What's happening in Franklin, MA: Wednesday, July 29, 2026 ???

Wednesday, July 29

Franklin Lions Clothing Drive active through Aug 22   https://www.franklinmatters.org/2026/07/the-franklin-lions-conducting-clothing.html

12:00pm SAFE Coalition's Adolescent Wellness Summer Drop-In Hours (SAFE Coalition)

1:00pm Scribblers Writing Group (recording session) (Franklin Senior Center)

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)

??     David French Music Training Night to benefit Franklin Music Boosters

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/9890

*** 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

Mitzi and I talk about the Library event highlights for August 2026 (video & audio)

FM #1785 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1785 in the series. 

This session shares my conversation with Mitzi Gousie, Programming and Outreach Librarian with the Franklin Public Library. We had our discussion virtually on Tuesday, July 21, 2026.

 

We talk about 

• Reviewed the regular open hours, book sale and holiday scheduling for the month

• Book sale weekend Aug 14 & Aug 15 

• Library events for August 2026

• In calendar order rather than by category this time around

Registration for those events required should be done through the Town website, Library page. There are nefarious folks trying to convince folks otherwise via Facebook. Be safe, use the official Town and Library pages.

The show notes include links to the Library page and to the calendar of events where registration for some of the events is required/recommended.

The recording runs about 31 minutes, so let’s listen in.

Audio link -  https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1785-franklin-ma-library-events-for-august-2026-07-21-26/

Video link - https://youtu.be/E-jp8MOjcxM

--------------

Mitzi Gousie’s email - mgousie@minlib.net 

Franklin Public Library page -  https://www.franklinma.gov/233/Franklin-Public-Library 

Library event calendar - https://www.franklinma.gov/942/Calendar-of-Events 

August 2026 newsletter -  https://myemail.constantcontact.com/August-2026-Franklin-Public-Library-News---Events.html?soid=1142311312837&aid=5J_z2wkCZcU 

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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

• And if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We’ll share and show you what and how we do what we do

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

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

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!

------------------

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

Franklin Public Library's event highlights for August 2026

August 2026

Summer Reading 2026

Plant a Seed...Read!

Summer is here and that means Summer Reading is waiting for YOU at the Library! Summer reading is for all ages. Sign up at the Franklin Public Library or on the Library website; then set your sights on reading goals and summer adventures.

Special Events for Kids & Teens

Mobile Mini Golf! Monday, August 3rd @ 1pm

Bring your friends and family and we'll provide the rest! Join us as we transform the library into a Mini Golf course that's fun for all ages*!! *Children under the age of 14 MUST be accompanied by an adult.

Plush Pet Adoption Day! Friday, August 7th @ 1pm

Come adopt a reading buddy at the library! Decorate a collar, make an adoption certificate, and enjoy a dog-themed story time with your new best friend.

Messtival! Saturday, August 15th @ 10:30am

Join the Franklin Public Library for an epic morning of mess-making and chaos! Enjoy ooblek, bubbles, sensory bins, and more! Bring your enthusiasm and a change of clothes.

Parody Playhouse! Monday, August 17th @ 4pm

Join us for a special kid-friendly spin on your favorite musical hits! Parody Playhouse features child-appropriate parodies of popular songs by a range of artists, which are educational and entertaining. It's sure to be a blast!

Community Canvas: Flower Field, Monday, August 24th @ 1pm

Design and decorate your own unique flower, add it to the field, and watch it grow!

Summer Reading Wrap Up! Saturday, August 29th @ 10:30am

Celebrate the end of summer reading at the library with a special celebration, with music, balloons, games, and more!

Special Events for Adults

Diamond Art De-stress Thursday, August 6 @ 6pm & Saturday, August 22 @ 1pm

Registration Required

Give your day some Sparkle & Zen... Enjoy a meditative diamond art project! All materials provided. For ages 18+.

Learn To Mahjong, Tuesday, August 11 @ 6pm

Registration Required

This intro to mahjong session will introduce the suits, the rules, the card, and other basics of American Mahjong!

