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2008 North Alabama Local
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January 2008
February 2008
9th Annual Dinner Theater
Feb. 13-15, 21-22 at 6:30 p.m.
The DeKaIb County Children’s Advocacy Center will be hosting its
9th Annual Dinner Theater production entitled Reunion Day, written
by Eddie McPherson. It will be held in the First United Methodist
Church Family Life Center located in Fort Payne. All proceeds
benefit the DeKalb CAC.
For more information contact Chad Garmany at 256-997-9700 or
chad@dekalbcac.org
Website: www.dekalbcac.org
Cottontails’s Village Arts & Crafts Show
Birmingham — Feb. 28 - March 2
Birmingham/Jefferson Convention Complex-Arts and crafts featuring
all original work, including woodwork, jewelry, clothing,
decora-tions. Easter Bunny available for pictures. Admission
charged. Contact Wendy Melvin at 205-836-71 78.
Cullman County Civic Center-Senior Expo
Cullman — Feb. 28 Sassy - 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
focusing on the health and well-being of sen-
iors. Games, exhibits, food, and fun. No admis-
sion charged. Contact Beth Montgomery at
256-737-6028.
Boy Scout Pinewood Derby
Oxford — Feb. 28
Enjoy watching as area Boy Scouts race their
Pinewood Derby cars in this annual event. Hours
TBA. No admission charged. Contact Trisha
Johnson Humphrey at 256-831-4180.
Outdoor Auto Show
Feb 20-23, 2008
Location: Regency Square Mall Florence, Alabama
The latest in outdoor recreation can be found at this show.
Admission: Free
Information: (256) 766-2176
March 2008
Home and Garden
Show
Saturday, March 15 - 9:00 to
4:00
Sunday, March 16 - 12:00 to 4:00
The Northeast Alabama Home & Garden Show is held at the Dekalb
County Schools Coliseum, Rainsville, Alabama the third weekend of
March each year.
Website:
http://www.neahgshow.com/
April 2008
Fort Payne
Rappelling Basics Certification Class (Fort Payne) - Apr 11,
256-997-9577.
www.trueadventuresports.com Admission
charged.—Rappelling basics indoor and basics outdoor. Learn how to
safely rappel and do several rappels before taking rappelling
test. Participants receive a Class 1 rappelling card upon
successful completion of this class and exam. 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Decatur 3M River
City Run, 29th Annual
Point Mallard Park--10K and 1-mile runs. 10K on certified,
flat, and fast through Point Mallard park and adjoining
neighborhoods. Awards. 8-10:30 a.m.
Cabela's Crappie USA Invitational Tournament
(Sheffield) - Apr 12, Sheffield 800-344-0783, 270-395-4321.
www.colbercountytourism.org
www.crappieusa.com
Fee for participants only. Riverfront Park--Anglers compete for
the chance to fish in the Crappie Classic. Weigh-in, 3 p.m.
Raku Pottery
Party
(Valley Head) - Dates: Apr. 12, May 10, Jun. 14, Jul. 12, Aug. 9,
Sept. 13, Oct. 11, Nov. 8, Dec. 13. Bring the entire family and
experience how pottery is made. Glaze and fire your own piece of
Raku pottery. Reservations are required due to limited
spacing. Sessions at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Fort Payne Rock
Climbing Adventure
(Fort Payne) - Apr 12, 256-997-9577.
www.trueadventuresports.com Admission charged.—Come
experience first-hand what rock climbing is all about with guides
who are fun, safe and energetic. Includes all gear plus basic
instruction. No prior climbing experience is needed. 10 a.m.-2
p.m.
Cullman
Walking-Racking Horse Show
(Cullman) - Apr 12, 256-739-4959. Admission. Cullman County
Agricultural Trade Center.
Moulton Alabama
Chicken and Egg Festival
(Moulton) - Apr 12-13, 800-974-1658.
www.alabamachickenandeggfestival.com Admission charged.
Lions Club Fairgrounds--Chicken clucking contest, karaoke for big
chickens, live bantam chicken display, chicken wing and hard
boiled egg-eating contests, entertainment, children’s activities,
and arts and crafts fair. Sat., 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-5
p.m.
Thursday Hike
with Wild South
(Moulton) - This will be the first of a reoccurring monthly hike
into the Bankhead National Forest/Sipsey Wilderness. Every third
Thursday we will meet Janice Barrett at the Warrior Mountain
Trading Company at 10:30AM for a hike no longer than 3 miles.
Bring a sack lunch and plenty of water. Due to the sensitivity of
the area, this hike will be limited to 20 children, plus parents
"Beguiled
Again"--The Songs of Rodger & Hart Annual Broadway Musical Revue
(Decatur) - Apr 18, Decatur "Beguiled Again"--The Songs of Rodger
& Hart 256-340-1778.
www.Princesstheatre.org Admission charged. Princess Theatre -
Annual musical revue featuring a local talented cast and Broadway
tunes featuring dozen of selections from the songbook or Rodger &
Hart, including "Bewitched," "Bothered and Bewildered," "My Funny
Valentine," and more.
High Adventure
Trip
(Fort Payne) - Dates: Apr. 17-19, May 8-10, Jun. 10-12, Aug.
14-16, Sept. 16-18, Oct. 23-25, Nov. 13-15. Three-day adventure
that begins with a wild cave tour on day one, rock climbing,
rappelling, and an extreme night hike on day two, and ends with a
relaxing canoe trip on day three.
Alabama Studio
Weekend
(Florence) - Apr 18-19, 2008 Event designed for the advancement
and preservation of Southern culture and food.
Athens Dogwood
Festival
256-233-8728.
www.keepathenslimestonebeautiful.com Free. Downtown
Athens, Courthouse Sq.—Arts and crafts, Do Da parade, womanless
beauty contest, fashion show and luncheon. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
A View From Earth
(Collinsville) - Apr 19, Collinsville A View From Earth
256-844-8235.
www.dreamfieldproductions.net Admission charged.
Dreamfield Outdoor Theatre--A fun-filled day of music. 10 a.m.-10
p.m.
Earth Month
Celebration
(Florence) - Apr 19, Florence Earth Month Celebration 2567404141.
www.flo-tour.org Free.
Wilson Park--Come learn and be inspired to conserve and preserve.
The day's activities include educational speakers, guided nature
tours, and activities for children. 10 a.m.
-----
Spring Festival
of Flowers
Huntsville/(256) 830-4447
Imaginative topiaries, tulips of every description, daffodils,
pansies and azaleas bloom all over the Huntsville Botanical
Garden. The 100-year old dogwood tree, and wildflower trail are
beautiful! Special events on each weekend of the festival - check
web site for details.
www.hsvbg.org.
April, 2008. Admission.
Bloomin' Festival
Cullman/(256) 739-6682, Ave Maria Grotto - (800) 722-0999/www.bloominfestival.com
Over 150 exhibitors from around the Southeast display and sell
their works. Live entertainment by folk singer Kate Campbell and
the St. Bernard Prep School Music Ensemble. April 5-6, 2008, 9
a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Admission.
Houston Memorial Library & Museum Street Fair
Athens/(256) 233-8770
Arts, crafts, great food, entertainment, prizes & games
celebrating the life of two-time Alabama Governor and U.S. Senator
George Houston. Special encampment by the 50th Alabama Infantry
Civil War reenactors. Always third Saturday in April. April 19,
2008. Free.
A View From Earth
Collinsville, AL Directions on website.
April 19, 2008 Gates open at 10:30am.
Adults $12, Children 7-12 are $6.50, 6 and under are free! For
more information go to
www.dreamfieldproductions.net
There will be a demonstration of bio-diesel processor, Hybrid
Cars, Hydrogen Power, concert and puppet show for children.
Proceeds will go to Tigers For Tomorrow and the Dekalb CO. D.A.R.E.
Program.
