Looking for some fun and exciting things to do in Huntsville, Alabama (and a few surrounding areas)? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of the 10 must-attend events, from festivals to concerts to sporting events. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there’s something for everyone on this list.
1. Von Brewski Beer Festival (January 28, 2023)
Get ready for the 7th Annual Von Brewski Beer Festival presented by Publix on January 28, 2023, as Sir Von Brewski prepares to land his brew-ship in the VBC South Hall for another round of delicious brews and great fun. With over 120 brews from over 50 local and national breweries, live music, pretzel necklaces, brats, nachos, and more, this festival promises to be a blast.
Use DHI’s Craft Beer Trail Tasting Map to navigate your way through the festival and keep track of your tastings. Don’t miss out on the Pretzel Necklace Station, the Hydration Station, and The Backyard for an interactive experience. Grab a limited-edition souvenir Von Brewski pint glass before you leave and be sure to thank the volunteers from Free The Hops and the breweries. Get a non-sampling ticket if craft beer isn’t your thing and enjoy drinks available for purchase.
2. Space City Tattoo Expo (April 7-9, 2023)
Huntsville’s Space City Tattoo Expo returns for its 7th installment this upcoming Easter weekend 2023! Taking place in Lovely Downtown Huntsville at the Von Braun Centers exclusive North Hall, SCTE-23 features Premiere Tattooers from the world over, Live Musical Performances, Tattoo Contests, Vendors, Tattoo Supplies, professional seminars, Networking, Food & Spirits, and Much Much More.
3. Crawfish Festival (April 22, 2023)
Get ready for an unforgettable experience at the 3rd Annual Crawfish Festival happening on April 22, 2023! This year’s festival promises to be bigger and better with incredible food, award-winning music, refreshing New Orleans-inspired beverages, beignets, face painting, lemonade, and more! A huge thank you to our sponsors, The Prewitt Group, T-Mobile, Lanier Ford, Tito’s Vodka, and Bradford Building, for their support in making this event possible.
Make sure to come hungry and thirsty because there will be tons of crawfish and other food specials available. And don’t forget to get an ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT Crawfish wristband before it’s too late. AYCE wristbands will not be available on event day, so be sure to grab yours in advance at https://tinyurl.com/266napwp.
The festival features live music all day long by some of the best bands in the region, including Yo Mama’s Big Fat Booty Band, Funk You, Flow Tribe, Quantaphonics, Admiral Phunk, and John Papa Gros. Entry to the Crawfish Festival is free, so mark your calendars, bring your friends and family, and get ready for an unforgettable day of fun, food, and music!
4. Panoply Arts Festival (April 29, 2023)
The Panoply Arts Festival is one of the biggest and most popular events in Huntsville, Alabama. Held annually in April, this three-day festival features over 100 artists showcasing their work, live music performances, food vendors, and interactive activities for all ages. It’s a great way to experience the local arts scene and enjoy a fun-filled weekend with family and friends.
5. Daikin Festival (May 5, 2023)
Mark your calendar for May 5, 2023, from 6:30 to 9 pm CDT. The Daikin Festival is back and moving to Point Mallard Park!
Each year in May, since 1994, Daikin America, Inc. employees have produced a Japanese Festival in the style of Bon Odori for their North Alabama neighbors. Every year, that is, until the pandemic made it impossible in 2020. This year, the festival returns offering even more fun for the entire family.
The Daikin Festival delights attendees with live music, Japanese Folk Dancing, Shodo (Japanese calligraphy), Yakisoba (grilled buckwheat noodles with beef and special sauce), BBQ, hamburgers, refreshing drinks, and special prizes.
Attendees this year can expect a dramatic fireworks display by PYRO Shows. Best of all, the entire event is free of charge, including food, drink, and entertainment, and is open to the public.
This festival is one of the largest Japanese cultural events in the Southeast US.
6. Camp to Amp Festival (May 13, 2023)
The 2nd Annual Camp to Amp Festival is coming back and it promises to be bigger and better for 2023. This exciting event is a collaboration between The Orion Amphitheater, MidCity District, The Camp, and the Huntsville Police Department, offering a day filled with fun, art, music, and celebration for the North Alabama community.
The festival will feature four stages with live music and performing arts, an artist and vintage market, kids’ activities, food trucks, satellite bars, non-profit organizations, and much more. This family and pet-friendly festival is open to the public and free for everyone to enjoy. Follow along for the full schedule of events and consider becoming a sponsor to help support this fantastic community event.
7. Water Lantern Festival (May 20, 2023)
The Water Lantern Festival in Huntsville, Alabama is a must-see event for anyone looking to experience a truly magical and emotional evening. Presented by One World, the festival offers delicious food trucks, lively music, and a breathtaking display of thousands of floating lanterns that reflect unique messages of love, hope, and happiness.