It’s a Wrap! Wire and Bead Bracelet Craft, Thursday, August 20 @ 6:30pm

Registration Required

Wrap up the summer with a braided wire and bead bracelet craft.

Teen and Adult Summer Reading Raffle Drawing! Friday, August 21 @ 4pm

Teens and Adults who have participated in the library's summer reading program, come celebrate the end of an epic summer with a special raffle drawing at the library!

After submitting your completed summer reading on 8/20 (through the QR code on your reading log) join us on Friday afternoon for the raffle drawing. Literary themed prizes, book bundles, and more - the perfect way to transition into a new season of reading!

Mahjong Meetup, Tuesday, August 25 @ 6pm

Whether you have a rudimentary knowledge of Mahjong or have been playing for years, we would love to have you join us for an evening of strategy, luck and fun. This is an opportunity for the novice to hone their skills and experienced players to share their knowledge. For ages 18+.

Special Events for All Ages

Concert: Sharks Come Cruisin’, Saturday, August 8 @ 3pm

The tides rise at the Library as The Sharks Come Cruisin' in for a concert! Enjoy an energetic mix of sea shanties and maritime music and be prepared to dance and sing along!

Wildlife Out Your Window, Thursday, August 13 @ 6:30pm

What if the most fascinating wildlife in New England isn’t far away in the wilderness— but right outside your window? Join wildlife ecologist and nature author Brad Timm for a lively, eye-opening presentation that will forever change how you see the natural world around you. You’ll discover surprising secrets about the animals you thought you knew all about.

Franklin Library Book Sale

Friday, August 14: 1 - 5pm

Saturday, August 15: 9am - 12pm

All books are just one dollar!

Bag Sale - $5 Per Bag

Saturday, August 15: 1 - 4pm

Come fill a brown bag with all the books you can!

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

Mitzi fills us in on all that is happening at the Franklin Public Library this July (video & audio)

FM #1776 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1776 in the series. 

This session shares my conversation with Mitzi Gousie, Programming and Outreach Librarian with the Franklin Public Library. We had our discussion virtually on Tuesday, June 23, 2026.

 

We talk about 

• Reviewed the regular open hours, book sale and holiday scheduling for the month

• Limited services during regular hours on Friday, July 3

• Closed all day Saturday, July 4 for the holiday 

• Library events for July 2026

• In calendar order rather than by category this time around

Note: Updated after we recorded this, the Sunday hours will return in September 2026.

Registration for those events required should be done through the Town website, Library page. There are nefarious folks trying to convince folks otherwise via Facebook. Be safe, use the official Town and Library pages.

The show notes include links to the Library page and to the calendar of events where registration for some of the events is required/recommended.

The recording runs about 33 minutes, so let’s listen in.

Audio link - https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1776-franklin-public-library-july-2026-highlights-06-23-26/

Video link -  https://youtu.be/Zj16PPfOylA

--------------

Mitzi Gousie’s email - mgousie@minlib.net 

Franklin Public Library page -  https://www.franklinma.gov/233/Franklin-Public-Library 

Library event calendar - https://www.franklinma.gov/942/Calendar-of-Events 

July 2026 newsletter - https://myemail.constantcontact.com/July-2026-Franklin-Public-Library-News---Events.html?soid=1142311312837&aid=eSZsKlPO2D4  

-------------

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

• And if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We’ll share and show you what and how we do what we do

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

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

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!

------------------

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

SAFE Coalition schedules teen drop in hours on Wednesdays beginning July 1

Teens: discover your new summer hangout! tinyurl.com/su26awc

SAFE Coalition's Adolescent Wellness Center is a welcoming, low-key space to hang out, meet new people, express yourself, and grow, and our summer drop-in hours are a great chance to check it out for yourself.

FREE • Teens 13–18 • Wednesdays • noon–3 p.m. (drop in anytime) • Starts July 1 • Franklin, MA

Summer can be difficult for many young people who lose the structure and community provided by school. These drop-in sessions provide a safe, healthy space for teens to just BE this summer.

