Time to shop local and take advantage of the sales tax holiday this weekend - August 8 & 9, 2026

via the Franklin Downtown Partnership:

"There’s no better time than next weekend to shop local!!!! During the sales tax holiday for 2026 the state’s 6.25 per cent sales tax will be suspended for most retail items priced under $2,500.

For more information about eligible purchases check out the Department of Revenue’s website: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/massachusetts-sales-tax-holiday-frequently-asked-questions"

Save the Date: September 26th is Franklin’s 24th Annual Harvest Festival

Mark your calendar: Franklin’s 24th Annual Harvest Festival is set for Saturday, September 26 from 12 noon to 5 PM. Rain date is Sunday, September 27, 2026. 

Organized by Franklin Downtown Partnership, the Harvest Festival is their largest event. More than 150 vendors will fill Main Street and extend to Dean College and Franklin Public Library. Enjoy live music, food, kids’ activities, unique art and crafts, merch and services from local shops, and community groups. More details will be coming in September.

Due to the popularity of the event, vendor booths will only be available to FDP members. The Partnership invites Franklin crafters to join and participate in the festival. Registration for FDP members will open the last week of August. 

Business owners are invited to be a sponsor of the Harvest Festival. Please email the FDP office at downtown.franklin@yahoo.com to learn about sponsorship opportunities, or register on the FDP website at www.franklindowntownpartnership.org.

Thank you to our event sponsors:

• Platinum – Dean Bank, G&C Plumbing & Heating
• Gold – Dean College, Glen Meadow Apartments
• Silver – Eagle Stainless Tube & Fabrication, Inc., Enclave of Franklin, Notturno Home Services
• Bronze – ABI New England, Franklin Kitchen Center, Simon’s Furniture

Follow the FDP on Instagram and Facebook for info, updates, and activities:

https://www.instagram.com/franklindowntownpartnership/  and  

https://www.facebook.com/franklindowntownpartnership.org/

The Franklin Downtown Partnership is a non-profit 501 (c) 3 organization made up of more than 350 business owners, residents, and community leaders working to revitalize downtown Franklin. Residents can join the Downtown Partnership for only $25. The Partnership manages events like the Strawberry Stroll and the Harvest Festival, and initiatives such as beautification, streetscape design, green space, alley murals, and sculpture projects. For more information go to www.franklindowntownpartnership.org.

First Friday Networking Breakfasts return Friday, August 7 at 7:30 AM

First Friday Networking Breakfasts are BACK!

Please join us for a morning of coffee, conversation and optional breakfast on Aug 7th at 7:30 am. Open to all FDP members.

Board member @gregsafford will facilitate and answer any questions you might have about our upcoming Harvest Festival!

Not a member of the Downtown Partnerships? Check it out - https://franklindowntownpartnership.org/about/

Shared from - https://www.instagram.com/p/DalEWQnu5hJ/

Humidity did not keep the folks away, the Strawberry Stroll saw an increase in participants

From Main St between Dean and the Library looking towards Emmons St

The sun was bright, shade was sought to give a bit of relief from the humidity but the crowds kept coming. 

• Lots of happy faces were seen
• Many conversations were held
• Folks hopefully left with more info about what is available in Franklin

Thanks to the Franklin Downtown Partnership and all their vendors, organizations and volunteers for pulling this together. And of course to Franklin Police and Fire for their expert assistance in traffic control and with the occasional heat affected individuals.

Children’s Parade is the Newest Addition to Strawberry Stroll + Schedule

A Children’s Parade at Dean College is the newest addition to Franklin’s Strawberry Stroll, set for Friday June 12th from 4 to 8 PM. Rain Date June 13th.

Children are invited to bring their strawberry swag and walk in a parade at Dean College’s campus. They are encouraged to wear their best strawberry summer spirit or decorate their bikes, scooters, strollers and wheels of all kinds for a fun and casual strut. The parade is accessible to all and begins at 5:00 PM on the Dean College Quad on Main Street and will run for about 20 minutes. 

