More Serda'S Market — We’re ready for festival shopping all summer long. (Liv George / The Bama Buzz)

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

Florence 94 Summer Festivals, Summer Festivals In Al — Colbert County Courthouse in Tuscumbia, Alabama. (Nathan Watson / The Bama Buzz)

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

Wc Handy In Florence — Florence is home to the annual W.C. Handy Music Festival. (Bess Christopher/The Bama Buzz)

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

Chucks On Lake Martin — Chucks on Lake Martin. (Emilyn Hamm / The Bama Buzz)

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