Happy Fourth of July from the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds

As we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, we extend our best wishes for a safe and meaningful Independence Day.

On June 17, 2026, the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds marked this historic milestone by hosting an Open House celebrating the release of its fifth Notable Land Records publication, “We Remember America’s 250th Anniversary.” The event brought together members of the public to reflect on our nation’s founding and the important role Norfolk County played in the American Revolution. Highlights included a special live reading of the Declaration of Independence and displays showcasing historical figures, places, and events connected to our communities.

For those who were unable to attend or for those who would like to experience the event again we invite you to view the following video coverage:

Interview with Register O’Donnell and Event Highlights (Norwood Community Media)

https://www.norfolkdeeds.org/wp-content/uploads/Norwood-Community-Media-250th-Event-Highlights.mp4

Full Event Coverage (Dedham Television)

https://www.norfolkdeeds.org/wp-content/uploads/Dedham-TV-250th-Event-Coverage.mp4

These videos capture the spirit of the event and provide a closer look at the stories and history featured in this latest publication.

For more information or to request a copy of the “We Remember America’s 250th Anniversary” booklet please contact the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds at (781) 234-3305 or email us at registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org.

As we honor this Fourth of July, let us remember that the freedoms we enjoy today were secured through the courage and sacrifice of those who came before us. Their legacy continues to inspire us and connect us to our shared history.

Happy Independence Day!

What's happening in Franklin, MA: Sunday, July 5, 2026 ???

Sunday, July 5

12:00pm 4th of July Celebration (Franklin Town Common)

***  NO Town Meetings today ***

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Find the full Community event calendar https://bit.ly/FranklinCommunityCalendar

If you have an event to add to the calendar, you can use the form to submit it for publication: https://bit.ly/Submit2Calendar

The Town meeting calendar is found https://www.franklinma.gov/Calendar.aspx

The School district calendar is found https://franklinpublicschooldistrictma.sites.thrillshare.com/o/fpsd/page/school-calendar

Franklin 4th of July Coalition: Schedule for Sunday, July 5, 2026

Carnival Hours:  12-6

WRIST BANDS: 12-4

MEGAPASS: 12-6

Music: 12 - 6 PM

12:00 - Jamie Barrett

Jamie Barrett is a beloved Franklin singer-songwriter, guitarist and music teacher. 

1:15 - Padula Family Band

Franklin's own Padula Family performs timeless jazz standards and the sounds of blues. Featuring Ryan, Matthew and Aiden Padula along with Ian Richardson.

2:30 - Dave Fields Band with Special Guest Diane Blue

Dave Fields live is an electrifying experience. His soulful singing is punctuated with a performance of guitar virtuosity, blues, rock and beyond. He is joined by special guest Diane Blue 

4:00 - Beantown Swing Orchestra

Beantown Swing Orchestra specializes in big band swing. It produces the distinct big band sound recognized by generations worldwide

You can also find the full schedule - https://www.franklin4th.com/music

What's happening in Franklin, MA: Saturday, July 4, 2026 ???

Saturday, July 4 =  Independence Day

12:00pm 4th of July Celebration (Franklin Town Common)

8:00pm Karaoke at The Raillery (Raillery Public House,)

***  NO Town Meetings today ***

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Find the full Community event calendar https://bit.ly/FranklinCommunityCalendar

If you have an event to add to the calendar, you can use the form to submit it for publication: https://bit.ly/Submit2Calendar

The Town meeting calendar is found https://www.franklinma.gov/Calendar.aspx

The School district calendar is found https://franklinpublicschooldistrictma.sites.thrillshare.com/o/fpsd/page/school-calendar

Franklin 4th of July Coalition: Schedule for Saturday, July 4

Saturday, July 4

• Carnival Hours:  12-10
• WRIST BANDS: 12-5
• MEGAPASS: 12-10

Music: 12 PM - 10 PM

• 12:00 - Mike Crandall Franklin Blues Festival

Local, National and International Blues Artist perform and pay tribute to Mike Crandall and his music.

