Top Festivals in Alabama 2025: A Year of Culture, Music, and Southern Charm

Overview of Festivals in Alabama 2025

Alabama’s festivals reflect its deep cultural roots, love for live music, and world-famous southern cuisine. Iconic events like the Hangout Music Festival in Gulf Shores and the National Peanut Festival in Dothan draw large crowds, while local gems such as the Kentuck Festival of the Arts in Northport highlight the state’s creative spirit. Whether it’s jazz in the streets of Birmingham, seafood along the Gulf Coast, or storytelling in the Appalachian foothills, Alabama has something to offer in every season.

Learn more: Full List of Festivals in the US for 2025: Music, Food, Art, Film, Street and More

Festival map for Alabama 2025

List of Festivals and Big Events in Alabama 2025: Date, Location, Significance, Activities, and Tickets

Note: Festival dates and similar events in this state are updated frequently, and times may change. Please report any date errors in the article in the comments below.

January

Reese’s Senior Bowl

• Date: January 25, 2025
• Location: Mobile, AL
• Significance: A showcase of college football's top senior players, providing a preview of future NFL stars.
• Activities:
  • The Senior Bowl game featuring top talent.
  • Fan meet-and-greet sessions with players and coaches.
  • Tailgating parties and live music performances.
• Tickets: General admission tickets available online; early booking recommended.
• Transportation: Parking available near Hancock Whitney Stadium; shuttle services provided.

February

Mardi Gras in Mobile

• Date: February 1–13, 2025
• Location: Mobile, AL
• Significance: The oldest Mardi Gras celebration in the U.S., combining vibrant parades with deep-rooted traditions.
• Activities:
  • Colorful parades with floats, beads, and MoonPies.
  • Masquerade balls and street parties.
  • Family-friendly zones with food and entertainment.
• Tickets: Free admission to parades; tickets required for private balls.
• Transportation: Public transit and rideshare services recommended; parking garages available downtown.

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March

Selma Bridge Crossing Jubilee

• Date: March 2–4, 2025
• Location: Selma, AL
• Significance: A commemoration of the 1965 Selma to Montgomery marches, celebrating civil rights and justice.
• Activities:
  • The annual bridge crossing reenactment.
  • Educational panels and keynote speakers.
  • Gospel concerts and cultural exhibitions.
• Tickets: Free admission; donations encouraged for the event’s initiatives.
• Transportation: Limited parking available; shuttle services provided from Montgomery.

April

Panoply Arts Festival

• Date: April 26–28, 2025
• Location: Huntsville, AL
• Significance: A celebration of the arts, showcasing Alabama’s creative talent in a picturesque setting.
• Activities:
  • Art exhibits featuring regional and national artists.
  • Live performances, including music, dance, and theater.
  • Food trucks, craft vendors, and interactive art zones for kids.
• Tickets: Available online and at the gate; children under 12 enter free.
• Transportation: Public transit and parking available near Big Spring Park.

May

Hangout Music Festival

• Date: May 17–19, 2025
• Location: Gulf Shores, AL
• Significance: A beachfront music festival featuring top artists across various genres.
• Activities:
  • Performances by international music stars.
  • Yoga sessions and beach games in the mornings.
  • Food vendors offering southern barbecue and seafood.
• Tickets: General admission and VIP passes available online.
• Transportation: Shuttle services provided from nearby towns; parking limited near the venue.

June

W.C. Handy Music Festival

• Date: June 24–30, 2025
• Location: Florence, AL
• Significance: A tribute to the “Father of the Blues,” W.C. Handy, celebrating Alabama’s musical heritage.
• Activities:
  • Live blues, jazz, and gospel performances.
  • Music workshops and historical tours of Florence.
  • Food and drink vendors offering local southern flavors.
• Tickets: Free general admission; some workshops require tickets.
• Transportation: Parking available downtown; public transit is limited.

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July

Blueberry Festival

• Date: July 5–7, 2025
• Location: Brewton, AL
• Significance: A community celebration of Alabama’s blueberry harvest and local agriculture.
• Activities:
  • Blueberry picking and cooking contests.
  • Food vendors offering blueberry-inspired dishes, including pies and jams.
  • Live music performances and arts and crafts markets.
  • Kids’ zones with games, face painting, and inflatables.
• Tickets: Free admission; fees for some activities.
• Transportation: Parking available near festival grounds; carpooling encouraged.

4th of July Fireworks Festival

• Date: July 4, 2025
• Location: Various locations across Alabama, including Montgomery, Birmingham, and Huntsville.
• Significance: A patriotic celebration of Independence Day with spectacular fireworks displays.
• Activities:
  • Fireworks shows synchronized to music.
  • Live concerts and local food vendors.
  • Family-friendly games and parades during the day.
• Tickets: Free admission.
• Transportation: Public transit and rideshare services are recommended due to large crowds.

