The Franklin Downtown Partnership (FDP) is hosting the First Annual Ladybug Trail Spring Walk. On Saturday, April 15 (rain date April 16), the Partnership invites residents to walk the Ladybug Cultural and Historical Trail to celebrate spring. Stop by the Franklin Historical Museum or Escape Into Fiction for a free trail map and ladybug surprise. The Museum is open Saturdays 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Sundays 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Escape Into Fiction is open Tuesdays through Saturdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays noon to 5 p.m.

The Ladybug Cultural and Historical Trail uses ladybug sculptures to tie approximately 25 historical, cultural and business sites together in downtown Franklin. The walk provides an opportunity to view more than 10 art murals painted by members of the Franklin Art Association located in the alleys and the many daffodils that will be popping up along the trail. 

The purpose of the Trail is to promote economic development in downtown Franklin by encouraging residents and visitors to enjoy all that Franklin center has to offer by visiting, dining, and shopping at downtown businesses while they walk the trail. Since Franklin was once the leading manufacturer of straw hats, the FDP encourages trail walkers to wear their spring hats.

“The Ladybug Trail Spring Walk is a chance to celebrate spring by walking the Ladybug Trail and enjoying all the wonderful shops and restaurants in downtown center,” said FDP Executive Director Lisa Piana. “It is another fun way to support our local businesses.”

The town of Franklin has a unique connection with the ladybug. In 1974, Franklin’s John F. Kennedy School second grade students and their teacher, Palma Johnson, petitioned the bill to name the ladybug the state insect and subsequently witnessed it signed into law.  

Members of the Ladybug Cultural and Historical Trail committee are: Pandora Carlucci, Jane Curran, Melanie Hamblen, Eileen Mason, Mary Olsson, Lisa Piana, Beth Simon, and Roberta Trahan.

The Franklin Downtown Partnership is a nonprofit, 501©3 organization made up of more than 360 business owners, community leaders and residents working to stimulate economic development downtown and create a positive impact throughout the area. Learn more about the Partnership at www.franklindowntownpartnership.org.