Spring has officially sprung, and May is bursting with color — not just in the flowers blooming around town, but also on our plates! At Gracious Plates On Main, our vibrant farm-to-table salads are packed with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients that celebrate the season’s best produce. With sunny days and warmer temps finally here, it’s the perfect time to savor all the fruits and veggies growing right here in our region.
We’re open seven days a week, serving up your favorite farm-fresh dishes, creative cocktails, and a curated selection of premium wines. Whether you prefer dining indoors or enjoying the view from our covered patio on Main Street, you’ll be treated to warm, welcoming service that makes every visit special.
Planning a day out in Franklin? Be sure to check out the local events and activities happening nearby — then join us for a delicious meal before or after. At Gracious Plates On Main, we’re here to make your spring days even more flavorful!
Local Highlights
Riverwalk Grille: A Month of Specials
Riverwalk Grille, Franklin’s premier steakhouse, is officially open and welcoming guests! Experience delicious food, great company, and a full bar in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Indulge in juicy grilled steaks, seafood cooked to perfection, and our signature stuffed burgers, packed with bold flavors and mouth watering ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a casual bite or a special night out, Riverwalk Grille is the new place to be in town. Celebrate food and friendship with us as we bring top-quality dining to the heart of Franklin. We even have a full month of specials to mark our Grand Opening — so come hungry and ready to enjoy an unforgettable meal!
The Macon County Farmers Market is back for the 2025 season, kicking off Saturdays this month in downtown Franklin at Town Hall and running through November. You’ll find a vibrant mix of local growers, bakers, and artisans, plus fun, family-friendly educational activities to enjoy each week. Thanks to a sponsorship from Gracious Plates On Main, you can also enjoy live music from talented local performers while you shop!
Once you’ve filled your market bags (and your ears with great tunes), head over to Gracious Plates On Main to satisfy your appetite with fresh, farm-to-table favorites. We’ll be serving brunch starting at 9am, lunch at 11am, and our dinner menu begins at 4pm. Join us downtown every Saturday—it’s the perfect way to support local and savor the season!
Each month, Uptown Gallery on Main Street offers a variety of fun and engaging classes for artists of all levels, from beginner to advanced. Learn watercolor painting, fused glass art, colored pencil art, jewelry design, and more. Check out their Facebook Events page to see all they have to offer this month.
Rathskeller Coffee Bar & Pub hosts Trivia every other week, and the proceeds from the fun always go to a local nonprofit chosen by the winning team! They offer a full espresso bar, an array of craft beers, and fresh baked goods.
The Franklin Gem & Mineral Society
The Franklin Gem and Mineral Society is dedicated to sharing and promoting cultural, educational, and scientific interests in rocks, minerals, fossils, and the lapidary arts. This nonprofit offers youth education and activities through the JUNIOR ROCKHOUNDS for students, ages 7 through 17. The society also offers adult education, including field trips and classes. The museum is open Thursday-Saturday from 12:00-4:00pm.
Echoes of the Past Historic Ghost Tours
Listen for “Echoes of the Past” and learn about the local legends of downtown Franklin, NC. Experience our histories and mysteries on an immersive walking tour through one of the most historically diverse and haunted places in America. From stories of pre-Columbian explorers to the Civil War to modern day, each one hour ghost tour is appropriate for all ages.
Silver Threads and Golden Needles
Silver Threads & Golden Needles is a friendly and fiber obsessed yarn shop located in the Historic Downtown shopping area of Franklin, North Carolina. Whether you are a local or taking a vacation in the Smoky Mountains, we are your one stop destination for all things yarn and fiber!
On the first Thursday of every month, A Novel Escape hosts Book Club. It’s a fun group that delves into a variety of different genres, with each month’s book selected by popular vote. And to make it even better, each month’s chosen book is 15% at the bookstore!
