The village of Franklin plans to celebrate the holiday season with its annual Christmas Stroll House Tour and Holiday Market.
According to a news release from organizers, the event will take place Saturday, Dec. 14. The traditional Christmas Stroll House Tour, from 1 to 5 p.m., will include seven historic homes in Franklin, decorated for the holidays and most in the village within walking distance of each other. Tickets are $10 per person or $15 per couple. Tickets will be sold at Yokel Restaurant at 458 Main St. in Franklin from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 12 and Friday, Dec. 13. Tickets will also be sold at the Firehouse Holiday Market from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, December 14.
“The Stroll is a fun event where attendees can learn about the history and architectural details of the homes, chat with your hosts and enjoy light refreshments,” Connie Martin, coordinator of the stroll, said. “Most of the homes participating this year were built between the 1820s and early 1900s, and six are located in the village of Franklin, which is on the National Register of Historic Places.”
Another coordinator, John Wilson, said, “The homeowners have conducted research on their homes and any renovations are done with attention and care in an effort to preserve the unique character of the homes. It’s practically a guarantee that attendees will come away with some great ideas for renovations and décor.”
After expenses, proceeds from the tour benefit the Franklin Improvement Society, a 501c3 organization.
Other Franklin attractions that day include:
The Franklin Railroad and Community Museum’s Trees and Trains for Christmas exhibit. The museum is at 572 Main St. and will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Firehouse Holiday Market at the Franklin Firehouse garage at 351 Main St. from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Artisans and vendors from the local area will offer holiday wares, home décor, handmade clothing, food and more.
Gourmet cheese tasting at Good Taste Epicurean Market. Vistiors can sample an array of gourmet cheeses, dried sausages and other delicacies at the market at 438 Main St. from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Holiday Stories and Santa’s Visit at The Franklin Free Library, The library, at 334 Main St., will have holiday storytime at 11 a.m., followed by a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus with gifts for the kids. Home-baked cookies and punch will be served.
Church festivities, including a Christmas cookie sale at 11 a.m. at Open Doors Methodist Church at 475 Main St. St. Paul’s Episcopal Church at 307 Main Street will have a tour and seasonal music from noon to 3 p.m. The Community Bible Church at 89 Center St. will have Christmas caroling and hot chocolate from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Santa and Mrs. Claus will visit the Franklin Firehouse garage beginning at 5 p.m. They will have a gift for each child, and hot chocolate and cookies will be served. Kids can also make a craft to take home.
Franklin eateries and businesses will be open. Visitors can walk along Main Street and enjoy the lighted holiday trees decorated by Franklin Rotary Club members.
Those with questions about the Christmas Stroll House Tour or other festivities around town can contact Martin at candjmartin@fastmail.com or Wilson at jwilix48@gmail.com or visit franklinny.org/stroll24 for updates.