Racking Horse Spring Celebration
Decatur/(256) 353-7225
The show season opening event is held in the spring for this
national breed. Features approximately 500 horses and more than
25,000 spectators and exhibitors from up to 20 states. Always at
the end of April. April 23-26, 2008. Admission. (Photos)
Panoply® Arts Festival
Huntsville/(256) 519-ARTS/ www.panoply.org
The premiere Arts Festival in North Alabama presented by The Arts
Council. This exciting event is one of Alabama’s largest and most
fun arts festivals, offering a variety of national and regional
talent in music, theatre, and dance. Visit Panoply’s Art
Marketplace where you can purchase original works of art by
artists from around the United States. Stop by the choreography
competition, where choreographers and dancers from across the
country compete for top honors. Always the last weekend in April.
April 25-27, 2008. Free.
Strawberry Festival
Cullman/(256) 734-3369
Vendors, car show, tractor pull, beauty pageant, kiddie rides,
entertainment, food, arts & crafts. Held at Sportsman Lake Park.
April 25-26, 2008. Admission.
Earth Month
Celebration
(Florence) - Apr 19, Florence Earth Month Celebration 2567404141.
www.flo-tour.org Free.
Wilson Park--Come learn and be inspired to conserve and preserve.
The day's activities include educational speakers, guided nature
tours, and activities for children. 10 a.m.
Essentials of the
Day Hike
(Pelham) - Join Wendi Merritt of the Alabama Hiking Trail Society
for a program about the essentials necessary for a day hike. Wendi
will cover what to take on a day hike, safety, how to not get lost
and what to put in a first aid kit. She will lead a hike at Oak
Mt. State Park following the program. Bring a sack lunch and water
for a picnic during or after the hike.
Georgia Glenn
Pioneer Fishing Tournament
(Alexander City) - Apr 19, Alexander City Georgia Glenn Pioneer
Fishing Tournament 256-329-0845. Free. Wind Creek State
Park--Enjoy the beautiful waters of Lake Martin as you pull for
your favorite fishermen and women.
Highlights from
Der Rosenkavalier
(Huntsville) - Apr 19, Huntsville, Highlights from Der
Rosenkavalier 256-539-4818.
www.hso.org Admission charged. Von Braun Center Concert
Hall--Richard Staus Opera Gala and Highlights from Der
Rosenkavalier with Carlos Miguel Prieto, conductor. 7:30-9:30 p.m.
Magnolia Festival
(Gardendale) - Apr 19, Gardendale Magnolia Festival 205-608-1800.
www.magnoliafestival.org
Free. Gardendale Civic Center--Live entertainment, featuring
bluegrass, pop, Christian music; classic car show, carnival rides,
pony rides and inflatables for kids, arts and crafts booths,
business expo, great food, including barbecue, ice cream, funnel
cakes. etc. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Mountain Brook
Art Association's 27th Annual Spring Art Show
(Mountain Brook) - 100 local area fine artists exhibiting original
two-dimensional works. Oils, acrylics, mixed media, watercolors,
pastels, pencil, ink, collage, etc. Many veteran artists and
always some newcomers. Artistic styles from classic to
contemporary, realistic to abstract and non-objective. Outdoors,
handicapped accessible, food vendors,
Mountain Longleaf
Festival
A Celebration of Arts & Environment, 4th Annual (Anniston) - Apr 19,
Anniston Mountain Longleaf Festival: A Celebration of Arts &
Environment 256-782-5697.
www.fieldschool.jsu.edu Festival designed to celebrate the
natural world and to benefit the children of the community. Enjoy
live music, nature and arts activities, arts demonstrations and
sales, food, children's activities & more. 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Mullet Man
Triathlon, 12th Annual
(Orange Beach) - Apr 19, Orange Beach Mullet Man Triathlon, 12th
Annual 251-974-1510; 850-803-8740.
www.gulfshores.com
Admission charged. Flora-Bama--Swim 1/4 mile, bike 15 miles, run 4
miles. The Mullet Man Triathlon is a high quality event, promises
a great course, super volunteers, awards 3 deep and a post-race
party with fabulous food and fun. 7:30 a.m. until.
Old Howard 100
Bike Ride
(Marion) - Routes of 30, 50, 70 and 100 miles available; five SAG
stops at historic sites. Ride begins at 9 a.m. on the campus of
Judson College in Marion. Proceeds benefit Sowing Seeds of Hope
ministry.
Old Howard 100
Bike Ride
(Marion) - Routes of 30, 50, 70 and 100 miles available; five SAG
stops at historic sites. Ride begins at 9 a.m. on the campus of
Judson College in Marion. Proceeds benefit Sowing Seeds of Hope
ministry.
Re-Creation 5K
Run
(Huntsville) - Apr 19, Huntsville Re-Creation 5K Run 256-232-5659.
www.huntsvilletrackclub.org Southwood Presbyterian Church--Get
back to nature during this fun-filled racing event.
Riverside Trash
Round-up, 3rd Annual
(Guntersville) - Apr 19, Guntersville Riverside Trash Round-up
256-571-5440.
www.GuntersvilleStatePark.com Free. Guntersville State
Park--The waters of Lake Guntersville are home to a variety of
fish, waterfowl, and other marine life. Join in this effort to
clean debris from the banks and help maintain the purity of the
lake by providing a sustainable environment for the wildlife. 2
p.m.
Spinners Park
Yard Sale
(Prattville) - Clean out your closets and attic and bring your
cast off items to Spinners Yard Sale. Booths $10.00. Includes
license fee and two 8 foot tables to display your sale items. Turn
your trash into cash at Spinners yard sale!
Sucarnochee
Folklife Festival
(Livingston) - Apr 19, Livingston Sucarnochee Folklife Festival
205-652-3752. www.uwa.edu Free
admisson. Courthouse Sq.--Art demonstrations, including pottery,
metal works, quilting and more. Live music, storytelling, Walking
Ghost tour, a c ornbread cook-off, and a Sucarnochee 5K run. 8
a.m.-7 p.m.
The Old 280
Boogie
(Auburn) - Apr 19, Auburn The Old 280 Boogie 334-826-6423.
www.standarddeluxe.com
www.waverlyalabama.com
Free admission. Downtown Waverly on the lawn near High Corner
Co-Op--Open air music festival featuring a variety of artists
booths, food vendors, family activities, including cake walks,
horse she toss, volley ball, and more. 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
USAT Collegiate
Triathlon
(Tuscaloosa) - Apr 19, Tuscaloosa USAT Collegiate Triathlon
205-391-9200. Fee for participants only. Various
locations--Triathlon consisting of a .93-mi. swim in the Black
Warrior River, a 24.8 bike course on Jack Warner Pkwy. and a
6.2-mi. run on the Riverwalk and up Queen City Pkwy. Hours TBA.
Wilcox Area
Chamber Big Fish Crappie Tournament
(Camden) - Big Fish Crappie Tournament with 6 hourly weigh-ins
paying $175 total per hour for the top 3 largest fish. Largest
fish for the tournament wins $1000, 2nd largest wins $500, 3rd
wins $250. Two weigh-in stations along the lake for the hourly
weigh-ins. Main headquarters at the Miller's Ferry Marina.
MAY 2008
Annual UAH Student Art Exhibition
(Huntsville) - Apr 8-May 2, Huntsville Annual UAH
Student Art Exhibition 256-824-6114.
www.uah.edu (follow link or Art Dept.). Free. UAH
University Center & Unioin Grove Galleries--Juried selection of
the best student work of the year, including paintings, drawings,
prints, sculpture, graphic, website design, and digital video.
Univ. Center, open daily; Union Grove Gallery, afternoons and by
appt.
Wild Cave Tour
(Fort Payne) - May 2, Fort Payne Wild Cave Tour 256-997-9577.
www.trueadventuresports.com. Admission charged.—Go
beyond where the average tourist explores into the heart of
Manitou Cave. This 2.5 hour adventure is for those ready to
explore on your knees, on your belly, in the mud and through tight
tunnels. Helmet, cave lamps and guide included. 5-7:30 p.m.
Mule Days in Alabama,
4th Annual (Albertville) - Apr 27-May 3, Albertville Mule Days in
Alabama 256-506-0137.
www.cullmanmuledays.com. Fee for
participants only. North Alabama Sand Mountain to Cullman Mule
Train site—Family fun the old timey way by horse and wagon. Event
features camping out every night with some musical entertainment.
