10 festivals you need to see this summer in Alabama—May-July

Summer is almost here, Alabama. I know I might sound insane saying that, but spring always goes by in the blink of an eye. It’s the end of April, already! Soon enough, the kids will be on summer break, tourists will swarm to Alabama’s beaches + everyone will be asking, “What’re we doing this weekend?”

That’s where I come in with this list of seven buzz-worthy festivals across the state for you to plan those sticky-hot summertime weekends around.

2024 CoalFest in Brilliant

• What: Celebrate the coal mining history of Brilliant at this arts + music festival with a horseshoe tournament, car show + games.
• When: May 24-25
• Where: 1275 Main St, Brilliant, AL 35548
• Cost: Free admission
• More info

4th Annual Frog Level Music Festival in Wedowee

• What: An all-day funfest in Wedowee, starting with a 5K and rounding out with a huge concert—also features a vendor market, wood chopping contest + vintage car show.
• When: May 25
• Where: 29 Main St S, Wedowee, AL 36278
• Cost: Free admission, nighttime concert + race admission at an additional cost
• More info

20th Annual Cigar Box Guitar Festival in Huntsville

• What: Did you know Grandpa’s old cigar box can be turned into a fully functional guitar? Come learn all about it + have some more fun at the Cigar Box Guitar Festival—which spans 4 days + 5 venues across downtown Huntsville
• When: May 30-June 2
• Where: The Casual Pint, Joe Davis Stadium Beer Garden, Lowe Mill A+E, The Orion Artist Meadow + BeeZr Gastropub
• Cost: Free admission
• More info

Made on the Mountain in Albertville

• What: Celebrate life on the mountain with a baking contest, vendor market, musicians, food trucks + more
• When: June 1
• Where: 316 E. Sand Mountain Dr. Albertville, AL 35950
• Cost: Free admission
• More info

Peach Jam Jubilee in Clanton

• What: A family-friendly music festival in a gorgeous city park—features arts + crafts vendors, free hot air balloon rides + delicious peach-based dishes, of course!
• When: June 8
• Where: 510 Park Dr, Clanton, AL 35045
• Cost: Free admission
• More info

Marvel City Caribbean Food + Music Festival in Bessemer

• What: Immerse yourself in Caribbean culture in the heart of Central Alabama—experience a parade, scrumptious, authentic Caribbean food, live performances + much more
• When: June 8
• Where: 1623 2nd Ave N, Bessemer, AL 35020
• Cost: $12 for adults, kids 12 and under are free
• More info

Slocomb Tomato Jamboree

• What: Chow down on a mayonnaise + tomato sandwich and enjoy some free watermelon at this family-oriented festival that’s sure to have something for everyone.
• When: June 29
• Where: 375 Cox St, Slocomb, AL 36375
• Cost: Free admission
• More info

Hellen Keller Festival in Tuscumbia

• What: Celebrate Hellen Keller at this three-day festival filled with music and in Keller’s hometown. Try and catch The Miracle Worker live while you’re there, too.
• When: June 27-30
• Where: Spring Park Rd, Tuscumbia, AL 35674
• Cost: Free admission, some activities may come at an extra cost
• More info

WC Handy Music Festival in Florence

• What: The “Father of Blues” hails from Florence, Alabama—and every year they throw a big party to make sure we don’t forget it! There are over 200 events slated to take place during the 10-day festival.
• When: July 18-28
• Where: 620 W College St, Florence, AL 35630
• Cost: Varies based on event
• More info

Lake Martin Songwriters Festival 2024 in Alexander City

• What: Over 30 songwriters showcasing new music + crowd favorites at venues all around Lake Martin.
• When: July 24-28
• Where: 395 Lee St, Alexander City, AL 35010
• Cost: Free admission
• More info