Smiles abound as Franklin lights up for the holidays

The holidays have arrived. And it seems not a moment too soon. 

With Thanksgiving being on the later end of the calendar this year and the weather being unseasonably warm, it seems like the holidays hadn't really hit yet.

But boy, did it ever come in with a bang on Saturday in Franklin. 

The rainy forecast didn't put a damper on the schedule's earliest events at the Barrow-Civic Theatre.

The kiddos did a great job of spreading cheer both through their performances on the stage as part of the youth theatre and with Holey Jeans later in the Christmas tree filled lobby. 
​
Over at the First Presbyterian Church, teens from all four Venango public high schools put on a choir concert worthy of the sanctuary full of folks gathered to hear them. 

Along Liberty Street, with crowds gathering for a parade, songs rang out from the judge's stand. 

These musical preludes really set the stage for one of Franklin's most memorable Electric Light parades.

More than 70 "Songs of the Season" entries, some from as far away as Warren and Grove City, demonstrated how this event has become a regional destination for holiday celebrating.

​Many of the larger floats were full of creativity, craftsmanship and merriment that left watchers astonished and delighted. 

The tree lighting, despite the premature lighting mix-up the weekend earlier, still carried a moment of magic as hundreds of voices joined together to countdown from 10. 

And the fireworks that followed were perhaps the greatest show ever done for Franklin's holiday kick off. 
​
The cheers that went off as the final firework faded above Fountain Park really echoed between the Liberty Street buildings reinforcing the appreciation thousands were feeling Saturday night.

All that was missing was a little snow, but there's lots of time for that this winter. And plenty of time to visit downtown to make some memories.

Congratulations to Franklin and all who worked behind the scenes to make it happen.

Thank you for helping so many lift their holiday spirits and remind us of the wonderful things a small town can accomplish. ​