a great spot to take your family for an outdoor adventure. There are plenty of trails to choose from, including shorter ones that are great for preschoolers. The park also offers events for children, like story time and guided hikes (most of which are free)!
Ice Skating
Bundle up and hit the ice rink at The Hockey Lab in downtown Franklin. Register online to learn how to skate or play hockey! If you’d rather spend an afternoon skating, the rink is open to the public during certain times and days. Be sure to check out their website for those details.
Spend a Day in Leiper’s Fork
If you’re up for a very short road trip (with a scenic drive), head to Leiper’s Fork. Located just outside of Franklin, the small town boasts an impressive number of charming shops and tasty restaurants. Enjoy window shopping or stop in one of the cafes to warm up with a sweet treat!
Adventurous Learning in Every Season
The Gardner School offers an engaging, hands-on curriculum for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers in Williamson County. Our caring teachers encourage children’s curiosity while supporting a robust educational foundation in and out of the classroom. To learn more about our preschool, contact us to set up a tour.