Macon County Veterans Memorial Park
Get ready, Franklin! The Sweet Carolina Music Fest is bringing an unforgettable night of live music, energy, and small-town charm to the mountains of Western North Carolina! This year’s headliner is none other than John Morgan, the country music sensation and songwriter behind some of today’s biggest hits. The inaugural festival runs from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. and features a stellar lineup of artists who are set to light up the stage.
The Dance Arts Co-Ops Spring Recital 2025
Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts
Step into the enchanting world of dance with The Dance Arts Co-Op’s captivating showcase, “Wading Through Time.” Embark on a mesmerizing journey through classical ballet, contemporary flair, rhythmic tap, sizzling jazz, vibrant hip-hop, and spirited African dance pieces.
Join us for an exhilarating two-hour extravaganza where youthful exuberance meets timeless elegance. Experience the magic as students, aged 3 to 18, pour their hearts into each performance, expressing themselves through the language of movement.
Prepare to be swept away by moments of pure joy, contagious laughter, graceful elegance, and heartfelt emotion. “Wading Through Time” promises to be a delightful affair for all ages, offering an unforgettable fusion of tradition, talent, and sheer artistic brilliance.
Downtown Franklin is kicking off a fun new tradition—the Second Saturday Sip & Stroll! Happening every second Saturday of the month, it’s your chance to explore Main Street in a whole new way. Grab a Social District-approved beverage from Gracious Plates On Main and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the shops downtown. Locals, it’s the perfect time to play tourist for a day. Visitors, just be yourselves—and don’t be shy, we’d love to say hello! Plus, you never know what deals or delightful finds are waiting for you in the shops. We’ll see you downtown!
Pickin’ On The Square: Arnold Hill
The Gazebo in Downtown Franklin
For over three decades the Town of Franklin, NC has hosted this FREE event at the Gazebo on the Square in Downtown Franklin. Pickin’ on the Square 2025 begins at 6:00 p.m. and features free, live musical entertainment each evening. From bluegrass to country and oldies to rock ‘n’ roll, you are sure to enjoy each great evening of family entertainment during Pickin’ on the Square. Bring your lawn chair and come join us in Downtown Franklin!
Join us for an hour once a month and read silently amongst your fellow book lovers! There will be a “settle-in” period from 6:30-7pm, silent reading from 7-8pm, and a short exclusive shopping period from 8-8:30pm. Bring your pillow, blanket, or any other items to help you feel comfy while reading. Don’t forget your book!
Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts
A FAN-FAVORITE RETURNS! What began as four award-winning, talented friends making music together has quickly become a nationally-renowned band. Brothers Of the Heart (Jimmy Fortune, Ben Isaacs, Bradley Walker, Mike Rogers) reimagine country, gospel and pop classics, including “Ring of Fire,” “Desperado,” “Precious Memories” and more. Showcasing impeccable arrangements and seamless harmonies, Brothers Of the Heart reminds the audience there is nothing greater than the joy of listening to great music.
The Chain: Fleetwood Mac Tribute
Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts
The Chain is America’s Premier Fleetwood Mac tribute band from Charlotte, NC, performing nationwide, the music of this multi-platinum super group as it was intended. These talented musicians recreate the stage and album sounds of Fleetwood Mac’s biggest hits while looking the part, with Stevie Nicks’ solo efforts and a few deep cuts added into the mix. The showmanship, musicality and energy among this group is unmatched.
Let the Chain take you on a journey down memory lane with the sounds of the Mac!
Pickin’ On The Square: Run Katie Run
The Gazebo in Downtown Franklin
For over three decades the Town of Franklin, NC has hosted this FREE event at the Gazebo on the Square in Downtown Franklin. Pickin’ on the Square 2025 begins at 6:00 p.m. and features free, live musical entertainment each evening. From bluegrass to country and oldies to rock ‘n’ roll, you are sure to enjoy each great evening of family entertainment during Pickin’ on the Square. Bring your lawn chair and come join us in Downtown Franklin!