Some meals are furnished. Food vendor available. Ride ends with a
mule and draft horse show in Cullman.
Homespun Arts & Crafts Show & Plant Sale,
28th Annual (Athens) - May 2-3, Athens Homespun Arts & Crafts
Show & Plant Sale, 256-232-3525.
www.athensbibleschool.org. Free admission. Campus of
Athens Bible School—Along with vendors, there will be nurseries
selling plants, flowers, trees and other garden items. Food
concessions. 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat., 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; pancake
breakfast, 6-11 a.m.
Poke Salat Festival,
23rd Annual (Arab) - May 2-3, Arab Poke Salat Festival
256-586-6255. www.pokesalatfestival.com. Free. Downtown--Arts,
crafts, food vendors, children's games and activities, historical
display, street dances, display of art work of emerging artists
from Arab schools, parade, and more. Fri. 9 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sat., 9
a.m.-10 p.m
Recall LaGrange Reenactment (Tuscumbia)
- May 2-3, Tuscumbia Recall LaGrange 256-446-9324, 256-383-0783.
www.recall-lagrange.00me.com. Free. LaGrange College Park—A
vignette of Civil War life with skirmishes, a Civil War-era
funeral, a daily life camp, blaksmith and firearm demonstrations,
musical entertainment, including Shoals dulcimer and folk music,
hay rides, food, crafts, and more. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
WhistleStop Festival & Rocket City BBQ
(Huntsville) - May 2-3, Huntsville "WhistleStop Festival & Rocket
City BBQ" 256-564-8100.
www.earlyworks.com. Admission charged. Huntsville
Depot—Come on down for a toe-tappin', barbecue-eatin' good time.
The festival is a KCBS-sanctioned event with a professional and
amateur barbecue competition, entertainment, children activities,
and great music. Fri. 4-11 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-11 p.m.
16th Annual Wildflower
Saturday at DeSoto State Park (Fort Payne) - May 3, Fort Payne
Wildflower Saturday 256-782-5697. fieldschool.jsu.edu. Free.
DeSoto State Park—Make this a weekend to rememeber. Stay at DeSoto
Lodge and enjoy a wildflower breakfast, lunch and dinner. Multiple
hikes throughout the day. 8:30 a.m.
Alabama Veterans Museum
Open Coffee Call (Athens) - May 3, Athens Alabama
Veterans Museum Open Coffee Call 256 771-7578.
www.Alabamaveteransmuseum.comb. Donations accepted.
Alabama Veterans Museum & Archives--Veterans, families and friends
are invited the first saturday of each month to a Coffee Call and
tour of the musem. Remarks, Star Spangle Banner, Taps and then
breakfast
Antique Car and Tractor Show and Street Fair
(Trinity) - Live country and bluegrass music all day featuring
Grand Ole Opry Star Mike Snider. Inflatables for the kids, and
plenty of food vendors. Very nice door prize drawings every hour.
50/50 drawing at end of day.
Bilingual Spanish-English Hike
(¡para los personas hablas Espanol!) (Fort Payne) - May 3, Fort
Payne Bilingual Spanish-English Hike (¡para los personas hablas
Espanol!) fieldschool.jsu.edu. DeSoto State Park and Lodge--This
program is led by Dr. Kelly Gregg and designed for individuals who
are fluent and learning Spanish. Wear appropriate shoes and bring
a camera, snacks, and water. 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Day in the Park (Cullman)
- May 3, Cullman Day in the Park 256-734-9157.
www.cullmanrecreation.org. Admission charged. Heritage
Park--Day of fun for all ages, including games and a car show. 1
a.m.-3 p.m.
Devil’s Race Track at Wade Mountain Preserve
(Huntsville)
- Several species of rare plants can be observed along the
Racetrack. Join us for an amazing view of NE AL from Devil’s
Racetrack atop Wade Mountain. Bring a sack lunch and water and we
will picnic on the mountain.
King Kat Invitational (Sheffield)
- May 3, Sheffield King Kat Invitational 800-344-0783,
270-395-4381.
www.cobertcuntytourism.org ;
www.kingkatusa.com.
Fee for partipants only. Riverfront Park--Anglers converge on
Pickwick and Wilson Lake, also known as the Catfish Capital of the
World. Weigh-in, 3 p.m.
Purple-Gold Day (Cullman)
- May 3, Cullman Purple-Gold Day 256-796-2623.
Free. Campus of Fairview High School--Arts and crafts, games for
all ages, 5K run, Miss Cullman County Pageant and a gospel
singing. 8 a.m.-3 p.m.
Rappelling Adventure (Fort Payne)
- May 3, Fort Payne Rappelling Adventure 256-997-9577.
www.trueadventuresports.com. Admission charged. True
Adventure Sports--Come experience the thrill of rappelling down
the sheer sandstone gems of NE Alabama. No previous experience
necessary. Each trip includes all the gear plus basic instruction.
10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Sacred Harp Singing in the Old Country Church
(Huntsville) - May 3, Huntsville Sacred Harp Singing 256-533-4118.
www.burrittmuseum.com.
Free. Madison Baptist Church on the grounds of Burritt on the
Mountain--Come hear the music from the movie "Cold Mountain." This
singing attracts performers from around the Southeast. Sacred harp
is a shaped-note religious folk music, which is sung acapella.
Senior Cup 5k and One-Mile Fun Run
(Decatur) - May 3, Decatur Senior Cup 5k and One-Mile Fun Run
256-303-1046.
www.shoalstrac.com/ calendar. Admission charged. Decatur
Baptist Church--5k run/walk on certified, super flat and fast
course with long straightaways, limited twist and turns. Great
door prizes, shirts, and pizza. 8 a.m.-10 a.m.
SoulStock
(Athens) - May 3, Athens SoulStock 256-232-5990.
www.soulstock.com.
Free admission. Athens State University, Beasley Field--A
Christian event with Christian music and performers, arts, crafts
and food vendors. 2-10 p.m.
Mentone
Rhododendron Festival
Mentone/(256)634-4664
First Weekend in
May... always!
Enjoy the beautiful
Mentone Brow Park and the festivities including entertainment,
local and regional arts and crafts, and food. The festival is
planned during the blooming of the rhododendron and mountain
laurel, always the third full weekend in May. Don't miss the
riverboat rides on the Little River where the flowers are the most
astounding.
May 5, 6, 7 2008.
Butterfly House
Huntsville/(256) 830-4447
The air in the Huntsville Botanical Garden’s Butterfly House is
filled with over 30 species of North American butterflies flying
free in their own secret garden. Stroll through the Butterfly
House and witness a butterfly emerging from a chrysalis on the
‘birthing tree,’ look for caterpillars munching on parsley, and
catch them taking a dainty drink of nectar. Plants in the
Butterfly House are specially selected to appeal to specific
tastes of butterflies, so you can learn what to plant in your own
garden to attract these winged beauties.
www.hsvbg.org.
May through September, 2008. Admission.
Antique and Strawberry Festival
Moulton/(256) 974-8813
Fresh strawberries grown on the farm at Classical Fruits, 70
antique and craft vendors set up under the pine trees, homemade
strawberry fried pies, four greenhouses full of plants and flowers
on sale for these two days only. May 5-7, 2008, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Free.
Alabama Jubilee Hot-Air Balloon Classic
http://www.alabamajubilee.net
Decatur/(256) 350-2028, (800) 524-6181
31st Annual Hot-Air Balloon Classic
MAY
24-25th, 2008 DECATUR, ALABAMA
MEMORIAL
DAY WEEKEND
Event features up to 70 colorful hot-air balloons from across the
country. Other activites include a Sunrise Coffee Club,
marketplace, children’s activity area, sand sculpture contest,
photography contest, antique tractor show, classic car show, arts
& crafts, motorcycle show, and an extreme sports area with sport
kite demonstrations, rock climbing & skateboarding. Always on
Memorial Day weekend. May 27-28, 2008. Free. (Photos)
Annual UAH Student Art Exhibition
(Huntsville) - Apr 8-May 2, Huntsville Annual UAH
Student Art Exhibition 256-824-6114.
www.uah.edu (follow link or Art Dept.). Free. UAH
University Center & Unioin Grove Galleries--Juried selection of
the best student work of the year, including paintings, drawings,
prints, sculpture, graphic, website design, and digital video.
