Franklin is known for its free festivals throughout the year. From Main Street Festival in April to Pumpkinfest in October and Dickens of a Christmas in December, it takes a large group of volunteers, along with a festival coordinator, to host these events. Recently, Meredith McKellar-Rowley was named as the new Coordinator of Festivals and Special Events. We sat down with her to learn more about the first festival she attended in Franklin, and what we can expect at Pumpkinfest 2018.
Tell us a little bit about yourself and why you call Franklin home?
I was born in Louisville, KY. I moved to California when I was twelve. I lived in northern and southern California. We moved to Franklin eight years ago. I have two sons Jackson who is 13 and Cooper who is 8.
I have a BFA from the University of Southern California and a MA in Education from Pepperdine. I have been head of the BGA Denim & Diamonds annual fundraiser for the last four years. I also manage The Jessie Barker McKellar Foundation (My Family Foundation). I plan to spend the rest of my life in this wonderful city!
Why did you want to work with the Heritage Foundation as the Festival Coordinator?
I wanted this position because I want to work somewhere that directly gives back to our community. The Heritage Foundation does such amazing work to preserve the history and beauty of Williamson County. I wanted to be part of that preservation effort. I love a good party and a fun festival and I love bringing people together in celebration. The festivals are good for our Foundation and great for the city of Franklin.
What would you say is your biggest responsibility in planning a festival?
My biggest responsibility is choosing amazing artisans, delicious food and wonderful musicians and organizing everyone’s placement around Main Street.
Can you tell us about the first festival you attended in Franklin?
My first festival was Pumpkinfest eight years ago. It really solidified that we made a great decision to move our family to Franklin. The Festival represents everything about living in Williamson County. It’s an amazing place for families. It’s a small town mentality with larger town fun. It displays all of the amazing talents we have in our area from art, to country music to BBQ with all the fixins! One festival and we were fans for life.
Pumpkinfest is just around the corner, is there anything new we can expect?
Pumpkinfest is October 27th this year. I am focusing on making this a wonderful family experience. I want to bring everyone together in celebration of our town. Expect even higher quality artisans, toe-tapping musicians and a wide mix of high-end food trucks and long-time favorite festival food. I want to add to the magic of this already amazing festival.
Thanks so much to Meredith for taking time out to answer our questions. Be sure to follow the Heritage Foundation of Williamson County on Facebook for the latest updates.