The Franklin Public Library is hosting a drop-in strawberry pom-pom making craft for kids before the Stroll.

STRAWBERRY STROLL SCHEDULE

4 to 6 PM ------ Heath Nisbett music performance, Dean Ave.

5 to 5:30 PM ------ Children’s Parade, Dean College main campus

5:30 PM ------ Feet in Motion School of Dance, Main Street, near bridge

5:45 PM ------ Mural Dedication by Franklin Artist, Kayla Nisbet, Dean Bank

6 to 8 PM ------ Dom DeBaggis music performance, Dean Ave.

6:30 PM ------ Desi Swag Queens dance performance, near library

7:00 PM  ------ Feet in Motion School of Dance, Main Street, near bridge

ALL DAY - 4 to 8 PM ------

• Strawberry Shortcake served at Dean Bank
• Touch-A-Fire Truck, intersection of Main & School Streets, near library
• Padula Family Band music performance, library lawn
• MyFM Radio 101.3 broadcasts live, lower Main Street, near bridge
• The Cultural Hub: Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy; Cultural Council; Cultural District Committee; Franklin Art Association, Franklin Public Library, near library lawn.
• Franklin Historical Museum, learn about Franklin’s history; Franklin-oriented books and merchandise for sale, library lawn
• Franklin Public Library fun & games on the front lawn
• Children’s Museum of Franklin pop-up with children’s water activities, Little Shop of Olive Oil parking lot

Stay up to date on the Strawberry Stroll and other events by following the Franklin Downtown Partnership at:

https://www.instagram.com/franklindowntownpartnership/  and  

https://www.facebook.com/franklindowntownpartnership.org/

The Franklin Downtown Partnership is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization made up of more than 350 business owners, residents, and community leaders working to revitalize downtown Franklin. Residents are welcome to join the Downtown Partnership for only $25. The Partnership manages events like the Strawberry Stroll and the Harvest Festival, and initiatives such as beautification, streetscape design, greenspace, alley murals, and sculpture projects. For more information go to www.franklindowntownpartnership.org.

Strawberry Stroll Set for June 12, 2026 with More Activities Located Along Main Street

The 22nd Annual Strawberry Stroll is set for Friday, June 12 from 4 to 8 pm. Rain date is Saturday June 13 from 4 to 8 pm. The event is expanded up Main Street to Dean College and Franklin Public Library.

The Strawberry Stroll has everything you want. Food, music, entertainment, 100+ vendors, community groups, activities, and strawberry shortcake. There’s something for everyone.

Strawberry Stroll Set for June 12, 2026  with
More Activities Located Along Main Street

“We are excited to extend the Strawberry Stroll up Main Street to the library for the second year. The extension has elevated this special community day to a new level of fun,” said Kevin Johnson, Strawberry Stroll Chair. “With so much going on, the entire family will have an enjoyable experience. Each year the Strawberry Stroll attracts a record number of visitors and this year I anticipate the most visitors ever to kick off the summer.”

FIRST, THE FOOD!

The Food Court: (the parking lot at The Little Shop of Olive Oils) Boston Events Food Truck, Central Pizza, C&C Ice Cream, and Maguro House.

Along Main Street: Fresh Strawberry Shortcake, Applause Gelato, Ferrara’s Market, Intermission Cafe, Poppy and Crumb, and Teddy Gallagher’s Pub.

More food options: Visit downtown’s many restaurants and shops on Main, East Central and surrounding streets. 

THE AGENDA

Strawberry Shortcake  served by Dean Bank’s staff in front of the bank. Fresh strawberries donated and cut by Dean College will top hundreds of shortcakes complete with whipped cream. 

Children’s Parade at Dean’s College’s main campus at 5 pm. Strut your strawberry-summer spirit at this 20-minute parade at the quad.