Univ. Center, open daily; Union Grove Gallery, afternoons and by
appt.
Wild Cave Tour
(Fort Payne) - May 2, Fort Payne Wild Cave Tour 256-997-9577.
www.trueadventuresports.com. Admission charged.—Go
beyond where the average tourist explores into the heart of
Manitou Cave. This 2.5 hour adventure is for those ready to
explore on your knees, on your belly, in the mud and through tight
tunnels. Helmet, cave lamps and guide included. 5-7:30 p.m.
Mule Days in Alabama,
4th Annual (Albertville) - Apr 27-May 3, Albertville Mule Days in
Alabama 256-506-0137.
www.cullmanmuledays.com. Fee for
participants only. North Alabama Sand Mountain to Cullman Mule
Train site—Family fun the old timey way by horse and wagon. Event
features camping out every night with some musical entertainment.
Some meals are furnished. Food vendor available. Ride ends with a
mule and draft horse show in Cullman.
Homespun Arts & Crafts Show & Plant Sale,
28th Annual (Athens) - May 2-3, Athens Homespun Arts & Crafts Show & Plant
Sale, 256-232-3525.
www.athensbibleschool.org. Free admission. Campus of
Athens Bible School—Along with vendors, there will be nurseries
selling plants, flowers, trees and other garden items. Food
concessions. 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat., 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; pancake
breakfast, 6-11 a.m.
Poke Salat Festival,
23rd Annual (Arab) - May 2-3, Arab Poke Salat Festival
256-586-6255. www.pokesalatfestival.com. Free. Downtown--Arts,
crafts, food vendors, children's games and activities, historical
display, street dances, display of art work of emerging artists
from Arab schools, parade, and more. Fri. 9 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sat., 9
a.m.-10 p.m
Recall LaGrange Reenactment (Tuscumbia)
- May 2-3, Tuscumbia Recall LaGrange 256-446-9324, 256-383-0783.
www.recall-lagrange.00me.com. Free. LaGrange College Park—A
vignette of Civil War life with skirmishes, a Civil War-era
funeral, a daily life camp, blaksmith and firearm demonstrations,
musical entertainment, including Shoals dulcimer and folk music,
hay rides, food, crafts, and more. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
WhistleStop Festival & Rocket City BBQ
(Huntsville) - May 2-3, Huntsville "WhistleStop Festival & Rocket
City BBQ" 256-564-8100.
www.earlyworks.com. Admission charged. Huntsville
Depot—Come on down for a toe-tappin', barbecue-eatin' good time.
The festival is a KCBS-sanctioned event with a professional and
amateur barbecue competition, entertainment, children activities,
and great music. Fri. 4-11 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-11 p.m.
16th Annual Wildflower
Saturday at DeSoto State Park (Fort Payne) - May 3, Fort Payne
Wildflower Saturday 256-782-5697. fieldschool.jsu.edu. Free.
DeSoto State Park—Make this a weekend to rememeber. Stay at DeSoto
Lodge and enjoy a wildflower breakfast, lunch and dinner. Multiple
hikes throughout the day. 8:30 a.m.
Alabama Veterans Museum
Open Coffee Call (Athens) - May 3, Athens Alabama
Veterans Museum Open Coffee Call 256 771-7578.
www.Alabamaveteransmuseum.comb. Donations accepted.
Alabama Veterans Museum & Archives--Veterans, families and friends
are invited the first saturday of each month to a Coffee Call and
tour of the musem. Remarks, Star Spangle Banner, Taps and then
breakfast
Antique Car and Tractor Show and Street Fair
(Trinity) - Live country and bluegrass music all day featuring
Grand Ole Opry Star Mike Snider. Inflatables for the kids, and
plenty of food vendors. Very nice door prize drawings every hour.
50/50 drawing at end of day.
Bilingual Spanish-English Hike
(¡para los personas hablas Espanol!) (Fort Payne) - May 3, Fort
Payne Bilingual Spanish-English Hike (¡para los personas hablas
Espanol!) fieldschool.jsu.edu. DeSoto State Park and Lodge--This
program is led by Dr. Kelly Gregg and designed for individuals who
are fluent and learning Spanish. Wear appropriate shoes and bring
a camera, snacks, and water. 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Day in the Park (Cullman)
- May 3, Cullman Day in the Park 256-734-9157.
www.cullmanrecreation.org. Admission charged. Heritage
Park--Day of fun for all ages, including games and a car show. 1
a.m.-3 p.m.
Devil’s Race Track at Wade Mountain Preserve
(Huntsville)
- Several species of rare plants can be observed along the
Racetrack. Join us for an amazing view of NE AL from Devil’s
Racetrack atop Wade Mountain. Bring a sack lunch and water and we
will picnic on the mountain.
King Kat Invitational (Sheffield)
- May 3, Sheffield King Kat Invitational 800-344-0783,
270-395-4381.
www.cobertcuntytourism.org ;
www.kingkatusa.com.
Fee for partipants only. Riverfront Park--Anglers converge on
Pickwick and Wilson Lake, also known as the Catfish Capital of the
World. Weigh-in, 3 p.m.
Purple-Gold Day (Cullman)
- May 3, Cullman Purple-Gold Day 256-796-2623.
Free. Campus of Fairview High School--Arts and crafts, games for
all ages, 5K run, Miss Cullman County Pageant and a gospel
singing. 8 a.m.-3 p.m.
Rappelling Adventure (Fort Payne)
- May 3, Fort Payne Rappelling Adventure 256-997-9577.
www.trueadventuresports.com. Admission charged. True
Adventure Sports--Come experience the thrill of rappelling down
the sheer sandstone gems of NE Alabama. No previous experience
necessary. Each trip includes all the gear plus basic instruction.
10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Sacred Harp Singing in the Old Country Church
(Huntsville) - May 3, Huntsville Sacred Harp Singing 256-533-4118.
www.burrittmuseum.com.
Free. Madison Baptist Church on the grounds of Burritt on the
Mountain--Come hear the music from the movie "Cold Mountain." This
singing attracts performers from around the Southeast. Sacred harp
is a shaped-note religious folk music, which is sung acapella.
Senior Cup 5k and One-Mile Fun Run
(Decatur) - May 3, Decatur Senior Cup 5k and One-Mile Fun Run
256-303-1046.
www.shoalstrac.com/ calendar. Admission charged. Decatur
Baptist Church--5k run/walk on certified, super flat and fast
course with long straightaways, limited twist and turns. Great
door prizes, shirts, and pizza. 8 a.m.-10 a.m.
SoulStock
(Athens) - May 3, Athens SoulStock 256-232-5990.
www.soulstock.com.
Free admission. Athens State University, Beasley Field--A
Christian event with Christian music and performers, arts, crafts
and food vendors. 2-10 p.m.
Antique & Strawberry Festival
(Moulton) - May 2-4, Moulton Antique & Strawberry Festival
256-974-5067.
www.lawrencealabama.com. Admission charged. 8483 Ala.
Hwy. 157--Fried strawberry pies cooked on site, homemade
strawberry bread that will melt in your mouth, and sinfully good
homemade strawberry fudge along with fresh ripe juicy
strawberries. Crafts and children's activities. Fri. & Sat., 9
a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Ellis Homestead Days
(Valley Head) - May 3-4, Valley Head Ellis
Homestead Days 800-843-5098.
www.sequoyahcaverns.com
. Free. Ellis Homestead--Experiance life on a family farm that has
been in operation since 1841. See oxen, horses, antique tractors,
and equipment and learn how farm life has progressed over the last
167 years. Local craftsmen, food vendors, and live bluegrass music
both days. 9 a.m.-5 p.m
Heritage Weekend
(Blountsville) - May 3-4, Blountsville Historical
Park Heritage Days 205-429-2338. Admission charged. Blountsville
Historical Park, U.S. 231 N.--Weekend of living history
activities, Civil War reenactment, touring of the Historical Park
and entertainment. 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Native American Festival
(Bridgeport) - May 3-4, Bridgeport Native American
Festival 256-495-2672.
www.nps.gov/ruca. Free admission. Russell Cave National
Monument--Bring your lawn chair or blanket for storytelling and
dancing. Also, food and living history demonstrations, including
pottery making, Cherokee encampment, flute music, archery, flint
knapping, woodcarving, etc. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Maple Hill Cemetery Stroll
(Huntsville) - May 4, Huntsville Maple Hill
Cemetery Stroll 800-772-2348.
www.huntsvillepilgrimage.org. Admission charged. Maple
Hill Cemetery--200-year-old cemetery brought to life as more than
60 costumed vounteers tell the stories of the famous and infamous
buried there who helped to shape our state and nation.