12:00 - ED PEABODY & THE BIG BLUE THANG 

1:15 -  CLIFF TAYLOR & THE UNDERTAKERS

2:30 - NEAL & THE VIPERS

3:45 - MIKE CRANDALL TRIBUTE BAND

5:00 - SUGAR RAY & THE BLUETONES

6:15 - CARL RICCI & 706 UNION AVE 

7:30 - THE DARRELL NULISCH BAND

8:45 - RICHIMAN & GROOVE NICE

 

Franklin carnival opens with cool lights on a hot night

submitted by photographer & correspondent by Dan Brown/Kapitol Photography for Franklin Matters.

The Franklin Fourth of July Carnival opened Wednesday evening on the town common, launching a five-day celebration that runs through Sunday. By around 8 PM, the crowd spanned a wide range of ages, from young children on the carousel and Ferris wheel to older teens and adults working their way through the midway. The Ferris wheel, the Flying Bobs and the Big Kahuna ran steadily as the sky darkened.

Ferris wheel at dusk: The carnival's
Ferris wheel turns against a
darkening sky as families
 gather below. (Dan Brown Photo)

Fiesta Shows operates this year's midway, with more than 15 rides spread across the common, Union Street and Church Street, plus games, food booths and nightly music. The carnival opened at 6 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, with noon openings for the rest of the run. 

Local nonprofits are running the food tents this year, a tradition organizers say funds community groups. The Franklin Democratic Town Committee's booth, wrapped in red-white-and-blue bunting, served pizza, hot dogs and water. Nearby stands offered corn dogs, fresh-cut fries and sno-cones under strings of flags. Game stalls stacked with plush prizes, from giant teddy bears to smaller carnival classics, drew a steady line of players.

Electric motorcycles and mini dirt bikes, popular with tweens and teens, moved through the crowd and nearby streets. Near St. Mary's at 201 Main St., three young riders shared a single e-motorcycle heading up Main Street. None wore a helmet.

The celebration, which organizers describe as entirely privately funded, continues nightly through July 5 with a rotating lineup of local bands. It culminates in the eighth annual Mike Crandall Blues Festival on July 4, the nation's 250th birthday.

Additional photos by Dan Brown/Kapitol Photography in one album  = https://photos.app.goo.gl/jD1EcPiFm9bi1DAp7

What's happening in Franklin, MA: Friday, July 3, 2026 ???

Friday, July 3 = Independence Day (substitute)

10:00am Knitting Group (Franklin Public Library)

5:00pm 4th of July Celebration (Franklin Town Common)

Note: No Farmer's Market today due to the 4th Celebration. The market returns next Friday, July 10.

For additional details on Library events ->  https://www.franklinma.gov/942/Calendar-of-Events

For additional details on Senior Center events ->   

https://www.franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/9195/May-2026-Newsletter?bidId=

***  NO Town Meetings today ***

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Find the full Community event calendar https://bit.ly/FranklinCommunityCalendar

If you have an event to add to the calendar, you can use the form to submit it for publication: https://bit.ly/Submit2Calendar

The Town meeting calendar is found https://www.franklinma.gov/Calendar.aspx

The School district calendar is found https://franklinpublicschooldistrictma.sites.thrillshare.com/o/fpsd/page/school-calendar

Franklin 4th of July Coalition: Schedule for Friday, July 3, 2026

Friday July 3

• Carnival Hours:  12-10
• WRIST BANDS: 12-5
• MEGAPASS: 12-10

• Music: 12-10

12:00 - Two Guys Who Like Sharks

Acoustic rock with driving bass lines for music from the 80s through today

1:30 - Midnight Ride

Midnight Ride delivers high-energy music from rock’s golden age, spanning the ’60s to the ’90s. With a setlist full of classic American rock, British Invasion hits, and smooth yacht rock

3:00 - George Cross Project

With the fierce guitar work of George Cross, and  untamed vocals of Andrew Coyle, The George Cross Project has been electrifying audiences with their unique blend of “East Coast Blues”. 