Cultural Hub by Franklin Library.  A variety of arts-focused activities and information in Franklin all day. The Hub includes: Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy; Children's Museum of Franklin; Cultural Council; Cultural District Committee; Franklin Art Association; and Franklin Public Library. 

Franklin Historical Museum will educate visitors about Franklin’s history and sell books and Franklin-oriented merchandise.

Children’s Museum of Franklin will have a pop-up space offering creative children’s activities.

Franklin Public Library will be bubbling with fun games on the front lawn.

Touch-A-Truck Fire Truck will be at the top of Main Street near the library and Ginley Funeral Home.

Music will be provided by Heath Nisbett, 4 pm to 6 pm; Dom DeBaggis 6 pm to 8 pm on Dean Avenue, and the Padula Family will perform 4 pm to 8 pm near Dean College and the library.

Desi Swag Queens will perform at 6:30 pm near the library.

Feet in Motion School of Dance will perform at 5:30 and 7 pm near MyFM 101.3 booth

Radio Station MyFM 101.3 will broadcast live from 4 pm to 8 pm 

THANK YOU, SPONSORS

Strawberry Stroll organizer Franklin Downtown Partnership is grateful for the generosity of their sponsors:

• Platinum: Dean College; G & C Plumbing & Heating
• Gold: Dean Bank; Middlesex Savings Bank
• Silver: Camford Property Group, Inc.; Eagle Stainless Tube & Fabrication; The Enclave of Franklin; Fenton Financial Group; Franklin Kitchen Center; Glen Meadow Apartments- Schochet Companies; Notturno Home Services; Simon's Furniture
• Bronze: Chestnut Dental, LeafFilter Gutter Protection

Follow the Franklin Downtown Partnership and keep up with their many activities on:

https://www.instagram.com/franklindowntownpartnership/  and  

https://www.facebook.com/franklindowntownpartnership.org/

The Franklin Downtown Partnership is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization made up of more than 350 business owners, residents, and community leaders working to revitalize downtown Franklin. Residents are welcome to join the Downtown Partnership for only $25. The Partnership manages events like the Strawberry Stroll and the Harvest Festival, and initiatives such as beautification, streetscape design, greenspace, alley murals, and sculpture projects. For more information go to www.franklindowntownpartnership.org.

Download the one page flyer as a reminder or to share\

https://drive.google.com/file/d/15riDdsGFEKFvcsmTrDaIIMrAja3Jo0SS/view?usp=drive_link

Recognizing Eileen Mason for her efforts over 22 Years Beautifying Downtown Franklin

If you drive through downtown Franklin, you may have to stop at the traffic light at the intersection of Route 140 and Main Street. Be patient and enjoy the view. The flowers at the center island and bridge are curated by Franklin's Eileen Mason and teams of volunteers.

Eileen Mason

Mason organizes Franklin’s Beautification Day and Winter Decorating. As a Franklin Garden Club and Franklin Downtown Partnership member, she and her volunteers have been beautifying the heart of town for 22 years. The effort is supported and sponsored by generous local businesses.

“If it helps make someone else’s day that much better just because they’re sitting at the lights and enjoying the beautiful flowers,” she’s accomplished her goal, says the REMAX Executive Realty agent.

Creating an attractive downtown is what keeps her inspired. People can enjoy it each day. “Not every community has that. It speaks well of Franklin, and it leaves everyone that drives through with a good impression of Franklin.” People may not know who does it, but they appreciate that downtown is cared for and attractive, she said.

Before and After the Beautification Day 2026 -
the center island

She was first approached by FDP director, Carol Harper, shortly after the Partnership was formed in 2001. She knew it would be a good partnership between the Garden Club and the Downtown Partnership. The Garden Club had been taking care of the trough planter for many years on its own. Then, in the Spring of 2004, the Garden Club, FDP, DPW and Water Departments joined forces annually to make the Downtown look beautiful. 

