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The Franktown Festival of Lights Is Good Fun for a Good Cause in Franklin
by Rich and Laura Lynch
The Festival of Lights is Williamson County's only drive through light display. In addition to sparkling synchronized lights, kids of all ages can also enjoy Lee Company's Santa's Village. Best of all, this fun event, now in its second year supports Franktown Open Hearts. The Festival of Lights is running now through December 28, 2019 at the Williamson County Ag Expo Center conveniently located just off of I-65 in Franklin, Tennessee.
Franktown Open Hearts CEO and Executive Director - Chris Barnhill.
Franktown Open Hearts is a non-profit organization committed to the success of Franklin's inner-city children. They give academic assistance, meals, mentoring, recreation and spiritual growth opportunities for youth ages 8-18 in the form of weekly educational and vocational classes. Their goal is to inspire, empower, and equip at-risk families in Franklin, Tennessee.
Upon arrival attendees at the Festival of Lights can relax in the comfort of their own car as they drive through this dazzling display while tuned into Christmas classics on the radio. Cheerful holiday characters and greetings line the pathway with the center piece being a witty take on the 12 Days of Christmas. It took us a moment to realize why there were hens on an Eiffel Tower. There are over 200 colorful exhibits that conclude with a message of peace. Another option for guests is to pay for a ride on a roofless bus provided by Honky Tonk Party Express.
Tasty nuts, a man and his monkey, open air touring and, of course - lights.
Lee Company has assisted Franktown Open Hearts by providing occupational programs to kids. Their students learn about trades such as heating and plumbing that are good career options. In 2019, the corporation expanded their support by sponsoring Santa's Village. In this sheltered space, crafts, food and games are available. For a snack we sampled and purchased some tasty treats from The Almond Tree Nut Company. Owners Dana and Karen plan on cooking up their fresh products throughout this holiday festival before returning to their home base in Florida.
Santa is ready for photos ops as is The Grinch (the actual stand in for Jim Carrey in the movie). Also, there is a stage for live music. On the night that we were there Renata - three siblings from Nashville who guarantee to leave you entertained - did just that. Outdoors there is a carousel, Ferris wheel, train rides and a large petting zoo that was packed with goats and other cute critters. Camel and pony rides are also available.
The Festival of Lights is an ideal way to celebrate Christmas as it supports an organization that operates on the mission to "be Jesus" by providing physical and spiritual hope to low-income youth by instilling in them critical life skills. In addition to doing a good deed visitors experience 1.25 miles of Christmas lights plus the add-ons at Santa's Village. Thanks to volunteers this event builds and brings the community together while assisting the under-served in the area.
A petting zoo, The Grinch and carnival rides helped this event stand out from the holiday pack.
Related Links:
For more information on the FRANKTOWN FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS and the other organizations mentioned please visit the following links --
Franktown Open Hearts |
Lee Company |
The Almond Tree |
Renata
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