(See a gallery of photos below the story.)

The 2024 Franklin Christmas Parade garnered rave reviews, with some describing it as the best one they had ever seen in the city.

The event, presented by the Franklin Department of Parks and Recreation, began at 7 p.m. amid temperatures in the mid-to-lower 20s, but a sizable crowd of people bundled up to witness a procession of approximately 75 floats navigate downtown Franklin. 

The theme for the parade this year was “Winter Wonderland: A Character’s Christmas.”

Mayor Robert “Bobby” Cutchins, who was on a float near the beginning of the event, described the parade as “amazing.”

“The parade was a great reminder of the positive spirit that exists within our city,” he said. “There were many people of all ages lined up on both sides of the street on 4th Avenue and Main Street, all the way to Barrett’s Landing. The weather was definitely Christmas-like, for sure, with it being as cold as it was. Kudos to all the city of Franklin staff and volunteers for all of their hard work in making the parade a huge success.”

City Manager Rosylen Oglesby said, “The Christmas Parade was a testament to our community spirit, with a great turnout that lit up the festivities, leaving visitors filled with joy. Kudos to our staff for their excellent work in making it happen!”

Franklin Parks and Recreation Director Sammara Green said, “I thought the parade went over really well, and I am pleased with this year’s turnout despite the chilly temperatures. I want to extend my gratitude to all the participants, spectators and volunteers, as well as the dedicated teams from Public Works, Tourism, the Franklin City Police Department and our Parks and Recreation staff for their coordination and unwavering support in making the parade a success.”

Multiple members of the Franklin City Council spoke about the parade during the council’s Monday, Dec. 9, meeting.

“The Christmas parade was the best one I’ve ever seen in 42 years,” Ward 1 Councilman Mark R. Kitchen said, “Every department in the city did an amazing job.”

Ward 3 Councilman Gregory McLemore said, “First I would like to recognize a former colleague, Councillady Rosa Lawrence, who had the vision to make our Christmas parades at night. Prior to her, they were in the day, and I think it was a wonderful idea that she convinced council to go with. 

“And I chime in with my colleague, Councilman Kitchen, that it was probably the best Christmas parade that Franklin has ever had,” McLemore continued. “It was phenomenally done. Hats off to whoever put it together. I think you worked with the committee, Councilman (Linwood) Johnson. It was done very well.”

McLemore added, “In 14 years, I think I may have been to four, five of them, but this one was definitely outstanding, from the presentation of the participants, as well as the crowds. The people weathered that cold weather to be out there for that parade, so it showed me that the people want to participate in social activities that the city puts on.”