This Saturday will be a busy day for downtown Franklin as the Main St. merchants celebrate their monthly Sip & Shop day, and the Uptown Gallery brings its ARTFEST 2026 to the Town Square.
ARTFEST is a free family-friendly arts event that will take place on Saturday, August 8, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. in Downtown Franklin.
Designed to inspire creativity and make the arts accessible to everyone, ARTFEST invites community members and visitors of all ages to participate in hands-on art activities, interactive demonstrations, and take-home art projects throughout the day. The event serves as both a celebration of the arts and a fundraiser supporting arts education and programming in Macon County.
The event coincides with the Franklin Downtown Merchants Association’s Second Saturday Sip & Shop. That event invites locals and visitors to enjoy an adult beverage as part of Franklin’s social district rules while strolling through the businesses on and around Main St.
“From learning how to felt and creating a pair of copper earrings to pouring paint onto a canvas to make your own masterpiece, ARTFEST offers hands-on experiences for every age,” said Kay Wolf, ARTFEST coordinator. “Parents especially enjoy watching their children discover new creative talents while making memories together.”
The event will feature opportunities for children, families, and adults to explore a variety of artistic mediums while engaging with local artists and arts advocates. Admission is free, and all ages are encouraged to attend.
Proceeds and sponsorship support from ARTFEST help fund the Macon County Art Association’s ongoing mission of promoting the visual arts and providing educational opportunities throughout the community.
ARTFEST 2026 is presented by the Uptown Gallery/Macon County Art Association, with support from community sponsors including Renee’s Cake Shoppe.