4:30 - Attleboro School of Rock

School of Rock is the leader in performance-based music education, ..... taking students from the lesson room to the stage.

6:30 - Full Circle

Full Circle is a five piece Rock & Roll and dance band with a variety of classics and newer covers. 

8:00 - Jeff Pitchell

Jeff Pitchell is an American singer, songwriter, guitarist and recording artist. He leads the band Jeff Pitchell and Texas Flood performing original and classic rock selections

What's happening in Franklin, MA: Thursday, July 2, 2026 ???

Thursday, July 2

5:00pm 4th of July Celebration (Franklin Town Common)

For additional details on Library events ->  https://www.franklinma.gov/942/Calendar-of-Events

For additional details on Senior Center events ->   

https://www.franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/9195/May-2026-Newsletter?bidId=

***   Town Meetings today ***

Franklin Commission on Disability

Thursday, July 2 Time: 4:00 PM

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_07022026-2386  

Conservation Commission Meeting

Thursday, July 2 Time: 7:00 PM

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_07022026-2388 

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Find the full Community event calendar https://bit.ly/FranklinCommunityCalendar

If you have an event to add to the calendar, you can use the form to submit it for publication: https://bit.ly/Submit2Calendar

The Town meeting calendar is found https://www.franklinma.gov/Calendar.aspx

The School district calendar is found https://franklinpublicschooldistrictma.sites.thrillshare.com/o/fpsd/page/school-calendar

Franklin 4th of July Coalition: Schedule for Thursday, July 2 - Fireworks at 10 PM

Thursday, July 2

• Carnival Hours:  6-10
• WRIST BANDS: 6-10
• Fireworks: 10

Music: 6-10
6:00 - Garden of Hedon
Garden of Hedon is a 70s-influenced psychedelic blues-rock band. Known for high-energy live sets, the band blends classic rock swagger with punk attitude.

7:15 - Ozzie Tribute Band
Local musicians pay tribute to the Prince of Darkness.

8:30 - The Zajac Brothers
The Zajac Brothers Band features songwriter Tyler Zajac along with his brother Matthew Zajac on drums. They've assembled a versatile group of musicians to achieve.

Please support the event DONATE or https://franklin-july-4th-coalition-2.snwbll.com/2024-july-4th

What's happening in Franklin, MA: Wednesday, July 1, 2026 ???

Wednesday, July 1

10:00am Veterans Coffee Social (Franklin Senior Center) next social in August

6:30pm Bingo night (Kings Brick Oven Pizza & Pub)

6:30pm Franklin Elks Bingo Night (Franklin Elks Lodge #2136)

7:00pm Smarty Pants Trivia (Raillery Public House)

For additional details on Library events ->  https://www.franklinma.gov/942/Calendar-of-Events

For additional details on Senior Center events ->   

https://www.franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/9195/May-2026-Newsletter?bidId=

***   Town Meetings today ***

Board of Health Meeting

Wednesday, July 1 Time: 5:00 PM

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_07012026-2387 

---------

Find the full Community event calendar https://bit.ly/FranklinCommunityCalendar

If you have an event to add to the calendar, you can use the form to submit it for publication: https://bit.ly/Submit2Calendar

The Town meeting calendar is found https://www.franklinma.gov/Calendar.aspx

The School district calendar is found https://franklinpublicschooldistrictma.sites.thrillshare.com/o/fpsd/page/school-calendar

Franklin 4th of July Coalition: Wednesday, July 1 events on the Town Common

Wednesday, July 1

Carnival Hours: 6-10 PM

WRIST BANDS: 6-10 PM

Music: 8-10 PM

Franklin 4th of July Coalition:  Wednesday, July 1 events on the Town Common

Franklin 4th of July Coalition: Music Schedule

Wednesday, July 1

6:00 - Ricky Brennan Jr.

As one of the founding members of Wheat, Ricky recorded three internationally released albums, toured the US & Europe numerous times, and performed on national TV shows such as NBC's Late Night with Conan O'Brien and Last Call with Carson Daly. 