She worked with the DPW to get the window boxes installed at the bridges. She coordinated plantings. Eventually she introduced the self-watering black containers that hold 2 weeks’ worth of water to save time and resources and to keep a variety of cascading flowers and colors flourishing over the years. The trough is the centerpiece and needs watering several times per week to keep it going.  That’s where the Watering Team of volunteers come in.  

Early on the DPW introduced an improved watering drip system; they turn the water on and off each season, maintain, repair, clean out, and fill containers with soil. Various garden centers in town have provided plants throughout the years, starting with Wadsworth Farms, Hillside Nursery, Agway and now Fairmount Farm.

Before and After the Beautification Day 2026
- the bridge railing

Beautification Days are efficient work days with flowers in May and greenery in November. 

Mason has volunteers from the Garden Club and the FDP. She has had lots of help from residents and sports teams at Franklin High over the years. The Garden Club cares for the expanded Veterans’ Memorial Garden at the Town Common. Mason coordinates the work in the downtown. Volunteers plant 26 business barrels around downtown, plus the 31 containers at the center island and bridges. 

She appreciates that people want to pitch in. At the recent May 16th  Beautification Day, Co-Chair, Sandy Sauer and the girls’ soccer team worked downtown while the boys’ baseball team worked at the common. “It’s a good mix and a good vibe. What I like is there are kids that come back each year. They love doing it. There are so many kids who drive through town and say ‘I used to do that!’ "

One memorable time for her was during COVID. “We had so many people in town step up and help do everything. They wore masks, they stayed in their own vehicles, or went to the (Fairmount) farm, picked up plants, brought them downtown and planted. I had the most adult volunteers ever come out and do that. The kids weren’t in school. We didn’t really have the teams that year, so families came out." 

"We had such a fun day. You could feel the community spirit. Everyone wanted to get out and just be with people. Those were the years that made a big difference. I am so appreciative of the people in Franklin."

It's a labor of love. It takes months of planning and organizing. Her new Co-Chair in beautifying Franklin is Sandy Sauer at Franklin Tile Carpet One. Sandy has been a huge help with many tasks like organizing and scheduling volunteers to do the watering for 22 weeks during the summer. 

It's rewarding. “The friendships, the people and things we’ve been able to accomplish as a partnership have been really big. Even the little things like the museum sculpture – that was a nice project.” She has also been involved in establishing the Ladybug Trail. 

Mason’s goal is to keep growing the base of supporters who help beautification by watering, planting or being a member. She’d love to keep it going for another 25 years. “There’s no reason for it to go away. I like the fact it’s a true partnership between businesses, residents and the town DPW and Water Departments. We couldn’t do it without everyone’s help and cooperation.”

Stay up to date on the Downtown Partnership’s Beautification Day and other events here:

https://www.instagram.com/franklindowntownpartnership/  and  

https://www.facebook.com/franklindowntownpartnership.org/

The Franklin Downtown Partnership is a non-profit 501c3 organization made up of more than 350 business owners, residents, and community leaders working to revitalize downtown Franklin. Residents can join the Downtown Partnership for only $25. The Partnership manages events like the Strawberry Stroll, the Harvest Festival, the Ladybug Historical & Cultural Trail, and initiatives such as beautification, streetscape design, greenspace, alley murals, and sculpture projects. For more information go to www.franklindowntownpartnership.org.

Beautification Day can always use a volunteers hand or two (Saturday 8:30 to 11:30 AM)

Shared from 

https://www.instagram.com/p/DYM2biHDgny/?igsh=dW1laGVzajl2bWQ5

Spring planting volunteers needed for Beautification Day, May 16

Spring planting volunteers needed
for Beautification Day, May 16

Looking for volunteers for downtown flower planting!

Please email sandy@franklintilecarpetone.com

High school volunteer hours count!!