Wild Cave Tour
(Fort Payne) - May 5, Fort Payne Wild Cave Tour
256-997-9577.
www.trueadventuresports.com. Admission charged.—Go
beyond where the average tourist explores into the heart of
Manitou Cave. This 2.5 hour adventure is for those ready to
explore on your knees, on your belly, in the mud and through tight
tunnels. Helmet, cave lamps and guide included. 5-7:30 p.m.
Paddling Tour of Terrapin Creek
(Centre) - May 8, Centre Paddling Tour of
Terrapin Creek 256-782-5697. fieldschool.jsu.edu. Admission
charged. Terrapin Outdoor Ctr.—Join JSU Field School staff and
seasoned paddlers for this 4-mi. float down lovely Terrapin Creek.
USO and the American Spirit
(A Musical Revue) (Guntersville) - May 1-10,
Guntersville "USO and the American Spirit" 256-582-7469.
www.wholebackstage.com.
The Whole Backstage--A musical revue featuring standard and
patriotic music from the 1930s and 40s, including "Simeine ti
Watch Over Me, I Got Rhythm, Ain't Misbehavin', Night and Day,
Stormy Weather, Bewitched, America the Beautiful" and many more.
7:30 p.m.; except Sun., 2 p.m.
Storytelling Festival
(Pisgah) - May 4-10, Pisgah Storytelling
Festival 256-495-3614.
www.gorhamsbluff.com. Admission charged. Gorham's
Bluff—Gorham's Bluff Institute presents America's best
storytellers. Events include a youth teller celebration, Stories
'Round the Table benefit dinner and performance, a day of teller
sessions and workshops, and "The Tale End" concert. Lunch provided
with Sun. admission.
old below..
High Adventure Trip
(Fort Payne) - Dates: May 8-10, Jun. 10-12,
Aug. 14-16, Sept. 16-18, Oct. 23-25, Nov. 13-15. Three-day
adventure that begins with a wild cave tour on day one, rock
climbing, rappelling, and an extreme night hike on day two, and
ends with a relaxing canoe trip on day three.
Fantasies and Fairy Tales
: Star Wars to Disney (Huntsville) - May 10,
Huntsville Fantasies and Fairy Tales: Wars to Disney 256-539-4818.
www.hso.org. Admission
charged. Von Braun Center Concert Hall--Music of John Williams,
Disney's Alen Menken and more with exclusive appearances by Jodi
Benson, soprano, the voice of Ariel in Disney's The Little
Mermaid, with Broadway stars Gary Mauer, tenor, and William
Michals, baritone. 7:30-9:30 p.m.
International Migratory Bird Day
(Fort Payne) - May 10, Fort Payne International
Migratory Bird Day 256-845-9605.
www.nps.gov/liri. Little River Canyon National
Preserve-- Preserve staff members hand out materials and talk to
visitors about this area's importance to migratory birds. Little
River Canyon is a great place to watch birds.
Murdock's Hidden Trails & Extreme Hike
(Fort Payne) - May 10, Fort Payne Murdock's Hidden
Trails & Extreme Hike 256-782-5697. fieldschool.jsu.edu. Admission
charged. Little River Canyon National Preserve—Join Dr. Chris
Murdock, biologist, for this experience on hidden trails to the
river, hiking, and swimming. Transportation from JSU to River
Canyon will be be provided. Recommended for children 16 yrs and
older. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Raku Pottery Party
(Valley Head) - Dates: May 10, Jun. 14, Jul. 12,
Aug. 9, Sept. 13, Oct. 11, Nov. 8, Dec. 13. Bring the entire
family and experience how pottery is made. Glaze and fire your own
piece of Raku pottery. Reservations are required due to limited
spacing. Sessions at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Russell Cave
(Bridgeport) - Russell Cave provides clues to the
daily lifeways of early North American inhabitants dating from
6500 B.C. to 1650 A.D. The cave shelter archaeological site
contains the most complete record of prehistoric cultures in the
Southeast. Bring a picnic lunch and a drink.
United Way Garden Tour
(Moulton) - May 10, Moulton United Way Garden
Tour 256-974-5955. Admission charged. Various gardens--Self-guided
tours of beautifully landscaped gardens throughout Lawrence County
to benefit the Lawrence County United Way agencies.
Indian Artifact Show
(Fort Payne) - Come and view many Native American
artifacts from all over Alabama in this special display.
Mother's Day Lunch on the Porch (Mentone) -
May 11, Mentone Mother's Day Lunch on the Porch 256-634-4040.
www.mentonespringshotel.com. Mentone Springs Hotel--The
rhododendron are in bloom on top of Lookout Mountain and your
mother deserves the best Sunday lunch in the state of Alabama.
Call ahead for reservations. 11 a.m.-2 p.m
Rappelling Basics Certification Class
(Fort Payne) - May 14, Fort Payne Rappelling Basics
Certification Class 256-997-9577.
www.trueadventuresports.com. Admission
charged.—Rappelling basics indoor and basics outdoor. Learn how to
safely rappel and do several rappels before taking rappelling
test. Participants receive a Class 1 rappelling card upon
successful completion of this class and exam. 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Thursday Hike with Wild South
(Moulton) - This will be the third of a reoccurring
monthly hike into the Bankhead National Forest/Sipsey Wilderness.
Every third Thursday we will meet Janice Barrett at the Warrior
Mountain Trading Company at 10:30AM for a hike no longer than 3
miles. Bring a sack lunch and plenty of water. Due to the
sensitivity of the area, this hike will be limited to 20 children,
plus parents.
Campfire Talk: Leave No Trace for Children (Fort Payne) -
May 16, Fort Payne Campfire Talk: Leave No Trace for Children
256-782-5697. fieldschool.jsu.edu. Free. DeSoto State
Park/Lodge—Join park ranger, Josh Hughes and learn how to be
gentle when hiking through natural areas. 8-9 p.m.
Extreme Night Hike
(Fort Payne) - May 16, Fort Payne Extreme Night
Hike 256-997-9577.
www.trueadventuresports.com. Admission charged. True
Adventure Sports--Intended for a large group team-building
exercise, this hike has a bit of bouldering, some scrambling, some
spelunking, and a whole lot of required teamwork. Headlamp and
guide included. 7-9:30.
"I Hate Hamlet"
(Huntsville) - Andrew Rally seems to have it all:
celebrity and acclaim from his starring role in a hit television
series; a rich beautiful girlfriend; a glamorous, devoted agent;
the perfect New York apartment; and the chance to play Hamlet in
Central Park. There are, however, a couple of glitches in
paradise.
Children's Nature Weekend at DeSoto State Park
(Fort Payne) - May 16-17, Fort Payne Children's Nature Weekend
256-782-5697. fieldschool.jsu.edu. DeSoto State Park/Lodge-- A fun
family weekend. Join park naturalist Brittney McAlister for
Campfire Talks on Friday (Children's Leave No Trace) and Saturday
nights (Children's How Useful are Plants?), register for the
children's edible plants workshop on Saturday.
Florence Wagon Works Festival
(Florence) - May 16-17, Florence Florence Wagon
Works Festival 256-740-4141.
www.flo-tour.org. Free. McFarland Park--Celebration of
Florence Wagon Works Co., the second largest producer of wagons in
North America from 1889 to 1941. Musical entertainment, Civil War
re-enactors, arts, crafts, wagon parade, antique tractors/cars,
book sale, and Wheeler Rifle Drill Team. Fri., noon-6 p.m.; Sat.,
10 a.m.-until.
