Pumpkinfest Returns to Downtown Franklin Oct 27

The Heritage Foundation’s 35th Annual Pumpkinfest, Presented by Jackson is Middle Tennessee’s largest family fall festival returning this year on October 27, 2018. With over 65,000 people in attendance, the festival stretches along Main Street and its side avenues in downtown Franklin and offers tons of festive fun for people of all ages!

(NEW!) Heritage Foundation Members-Only VIP Lounge: 
Heritage Foundation members not only support our mission of “saving places that matter” in Williamson County, but they also receive countless member benefits throughout the year. This new benefit will offer a comfortable, cool space for members to relax, grab some snacks and refreshments and mingle with other members.

Church of the City Kids’ Zone: 
As in years past, there will be 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 your kids entertained for hours.

Trick-or-Treat Around the Festival: 
Many of the vendors, tents and downtown merchants will be happily giving out candy to adults and kids with creative contests. Don’t forget to pick up your official Jackson trick-or-treat bag on your way into the festival (while supplies last).

(NEW DETAILS!) Costume Contests:
The costume contests are back and better than ever this year! Costume contest categories are ages 0 to 2, 3 to 6 , 7 to 11, 12 and over, Groups and pets.

    • (New!) Online Registration: In an effort to make the costume contest registration and check-in even easier, check out the free online registration. Click on the links below to register.
    • (New Costume Parade & New Time!) People Costume Contests and Parade: To show off your creative costumes even further; this year there is a brief parade around the square at 11:00 am before all contestants head to the Guitar Center Main Stage
    • Pet Costume Contest Presented by MARS Petcare – 1:00 pm at the Guitar Center Main Stage

Register Individual People
Register a Group of People
Register Pets

Live Entertainment: The Guitar Center Main Stage on the Public Square will feature a full lineup of dance performances, costume contest & music. Don’t miss these live entertainment highlights:

      • People on the Porch to play Guitar Center Main Stage from 4-5:30 pm
      • 2nd Avenue Stage across from JJ’s Wine Bar featuring acoustic artists

Arts and Crafts Vendors: 
More than 100 artists and crafts people with handmade wares will line Main Street from 1st to 5th Avenues.  Don’t miss the unique shopping opportunities!

Street Festival Food: 
Old favorites like corn dogs, funnel cakes, fried catfish, and chicken tenders will join some newer offerings. Grab a map when you get here to find all your favorite vendors!

(NEW!) Beer Gardens, Presented in Partnership with Mantra Artisan Ales: 
This year, we are expanding our craft beer experience into not one but two large beer gardens in partnership with Mantra Artisan Ales! We will have four ID/wristband locations where you will need to purchase tickets for alcoholic beverages.

Downtown Franklin Rotary’s Chili Cook Off:
A fan favorite will be back this year. Stop by the Downtown Franklin Rotary Chili Cook Off in the parking lot next to Landmark Booksellers.

The Great Pumpkin: 
Franklin’s Sister City, Carleton Place, Canada, is again growing our 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!