A warm summer evening. A light breeze carries welcome relief after a hot day. The air is filled with the sweet scents of rhododendron and mountain laurel, while a chorus of crickets and spirited birds tries to keep up with the lively, vibrant sound of a guitar echoing from the Gazebo. Children’s laughter, tastes of ice cream, and dances to cherished songs continue until dusk.
For more than three decades, Pickin’ on the Square has become more than just a free concert — it is a beloved tradition in Franklin. This year, the event returns with the same charm that has long defined it. Organizer Sabrina Scruggs, who has coordinated the event for the past two seasons, continues to bring in fresh ideas without compromising its spirit.
“When it first started, there was an open mic for the first half hour… It was mostly local people rotating in,” Scruggs explained. “Now we have all kinds of bands and genres playing. Every night we try to have a food truck and other food items.”
The event originally aimed to revitalize downtown and give residents something free and fun to gather around. With successful planning and a strong community response, Pickin’ on the Square has grown into an essential part of Franklin’s summer rhythm, drawing larger crowds each season — but never losing its grassroots feel.
And that feeling of familiarity is something Scruggs intentionally protects.
“Coming to the event even before I headed it up, I feel it’s better to keep it simple,” she said. “People know what to expect with the event.”
Held on the second and fourth Saturdays of each month, from May through early October, each evening begins at 6 p.m. and ends by 8 p.m. Guests are invited to bring a lawn chair, relax with family and friends, and enjoy live music that spans bluegrass, country, and rock.
This year’s lineup features both newcomers and returning favorites — including Jason Passmore, The Remnants, and Carolina 441; however, music is not the only highlight. Food is an integral part of the experience. This season will feature funnel cakes, fried Oreos, ice cream, and a rotating roster of local food vendors.
While some community members have requested the event be held every Saturday, organizers have made a conscious decision to preserve the bi-weekly format. It allows space for other events to take place downtown and helps keep the town’s budget balanced — especially since Pickin’ on the Square has always been fully funded by the Town of Franklin.
“Right now it’s 11 Saturdays, and we want everyone [organizing team] to be able to have family time, and give others an option to have an event,” said Scruggs.
Indeed, what makes Pickin’ on the Square special is not just the music or the food — it is the people. Family, friends, neighbors, and visitors, all together in one place. It is a chance to reconnect, relax, and simply be.
“Some of our bands are from here,” Scruggs says. “It’s nice to see a childhood friend playing in your hometown.”
There is something magical in that combination: great food, familiar faces, and music that fills your heart with joy. At the center of it all is that unmistakable “hometown feeling.”
“When you come through a town and see everyone gathering and just enjoying the evening,” Scruggs added, “it sends a message of community.”
This free outdoor event takes place at the Gazebo on the square in downtown Franklin. For anyone planning to attend, here are a few things to keep in mind: bring a lawn chair, a great mood — and yes, coolers are allowed. How- ever, any alcoholic beverages must be in approved social district cups with a valid date sticker. Outside alcohol is not permitted.
In the event of bad weather, announcements and updates will be posted on the Town of Franklin NC Festivals & Events page. Most evenings feature food vendors, and this season’s full vendor list will be announced soon. Also, anyone is encouraged to come early and explore dining options in downtown Franklin.
Performance schedules and event updates are available at www.franklinnc.com and on the Facebook page. This Saturday, May 10, launches the first Pickin’ on the Square for 2025. On tap to perform alternative rock and Americana is the band Arnold Hill.
Pickin’ on the Square is not just an event — it is a Saturday evening that feels like home.