One of the best ways to spend time outside is at an outdoor festival–and Alabama has no shortage of them. From food festivals to concerts and everything in between, you will find the perfect event waiting for you this summer in Alabama.
Live at the Plaza
Tuscaloosa, Alabama
Join the folks in Tuscaloosa for the annual Live at the Plaza series on Friday nights this summer. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and recline on the lawn of Government Plaza downtown as you enjoy a live concert from one of many talented artists. Food and drink vendors are located around the park to create the perfect environment for your tastebuds and listening ears.
When: Fridays in May and June, 6–9 PM
Cost: Free admission
Where: Government Plaza –– 618 21st Avenue, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Concerts in the Park
Huntsville, Alabama
Bring friends and family and take part in the summer Huntsville tradition. With the annual Concerts in the Park, you can enjoy live music from local artists and a variety of genres.
When: Monday nights between June 3 to August 5, 6:30–8:30 PM
Cost: Free Attendance
Where: Big Spring International Park –– 200 Church Street, Huntsville, AL 35801
Marvel City Caribbean Food and Music Festival
Bessemer, Alabama
Let your taste buds take a trip down to the islands as you celebrate Caribbean culture in Alabama in this immersive festival. This Marvel City festival invites people from all backgrounds to enjoy cultural music, food, dancing and an exciting parade.
When: Saturday, June 8, 11 AM–9 PM
Cost: Tickets required
Where: DeBardeleben Park –– 1623 2nd Avenue North Bessemer, AL 35020
Rock the South
Cullman, Alabama
Rock out to some of the best country artists this summer at the annual Rock the South. Originally started in 2012 as a celebration of recovery from the April 27, 2011 tornadoes, this festival has continued and has quickly become a staple of our Southern tradition. This year’s headliners include Eric Church, Hardy and Jelly Roll.
When: Tuesday, July 18 – Saturday, July 20
Cost: Tickets required
Where: York Falls –– 1872 Country Road 469, Cullman, AL 35057
W.C. Handy Music Festival
Florence, Alabama
Created in honor of W.C. Handy, “The Father of Blues,” this music festival celebrates the local music scene through countless live performances and events.
When: Friday, July 19 – Sunday, July 28
Cost: Tickets required
Where: Norton Auditorium –– 500 North Pine Street Florence, AL 35630
Lake Martin Songwriters Festival
Alexander City, Alabama
Taking place on one of Alabama’s favorite lakes is the annual Songwriters Festival. Venues include Chuck’s in Dadeville, Copper’s Grill at Stillwaters in Dadeville and Elks Lodge in Alexander City.
When: Wednesday, July 24 – Sunday, July 28
Cost: Free admission
Where: Lake Martin
Sand Mountain Potato Festival
Henagar, AL
Since 1983, the City of Henagar has been celebrating the Fourth of July like no other, kicking off the day with an exciting parade. Activities throughout the day include a cornhole tournament, an antique car and tractor show and games for the whole family.
When: Thursday, July 4, 10 AM–9 PM
Cost: Free admission
Where: Henagar Park –– 18294 AL-75, Henagar, AL 35978
Taste of 4th Avenue Jazz Festival
Birmingham, AL
For 20 years, the Historic Fourth Avenue Business District has been celebrating jazz with one of Birmingham’s largest jazz festivals. Head out to the district with your lawn chair and enjoy assorted styles of jazz, food and celebration all day long.
When: Saturday, August 24, Performances start at 2 PM
Cost: Free admission
Where: Between 16th and 18th Street –– 4th Ave North, Birmingham, AL 35203
Whether with a small party or alone, checking out an outdoor festival in Alabama is a great way to get the most out of your summer. Young, old, new or native, something is waiting for you here in Alabama.