Questions? Contact SAFE at info@safecoalitionma.org or (508) 488-8105

Franklin Public Library: Special Events scheduled for July 2026

Summer Reading 2026    =    Plant a Seed...Read!

Summer is here and that means Summer Reading is waiting for YOU at the Library! Summer reading is for all ages. Sign up at the Franklin Public Library or on the Library website; then set your sights on reading goals and summer adventures.

*** Special Events for Kids & Teens

Fairytale Fun! Monday, July 6 @ 4pm

You’re invited to join us, once upon a dream, for a special royal visit from everyone’s favorite sleepy princess! There will be singing, dancing, interactive storytelling and a photo opportunity with each guest!

Giant Board Game Party, Friday, July 10 @ 1pm

Join us at the library for an afternoon full of giant, life-size versions of classic games, including Hungry Hungry Hippos, Twister, Connect Four, and more!

Teen Amazing Digital Circus Interactive Viewing! Wednesday, July 15 @ 6pm

Teens! Join us for a special celebration of this popular indie animation with an interactive viewing, snacks, and more!

Science Chefs: Make Slushies, Friday, July 17 @ 1pm

Chefs get in the kitchen for SCIENCE! We'll be exploring endothermic reactions as we make delicious lemonade slushies to enjoy!

Ed Popielarczyk Magic Show, Saturday, July 18 @ 10:30am

Join us as we welcome Ed Popielarczyk for a one-of-a-kind magic show that is guaranteed to leave the whole family impressed!

Rainforest Reptiles, Monday, July 20 @ 4pm

Travel with us to the different rainforests around the world and meet the alligators, turtles, snakes and more that call these places home! Real, LIVE Animal Fun for All Ages!

Stuffed Animal Sleepover! Thursday, July 23 @ 6pm

What kind of trouble can a bunch of stuffed animals cause in an empty library? Here’s our chance to find out! Bring one of your favorite stuffed friends to the library for a cozy storytime, then leave them in our care for the evening! When you pick your friend up on Friday, see what antics they might have caused!

Make Your Own Puzzle, Friday, July 24th @ 1pm

Design and decorate your very own puzzle with Ms. Kaitlyn! Perfect for imaginative artists and puzzle lovers alike! 

Summer Snow Party! Saturday, July 25 @ 10:30am

Chill out with a summer blizzard at the library! Enjoy a snow pile, coloring, and crafts!

Mr. Vinny Shadow Puppets, Monday, July 27 @ 4pm

Mr. Vinny from the Toe Jam Puppet Band presents a dynamic and hilarious family show! Mr. Vinny specializes in storytelling with unique puppets! Get ready for lots of jokes and audience participation, and a few fun surprises!

Interactive Movie, Wednesday, July 29th @ 1pm

Families! Join us for a special Interactive movie screening Enjoy popcorn and some fun surprises

 

Hunger Games Club, Wednesday, July 29 @ 6pm

Teens! Join us for a monthly interactive viewing of our favorite YA dystopian film franchise! We will work our way through one book and film each month leading up to the release of the latest film in November!

*** Special Events for Adults

Stars & Waves Silk Scarf Painting, Thursday, July 9 @ 6:30pm

Registration Required

Using Inks and fabric resist, paint a silk scarf in patriotic stars and wavy stripes!

Diamond Art Destress, Saturday, July 11 & Thursday, July 23 @ 1:30pm

Registration Required

Give your day some Sparkle & Zen... Enjoy a meditative diamond art project! All materials provided. Registration required. For ages 18+.

Learn to Mahjong! Tuesday, July 14 @ 6pm    Registration Required

This intro to Mahjong session will introduce the suits, the rules, the card, and other basics of American Mahjong!