Limestone County Sheriff's Rodeo, 26th Annual (Athens) -
May 16-17, Athens Limestone County Sheriff's Rodeo 256-232-0111.
www.limestonesheriff.com.
Admission charged. Limestone Co. Sheriff's Arena, Hwy.
99—Sanctioned rodeo with bareback riding, steer wrestling, bull
riding, calf roping and rodeo pageant. Festivities begin with a
downtown parade the previous Saturday followed by a street dance
on Tuesday before rodeo.
Red Hot Rodeo
(Boaz) - May 16-17, Boaz Red Hot Rodeo
256-593-8154.
www.boazchamberofcommerce.com. Admission charged. King
St.--Professional Cowboy Association rodeo, food and more. Gates
open at 6:30 p.m.; event begins at 8 p.m.
Shoals Dulcimer & Folk Music Festival
(Florence) - May 16-17, Florence Shoals
Dulcimer & Folk Music Festival 888-356-8687, 256-766-6984.
www.flo-tour.org. Free. A music event sponsored by the Shoals
Dulcimer and Folk Music Festival with a potluck supper and jamming
on Friday (6 p.m.) and breakfast, classes and open stage
performances on Saturday from 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
Antique Car, Truck, and Motorcycle Show and Swap Meet
(Huntsville) - Museum with interactive exhibits for children Train
Exhibits, Historical Alabama Constitution Village, and much more.
ARLEY DAY FESTIVAL, PARADE & CAR SHOW (Arley) - Enjoy arts
& crafts, food, games, and prizes. Car show open to all vehicle
types - Cars, Motorcycycles & Antique Tractors. Dash plaques, door
prizes, special awards, and vendors.
Campfire Talk: Useful and Edible Plants for Children (Fort
Payne) - May 17, Fort Payne Campfire Talk: Useful and Edible
Plants for Children 256-782-5697. fieldschool.jsu.edu. Free.
DeSoto State Park/Lodge—Nature provides so many wonderful things.
Children need to know where things come from...what do we get from
plants? Come and learn how we depend on plants to survive. 8-9
p.m.
Catfish Festival
(Scottsboro) - May 17, Scottsboro Catfish Festival
256-574-1330. Admission charged. Jackson County Park—A great
hometown festival including a catfish tournament for adults,
catfish rodeo for children, arts and crafts show, car show, and
free concerts. 9 a.m.-7 p.m.
Children's
Edible & Interesting Plants Workshop (Fort Payne) - May 17,
Fort Payne Children's Edible & Interesting Plants Workshop
256-782-5697. fieldschool.jsu.edu. Free. DeSoto State
Park—Children are naturally curious and need to be taught the
basics of botany at an early age. Join naturalist, Brittney
McAllister, for this fun and interesting program on the nature of
botany. 10 a.m.-noon.
Hands On Trucks
(Huntsville) - May 17, Huntsville Hands On Trucks 256-837-0606.
www.sci-quest.org. Admission charged. Sci-Quest--More than a dozen
different trucks on display. Operators on hand to discuss how the
trucks work and provide other information about their trucks and
their jobs. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Historic Walking Tour
(Huntsville) - Knowledgeable guides will give tours of the
Historic Districts of Huntsville. These historic districts are on
the National Historic Registry. Archetectural and personal
histories of the 1800's will come to life. From ladies of the
History Hike at Little River Falls
(Fort Payne) - May 17, Fort Payne History Hike at Little River
Falls 256-845-9605. www.nps.gov. Free. Little River Canyon
National Preserve parking lot--This short hike reveals the story
of the people who used to live around the falls. The homes are
long gone, but not forgotten. 10 a.m.
Jesse Owens Memorial Run
(Moulton) - May 17, Moulton Jesse Owens Memorial Run
256-974-1658, 256-974-3636. www.lawrencealabama.com. Fee for
particpants. Free food and beverage for runners. Runs begins and
ends at Lawrence Co. H.S.--Competition among 1000 runners includes
10k, two-mile and one-mile runs in honor and memory of Lawrence
County native Jesse Owens. 8 a.m. until.
Rappelling Adventure
(Fort Payne) - May 17, Fort Payne Rappelling Adventure
256-997-9577. www.trueadventuresports.com. Admission charged. True
Adventure Sports--Come experience the thrill of rappelling down
the sheer sandstone gems of NE Alabama. No previous experience
necessary. Each trip includes all the gear plus basic instruction.
10 a.m.-2 p.m.
The Alabama Music Hall of Fame Presents: The Charlie Daniels
Volunteer Jam
(Tuscumbia) - Jam featuring: The Charlie Daniels Band; 38
Special; Shooter Jennings Gates open at 5 p.m.; show begins at
7:00 p.m. Limited Reserved Seating - $35.00 General Admission in
Advance - $25.00 General Admission Day of Show - $30.00 Order your
tickets by phone at (256)381-4417 or 1-800-239-2643
Wild Cave Tour
(Fort Payne) - May 17, Fort Payne Wild Cave Tour 256-997-9577.
www.trueadventuresports.com. Admission charged.—Go beyond where
the average tourist explores into the heart of Manitou Cave. This
2.5 hour adventure is for those ready to explore on your knees, on
your belly, in the mud and through tight tunnels. Helmet, cave
lamps and guide included. 5-7:30 p.m.
Wildflower Saturday
(Guntersville) - May 17, Guntersville Wildflower Saturday
256-571-5440. www.GuntersvilleStatePark.com. Free. Guntersville
State Park—This guided interpretive hike provides a wonderful
introduction to the many species of plants found along the banks
of the Tennessee River and along the miles of hiking trails within
the park. 2 p.m.
Wings of Thunder Annual Charity Ride
(Hartselle) - May 17, Hartselle Wings of Thunder Annual
Charity Ride 256-773-4370 www.hartsellechamber.com. Fee for
participants only. Roundtree- Airport, off Hwy. 31—Festivities
include poker run, live entertainment, vendors, bike games, bike
show and fun for all. The rally benefits a different charity each
year. 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
Antique Alley Yard Sale, 10th Annual
(Fort Payne) - May 15-18, Fort Payne Antique Alley Yard Sale
877-871-1386. www.DiscoverLookoutMountain.com. Free. Hwy.
11--Follow scenic U.S. Hwy. 11 from Meridian, MS to Bristol, VA
for more than 500-miles of yard sales. Explore charming historic
communities and downtown districts such as Fort Payne's 1889 boom
town district.
Lawrence County Multicultural Indian Event, 20th Annual
(Moulton) - May 15-18, Moulton Lawrence County Multicultural
Indian Event, 20th Annual 256-905-2494 or 2499.
www.lawrencealabama.com. Free. 1219 Co. Rd. 187, Danville—Native
dancing/ drums, bluegrass, gospel, country music, living history
encampment, wagon rides, food and craft vendors. Thurs. & Fri., 8
a.m.-5 p.m. (students); Sat., noon-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m.
U.S. Higway 11 Antique Alley Yard Sale
(Attalla) - Enjoy this 502 mile festive roadside sale. Antique
dealers flea market vendors, and yard sale enthusiasts will line
the route.
Federated Garden Clubs Flower Show
(Huntsville) - May 16-18, Huntsville Federated Garden Clubs
Flower Show 256-430-3572, ext. 290. www.hsvbg.org. Admission
charged. Huntsville Botanical Garden--Experience flowers as living
art. Competitors design arrangements to set themes. Sat., 9 a.m.-5
p.m.; Sun., 1-5 p.m.
Rhododendron Festival 2008
(Mentone) - Celebration begins Friday at 6:30 on Mentone
Square with bonfire party and live music. The fun continues on
Saturday in Brow Park, beginning at 9 a.m., with food, arts and
crafts, music, and a quilt drawing. Tickets for drawing are
available from local merchants or the Mapa booth during the
festival. Also boat rides on Little River and more music on the
Square at
Arts Alive Festival
(Florence) - May 17-18, Florence Arts Alive Festival
256-757-9913. www.artsalivealabama.com. Free admission. Wilson
Park—A juried fine arts and crafts festival with more than 100
vendors with a special art contest and activities for children,
food, music and more. Proceeds benefit area schools' "Artist in
Residence" program. 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
McDonald's Big Bass Splash
(Scottsboro) - May 16-18, Scottsboro McDonald's Big Bass
Splash 256-259-5500. www.sealyoutdoors.com. Admission charged.