Shared from - https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1AtNjdMxSj/

Downtown Deals at Ladybug Trail Spring Walk - Saturday, April 25

Come out on April 25th and take a stroll at the 4th Annual Ladybug Trail Spring Walk. Shops, restaurants and public places will open their doors with ladybug-themed activities and treats for all ages. 

Here’s your list of downtown deals and where to find them:

Applause | 10% discount on gelato with ladybug trail map. Add red and dark chocolate sprinkles! Get your ladybug trail map here.

Birchwood Bakery | Cupcakes fashionably dressed with a ladybug decoration on top.

Children’s Museum of Franklin | Music Together will entertain audiences for 30-minute music sessions at 10:30, 12 and 2:30. Plus – create a ladybug craft in the museum’s MakerSpace. With paid entry to museum. Free for museum members. Pre-registration is preferred at: childrensmuseumfranklin.org/register due to limited classroom capacity.

Creative Corner Art Studio | We will be open Saturday from 10 am to 12 pm. Stop in and paint some pottery!  We also display and sell art made by local creators. 

Ladybug Trail Spring Walk

Dean College | Learn about the life cycle of the ladybug.  Kids will have the opportunity to make their own ladybug ‘spinner’ that will show the different life stages.  They can decorate with some googly-eyes and spots on them, and assemble the spinner! At Dean’s Campus Center patio at Main and Emmons Streets. (Available in case of rain date)

Dona’s Tailoring | Guys ‘N Dolls | $10 discount on any hair, nails and tailoring services. For kids: ladybug balloons and cute trinkets. Open 9 am to 3 pm. 

Ferrara’s Market | $2 discount on any sandwich from our menu. Get your ladybug trail map while you’re here.

Franklin Kitchen Center | We’re excited to host a “Paint a Block” event at our storefront. Kids and families can visit our showroom to color a wooden block — a fun and creative activity for all ages. We’ll have the door open with a red carpet and decorate the showroom with our ladybug theme. Plus, we’ll be giving away free ladybug-themed goodies.

Franklin Historical Museum | Video all day explaining the ladybug story & why Franklin celebrates the ladybug.  Free trail maps, ladybug balloons, stickers & buttons. Gift Shop with ladybug-themed items. Bottled water, restroom. 

Franklin Public Library | Activities throughout the day! Rainforest Reptiles at 10:30 am. Adult painting workshop 1-3 pm. Typewriter Orchestra  2-3 pm. Ladybug scavenger hunt all day. 9-5.

INS Spa | Enjoy complimentary snacks and sweets when you visit our new salon. Check out our space to learn about our hair, scalp, skin, and massage services to help you de-stress, relax and rejuvenate.

Little Shop of Olive Oils | The Ladybugs are landing at The Little Shop! Stop in for a little fun & get your ladybug trail map while you are here.

1 / Snap a selfie at our Ladybug Wall

2 / Tag your photo on IG or FB and fill out a ticket for a chance to win our Delicious Duo Giveaway Basket

3 / Taste something new while you’re here

It’s the perfect excuse to stroll downtown, gather with friends, and treat yourself along the way. 

Number One Tailors | Visitors get a ladybug coupon for 10% discount on any tailoring service.

Pisini Shoes | Lollipops for your little ones when you stop in to check out our new spring Stride Rite shoe styles.

Rainbow Eyebrow Threading | $2 off one eyebrow service for new customers on April 25th.

Russian School of Mathematics | We are planning a lemonade stand! Get math puzzles for kids,  ladybug-themed gift bags, plus free ladybug balloons for everyone. Open 11 am to 2 pm. Visit us at 9 Summer Street!

Teddy Gallagher’s Pub | Enjoy our Ladybug Mule cocktail when you come in from the trail. We serve non-alcohol beverages and great food too!

Vallee’s Jewelers | For kids: Ladybug necklaces, bracelets, keychains, stickers.  For adults: Free raffle for a gold necklace with beautiful ladybug pendant.