Ted Reinstein: Greetings from Breeds Hill, Saturday, July 25 @ 2pm

Join us in welcoming author and journalist Ted Reinstein for "Greetings from Breeds Hill... and Other Stories of Fact & Folklore for the 250th"! A new talk exploring lesser-known stories behind the more famous ones from New England’s Revolutionary War period. It’s a fun and informative foray through fact vs. fiction!

Mahjong Meetup, Tuesday, July 28 @ 6pm

Whether you have a rudimentary knowledge of Mahjong or have been playing for years, we would love to have you join us for an evening of strategy, luck and fun. This is an opportunity for the novice to hone their skills and experienced players to share their knowledge. For ages 18+. 

Adults Make Awkward Art, Thursday, July 30 @ 6pm

Celebrate art with the goal to make something so bad it’s good! All artists are invited to share their pieces as a part of the Library's Awkward Art Display inspired by the Museum of Bad Art in Boston!

Franklin Library Book Sale

Friday, July 17 15: 1 - 5pm

Saturday, July 18: 9am - 12pm

All books are just one dollar!

Bag Sale - $5 Per Bag

Saturday, July 18: 1 - 4pm

Come fill a brown bag with all the books you can

SAFE Coalition is offering free grief support groups for children and teens - Wednesdays Starting June 17

SAFE Coalition is offering free grief support groups for children and teens this summer in Franklin — a safe, welcoming space for young people to process loss at their own pace through art, play, and connection with peers who understand.

Four groups meet back-to-back on the same evening, divided by age and type of loss:

3:00–3:40 p.m. | Teen Bereavement (ages 14–18) — for teens who have lost someone to death

3:45–4:25 p.m. | Teen Grief & Loss (ages 14–18) — for teens navigating any significant loss

4:30–5:10 p.m. | Children's Bereavement (ages 6–13) — for kids who have lost someone to death

5:15–6:00 p.m. | Children's Grief & Loss (ages 6–13) — for kids navigating any significant loss

Significant losses include divorce, a parent's illness or addiction, major life changes, and more. 

No therapy experience needed, no pressure to participate, and no need to start from the beginning — groups are open enrollment and children and teens can join any session.

When: Wednesdays, June 17 – August 26 | 3:00–6:00 p.m.

Dates: June 17, July 1, July 15, July 29, August 12, August 26

Where: SAFE Coalition | Franklin, MA

Cost: Free

Register online

Reminder: Free Sober Prom for Norfolk County Teens - June 13, 2026 from 8 PM to 11 PM

SAFE is throwing a free prom night celebration for all high school students in Norfolk County.

Free Sober Prom for Norfolk County Teens
June 13, 2026 from 8 PM to 11 PM

Night to Remember is a glow-and-neon themed dance party at SAFE's Franklin office, open to all teens (ages 14 to 18). 

The night includes a live DJ, dance floor, mocktail bar with custom drinks, photo booth, games like cornhole and oversized Jenga, glow bracelets, temporary tattoos, and prizes and giveaways.

Prom season is one of the highest-risk times of year for teen substance use, and free, teen-centered weekend events are rare in our area. Night to Remember gives high school students a genuinely fun alternative—a low-pressure way to dress up, celebrate, and have a great time with their friends, while reinforcing the kind of community SAFE is known for building.

Spots are limited and registration closes on Thursday, June 11. If you know a high school student in our community, please share this with them.

Register: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/EVyVNMRZay

This event is made possible with support from Lawson Charitable Foundation, Community Health Systems Foundation, and Rockland Trust.

Shared from - https://www.facebook.com/share/18W98BaiL8/

Franklin Library News & Events for June 2026 -Special Events for Kids & Families

Special Events for Kids & Families

Petite Picassos! Monday, June 1 @ 4pm
Registration Required
Celebrate the World Cup with Miss Lily by creating your very own step-by-step painting of a soccer ball! This paint party is a great fit for children ages 6 through 12. All materials provided.

Minecraft Party, Wednesday, June 10 @ 1pm
Join us at the library for a block-tastic Minecraft Party! Get ready to play games, mine for treasure, and more fun surprises. No registration required.

