Pumpkinfest is Middle Tennessee’s largest family fall festival that will return in it’s 34th year on October 28, 2017. With over 65,000 people in attendance, the festival stretches along Main Street in downtown Franklin, and its avenues, and offers tons of festive fun for families!
What You Can Expect
Church of the City Kids’ Zone
Third Avenue North will be transformed into a full block of free children’s activities from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Bouncy houses, pony rides, face painting, games, a dedicated preschool area, and much more will keep the small fry entertained for hours.
Costume Contests
Sponsored this year by Lockwood Glen, the costume contests for humans will take place on the Public Square Stage at 1:45 p.m. The costume contest for pets will take place at the same time on the same stage. Costume contest categories are ages 0 to 2, 3 to 6 , 7 to 11, 12 and over, Groups and pets. Check in’s for the costume contest will start at 1:00 p.m. next to the Public Square Stage.
Live Entertainment
The Guitar Center Main Stage on the Public Square will feature a full lineup of dance performances, costume contest & music. Additionally, there will be a stage at 1st and Main Street and the Mantra Beer Tent featuring all-day music.
Arts and Crafts Vendors
More than 100 artists and crafts people with handmade wares will line Main Street from First to Fifth Avenues. Don’t miss the unique shopping opportunities!
Street Festival Food & Beer Tent
Old favorites like corn dogs, funnel cakes, fried catfish, and chicken tenders will join some newer offerings in two dedicated food zones: around the Public Square and on 4th Avenue South. A beer tent will be located on 4th Avenue South.
The Great Pumpkin
Franklin’s Sister City, Carleton Place, Canada, is again growing the Great Pumpkin. Stop by its location on the Public Square and guess its weight for a chance at a fabulous prize.
Extreme Pumpkin Carving
Check out the Leiper’s Fork Carving Club as they demonstrate their carving skills with pumpkins.
Photo Ops
Be sure to bring the camera! Photo ops will abound on the square and Main Street!
Parking
In addition to the parking in and around the downtown area, parking and shuttle service will be available from Church of the City and Harlinsdale Farm for $1 per person each way. No pets, non-folding strollers, or food or drink except bottled water is allowed on the trolleys.
2017 Chili Cook-Off Sponsored by Downtown Franklin Rotary Club
The Chili Cook-Off returns to Pumpkinfest this year. It will be located in the parking lot of Landmark Booksellers, 114 E Main Street.
First and Second-place awards will be given for Best Chili – Judges, Best Chili – People’s Choice and Best Booth Decoration. Each person purchasing a Chili Cook-Off ticket will have a vote for the People’s Choice award. Judges will come to booths at various times between 11:00 – 2:00. Winners will be announced at approximately 3:30pm. Click here for the registration form!
Grave Matters: The Stories Behind the Stones
After dark, Franklin’s historic cemeteries will come to life with first-person stories of some of the folks buried there. The cemetery tours will run from 7 – 9 p.m. For more information or tickets, click here.
