Franklin Art Festival to Feature 47 Artists and Live Music Events

The Public Art Advisory Meeting held on June 12, 2025, in Franklin, Johnson County, Indiana, showcased an exciting lineup of events aimed at enhancing the community's cultural landscape. The meeting highlighted the upcoming Ethos Art Festival, which is set to be the largest in its history, with 47 artists confirmed and an additional 27 pending payment. Organizers anticipate surpassing 50 paid artists, indicating a robust interest in local art.

The festival promises a vibrant atmosphere with live music throughout the day, a beer and wine garden, and a cooling station provided by Houston Electric to ensure comfort for attendees. Notably, the popular Chalk the Block event, hosted by Festival Country, will take place under shade trees, addressing concerns from last year’s heat. The festival will also coincide with the Secret Garden Walk, organized by Franklin Heritage, allowing for cross-promotion and a fuller experience for attendees.

In addition to the festival, the night before will feature Canvas Clash, a ticketed event expected to sell out due to its smaller venue. Tickets are currently available online, encouraging early purchase to secure attendance. The weekend will conclude with the John Strickland Jazz Brunch at Richard's Pizza, another ticketed event that promises live music and a festive atmosphere.

The meeting also celebrated the success of the Franklin Farmers Market, which saw a remarkable increase in attendance, drawing 3,600 visitors during the week of the market—double the previous record of 1,800. This surge is attributed to effective marketing strategies and the support of local organizations, highlighting the community's growing engagement with local events and vendors.

Overall, the discussions at the Public Art Advisory Meeting reflect a thriving cultural scene in Franklin, with significant events planned that not only promote local artists but also foster community spirit and engagement. As preparations continue, the community looks forward to a weekend filled with art, music, and celebration.