Visit FDP on social media for updates - 

https://www.instagram.com/franklindowntownpartnership/  and  

https://www.facebook.com/franklindowntownpartnership.org/

The Franklin Downtown Partnership is a non-profit 501c3 organization made up of more than 350 business owners, residents, and community leaders working to revitalize downtown Franklin. Residents can join the Downtown Partnership for only $25. The Partnership manages events like the Strawberry Stroll, the Harvest Festival, the Ladybug Historical & Cultural Trail, and initiatives such as beautification, streetscape design, greenspace, alley murals, and sculpture projects. For more information go to www.franklindowntownpartnership.org.

Celebrate Spring on April 25 at 4th Annual Ladybug Trail Spring Walk

Downtown Franklin will be full of surprises on April 25 as the town celebrates spring the 4th Annual Ladybug Trail Spring Walk. Shops and restaurants will welcome visitors with fun activities, treats, and ladybug-themed promotions for all ages. (Rain date: April 26.)

The day centers around Franklin’s unique Ladybug Cultural & Historical Trail — a self-guided walk through the downtown Cultural District where visitors search for two-foot-wide fiberglass ladybug sculptures tucked among buildings, businesses, and residences. The sculptures connect approximately 25 historical and cultural sites along Main Street and Route 140, turning this simple walk into a scavenger hunt.

Special ladybug-themed activities will take place at Dean College, the Franklin Public Library, the Franklin Historical Museum, and The Children’s Museum of Franklin.

Along the way, walkers can stop into local shops and restaurants for themed food and drinks, discounts, games, activities, and photo opportunities. Visitors can also explore the colorful mural gallery in the alley next to Birchwood Bakery, where local artists have transformed the space into an outdoor art exhibit.

To begin the adventure, pick up a trail map at the Franklin Historical Museum (80 West Central Street), the Franklin Public Library (118 Main Street), Ferrara’s Market (20 West Central Street), or The Little Shop of Olive Oils (9 Main Street). The map is your guide to the hidden sculptures.

The Children’s Museum of Franklin opened this past September at 157 Cottage Street and (hint hint) they brought the Zentangle Quilt ladybug out from hibernation. 

The walk can begin as early as 9 AM at the Historical Museum and can be enjoyed throughout the day or evening at a relaxed pace — with plenty of opportunities to shop, grab coffee, or sit down for lunch or dinner at a mix of new and longtime downtown favorites.

While April 25 marks the spring kickoff, the Ladybug Trail is open year-round for anyone who wants to explore downtown Franklin at their leisure. The Ladybug Trail Spring Walk is the perfect time to celebrate spring and see all that downtown Franklin has to offer. 

“The Ladybug Trail Spring Walk offers a relaxed, family-friendly way to celebrate spring while discovering the history, art, and local businesses that make Franklin unique,” said Lisa Piana, Franklin Downtown Partnership’s Executive Director. 

Visit FDP on social media for more details - 

https://www.instagram.com/franklindowntownpartnership/  and  

https://www.facebook.com/franklindowntownpartnership.org/

The Franklin Downtown Partnership is a non-profit 501c3 organization made up of more than 350 business owners, residents, and community leaders working to revitalize downtown Franklin. Residents can join the Downtown Partnership for only $25. The Partnership manages events like the Strawberry Stroll, the Harvest Festival, the Ladybug Historical & Cultural Trail, and initiatives such as beautification, streetscape design, greenspace, alley murals, and sculpture projects. For more information go to www.franklindowntownpartnership.org.

What's happening in Franklin, MA: Thursday, March 12, 2026 ???

