by Amanda Jarratt

The Franklin Southampton tourism calendar for summer is busting at the seams! With weekly farmers markets and produce auctions, the Franklin Cruise-In, We Be Jammin’, the new First Saturdays Artisan Market in Capron and the Franklin-Southampton County Fair there is more than enough to keep you and the entire family busy locally this summer.

Treat yourself to a “stay-vacation” this summer and check out all of the local attractions, events and activities that Franklin Southampton has to offer. Spending your money locally is an investment in the Franklin Southampton community.

Check out all of the upcoming events below and mark your calendars for these fun, family-friendly events.

For the complete listing of upcoming tourism events in Franklin Southampton visit http://www.visitfranklinsouthamptonva.com/upcoming-events/. We invite you to Escape to Tradition this summer in Franklin Southampton.

Market on Main – Farmers Market in Downtown Franklin

Stroll the streets of Downtown Franklin and pick up fresh produce and local treats at the Market on Main. Located in historic downtown Franklin, the Market on Main is open on Wednesday evenings from 4 to 7 p.m. and opens again Saturday morning at 9 a.m.

Franklin Cruise-In

We welcome you to “Cruise In” all summer long for the Franklin Cruise-In event! Open to antique cars and trucks, street rods, and custom bikes. Cruise-In is a fun, family-friendly event and welcomes children of all ages. Admission is free and open to all. Mark your calendars for the big finale event on Saturday, Sept. 9 for a full day of fun!

Courtland Farmers  Market – Produce Auction

Stop in and pick up produce fresh off the family farm. This produce auction is directed to wholesale buyers but anyone is welcome to attend. If you are an avid canner or like to freeze fresh, local produce this is this event for you. The Courtland Farmers Market does also feature small lots so some and bid before the fruits, vegetables, plants and flowers are gone. The Courtland Farmers Market opens every Thursday at 6:30 p.m. beginning in June through the first two weeks of October.

We Be Jammin’

Come enjoy great music at We Be Jammin’ at Barrett’s Landing. This family-friendly event is a great place to kick back and relax. Bring your lawn chair, your family and friends and of course your dancing shoes and come down to Barrett’s Landing for We Be Jammin’ every Thursday this summer starting at 5 p.m.

First Saturdays Artisan Markets

Gallery 1606 in Capron is hosting an Artisan Market every first Saturday in June, July, August and September from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The market will featured locally crafted pottery, painting, quilts, baskets and much more. Check out the displays on the corner of Route 58 and Main Street, Capron, and plan to visit the market on the first Saturday of the month.

Franklin-Southampton County Fair

Come enjoy great local and specialty foods, home arts, exhibits, livestock shows, petting zoos, talent shows and more. Enjoy events including watermelon eating contests, magic shows, and concerts! Be sure to view the local horticulture exhibit, which features the area’s largest sunflowers, watermelons, and pumpkins! Looking for a thrill? The Mid-Way will have rides and carnival games for kids of all ages! Mark your calendar for Wednesday, Aug. 9 through Saturday, Aug. 12 — we will see you at the fair!

AMANDA C. JARRATT is the president and CEO of Franklin Southampton Economic Development Inc. She can be reached at 562-1958.