Whether you’re writing down your hopes and dreams or sending a message to a loved one, the experience of sending your lantern out into the water is a deeply moving and unforgettable moment that you can share with friends and family. Come create a magical memory at the Water Lantern Festival, where you’ll be sure to cherish every moment.
8. Rocket City BBQ & Soul Fest (May 20, 2023)
Attention all pitmasters in Huntsville and surrounding areas! Get ready to fire up your grills, grab your tongs, and show off your skills at the upcoming Rocket City BBQ & Soul Fest! This family-friendly event will be held at the NSS Conference Center and promises to be a day filled with mouth-watering food, fun, and sunshine.
Experience the perfect blend of backyard bbq, competition, soul, and luxury as vendors from all over come together to showcase their delicious food and a variety of products and services. With something for everyone, attendees can expect to feel the good vibes and enjoy a day of community, great food, and entertainment.
In addition to the mouth-watering food and lively atmosphere, the Rocket City BBQ & Soul Fest will also award the Gwendolyn Baldwin Excellence Scholarship to a graduating high school senior who plans to major in Arts, Music, Business, or STEM fields.
What’s more, children aged 12 and younger will be admitted for FREE to this ticketed event, making it an affordable and enjoyable day out for the whole family. So, gather your loved ones, bring your appetite, and join us for a fantastic day of food, fun, and good vibes at the Rocket City BBQ & Soul Fest!
9. Old School and Blues Festival (May 27, 2023)
Get ready for the ultimate celebration of Old School and Blues music! JD Entertainment proudly presents the 26th Annual Old School and Blues Festival, taking place on May 27, 2023.
Join us at the longest running Urban Event in Northern Alabama for a day filled with music, fun, and sun. The festival boasts a spectacular lineup of internationally renowned artists, as well as local talents who will take the stage to showcase their musical prowess.
This one-day festival is not to be missed, featuring one big show with non-stop entertainment from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM EDT. From classic old-school hits to soulful blues tunes, the festival promises to be a musical extravaganza that will keep you grooving all day long.
Come and experience the electrifying energy of the Old School and Blues Festival. Grab your friends and family and head on over to this must-attend event of the year. Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this unforgettable experience.
Mark your calendars for May 27, 2023, and get your tickets now to secure your spot at the 26th Annual Old School and Blues Festival. Let’s get ready to jam!
10. Alabama Decatur Jubilee Hot-Air Balloon Classic (May 27-28, 2023)
Looking for a fun and affordable way to celebrate Memorial Day weekend? Look no further than the Alabama Jubilee Balloon Classic in Point Mallard Park (Decatur)! This annual festival features traditional and tethered balloon rides, as well as a stunning night glow display with over 50 balloons lighting up the sky. Best of all, there’s no admission or parking fees!
The festival also offers plenty of other activities, including live music, an antique car show, arts & crafts stores, fragrant food booths, and even a camping town. And don’t forget about the fireworks show on the last day, which is sure to be a blast.
Just remember, the festival is a no-drone zone, so leave your device at home and enjoy the festivities. Don’t miss out on this unique and exciting celebration!
11. Huntsville Restaurant Week (August 11-20, 2023)
Huntsville Restaurant Week is a highly anticipated event that takes place every August. During this week-long celebration, participating restaurants offer special menus and deals to showcase their best dishes and attract new customers. It’s a great opportunity to try out new restaurants and cuisines, and support local businesses. In addition to delicious food, there are also events and activities throughout the week, such as cooking classes and food tours. Don’t miss out on this tasty event!
12. Monte Sano Art Festival (September 16-18, 2023)
The Monte Sano Art Festival is a highly anticipated event in Huntsville, Alabama that takes place every September. This two-day festival showcases the work of over 150 artists from across the country, with a wide variety of mediums represented, including painting, sculpture, jewelry, and more. Visitors can browse and purchase art, as well as enjoy live music, food vendors, and a kids’ area. The festival takes place in Monte Sano State Park, providing a beautiful backdrop for the art and festivities. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to support local artists and enjoy a weekend of creativity and fun.
13. Crush Food and Wine Festival (September 30, 2023)
Hosted by Homegrown Huntsville, and distinguished as Alabama’s first state winery competition, Crush Wine & Food Festival is a destination for wine aficionados and newbies alike. Tickets for this lively event in Big Spring International Park usually sell out, so you’ll want to make sure you snatch them up quickly.
From dark red Cabernets to bright and lively Chardonnays, you can sip as much wine as you’d like as you determine your favorite vineyard and listen to top local musicians. If you find something you like, you can order more at the information tent. Pair your samples with your favorite meal from one of Huntsville’s ubiquitous food trucks.
