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.
Contents
- 1. Wilson Pickett Music and Arts Festival
- 2. Rock the South Festival
- 3. Hangout Music Festival
- 4. WhistleStop Music Festival
- 5. Rakkos Revival Music & Arts Gathering
- 6. Opelika Songwriters Festival
- 7. Frank Brown International Songwriters’ Festival
- 8. Hank Williams Festival
- 9. American Made Music Festival
- 10. Down South Music Festival
- Final Thoughts
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
