FRANKLIN’S GUIDE TO

Dickens of a Christmas

Dickens of a Christmas brings Victorian charm to downtown Franklin each December. Produced by the Heritage Foundation of Williamson County, the festival recreates scenes from Charles Dickens’ world with costumed characters, carolers, street performers, and family-friendly activities across historic Main Street. This holiday tradition fills the streets and the season with old-fashioned cheer.

When is Dickens of a Christmas?

Join the fun annually on the second weekend in December. Hours are typically Saturday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

A couple sits on a snowy bench, holding a 'Merry Christmas' banner in Williamson County, Tennessee.

A bustling outdoor market with a large Christmas tree as the centerpiece in Williamson County, Tennessee.

Where does Dickens of a Christmas take place?

Dickens of a Christmas fills Historic Downtown Franklin with a festive holiday atmosphere. The footprint typically covers Main Street between 1st Avenue and the 5-points area, with stages, vendor areas, and bathroom/shuttle access mapped across the downtown core.

About Franklin’s Dickens of a Christmas

Dickens of a Christmas is one of Williamson County’s signature seasonal festivals, produced by the Heritage Foundation of Williamson County. The Victorian-themed event combines street theater, live music, Victorian Village performances, artisan booths, and family entertainment. It draws large regional crowds each year. In 2024, the festival welcomed a record attendance, reflecting its place as a beloved holiday tradition for Middle Tennessee.

A street performer in period costume entertains a crowd with glassware tricks outside a vintage theater in Williamson County, Tennessee.

Live Entertainment Lineup

Victorian Village:

Holiday dancers, costumed characters, and carolers bring Victorian scenes to life.

A diverse group of children and adults dressed in period costumes perform a musical number on an outdoor stage in Williamson County, Tennessee.

Main Stage (presented by Nissan):

Full-stage performances, musical acts, and featured programming.

A young woman in a red and black plaid shirt plays the violin on the street, accompanied by a man in a top hat playing the accordion in Williamson County, Tennessee.

Acoustic Stage (presented by Hiller):

Intimate sets and local performers.

A joyful crowd celebrates under a sparkling Christmas tree, arms raised in excitement in Williamson County, Tennessee.

StoryTimes (sponsored):

Kid-focused readings and activities.

A group of friends celebrates with drinks and pizza at a bowling alley in Williamson County, Tennessee.

Whiskey Lounge (Leipers Fork Distillery) & Beer Garden (Bavarian Bierhaus):

Seasonal specialty beverages for adults of age.

Three costumed individuals in festive attire pose together outdoors in Williamson County, Tennessee.

Family-Friendly Activities

Dickens of a Christmas is built for families: interactive characters, photo moments with Victorian Father and Mother Christmas, storytime sessions, children’s entertainment in the Victorian Village, and kid-friendly food vendors. The event footprint is stroller-accessible in most areas and includes multiple restroom options.

Artisan Vendors

The festival hosts an extensive arts & crafts market and a wide range of food & beverage vendors (seasonal treats, local favorites, and holiday edibles). Expect artisan booths selling gifts, ornaments, local artwork, and festival-themed goods, perfect for holiday shopping in a historic downtown setting.

Elderly woman in traditional attire spins yarn on a wooden wheel amidst a crowd in Williamson County, Tennessee.

A cozy kitchen store filled with cooking utensils, books, and decorative items in Williamson County, Tennessee.

Nearby Things To Do in Franklin

Make a weekend of it. Historic downtown Franklin offers shopping, restaurants, outdoor adventures, and more. Popular nearby stops include The Franklin Theatre, historic homes and walking routes, local boutiques, and seasonal dining spots. Enjoy the full weekend or explore for a week! Franklin has plenty of accommodations to suit your needs.

A serene winter landscape featuring stylized snow-covered trees and a winding river against a dark night sky in Williamson County, Tennessee.

Parking Information

Downtown Parking:

Limited street parking is available; public garages on 2nd and 4th Avenues offer nearby access. Expect reduced on-street parking within the festival footprint.

Park & Ride / Shuttle:

Franklin Transit operates shuttle service from offsite lots (commonly Harlinsdale Farm and Franklin High School) starting at festival open; shuttle rides have been available for a small fee. Shuttle schedules typically begin at 10 a.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m. on Sunday, with last shuttles departing shortly before the festival ends.

ADA & Accessible Options:

Franklin Transit shuttle vehicles are ADA accessible. Designated accessible parking is typically available in downtown garages.

Two black triangular shapes resembling mountains or peaks against a light blue background in Williamson County, Tennessee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Santa Claus, accompanied by a woman and two dogs, stands beside a decorated truck and Christmas tree in Williamson County, Tennessee.

IS DICKENS OF A CHRISTMAS PET-FRIENDLY?

Yes, but keep your furry friend leashed, and be sure to pick up after your pet.

A group of people, including children, gather around a man spinning yarn on a wooden wheel at a public event in Williamson County, Tennessee.

DO YOU HAVE TO PURCHASE TICKETS FOR THE DICKENS OF A CHRISTMAS?

Dickens of a Christmas is a free, public festival. No general admission tickets are required for public access. Some shuttles, special tents, or VIP experiences may have separate fees. Check the official event listing for details.

Crowd gathers around blacksmith demonstrating traditional metalworking techniques with fire and hammer in Williamson County, Tennessee.

How can I become a vendor for the Dickens of a Christmas?

Vendor and performer applications are managed by the Heritage Foundation of Williamson County. Visit the Heritage Foundation events or Festival Participant Information pages for application details and deadlines.

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