The holidays can be overwhelming. Between shopping lists, travel plans, and endless ads, the season sometimes feels more like overconsumption than celebration. I often find myself reminiscing about how simple the holidays felt as a kid, or looking at old photos of my parents’ Christmases, when joy seemed to come from smaller moments.
If you’re craving that same simplicity, Franklin is full of places that capture that feeling.
From vintage vinyl and classic films to carousels and roller skates, here’s how you can celebrate the holidays with a retro twist (no time machine required).
Catch a Classic Holiday Film
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Nothing says “old-school holiday” like watching your favorite seasonal film. For next-level nostalgia, catch one at The Franklin Theatre. Throughout November and December, the historic venue screens holiday classics during both matinee and evening hours.
First opened in 1937, it’s the perfect place to cozy up with popcorn and hot cocoa for White Christmas, It’s a Wonderful Life, Miracle on 34th Street, and more.
Ride an Old-School Carousel
Watching the newly restored Carousel of Dreams go round at The Factory is magical. The artist who hand-carved every animal on the carousel, Ken Means, began his craft with a rocking horse for his daughters as a Christmas present. That single piece of art sparked a 30-year journey creating a menagerie of animals that would one day become this carousel.
The best part is, it’s not just for kids! You’re welcome to embrace your inner child. The carousel is open to visitors of all ages.
Skate Back in Time
Stepping one foot into the Brentwood Skate Center will allow you to fill up on that retro vibe that you’ve been craving. It’s a throwback experience that never gets old, complete with a classic letterhead sign outside, disco lights, and old-school skates.
Lace em’ up and glide under the sparkling lights this holiday season—they always offer great deals for winter break skating and mix holiday classics into their playlist for a festive atmosphere.
Shop for Vintage Gifts
Searching for a holiday gift with a little character? Downtown Franklin’s antique shops and vintage boutiques offer unique finds with a touch of history.
White’s Mercantile, owned by Holly Williams, stocks a stunning collection of Old World Christmas ornaments every year. An old-fashioned ornament exchange is a classic holiday art we should never let slip away!
At Carpe Diem Records, browse rows of vintage vinyl to build your holiday playlist—think A Charlie Brown Christmas or A Jolly Christmas from Frank Sinatra. No Bluetooth speaker can match the cozy crackle of a record spinning on the turntable.
Enjoy a Traditional Holiday Treat
When I was growing up, my four siblings and I would drink Swiss Miss hot chocolate on snow days or little celebrations at home. That big blue tub brings back so much nostalgia.
If you’re looking for a slightly elevated hot chocolate, head over to Triple Crown Bakery. Served in an antique teapot and accompanied by a cookie and a dish of whipped cream, it’s a step—or two—above Swiss Miss. It’s perfect for sharing with loved ones while strolling through Franklin’s historic downtown and taking in the holiday lights.