Goose Pond Colony--Amateur-only fishing tournament with a
guaranteed payout of $150,000. Daily block party, a young anglers
fishing contest and hourly prizes awarded. 6 a.m.-3 p.m.
Native American Intertribal Pow Wow
(Woodville) - Competition intertribal pow wow sponsored
by Cherokee Tribe of Northeast Alabama. All Native drums, dancers
and the public are welcomed. Native arts, crafts, and food
vendors.
Rhododendron Festival at Mentone Springs Hotel (Mentone) -
May 17-18, Mentone Rhododendron Festival 256-634-4040.
www.mentonespringshotel.com. Mentone Springs Hotel--Antique
dealers and pottery collectors exhibit on the lawn of the oldest
hotel in the state of Alabama. Special arts show of work by local
artisans on Sat. at Tall Meadow Rue Chapel. 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Wild Cave Tour
(Fort Payne) - May 19, Fort Payne Wild Cave Tour 256-997-9577.
www.trueadventuresports.com. Admission charged.—Go beyond where
the average tourist explores into the heart of Manitou Cave. This
2.5 hour adventure is for those ready to explore on your knees, on
your belly, in the mud and through tight tunnels. Helmet, cave
lamps and guide included. 5-7:30 p.m.
Daikin Festival
(Decatur) - May 23, Decatur Daikin Festival 256-306-5000. Free.
Morgan County Fairgrounds—More than 10,000 people gather to learn
more about the Japanese culture
May 23, 2008 Wild
Cave Tour
(Fort Payne) - May 23, Fort Payne Wild Cave Tour 256-997-9577.
www.trueadventuresports.com. Admission charged.—Go beyond where
the average tourist explores into the heart of Manitou Cave. This
2.5 hour adventure is for those ready to explore on your knees, on
your belly, in the mud and through tight tunnels. Helmet, cave
lamps and guide included. 5-7:30 p.m.
May 17-24, 2008
NJCAA Div I Golf Championship
(Huntsville) - May 17-24, Huntsville NJCAA Div I Golf Championship
256-427-6749. www.njcaa.org. Hampton Cove, RTJ Golf Trail--This
year and for the next two years, Huntsville will be the site of
this prestigious golfing event. The tournament is the coordinating
effort of Central Alabama Community College, Wallace State
Community College of Hanceville, the Huntsville Sports
Organization, etc. 7 a.m.-5 p.m.
May 23-24, 2008
Introduction to Musical Instruments in Story & Song
(Fort
Payne) - Join musician Tony Thomas for this interesting program
introducing acoustic instruments such as the fiddle, guitar,
mandolin, & banjo by using stories & songs to give you a
appreciation for each instrument.
May 24, 2008
Beginning Bird Identification
(Fort Payne) - May 24, Fort Payne Beginning Bird Identification
256-782-5697, 256-463-2272. fieldschool.jsu.edu. Free. Shoal Creek
District Office—Join USFS birding experts for a tour of the Shoal
Creek District's birding "hot spots" including the endangered
red-cockaded woodpecker management areas. 7-10 a.m.
May 24, 2008
Extreme Night Hike
(Fort Payne) - May 24, Fort Payne Extreme Night Hike 256-997-9577.
www.trueadventuresports.com. Admission charged. True Adventure
Sports--Intended for a large group team-building exercise, this
hike has a bit of bouldering, some scrambling, some spelunking,
and a whole lot of required teamwork. Headlamp and guide included.
7-9:30.
May 24, 2008 Herb
Lore of Appalachia-Mountain Medicine
(Fort
Payne) - Join herbalist Darryl Patton and DSP staff for a
interesting hike on the trails of DeSoto State Park to see many
different species of plants that were used for mountain medicine
in the past and are used for modern medicine today....
May 24, 2008
North Alabama "Down Home" Blues Festival, 19th Annual
(Huntsville) - May 24, Huntsville North Alabama “Down Home” Blues
Festival 256-536-4312. Admission charged. Huntsville Jaycees
Fairground—An outdoor celebration with emphasis on new and
legendary soul and blues artists. Event designed to preserve one
of the purest and truest forms of African-American music and art,
the blues.
May 24, 2008 Rock
Climbing Adventure
(Fort Payne) - May 24, Fort Payne Rock Climbing Adventure
256-997-9577. www.trueadventuresports.com. Admission charged.—Come
experience first-hand what rock climbing is all about with guides
who are fun, safe and energetic. Includes all gear plus basic
instruction. No prior climbing experience is needed. 10 a.m.-2
p.m.
May 24-25, 2008
Alabama Jubilee Arts & Crafts Show
(Decatur) - May 24-25, Decatur Alabama Jubilee Arts & Crafts Show
800-524-6181. www.decaturcvb.org. Free admission. Point Mallard
Park--Two-day show held in conjunction with the Alabama Jubilee
Hot-Air Balloon Classic with all handmade items for sale. 7 a.m.-7
p.m.
May
24-25, 2008 Alabama Jubilee Hot Air Balloon Classic
(Decatur) - May 24-25, Decatur Alabama Jubilee Hot Air Balloon
Classic 800-524-6181. www.decaturcvb.org. Point Mallard Park--One
of the largest free balloon festivals in the Southeast, featuring
balloon races, glows, kite
May 25, 2008 Low
Country Boil
(Mentone) - May 25, Mentone Low Country Boil 256-634-4040. Mentone
Springs Hotel--Kick off the summer on top of Lookout Mountain.
Mentone Springs Hotel prides itself with its array of fresh
shrimp, sausage, corn, potatoes, pork tenderloin, corn souffle,
black-eyed pea cakes, and homemade desserts. One seating at 6 p.m.
with live entertainment. Reserve early.
May 24-26, 2008
Memorial Day Sidewalk Sale
(Boaz) - May 24-26, Boaz Memorial Day Sidewalk Sale 800-405-2193.
www.tangeroutlet.com/boaz. Free. Tanger Outlet Ctr.--Enjoy extra
savings from name brand stores during this holiday weekend sale.
Fri. & Sat., 9 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun., noon-6 p.m.; Mon., 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
May 26, 2008
Mercedes-Benz Cotton Row Run 10K/5K and 1-Mile
(Huntsville) - May 26, Huntsville Mercedes-Benz Cotton Row Run
10K/5K and 1-Mile 256-650-7063; 256-881-9077 (day).
www.huntsvilletrackclub.org. Enty fee. Starting location: Clinton
Ave., n. of Von Braun Center--This has been a premiere Memorial
Day running event in the South for past 28 years. 10k starts at 7
a.m.; 5k at 9, followed by the 1-mile fun run at 10.
May 28, 2008
Memorial Day Ceremony
(Tuscumbia) - May 28, Tuscumbia Memorial Day Ceremony
256-383-0783. Free admission. Colbert County Courthouse, Main
St.—Ceremony honoring all veterans and to remember the price they
paid for our freedom. 11 a.m.
May 30, 2008 City
Lights and Stars
(Huntsville) - Enjoy the breathtaking view of the Tennessee Valley
at Burritt on the Mountain as fine nationally known and local
musicians perform under the stars during this series of casual
outdoor concerts. Fancy picnic suppers available.
May 30, 2008
Extreme Night Hike
(Fort Payne) - May 30, Fort Payne Extreme Night Hike 256-997-9577.
www.trueadventuresports.com. Admission charged. True Adventure
Sports--Intended for a large group team-building exercise, this
hike has a bit of bouldering, some scrambling, some spelunking,
and a whole lot of required teamwork. Headlamp and guide included.
7-9:30.
May 30-31, 2008
Herbal Remedies for the Home
(Fort Payne) - Join herbalist Darryl Patton to learn which plants
are great to have around the house to help make you and your
family healthier.
