Franklin Welcomes the World

Our Community Campaign - Franklin Welcomes the world!

As a neighboring host community preparing for the international soccer matches in the summer of 2026, Franklin Culture has been actively engaging residents through public art projects and a special 2025 A-Wreath-of-Franklin theme: Franklin Welcomes the World!

Stay tuned this Spring as we share more festive details and community-wide celebrations planned in anticipation of the Summer of Soccer in 2026.

Franklin Welcomes the World: Community Celebration Plan

The Town of Franklin is planning two tentative days of community celebrations on June 25 and June 26 to coincide with international soccer matches at Gillette Stadium. If funded, events on the Franklin Town Common and at Haywood Manor would include live-streamed games on a large screen, along with food trucks, vendors, live music, and family-friendly activities.

These efforts are part of the broader Franklin Welcomes the World digital marketing campaign (page 2), which is designed to invite residents and visitors to experience Franklin’s vibrant summer events and support local businesses.

How is this funded?

Funding for the potential watch parties includes local support from the Franklin Cultural District, Franklin Cultural Council, and the Town of Franklin Department of Recreation. Franklin has also applied for additional funding through the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism in partnership with the MetroWest Boston Visitors Bureau.

What if grant funding isn’t awarded?

If grant funding is not awarded, the Town will not host the large-scale watch parties. However, Franklin’s summer programming will continue as usual. From June through mid-July, more than 11 community events—including the Franklin Farmers Market, Concerts on the Common, and Strawberry Stroll—are already scheduled and will incorporate 'World Cup'–inspired themes and activities. These existing events are the foundation of the marketing campaign and will continue to be promoted as opportunities for residents and visitors to gather, celebrate, and support local businesses throughout the summer.

Stay tuned as we finalize our programs later this Spring! #FranklinWelcomestheWorld

Franklin Welcomes the World - Cardboard Community Art project! Created at the 2025 Harvest Festival.

"As Franklin prepares to “Welcome the World” in celebration of next summer’s international soccer games (being held at Gillette Stadium (or Boston Stadium); we invite residents and visitors alike to create and share their own likenesses as part of a larger, inclusive public art display. Join our crew for a free drop-in cardboard portrait-making activity! Using simple, accessible materials, this hands-on experience encourages people of all ages and backgrounds to see themselves as part of a global community.

The portraits—colorful, diverse, and uniquely personal—symbolize the many faces and stories that make up Franklin, reinforcing the town’s commitment to hospitality, creativity, and cultural connection on a world stage.

Once the portraits are complete, we'll hang the installation at the Franklin Public Library as part of our Public Arts Program."

2025 A-Wreath-of-Franklin, "Franklin Welcomes the World"

A-Wreath-of-Franklin“A-Wreath-of-Franklin’ celebrates our community’s creativity and welcoming spirit. This year’s theme, ‘Franklin Welcomes the World,’ ties into the excitement surrounding the summer 2026 international soccer games, inviting visitors to experience the town’s vibrant arts scene, local culture, and warm New England hospitality. Through these festive, locally crafted wreaths, residents and organizations showcase Franklin’s pride and creativity, offering every guest a memorable and heartfelt welcome.”

Coming Summer 2026...

With major international sporting events happening just minutes away at Gillette/Boston Stadium, the Franklin community is buzzing with excitement! Local businesses, cultural organizations, and community leaders are coming together to showcase the very best of Franklin to visitors from near and far.

As travelers explore the region, Franklin is rolling out a warm New England welcome with special programming that celebrates international spirit while highlighting our town’s vibrant arts, culture, and hospitality scene.

Live Entertainment & Cultural Events – Enjoy performances at local theaters, live concerts by area musicians, pop-up street shows, and local art exhibitions that fill the town with creativity and vibrant energy at every turn.

Community Viewing Parties & Fan Gatherings – Catch the action with fellow fans at public viewing events hosted throughout Franklin, offering a festive and welcoming space for all.

As Franklin prepares to welcome global visitors, our community partners are stepping up to ensure every guest feels right at home.