Thursday, March 12

• FHS Class of 2026 - fundraiser at (Santa Fe Burrito Grill)   https://www.franklinmatters.org/2026/03/fhs-class-of-2026-fundraiser-santa-fe.html
• Franklin Youth Hockey fundraiser at (Papa Gino's)  https://www.franklinmatters.org/2026/03/franklin-youth-hockey-fundraising-via.html

5:00pm Franklin Downtown Partnership Networking Event (Sachs Jewelry)

6:00pm Marc Cohen: "A Dance with the Cosmos" book signing (Birchwood Bakery & Kitchen)

6:15pm FREE 2026 Wellness Speaking Series (Hockomock Area YMCA, Foxboro)

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/calendar.aspx?CID=37,24&showPastEvents=false

Note: Senior Center checking on why their events are suddenly being shown as "All Day". You can use the monthly newsletter for specific program/event times

***  Town Meetings today   ***

Municipal Affordable Housing Trust Meeting

Thursday, March 12 Time: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_03122026-2188

Conservation Commission Meeting

Thursday, March 12 Time: 7:00 PM

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Item/571?fileID=8589

Cultural District Committee Meeting

Thursday, March 12 Time: 7:00 PM

https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_03122026-2170

-----------

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 Downtown Partnership Executive Director Celebrates 22 Years & Early Retirement

After 22 years of leading the Franklin Downtown Partnership (FDP), Executive Director Lisa Piana will be taking early retirement to spend more time with her family.

  

“I feel that this is the right time as the FDP celebrates its 25th Anniversary this year,” Piana said.

 

Lisa Piana

The FDP’s mission is to stimulate economic development in downtown in order to create a positive impact throughout the area, as well as to be a proactive organization that brings residents, business owners and community leaders together, encourages cooperation, and builds leadership to revitalize downtown Franklin. 

Under Piana’s leadership the FDP member base has grown from 25 members to nearly 300 today.

Longtime FDP President, Scott Martin said, “Lisa has had a strong impact and is a passionate leader. She’s a strong advocate and has built relationships with town council, administrators at both the town and state level, and with retailers. She always is thinking not only what’s best for downtown, but what’s best for Franklin as a whole.”

“She is one of the most creative people I have worked with,” Martin added. “Where there’s a challenge or opportunity, she doesn’t see just one solution. She can think of three or four different angles. She sees opportunities everywhere.”

Years of Collaboration

Piana’s first major project as Executive Director was working with Marini Construction who developed Franklin Commons and the building where Birchwood Bakery is located.

“It was really important to work with the developers early in their proposal so we could include green spaces in their planning,” Piana said. The FDP and the town convinced Marini to include the patio on Summer Street and on East Central Street where the bakery now has outdoor seating.

Another early project was the design of the Historical Museum’s green space including the straw hat boy bronze sculpture. The sculpture reflects Franklin’s important history of manufacturing straw hats.

 

In 2021 Piana led the downtown art mural projects in three separate alleyways by reaching out to the local artists from the Franklin Art Association for their talents. 

She is credited with creating The Ladybug Cultural & Historical Trail in the Cultural District in 2022. The trail consists of 2-foot-wide fiberglass ladybugs, painted by local artists, from a 2019 Cultural Council project. The ladybugs are tucked among buildings, art murals, and historic points of interest in downtown. 

The Ladybug Trail is a good example of collaboration with FDP members and so many organizations. The committee consisted of Town Council members, Franklin Garden Club, Cultural District Committee, Franklin Art Association, and the Franklin Historical Museum.

She has been involved in overseeing more than 40 community events in her time with the FDP.  Back in 2005 the signature events – Strawberry Stroll and Harvest Festival – were small events with just a few hundred attendees. Today each event brings in close to 10,000 visitors from Franklin and surrounding towns.

Volunteers are vital to the FDP and how these community events and projects get completed. “There are so many talented and generous people in Franklin,” Piana explained. “Volunteers are the key to the FDP’s success throughout the years.”

 

“Lisa is very team-oriented,” said Michael Carroll, Senior Vice President, Marketing & Communications Officer at Dean Bank. “She’s always inclusive and collaborative giving credit to the group rather than the individual. She’s always been good that way. I think any good leader does that.”  

