FRANKLIN — Lovely ladies in hats, free refreshments and a chance to stroll downtown Franklin for bargains and unique pieces of art, that’s the setting that Franklin Merchants are hoping will draw hundreds to The Lamp Post Art Stroll Thursday in Downtown Franklin. The event will take place between 2 and 6 p.m.

“This is the inaugural art stroll to highlight our lamppost in Franklin that’s being put on by the  Franklin Merchants Association,” said President of the F. M. A. and Owner of the Lamplighter Antiques and Collectibles store Diane Wiltz.

In an effort to revitalize downtown Franklin, merchants have invited 17 local artists to put their work on display inside their shops.  Patrons can sip adult beverages, enjoy refreshments and are invited to purchase art pieces or merchandise from area businesses hosting the art work.

“Appreciation is a two way street,” Wiltz said. “By us staying open later and providing refreshments we’re showing our customers that we appreciate them. We would like our customers to show their appreciation by coming downtown and shopping,” she added.

Other merchants downtown said that the community is missing out on a lot when they don’t support downtown business.

“They’re missing out on great prices and we’ve got good stuff, new stuff, old stuff, “ Nelvin Coleman of owner Nelvin Creations said.

“We need their support. They don’t have to spend major bucks. A window(window shopping) can’t tell you everything you have to step in and see,”

Cathy Latiolais, co-owner of The French Door in Franklin, said that she hopes this first art stroll continues and is thankful for the patrons downtown does have.

“If it wasn’t for the local people we wouldn’t be here so this is a way to say thank you,” Latiolais said.

Along with the showing of art pieces and chances to shop local there will also be a silent auction held at the Lamppost building, all proceeds of which will go to the Franklin Merchants Association. 

There will also be music and door prizes and to add a little southern flair to the atmosphere. Ladies are welcomed and encouraged to wear their hats.

“We invite folks to wear hats, its a pre-Mother’s Day gathering you don’t need one to come, but if you want to bring Mom and wear a hat your free to do so,” Wiltz said.