Strawberry Pompoms Craft! Friday, June 12 @ 3pm
Start your Strawberry Stroll early at the library with a fun craft, making pompoms in the shape of a strawberry! No registration required.

Animal Affair, Saturday, June 13 @ 10am
Make some new furry or feathered friends when the Animal Affair Traveling Petting Zoo visits the Franklin Public Library! Everyone is welcome to pet, brush, feed, hold, and play with the animals. Participants are taught the proper way to hold and handle the animals. Animal Affair will be bringing ducks, chickens, goats, pigs and rabbits! No registration required.

Blanket Fort Family Night! Thursday, June 18 @ 6pm
Families are invited to bring blankets, pillows, and flashlights to create cozy forts throughout the library. Enjoy stories and tasty s’mores as we turn the library into the ultimate indoor camping adventure! No registration required.

Due Dolce Concert, Thursday, June 18 @ 7pm
Imagine a leisurely stroll down cobblestone streets with the sweet sounds of nostalgic, street-style jazz and European folk songs from the early 1900's as we welcome Due Dolce for an evening concert! A perfect start to a relaxing long weekend or summer date night along Franklin's Main Street. No registration required.

Seed-Starting Workshop, Monday, June 22 @ 4pm
Summer Reading is here and we're Planting a Seed of imagination to read our way to adventure! Start off your summer reading journey with a workshop starting a veggie you can grow at home. Supplies are limited. No registration required. The Library is collecting paper egg cartons for this event. Please consider recycling them with us!

Benanna Band, Thursday, June 25 @ 10:30am
Join us for this super-fun, high energy, interactive music concert that is sure to have the whole family up dancing! No registration required.

Legendary Foam Party! Saturday, June 27 @ 10:30am
We're bubbling with excitement! Enjoy some tunes and sudsy fun with Legendary Foam. (Don't forget your towel!) No registration required.

Butterfly Garden, Saturday, June 27 @ 1pm
Explore a tunnel of adult butterflies, plants, caterpillars, eggs, and chrysalis! Come see a native species of New England up close! No registration required.

Mr. Vinny’s Giant Bubbles! Monday, June 29 @ 4pm
Mr. Vinny, using giant bubble wands designed and constructed by the Bubble Guy himself, will gather kids for an hour long game of watch, chase, and pop the bubbles! No registration required.

Weekly / Monthly Events for Teens

D&D Club, Mondays @ 4PM
Registration Required (Last session is June 15th)
Kids ages 10-17 are invited to join us for a weekly Dungeons and Dragons Club! Dungeons and Dragons, also known as D&D, is one of the most complex tabletop games in history. The library will supply dice, rulebooks, and blank character sheets! We will be using the 5th edition books and rules. Other Table Top systems are welcome! Please email mgousie@minlib.net for registration information.
- Dungeon Masters must be at least 12 years old and have experience with Dungeon and Dragons.
- Dungeon Masters are required to choose a premade adventure. Homebrew additions to the adventure are allowed.
- Players and Dungeon Masters are required to be respectful, kind, and attentive to each other.
- Groups of players with a Dungeon Master are welcome to share our space!

Teen Advisory Board, 2^nd Wednesday of the Month @ 6:30pm
Join us each month for Teen Advisory Board. The Teen Advisory Board is a GREAT opportunity to get involved here at the library! You'll help plan events and programs, create displays and decorate the teen space, and help drive decisions around the kinds of materials we bring to the YA collection, all while eating snacks and getting volunteer hours. It's a win-win-win! No registration required.
  
Game Bytes, Wednesdays @ 4pm
Bring a snack and join us for two hours of casual co-op and solo play. Bring your own device or play on the big screen! No registration required.

Special Events for Teens

Strawberry Pompoms Craft! Friday, June 12 @ 3pm
Start your Strawberry Stroll early at the library with a fun craft, making pompoms in the shape of a strawberry! No registration required.

Due Dolce Concert, Thursday, June 18 @ 7pm
Imagine a leisurely stroll down cobblestone streets with the sweet sounds of nostalgic, street-style jazz and European folk songs from the early 1900's as we welcome Due Dolce for an evening concert! A perfect start to a relaxing long weekend or summer date night along Franklin's Main Street. No registration required.

Seed-Starting Workshop, Monday, June 22 @ 4pm
Summer Reading is here and we're Planting a Seed of imagination to read our way to adventure! Start off your summer reading journey with a workshop starting a veggie you can grow at home. Supplies are limited. No registration required. The Library is collecting paper egg cartons for this event. Please consider recycling them with us!

Butterfly Garden, Saturday, June 27 @ 1pm
Explore a tunnel of adult butterflies, plants, caterpillars, eggs, and chrysalis! Come see a native species of New England up close! No registration required.

Summer Growth! Tuesday, June 30 @ 4pm
Nurture a little knowledge and fun - every week this summer enjoy a craft or crafty experiment for kids 6 – 600! This week we'll start our summer adventure making a journal to keep our summer memories. No registration required.

This is a portion of the full newsletter for June 2026   https://www.franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/9585/June-2026-Franklin-Library-News-and-Events---Franklin-MA?bidId=

Empowering Teen Wellness: Planet Fitness Announces 6h Annual High School Summer Pass® Program And Opens Its Doors To Teens For Free All Summer Long

Planet Fitness, one of the largest and fastest-growing fitness center operators with more members than any other fitness brand, announced the return of its annual High School Summer Pass® program. Now in its sixth year, the initiative encourages high school teens ages 14 to 19¹ to prioritize fitness this summer by working out for free at any of Planet Fitness’ 2,900+ participating locations throughout the U.S. and Canada. Teens can register today at PlanetFitness.com/SummerPass to gain club access beginning June 1 through August 31. Find the club nearest you here. New this year, the High School Summer Pass® program is powered by Gymshark, the gymwear brand, and all High School Summer Pass® participants will receive an exclusive discount 2 after signing up for the free fitness program.

Planet Fitness has invested more than $460 million in waived membership dues3 to promote youth health and wellness and provide an opportunity for millions of teens to improve their physical and mental health.

“At Planet Fitness, our mission is to break down the barriers to fitness, and the High School Summer Pass® program is a key part of that,” said Colleen Keating, CEO of Planet Fitness. “Young people are increasingly prioritizing their mental and physical health and making fitness part of their daily lives. This program gives teens the unique opportunity to build lifelong healthy habits in a welcoming and non-intimidating environment during the important months when school is out.” 

Through the High School Summer Pass® program, teen members will have free access to:

• Planet Fitness' complete range of strength equipment, including state-of-the-art plate-loaded machines, best-in-class cardio equipment, stretching space and more
• Free fitness training from certified fitness trainers⁴
• The free Planet Fitness App, featuring hundreds of on-demand digital exercises
• A welcoming, non-intimidating community environment
• Exclusive discounts through Gymshark

To better understand teens and their mental and physical health, Planet Fitness commissioned a nationwide study5 uncovering the following insights:

The Emotional Weight of Being a Teen is Real: Nearly all teenagers (95%) report emotionally or mentally struggling, with more than half (52%) dealing with anxiety and close to half (49%) struggling with a positive body image. 

Exercise is One of the Most Powerful Outlets Available: Ninety-five percent of teens say exercise helps them manage life's challenges. Two-thirds (66%) say working out makes them feel proud of themselves, and more than half (53%) say it makes them more confident in who they are.

Strength is Not Just Physical: Planet Fitness knows that strength training not only helps you feel strong and confident, but it also profoundly impacts overall well-being. In fact, ninety-two percent of teens agree that strength training builds confidence, 91% say being strong is just as important as looking good, and 84% say they want to do more strength training.

Cost and Access Are Real Barriers: Seven in 10 (70%) teens report at least one obstacle to working out more, including lack of time (44%), not wanting to spend money (28%) and feeling self-conscious (27%). Nearly half (47%) say they simply cannot afford to make fitness a top priority, yet 83% say they would work out at a gym if it were free. 

