by Franklin, Tennessee — Halloween celebrations are picking up across Franklin as families prepare for costume contests, pumpkin-themed activities, haunted attractions and community events. With Halloween falling on Saturday, October 31, 2026, the final week of October offers several opportunities to enjoy seasonal activities before the month comes to an end.
One of the biggest events is the 41st Annual Pumpkinfest, returning to historic downtown Franklin for two days on October 24 and 25. Other upcoming options include a family trick-or-treat trail, Halloween parties and seasonal movie screenings.
Pumpkinfest Returns to Downtown Franklin on October 24–25
The 41st Annual Pumpkinfest is a major highlight of Franklin’s fall calendar. Organized by the Heritage Foundation of Williamson County, the festival will take place along Main Street in downtown Franklin.
Saturday’s festival hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., while Sunday’s activities run from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free.
Visitors can explore arts and crafts vendors, seasonal food and drinks, live music, children’s activities, pumpkin-themed attractions and costume contests. The expanded two-day format gives families more time to explore the festival and enjoy the downtown atmosphere.
Because the event attracts large crowds, visitors should plan parking in advance. Downtown street parking is limited within the festival footprint, and shuttle services are available from designated locations.
Trick-or-Treat Trail at The Factory on October 28
Families looking for Halloween activities for children can visit The Factory at Franklin on Wednesday, October 28.
The Trick-or-Treat Trail is scheduled for 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. The free event invites families to explore participating shops, studios and businesses while collecting treats and enjoying activities throughout the venue.
The afternoon timing may be convenient for families looking for something to do before Halloween night. Parents should check the latest event information before visiting to confirm participating locations and any special arrangements.
Halloween Parties in Franklin on October 30
Halloween celebrations continue on Friday, October 30, with events for adults and families.
The Halloween Soiree at Culamar + Rooftop, located at 99 East Main Street, is scheduled for 9 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. The free event advertises specialty cocktails, raffles, a costume contest and rooftop festivities overlooking downtown Franklin.
Those planning to attend should confirm any age restrictions, reservation requirements and event updates before arriving.
Franklin also has seasonal haunted attractions and ghost tours during October. Visitors interested in spooky experiences should check individual operators’ schedules, since operating nights, ticket availability and age recommendations can vary.
Halloween at Kings on October 31
On Halloween Saturday, Halloween at Kings Bowl, at 1910 Galleria Boulevard, Suite 120, offers activities throughout the day.
The venue lists a family-friendly, building-wide trick-or-treating experience from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Later, an adults-only celebration is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m., featuring hidden challenge cards and prizes. Costumes are encouraged.
This gives families an option for daytime Halloween fun, while adults can plan a separate evening outing.
Halloween Movies and Other Seasonal Activities
Movie fans can also look at the Franklin Theatre’s October Fear Fest program, which features horror films and Halloween favorites throughout the month. The published calendar includes screenings on October 29 and October 30, with additional Halloween programming scheduled for October 31.
Visitors interested in ghost stories can explore guided walking tours around historic downtown Franklin. Some tours focus on local history and reported paranormal encounters, while special seasonal experiences may require advance reservations.
Before making plans, check the latest schedules and ticket availability for each attraction.
Planning Your Halloween Weekend in Franklin
Franklin offers a mix of free festivals, family-friendly activities and evening entertainment during the final days of October. Pumpkinfest on October 24–25 is a strong choice for visitors who want a large community celebration, while the October 28 Trick-or-Treat Trail and October 31 activities provide additional options closer to Halloween.
Confirm event hours, parking arrangements and admission details before travelling, particularly for ticketed attractions and evening celebrations.
Which Franklin Halloween event are you planning to attend this year? Share your favorite local activities or upcoming events to help other families plan their weekend.
