41st Annual Dickens of a Christmas, Franklin

For one weekend in December, historic downtown Franklin closes its streets and rewinds about 180 years. Costumed characters in Victorian dress fill the sidewalks, along with carolers, musicians, dancers, street performers and food vendors. It is now in its 41st year, which tells you something about how well it works.

What makes it a genuinely good family pick is that walking in costs nothing. You can spend two hours wandering, let the kids meet characters, listen to a few musicians and head home without buying a ticket. Food and craft vendors are there if you want them, but the festival itself is free.

Plan for crowds and park farther out than you think you need to – the walk in is part of the fun, and downtown Franklin is flat and stroller-friendly. Saturday is the busier of the two days. Sunday afternoon tends to be calmer if you have little ones who do not love a crush of people.

When: Saturday, December 12, 10 a.m. through Sunday, December 13, 5 p.m.
Where: Historic downtown Franklin
Cost: Free to attend