EVENTS

The Sky’s the Limit in Decatur at the

Alabama Jubilee Hot-Air Balloon Classic

A high flying adventure can always be found in Decatur thanks to the annual Balloon Festival. Held every Memorial Day weekend, the Balloon Festival draws pilots from across the country to the River City to compete in a variety of races. This free to the public event also features live entertainment, all sorts of shows, and an international food experience. 

Decatur's Mardi Gras Extravaganza!

Carnegie Carnival

Experience the magic of the Carnegie Carnival in Decatur, AL, where art, culture, and community unite for a cause! Join us as we come together to support the Carnegie Visual Arts Center through three vibrant parades winding through the heart of Downtown Decatur. From the grandeur of our King, Queen, Prince, and Princess to the exuberant floats and activities, there's something for everyone at this beloved annual event.

NORTH ALABAMA'S PREMIER MARDI GRAS CELEBRATION

Carnegie Carnival

Held on Mardi Gras, typically mid-February to early March

North Alabama’s premier Mardi Gras celebration benefiting the Carnegie Visual Arts Center.

A full day of Mardi Gras themed events is on the agenda when the Carnegie Visual Arts Center holds its annual Carnegie Carnival. Now in its eighth year, Carnegie Carnival fills the city’s historic downtown area with parades, crewes, floats, throws, music and other family-friendly fun, all while promoting art and creativity.

A block party for the whole family

Decatur Downtown Pub Crawl

Held annually in March

Each March, Downtown Decatur hosts a St. Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl. This annual event has something for every member of the family with music, games, local dining and kid-friendly activities.

A glimpse of the history of our beautiful town

April Historic Walking Tours

Held annually in April



Decatur has a rich and colorful history dating back to the early 1800s and in April locals and visitors are invited to take part in a casual stroll winding through the historic Old Decatur area for a glimpse into the city’s heritage. Organized by Decatur Morgan County Tourism and the Morgan County Historical Society, free guided walking tours are held on Saturdays in the month of April and each one features a different route, theme and tour guide.

RIDING THROUGH THE SKY

Alabama Jubilee Hot-Air Balloon Classic

Held annually on Memorial Day Weekend

Held annually over the Memorial Day Weekend (late May), pilots from across the U. S. gather to compete in various races. This free event lets visitors mingle with the pilots as they inflate and launch their seven story tall balloons. Races are held daily at 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. In addition to the balloon races, the festival features live entertainment, arts and crafts show, antique car show, antique tractor and engine show, and an international food court. Saturday night features the “balloon glow” and fireworks on Sunday night.

A celebration of Japanese culture

Daikin Japanese Festival

Held annually in May

A community party hosted annually by Daikin American’s in celebration of the company’s Japanese heritage.

Every year, Decatur-based industry Daikin America hosts a community party in celebration of the company’s Japanese heritage. The annual Daikin Festival features live entertainment, hot-air balloon rides, Japanese cultural displays and art contest. The festival is free and very family-friendly.

MUSIC the whole family will enjoy

Concerts at the AMP

Held in the Spring and Fall

DECATUR PARK CONCERTS is a free concert series that offers a wide variety of musical styles in a family-friendly setting. Sponsored by the City of Decatur Parks and Recreation Department and funded by grants and donations.

Surpise location dinner and drinks with friends

Diner en Blanc

Typically takes place in June

At the last minute, the secret location is revealed to thousands of friends who have all been patiently waiting to learn where “Dîner en Blanc” will take place. Thousands of people, dressed all in white, and conducting themselves with the greatest decorum, elegance, and etiquette, all meet for a mass “chic picnic” in a public space.

FIREWORKS AND FAMILY FUN

Spirit of America Festival

Held annually on July 4th

Decatur’s annual Fourth of July celebration, featuring live music and fantastic fireworks.

The Spirit of America Festival celebrates America’s heritage and birthday every Fourth of July. It is one of the largest free Independence Day celebrations in the state. The event offers family games, summertime field competitions, live stage entertainment, unique demonstrations, sports tournaments, a host of food and craft vendors, booming fireworks, talent shows and presentation of the famous Audi Murphy Patriotism Award.

CELEBRATING HARTSELLE’S RAILROAD HERITAGE

Hartselle Depot Days

Held the third Saturday in September

Hartselle Depot Days is a September celebration honoring the town’s railroad heritage.

Held the third Saturday in September. The entire town celebrates the history of the railroad and its contribution to the area with a street dance, live bands, truck – motorcycle – and antique tractor shows, custom crafts, merchant sales, four blocks of booth activities and exhibits, midway-style rides, 5k run, and a wide selection of tasty concessions.

MUSIC, PARADE, PIG CHASE & FUN FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY

Eva Frontier Days

Held the last full week of September

Fun for the entire family beginning the last full week of September. Battle of the Bands and street dance, hayrides for all ages, community singing performances, parade, old-fashioned frog jumping contest, pig calling, greased pig chase, quilt show, old timers crafts, games for every member of the family, and more.

BEAUTIFUL ART FROM ACROSS THE REGION

River Clay Fine Arts Festival

Held annually on the 4th weekend of October

River Clay Fine Arts Festival offers participating artists the opportunity to exhibit and sell their work, to network and socialize with other artists, and to meet arts patrons from across the region. In addition to visiting with outstanding artists, arts patrons and other attendees will enjoy art demonstrations, musical performances, children’s activities and much, much more. River Clay Fine Arts Festival will truly offer something for everyone!

CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS

Enchanted Forest of Decatur

Held annually in December

The Enchanted Forest of Decatur is a “tinsel stroll” to fundraise and bring Light to LLS (Lymphoma and Leukemia Society). The “Enchanted Forest” will consist of live cut trees “sponsored” and decorated by individuals, groups, or businesses for a $125 donation for LLS. The trees will be ready to decorate on Nov. 24- the Tuesday before Thanksgiving. They will be available to view–free to the public - from Dec 5th to Jan 1st. 

CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS

Historic Decatur Christmas Tour

Held annually in December

Outdoor sites in the districts still will glow with lights and sparkle in Christmas finery for your strolling pleasure, and our grand historic houses will continue to be a feast for the eyes in all their Christmastime glory.

Decatur’s two downtown shopping districts also will beckon visitors to enjoy their festive beauty and delight in the wonders of each shop’s particular specialty.