8:00 - GQ & The Lady

GQ and the Lady is an experienced, musically diverse dance band, featuring one of the areas most versatile and dynamic lead female vocalists

Thursday, July 2

6:00 - Garden of Hedon

Garden of Hedon is a 70s-influenced psychedelic blues-rock band. Known for high-energy live sets, the band blends classic rock swagger with punk attitude.

7:15 - Ozzie Tribute Band

Local musicians pay tribute to the Prince of Darkness.

8:30 - The Zajac Brothers

The Zajac Brothers Band features songwriter Tyler Zajac along with his brother Matthew Zajac on drums. They've assembled a versatile group of musicians to achieve.

Friday, July 3

12:00 - Two Guys Who Like Sharks

Acoustic rock with driving bass lines for music from the 80s through today

1:30 - Midnight Ride

Midnight Ride delivers high-energy music from rock’s golden age, spanning the ’60s to the ’90s. With a setlist full of classic American rock, British Invasion hits, and smooth yacht rock

3:00 - George Cross Project

With the fierce guitar work of George Cross, and  untamed vocals of Andrew Coyle, The George Cross Project has been electrifying audiences with their unique blend of “East Coast Blues”. 

4:30 - Attleboro School of Rock

School of Rock is the leader in performance-based music education, ..... taking students from the lesson room to the stage.

6:30 - Full Circle

Full Circle is a five piece Rock & Roll and dance band with a variety of classics and newer covers. 

8:00 - Jeff Pitchell

Jeff Pitchell is an American singer, songwriter, guitarist and recording artist. He leads the band Jeff Pitchell and Texas Flood performing original and classic rock selections

Saturday, July 4

12:00 - Mike Crandall Franklin Blues Festival

Local, National and International Blues Artist perform and pay tribute to Mike Crandall and his music.

12:00 - ED PEABODY & THE BIG BLUE THANG 

1:15 -  CLIFF TAYLOR & THE UNDERTAKERS

2:30 - NEAL & THE VIPERS

3:45 - MIKE CRANDALL TRIBUTE BAND

5:00 - SUGAR RAY & THE BLUETONES

6:15 - CARL RICCI & 706 UNION AVE 

7:30 - THE DARRELL NULISCH BAND

8:45 - RICHIMAN & GROOVE NICE

Sunday, July 5

12:00 - Jamie Barrett

Jamie Barrett is a beloved Franklin singer-songwriter, guitarist and music teacher. 

1:15 - Padula Family Band

Franklin's own Padula Family performs timeless jazz standards and the sounds of blues. Featuring Ryan, Matthew and Aiden Padula along with Ian Richardson.

2:30 - Dave Fields Band with Special Guest Diane Blue

Dave Fields live is an electrifying experience. His soulful singing is punctuated with a performance of guitar virtuosity, blues, rock and beyond. He is joined by special guest Diane Blue 

4:00 - Beantown Swing Orchestra

Beantown Swing Orchestra specializes in big band swing. It produces the distinct big band sound recognized by generations worldwide

You can also find the full schedule - https://www.franklin4th.com/music

Please support the event DONATE or https://franklin-july-4th-coalition-2.snwbll.com/2024-july-4th

4th of July Coalition could use your help funding the festivities

Please support the event DONATE or
https://franklin-july-4th-coalition-2.snwbll.com/2024-july-4th

Like many events that are "Franklin" based, the Town of Franklin does not provide funding for the 4th of July celebration. It is a total volunteer and donation funded effort.

Which means you can help!

Join the sponsors listed!

Consider supporting the sponsors with your business !!

Please support the event DONATE or https://franklin-july-4th-coalition-2.snwbll.com/2024-july-4th

Franklin 4th of July Coalition: schedule of events

Wednesday, July 1

Carnival Hours: 6-10

WRIST BANDS: 6-10

Music: 8-10

Franklin 4th of July Coalition: schedule of events

Thursday, July 2

Carnival Hours: 6-10

WRIST BANDS: 6-10

Music: 6-10

Fireworks: 10

Friday, July 3

Carnival Hours: 12-10

WRIST BANDS: 12-5

MEGAPASS: 12-10

Music: 12-10

Saturday, July 4

Carnival Hours: 12-10

WRIST BANDS: 12-5

MEGAPASS: 12-10

Music: 12-10

Sunday, July 5

Carnival Hours: 12-6

WRIST BANDS: 12-4

MEGAPASS: 12-6

Music: 12-6

Check out additional details at https://www.franklin4th.com/music

Franklin TV: Independence Day!