Building Momentum with Key Partners and Athletes 

Gymshark is proud to partner with Planet Fitness this year and provide exclusive discounts to participants to look and feel their best whether before, after, or during a workout. 

“At Gymshark, we are all about bringing down barriers to fitness and being there for everyone that embarks on a health journey. The work that Planet Fitness has done and continues to do, encouraging teens to go all in on the gym, could not be more aligned with our brand,” said Calum Watson, Brand Marketing Director at Gymshark. “We can’t wait to see the incredible impact that the High School Summer Pass® will have on so many teens this year.” 

To further inspire teens to get active this summer, Planet Fitness is partnering with Olympic legend Allyson Felix and WNBA player Flau'jae Johnson to champion the importance of building healthy habits at a young age and prioritizing overall well-being on their social media accounts.

Planet Fitness locations across the country will host Open House events (check your local club for details) to welcome teens and their families, giving them the opportunity to experience Planet Fitness’ unique Judgement Free environment and meet club team members before the program begins. Planet Fitness will also provide in-club guidance for teen participants, including tips at registration, in-club signage and reminders throughout the app, to ensure a positive and welcoming environment for everyone in the club.

For more information on High School Summer Pass®, including how to sign up for the free summer membership at any of the more than 2,900 Planet Fitness locations in the U.S. and Canada, visit PlanetFitness.com/SummerPass.

¹High School Summer Pass is open to teens ages 14 through 19 and valid at participating locations only. Teens must work out at the location they sign up at and are not permitted to use other locations. Planet Fitness locations are independently owned and operated. Under 18 or legal age of majority must sign up with parent or guardian. 

2 Codes are valid through September 11, 2026, they cannot be used outside of that time period. Only one Code can be applied per order. Codes cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Codes are valid in the U.S. and Canada, cannot be exchanged for cash and are non-transferable. Codes cannot be applied towards delivery charges. Returned items will be refunded at the discounted price paid (the discount applied between the goods proportionately). Where a qualifying spend is noted in relation to use of a Code, if items purchased using that Code are later returned to Gymshark which brings the amount spent below any qualifying level, the offer value may be deducted from any refund. This does not affect your statutory rights. A discount will not be applied to items subsequently replaced. Orders are subject to stock availability and acceptance by Gymshark. Gymshark reserves the right to decline orders where, in Gymshark’s reasonable opinion, a Code is invalid for the order being placed or is the subject of improper use or fraudulent activity. Gymshark reserves the right to withdraw, amend or extend offers at any time on reasonable notice.

3+10 million teen participants since 2019, $10-15 per month, three-month program

4Locations are independently owned and operated; please check your local club for details.

5Online survey conducted by Wired Research between April 6-13, 2026 to 1,000 parents of teens ages 14-19 and their respective teens, with a margin of error of +/- 3.1 percent.

About Planet Fitness 

Founded in 1992 in Dover, NH, Planet Fitness is one of the largest and fastest-growing franchisors and operators of fitness centers in the world by number of members and locations. As of March 31, 2026, Planet Fitness had approximately 21.5 million members and 2,909 clubs in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Canada, Panama, Mexico, Australia and Spain. The Company’s mission is to enhance people’s lives by providing a high-quality fitness experience in a welcoming, non-intimidating environment, which we call the Judgement Free Zone®. Approximately 90% of Planet Fitness clubs are owned and operated by independent business owners.

Franklin Library Special Event Highlights for June 2026

2026 Reading Challenge

June: A Book with a Sympathetic Villain

Looking for a way to expand your reading habits this year? Join the Massachusetts Center for the Book 2026 Reading Challenge for adults and the library will reward your reading with a coupon for a free book from our book sale! Check out the details on our Reading Challenges page.

Special Events for Kids & Teens

Minecraft Party, Wednesday, June 10 @ 1pm

Join us at the library for a block-tastic Minecraft Party! Get ready to play games, mine for treasure, and more fun surprises. No registration required.

