Franklin’s Winter Wonderland holiday celebration will be held one night only this year from 5 to 9 p.m. on Dec. 3 in downtown.

Among this year’s new attractions are ice artists Masterpiece Ice Sculptures (MIS). This group of Asheville artists will create a special slide made of ice especially for Winter Wonderland.  

This is a working slide and takes the crew around three hours to setup. We’re sure all of the kids attending this winter festival will enjoy it,” said MIS’ Jeff Pennypacker. There will also be a live demonstration of how ice sculptures are created as the MIS crew transforms a large block of ice into a work of art.   

“In previous years, this festival had a Victorian feel,” said Linda Schlott, Franklin Main Street Program Executive Director.  “This year, however, we’ve decided to breathe some new life into the event. Winter Wonderland will be a whole new experience for all those that attend.”

Free wagon rides will be offered during Winter Wonderland.  The bright red wagon will be decked out for the holidays, and will give those riding a whole new perspective on the evening’s activities.  The free wagon rides will be offered beginning at 5 p.m. and run until the end of the event.

Roxy the miniature horse will be back in action from her very popular debut during Pumpkinfest. Youngsters can ride Roxy beginning at 5 p.m. There is an 80-pound weight limit.

Live entertainment has a renewed focus for Winter Wonderland and will be headlined by the popular Rye Holler Boys. They will be performing traditional holiday favorites from the gazebo beginning at 6:30 p.m.  Other entertainment scheduled includes the South Macon Elementary School Chorus and Men Making Music.  

Downtown Franklin merchants will also get in on the holiday fun. Stores will be open late offering free refreshments including hot cider and delicious treats to their patrons.

For more information on the festivities of Franklin’s Winter Wonderland visit www.renewingfranklin.org or call Linda Schlott, executive director of the Franklin Main Street Program at 828.524.2516.