Fallin’ for Franklin County

Fall weather has finally reached Franklin County, and if you’re like me, you’ve been clicking your boots for joy. The autumnal season signals great change in the weather, the leaves and the activities to partake in around the county.

The first festival of the season took place last week: the Spirit of Hodges festival. Crafty vendors, local cuisine and music filled Hodges Town Park Oct. 13. Next up is Spruce Pine Day in downtown Spruce Pine, Oct. 20. There will be plenty for folks to enjoy, like the car show, various vendors, prize drawings and entertainment!

And the fun doesn’t stop there.

For those with spooky interests, like myself, there is Nightmare on Freeman Road in Phil Campbell. This includes hayrides, a pumpkin patch and scary characters. Throughout the month of October it is open Thursday through Saturday night from 6-11 p.m. It is $15 in advance and $20 at the door.

King’s Drive Inn has been playing Smallfoot and Venom – both good options for movie lovers. The cooler weather makes going to the drive-in a much better experience, in my opinion.

Franklin County has many beautiful outdoor areas that provide the perfect setting for a leisurely fall stroll. Kick up some multi-colored fallen leaves and explore areas like Sloss Lake, City Lake Park and the many other parks and campgrounds in our county. Make sure you take a light jacket to fend off the cool breeze as you breathe in the crisp, autumn air.

And of course, we can’t forget the big holiday that rounds out the month of October: Halloween. On All Hallows’ Eve, the Franklin County Chamber of Commerce will be hosting its annual Trunks of Treats in Russellville. Red Bay is also celebrating with its annual Trunk or Treat Oct. 30. Check out your local churches and organizations for other planned trunk-or-treats and similar events!