 

Under Piana’s leadership the FDP helped downtown businesses get through some challenging times including the major Streetscape project in 2016 and then COVID a few years later. “People often forget how the sidewalks and roads were torn up and in some cases you couldn’t even get in the front doors of some of the downtown businesses. Business owners were just trying to stay afloat and then it happened again when COVID hit,” Piana explained.

She points to her dedicated Board of Directors over the years for the many downtown successes.  “Without the leadership of people like Scott Martin, FDP President, and Roberta Trahan, FDP Vice President, we would not have been able to accomplish all that we have done. There are so many community leaders that have given hundreds of hours of their time. It’s what makes Franklin so special,” she said.

Reflecting Back

What is she most proud of? “One of the things I’m most proud of is the collaboration that the FDP has with so many community leaders and organizations.” She explained, “I think when you have everyone working together for a common goal that’s really how things get done. It’s rewarding to see projects completed year after year, and the goals become reality.”

The Franklin Downtown Partnership has worked to enable new businesses to open while supporting the established businesses. Shops are thriving due to shared promotions and events, networking, and strong social media.  Downtown now has a dynamic mix of eateries, gift shops, pubs and entertainment. 

What is most clear when talking with Piana is her passion for the downtown. “I love my job. I get to work with amazing leaders, volunteers, and small businesses. It has truly been a dream job.” 

Reflecting on her tenure, Piana said the downtown has changed dramatically, but the Partnership’s goals have pretty much stayed the same. “We’re still focused on our mission to continue with the revitalization and economic development of the downtown. Every time we finish one project another is presented to us. Our work is never done.” 

She feels that this is a good time to pass the baton. “I’m excited to spend more time with my family, travel and restart my art career. I will stay involved. It is in my DNA,” she laughed.

Piana’s last day as Executive Director will be April 30th. She will remain on staff for the rest of the year to guide the new executive director and work on special projects. And she will continue to promote the downtown every chance she gets.  

The Franklin Downtown Partnership, Inc. is a 501(c)3 organization. For more information go to www.franklindowntownpartnership.org

Save the date for the Lady Trail Spring Walk - April 25

Save the date for the Lady Trail Spring Walk - April 25

Maybe if we think spring hard enough, the snow will melt!!

Save the date for our Ladybug Spring Trail Walk kickoff date! April 25th we kick off spring, welcome the warm weather, and encourage folks to EXPLORE downtown by walking our ladybug trail!

Following the map, you can spot all landmark ladybugs within the cultural district.

Make it a game or an excuse to get some fresh air and explore what our downtown has to offer.

Shared from (find the answer to the question by following the link) - https://www.instagram.com/p/DVUKwS4gTzI/

Celebrate Valentine's and support local!!!

Celebrate Valentine's and support local!!!

via the Franklin Downtown Partnership:

"Love is in the FRANKLIN air! Celebrate Valentine’s Day by spreading the LOVE to your favorite local shops!

Whether it’s a romantic dinner out, shopping for the perfect gift or a Galentines Day out - we have got you covered!"

Click through to find out all the suggestions -> https://www.instagram.com/p/DUlzWT6EqvA/

Business Networking Event - Jan 22, 2026 - FDP members only (Why not consider joining?)

The page once had a listing of the
prices for each membership level

Attention Franklin Downtown Partnership (FDP) members!!!

Please join us for a fun, social and informal after hours networking event on January 22nd, from 5 PM to 7 PM at the Franklin Historical Museum. If you have NOT been to the museum, you are in for a real treat! It has a fantastic display of so many wonderful artifacts that are unique to Franklin - PLUS you will have the opportunity to see the miniature train exhibit that will be leaving the museum at the end of the month.

Light refreshments will be served!

Open to members only

Note: Check out the membership options. Individuals can join for $25, students & seniors for $15/year. 

Shared from -> https://www.instagram.com/p/DTixtQRAUHq/