May 31, 2008 Hike
the Medicinal Trail-Herbal Remedies used by the Pioneers
(Fort
Payne) - Join herbalist Darryl Patton & DSP staff for a hike on
DeSoto State Park's Trails to see many species of plants that were
used by the pioneers to cure their ills.
May 31, 2008 Jazz
Festival
(Attalla) - May 31, Attalla Jazz Festival 256-538-5452.
www.willscreekvineyards.com. Admission charged. Wills Creek
Vineyards--Beverages and cheese plates available. Bring your own
chairs or blankets and enjoy jazz in the vineyards. 7-11 p.m.
May 31, 2008
Shoals Culinary Center Kitchen Tour
(Florence) - May 31, Florence Shoals Culinary Center Kitchen Tour
256-764-0044. www.ccc.shoalsec.com. Free. Shoals Culinary
Ctr.--Sign up for cooking classes and tour the only kitchen
incubator in Alabama. This satellite operation of the Shoals
Entrepreneurial Center is designed to create job opportunities,
foster entrepreneurship, and grow the food industry. Mon-Fri.,
8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
June 2008
Frontier Day Celebration
Contact: Jo Parkhurst, Curator 256/ 760-6439
Step back into the past at the 18th annual
Frontier Day Celebration
at historic Pope’s Tavern Museum in Florence, AL on Saturday, June
3, and Sunday, June 4, 2008. This outdoor event celebrates the
frontier heritage of Florence with crafts, music, and costumes
typical of that period. Hours are 10:00am to 4:00pm on Saturday, and
1:00pm to 4:00pm on Sunday. Admission is free.
Truck and
Tractor Pull by the Lexington Fire Department and Rescue Squad -
It's a very big event...It's said to be the best pull of them
all...We have won "Pull Of The Year" for 2004 and 2005 we beat out
quite a few other pull's for this title. We are also famous for our
delicious hamburger's. Will be held June 2nd and 3rd, 2008, At 7:00
PM both night's. Admission is $12 for adult's $6 for kid's and under
5 is free. The event is located right behind the Lexington Fire
Department. In the Lexington Motorsports Complex. For more
information please call, Terry Thigpen (Fire Department Chief) -
256-229-6356 Or 256-740-7927
Riverfest
http://www.gadsdenriverfest.com
Gadsden/(256) 543-3472
New music festival featuring some of the best country and adult
contemporary stars in the nation, while showcasing the performing
arts, crafts and the region's culinary creations. Always the third
Fri-Sat in June 8,9,10, 2008. Admission.
4th Annual Sand Rock Day
Sand Rock/(256) 523-5898
Begins at 7 AM at Sand Rock park.
There will be a 5K Run, arts and crafts, food, antique cars, rides
for the kids, and parade. No admission charged.
Alabama Crappie
Angler's Championship
http://www.alabamachampionship.com
1st Annual Alabama State Crappie Angler's
Championship. 2 day event on Neely Henry Lake and Weiss Lake.
May 26 & 27, 2008 Guaranteed Prizes $21,000.00 plus
prizes
Helen Keller
Festival
Tuscumbia/(256) 383-0783, (800) 344-0783/
www.helenkellerfestival.com
Held in honor of America's "First Lady of Courage," this annual
festival offers arts, crafts, entertainment, concerts,
demonstrations and exhibits. June 21-25, 2008. Free. "The Miracle
Worker" outdoor drama runs for six weeks during the summer.
Performed at Ivy Green. Admission.
Taste of Freedom BBQ Cook-off
Downtown Albertville. May 30-July 1, 2008. Arts,
Crafts, food vendors, children's area. Friday Noon - until and
Saturday 9am - 5pm, for more information please contact (256)
878-5188.
Medicinal & Edible Plants Workshop
(Fort Payne) - Jun 7, Fort Payne Medicinal & Edible Plants
Workshop 256-782-5697. http://fieldschool.jsu.edu. Admission
charged. DeSoto State Park—Join botanist, Francine Hutchinson, and
learn about different species of medicinal plants found in our
forest. The workshop will include demonstrations, short hikes, and
herbal preparations. Participants should bring a lunch and
light-hike needs. 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Sheffield Founders Day
(Sheffield) - Jun 7, Sheffield Sheffield Founders Day
256-383-0250. http://sheffieldalabama.org. Free. Riverfront
Park--Car show, stage entertainment, food vendors, arts and
crafts, children's activities, including Splash Pad & Boundless
Park, bands and fireworks. 10 a.m.-midnight.
Shoals African Heritage Festival
(Tuscumbia) - Jun 7, Tuscumbia Shoals African Heritage Festival
800-344-0783. Free. Willie Green Ctr.—Explore African art and
fashions, culture, crafts and food. Also, enjoy a
fraternity/sorority step show, dance demonstrations, POZA (African
dancers), entertainment and crafts for children, folk
storytelling, rhythm and blues groups and sgospel choirs. 10
a.m.-until.
Step Back in Time Dairy Day
(Huntsville) - Jun 7, Huntsville Step Back in Time Dairy Day
256-533-4118. www.burrittonthemountain.com . Admission charged.
Burritt on the Mountain--Watch the milking of goats and cows and
see how cheese is made. Many hands-on and take home activities for
kids. 9 a .m.-5 p.m.
Mountain Valley Art Exhibit/Will Rogers Heritage Festival
(Guntersville) - Jun 5-8, Guntersville Mountain Valley Art
Exhibit/Will Rogers Heritage Festival 256-582-1454.
www.mountainvalleyartscouncil.org . Free admission. Location TBA—A
national juried exhibition featuring painting, digital art,
sculpture and other fine crafts. Reception, call for details. Fri.
& Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 1-4 p.m.
Will Rogers Heritage Festival
(Guntersville) - Jun 5-8, Guntersville Will Rogers Heritage
Festival 256-582-3682. www.willrogersheritagefestival.com . Free.
Downtown, Heritage Park & other venues--A farmers market, antiques
and collectibles fair, perfomances of "Will Rogers Follies,"
aviation fair, food, pageant, live entertainment, walking tours,
Pow Wow, wagon and pony rides, pooch parade and more.
ALABAMA Fan Appreciation Weekend
(Fort Payne) - June 6-8, Fort Payne ALABAMA Fan Appreciation
Weekend 800-557-8223. www.thealabamaband.com . Free. ALABAMA Fan
Club and Museum--Call to confirm details. Benefit concert for John
Croyle's Big Oak Ranch for Children on Friday, a celebrity golf
tournament and a fan appreciation concert on Saturday, autographs
and photos with fan club members on Sunday. Museum hours: 8 a.m.-5
p.m.
Frontier Day Celebration
(Florence) - Jun 7-8, Florence Frontier Day Celebration
256-760-6439. www.florenceal.org, www.flo-tour.org. Free. Pope's
Tavern Museum—Step back in time as artisans in period costumes
demonstrate basket weaving, quilting, spinning, blacksmithing,
broom making, wood carving, and dulcimer playing. Sat., 10 a.m.-4
p.m.; Sun., 1-4 p.m.
Mountain Valley
SongwritersCompetition (Guntersville) - Jun 7-8, Guntersville
Mountain Valley Songwriters Competition 256-582-1454.
www.willrogersheritagefestival.com . Guntersville Civitan Park--MOVA
Songwriters' Competition and Art Show held as part of the Will
Rogers Heritage Festival. Artists, songwriters and crafters
welcome. 9 a.m.-9 p.m.
Muscle Shoals Area Street Rod Run
(Tuscumbia) - Jun 7-8, Tuscumbia Muscle Shoals Area Annual Street
Rod Run 256-381-3518. Free admission. Spring Park—Car show
displaying all makes and models of street rods 1948 and older.
Sat., 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sun., 9 a.m.-noon.
High Adventure Trip
(Fort Payne) - Dates: Jun. 10-12, Aug. 14-16, Sept. 16-18, Oct.
23-25, Nov. 13-15. Three-day adventure that begins with a wild
cave tour on day one, rock climbing, rappelling, and an extreme
night hike on day two, and ends with a relaxing canoe trip o | |