May the Fourth Be With You.

by Pete Fasciano, Executive Director 06/28/2026

At our Senior Scribblers radio session this past week we had a reading of the Declaration of Independence. You know the one. It started our revolution and move to self-governance because we were being oppressed by the King of England.

These days the current King is more popular than our President. King Charles does not present himself as a man to be feared. When he recently appeared before the

U.S. Congress he quipped about the Revolution.

"Two hundred and fifty years ago – or as we say in the United Kingdom, 'just the other day'... they declared independence."]

The brilliant punchline drew widespread laughter and applause from lawmakers in the House chamber. The King offered a self-deprecating historical quip to break the ice and highlight the long, shared history and bond between the U.S. and the U.K. before diving into heavier geopolitical topics. He knew how to read the room. He was engaging, eloquent, insightful, on point.

Our President does not know nor care about such things. He cares only about his ego. his personal power, and his ongoing usurpations as he spews his wilted word salad'

“When in the Course of Human Events…

If you read The Declaration you will experience wave after wave of déjà vu. 250 years on – how did we end up back where we began as a nation?

If we truly value our independence we need to do more than fire up the grill, go to the parade, and watch the fireworks. If you want to celebrate our independence, the real party is in November. Celebrate – for all your worth – at the ballot box.

Party like it’s – 1776.

And – as always –

Thank you for watching. 

Thanks for listening to wfpr●fm,

and staying informed at Franklin●news.

Get this week's program guide for Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) online  http://franklin.tv/programguide.pdf

Watch Listen Read all things that matter in Franklin MA

Economic Development Subcmte gets updates on the events for June & continues goal discussion (audio)

FM #1762 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1762 in the series. 

The Economic Development Subcommittee met on Thursday, June 4, 2026 as scheduled. Committee Vice-Chair Morrongiello, Griffith & Malloy were present for this session, Chair LeBlanc was away.

Quick recap:

• Cory Shea to talk about the events, 

• Restaurant Week underway, good social interactions, PorchFest on Saturday June 6, about 50 performers and 30+porches; after the music you can also visit a restaurant as the week ends on Saturday.

• Tricky trying to put the pieces together from a regional aspect for an international event, lots of connections made, lessons learned

• Main St will be closed between St Mary's and the Franklin Federated Church. The jumbotron will be at Hayward Manor; Live performances scheduled; Info on schedule details, parking etc will be posted on June 22

• After the watch parties, Pride on June 27, then into the 4th of July Celebration… Farmers Market and Concerts on the Common during the summer, then Harvest Festival in Sept and wreath of Franklin date TBD Nov, Dec

• MetroWest guide for the watch parties coming out , Town has an ad placed in it as it will be spreading quite a bit.

• Discussion on goals vs work plan, should it be 2 or one.

• Why is there a distinction?

• Solid waste master plan required for the town dump, consent order from DEP so it is already being worked

The meeting runs about 71 minutes. 

Audio link - https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1762-economic-development-subcmte-mtg-06-04-26/

—-----------

Franklin TV video is available for replay - https://www.youtube.com/live/HJsDcLu_-xk?&t=161 

The agenda here - 

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_06042026-2343 

My full set of notes taken during the meeting - 

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1WMctKdP3zMR8fJSIsIDFplpBCbQdfBhd/view?usp=drive_link 

   

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We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial.  

This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.

How can you help?

• If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighbors

• If you don't like something here, please let me know

Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.

For additional information, please visit www.franklin.news/ or  www.Franklinmatters.org/ 

If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com

The music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana"  c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.

I hope you enjoy!

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You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"