Blanket Fort Family Night, Thursday, June 18 @ 6pm

Families are invited to bring blankets, pillows, and flashlights to create cozy forts throughout the library. Enjoy stories and tasty s’mores as we turn the library into the ultimate indoor camping adventure! No registration required.

Legendary Foam Party! Saturday, June 27 @ 10:30am

We're bubbling with excitement! Enjoy some tunes and sudsy fun with Legendary Foam. (Don't forget your towel!) No registration required.

Special Events for Adults

Crafter’s Circle, Thursday June 4 @ 6pm

New Program!

Gather round the circle to work your latest craft project and maybe learn something new as we enjoy each other’s company and the craft projects we love! No registration required.

Diamond Art De-stress, Saturday, June 6 @ 2:30pm & Thursday, June 11 @ 6pm

Registration Required

Give your day some Sparkle & Zen... Enjoy a meditative diamond art project! All materials provided. For ages 18+.

Learn to Mahjong! Tuesday, June 9 @ 6:30pm

This intro to Mahjong session will introduce the suits, the rules, the card, and other basics of American Mahjong! No registration required.

Mahjong Meetup, Tuesday, June 23 @ 6pm

Whether you have a rudimentary knowledge of Mahjong or have been playing for years, we would love to have you join us for an evening of strategy, luck and fun. This is an opportunity for the novice to hone their skills and experienced players to share their knowledge. For ages 18+. 

Special Events for All Ages

Strawberry Pompoms, Friday, June 12 @ 3pm

Start your Strawberry Stroll early at the library with a fun craft, making pompoms in the shape of a strawberry! No registration required.

Due Dolce Concert, Thursday, June 18 @ 7pm

Imagine a leisurely stroll down cobblestone streets with the sweet sounds of nostalgic, street-style jazz and European folk songs from the early 1900's as we welcome Due Dolce for an evening concert! A perfect start to a relaxing long weekend or summer date night along Franklin's Main Street.

Seed-Starting Workshop, Monday, June 22 @ 4pm

Summer Reading is here and we're Planting a Seed of imagination to read our way to adventure! Start off your summer reading journey with a workshop starting a veggie you can grow at home. Supplies are limited. No registration required.

The Library is collecting paper egg cartons for this event. Please consider recycling them with us!

Butterfly Garden, Saturday, June 27 @ 1pm

Explore a tunnel of adult butterflies, plants, caterpillars, eggs, and chrysalis! Come see a native species of New England up close! No registration required.

Franklin Library Book Sale

Friday, June 12 15: 1 - 5pm

Saturday, June 13: 9am - 12pm

All books are just one dollar!

Bag Sale - $5 Per Bag

Saturday, June 13: 1 - 4pm

Come fill a brown bag with all the books you can!

 

Free Sober Prom for Norfolk County Teens - June 13, 2026 from 8 PM to 11 PM

SAFE is throwing a free prom night celebration for all high school students in Norfolk County.

Free Sober Prom for Norfolk County Teens
June 13, 2026 from 8 PM to 11 PM

Night to Remember is a glow-and-neon themed dance party at SAFE's Franklin office, open to all teens (ages 14 to 18). 

The night includes a live DJ, dance floor, mocktail bar with custom drinks, photo booth, games like cornhole and oversized Jenga, glow bracelets, temporary tattoos, and prizes and giveaways.

Prom season is one of the highest-risk times of year for teen substance use, and free, teen-centered weekend events are rare in our area. Night to Remember gives high school students a genuinely fun alternative—a low-pressure way to dress up, celebrate, and have a great time with their friends, while reinforcing the kind of community SAFE is known for building.

Spots are limited and registration closes on Thursday, June 11. If you know a high school student in our community, please share this with them.

Register: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/EVyVNMRZay

This event is made possible with support from Lawson Charitable Foundation, Community Health Systems Foundation, and Rockland Trust.

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