August

Alabama Restaurant Week

• Date: August 9–18, 2025
• Location: Statewide
• Significance: A culinary journey celebrating Alabama’s diverse and delicious dining scene.
• Activities:
  • Special prix fixe menus at participating restaurants across the state.
  • Food tours in major cities like Birmingham and Mobile.
  • Cooking demonstrations and chef meet-and-greets.
• Tickets: Meal prices vary; reservations recommended.
• Transportation: Accessible by public transit in urban areas; ample parking at most venues.

Opp Rattlesnake Rodeo

• Date: August 24–25, 2025
• Location: Opp, AL
• Significance: A unique festival celebrating local folklore and rattlesnake awareness.
• Activities:
  • Live rattlesnake demonstrations and safety workshops.
  • Carnival rides and games for families.
  • Vendors selling local crafts, food, and souvenirs.
  • Live country music performances.
• Tickets: General admission available at the gate.
• Transportation: Parking available near festival grounds; shuttle services provided.

September

Birmingham ArtWalk

• Date: September 6–7, 2025
• Location: Birmingham, AL
• Significance: A vibrant celebration of art and creativity in Birmingham’s downtown district.
• Activities:
  • Outdoor galleries showcasing works by local and regional artists.
  • Live music and street performances.
  • Food trucks and pop-up markets offering handmade goods.
  • Family-friendly art workshops and activities.
• Tickets: Free admission.
• Transportation: Public transit and parking available in downtown Birmingham.

Cullman Oktoberfest

• Date: September 27–29, 2025
• Location: Cullman, AL
• Significance: A traditional German-themed festival celebrating Cullman’s heritage.
• Activities:
  • Beer gardens and bratwurst tastings.
  • Live polka music and traditional Bavarian dancing.
  • Carnival rides, games, and a pet parade.
  • Arts and crafts markets with German-inspired goods.
• Tickets: Free general admission; beer and food available for purchase.
• Transportation: Ample parking available; rideshare services encouraged.

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October

Kentuck Festival of the Arts

• Date: October 19–20, 2025
• Location: Northport, AL
• Significance: One of Alabama’s most celebrated art festivals, featuring diverse mediums and creators.
• Activities:
  • Art exhibits, live demonstrations, and workshops.
  • Performances by folk musicians and storytellers.
  • Food trucks offering southern comfort food and beverages.
  • Kids’ activities, including crafts and face painting.
• Tickets: General admission tickets available online and at the gate.
• Transportation: Parking available on-site; carpooling encouraged during peak hours.

November

National Peanut Festival

• Date: November 8–17, 2025
• Location: Dothan, AL
• Significance: A celebration of Alabama’s peanut farming heritage and the largest peanut festival in the U.S.
• Activities:
  • Livestock shows, parades, and carnival rides.
  • Cooking contests featuring peanut-inspired recipes.
  • Vendors selling peanut-themed goods and local produce.
  • Live music performances and fireworks displays.
• Tickets: General admission tickets available online; discounted family packages offered.
• Transportation: Parking available near the venue; shuttle services provided.

December

Christmas on the River

• Date: December 6–8, 2025
• Location: Demopolis, AL
• Significance: A festive holiday event blending southern traditions with holiday cheer.
• Activities:
  • Christmas boat parades along the Tombigbee River.
  • Fireworks displays and Santa Claus meet-and-greets.
  • Arts and crafts markets for holiday shopping.
• Tickets: Free general admission.
• Transportation: Parking available downtown; shuttle services provided from nearby lots.

Magic City Lights Festival

• Date: December 15–31, 2025
• Location: Birmingham, AL
• Significance: A holiday celebration featuring dazzling light displays and community activities.
• Activities:
  • Drive-through light displays set to holiday music.
  • Food and drink vendors serving seasonal treats.
  • Ice skating rinks and family-friendly games.
• Tickets: Per-vehicle admission fee available online or at the gate.
• Transportation: Parking available on-site; carpooling recommended.

Conclusion

Alabama’s festival calendar for 2025 offers a rich variety of events that celebrate its culture, history, and southern hospitality. From the vibrant streets of Birmingham to the scenic shores of Gulf Shores, these festivals promise unforgettable experiences for everyone.

FAQs About Alabama Festivals 2025

1. What are Alabama’s most famous festivals in 2025?

• Highlights include the Hangout Music Festival, National Peanut Festival, and Mardi Gras in Mobile.

2. Are Alabama festivals family-friendly?

• Yes, many events, like the Blueberry Festival and Christmas on the River, cater to families with activities for all ages.

3. When is the best time to visit Alabama for festivals?

• Spring and fall are peak seasons, but there are notable events year-round, such as Mardi Gras in February and Christmas festivals in December.

4. Are there free festivals in Alabama?

• Many festivals, such as the Magic City Lights Festival and Birmingham ArtWalk, offer free admission.

5. How can I get tickets for Alabama’s top festivals?

• Tickets are often available online; early booking is recommended for popular events like the Hangout Music Festival.

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