The 10 Best Music Festivals in Alabama

You might think that Alabama is only known for its warm southern hospitality, but it’s actually home to some of the best music festivals in the country. From indie rock and hip-hop to folk and jazz, there’s something for everyone at these festivals.

Here are the top ten music festivals in Alabama that you won’t want to miss out on.

1. Wilson Pickett Music and Arts Festival

Pratt Park, Prattville

When: April (one day)

You won’t want to miss all the fun at Prattville’s annual Celebration of the Arts! This festival celebrates art and the legacy of Wilson Pickett, a native of Prattville.

Wilson Pickett Music and Arts Festival 2022Wilson Pickett Music and Arts Festival 2022

Aside from music and arts, there are plenty of food and drinks to sample, as well as fun activities for the kids. Make sure to check out this festival with your family.

2. Rock the South Festival

Cullman, Alabama

When: July (three days)

Rock the South is a beloved annual event that gets bigger and better every year, celebrating all that is great about Alabama. The biggest party in the south is aptly named– for one weekend every summer, you can enjoy live country music with great company in Cullman, Alabama.

Rock the South 2018 | Cullman, AlabamaRock the South 2018 | Cullman, Alabama

The festival features classic artists as well as today’s hottest stars. Plus, there’s plenty of food and drinks to keep everyone happy.

3. Hangout Music Festival

Gulf Shores

When: May (three days)

Hangout is a three day festival that features some of the biggest names in music. This festival takes place at the beach and offers a unique experience for fans, with beautiful views and tons of activities to enjoy.

Hangout 2022 AftermovieHangout 2022 Aftermovie

By enjoying all that the beach has to offer, you’ll get a great sense of what the Hangout experience is like! You can do everything from swimming in the gulf to skating at the roller rink.

4. WhistleStop Music Festival

John Hunt Park, Huntsville

When: September (two days)

Unlike any other community event, WhistleStop is guaranteed to be an enthralling experience. The combination of good food, fun competition, and live music–plus the great company–have made this event an award-winning success.

Sunset Guns at The WhistleStop 170505 - HushSunset Guns at The WhistleStop 170505 – Hush

If you love BBQ, you’ll be in for a treat–there will be over 20 vendors serving up delicious dishes. Whether it’s country, rock, or electronic music that moves your soul, this festival has something for everyone.

5. Rakkos Revival Music & Arts Gathering

Steele, Alabama

When: May (three days)

This event is all about music, multimedia artwork and coming together. The main stage features a wide range of performances, while the other stages offer DJs and smaller acoustic acts.

Rakkos Revival RemixRakkos Revival Remix

There are also other activities like rock climbing, hiking, and even glass-blowing. The main event draws in people from all around the United States, making it a truly unique and unforgettable experience.

6. Opelika Songwriters Festival

Downtown Opelika

When: October (three days)

The Opelika Songwriters Festival takes place in multiple venues throughout downtown Opelika, featuring live music from local and Grammy-winning songwriters. This festival brings together renowned songwriters, fantastic local food and drinks for everyone to choose from.

Opelika Songwriters Festival PreviewOpelika Songwriters Festival Preview

Many people believe that this festival is one of the most well-renowned events for songwriters in America. Not only that, but for three days Opelika becomes a mecca of musical talent, with incredible art and cultural activities for all ages.

7. Frank Brown International Songwriters’ Festival

Alabama Gulf Coast

When: November (eleven days)

The festival is a chance for songwriters and musicians from around the world to present their songs and for the public to get insight into the stories behind these lyrics that only the author can express. This 11-day festival will have performers in more than two dozen locations around the coast.

Frank Brown International Songwriters' FestivalFrank Brown International Songwriters’ Festival

The event celebrates the roots of songwriting, from country and blues to rock, Americana and jazz. Featuring some of the most creative minds from many genres, this festival is an excellent opportunity to discover new music and explore all that Alabama has to offer.

8. Hank Williams Festival

Hank’s Boyhood Home and Museum, Georgina

When: June (two days)

Held every year at Hank’s Boyhood Home and Museum in Georgina, Alabama, this is an event you won’t want to miss! The festival provides locals and visitors alike with great entertainment, arts & crafts, even being host to a variety of food court options.

Edward C Johansson at the Hank Williams Sr Festival 2022Edward C Johansson at the Hank Williams Sr Festival 2022

The event is held in remembrance of the legendary country musician, Hank Williams. You can expect to hear some of his most beloved songs as well as traditional country and bluegrass music throughout the two-day festival.

9. American Made Music Festival

Springer Mountain Farms

When: June (two days)

Held in different locations in the US, the American Made Music Festival is an event that celebrates the wide variety of musical artists coming from America. It highlights both up-and-coming and veteran acts, performing everything from folk to rock and roll.

American Made Music FestAmerican Made Music Fest

The festival is held in Springer Mountain Farms, where visitors can enjoy the beautiful countryside of Alabama while being entertained by amazing live music from a variety of genres.

10. Down South Music Festival

Opp, Alabama

When: July (two days)

Southern Rock and Country Music, Bonfires, Your preferred drink of choice, and some damn good friends. All of these are found at the Down South Music Festival in Opp, Alabama for two days of pure Southern fun.

Frank Foster @ DSMF 2021! What a crowd!Frank Foster @ DSMF 2021! What a crowd!

This festival offers some of the best country and southern rock bands from around the area and beyond, making it a must-attend event for any music lover.

There are plenty of activities that take place throughout the two days, like camping, food vendors, and games, to make sure that everyone has the perfect festival experience.

Final Thoughts

Alabama is a great state for music lovers, and the festivals mentioned here help to bring out some of the best and most creative musicians in the world.

Whether you’re looking for some soulful country tunes or rockin’ blues riffs, be sure to check out one of these awesome music festivals!

Hangout Music Festival Featured Image by: Nishantgogna, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons