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. 

Daikin Japanese Festival

Held annually in May

A community party hosted annually by Daikin American’s in celebration of the company’s Japanese heritage. Unfortunately, due to COVID-19, the 2021 Daikin Festival has been postponed until next year.

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.

Historic Decatur Christmas Tour

Held annually in December

Due to the continued impact of COVID-19, the 2021 Historic Decatur Christmas Tour has been canceled. In 2020, the Historic Decatur Christmas Tour did go on.

In a nod to COVID-19 health concerns, the 2020 event featured a virtual tour of homes on this website Saturday, December 12. Such will not be the case for 2021. 

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.

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.

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.

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.

WELCOME TEAMS!

2022 USA Archery JOAD Target Nationals

July 20, 2022 – July 24, 2022

More info coming soon..

AWARD-WINNING BARBEQUE FOR ALL TO ENJOY

Riverfest BBQ & Music Festival

Upcoming Dates TBD

This barbeque cook-off at Ingalls Harbor attracts competitors from across the country. Selected as a top ten tourist event in the State of Alabama, festival goers can expect live musical acts, children’s activities, and award winning barbeque. Proceeds benefit Mosaic Mentoring of North Alabama.

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.

WORLD-CLASS RACKING HORSE AFFAIRS

Racking Horse Spring & World Celebrations

Held annually in April and September

Every spring and fall, Morgan County plays hosts a pair of world-class racking horse events. Twice a year, thousands of racking horse trainers and fans descend upon Morgan County for two of the sport’s biggest events. Hosted by the Racking Horse Breeders Association of America, The Spring Celebration, held in April, kicks off the racking horse show season, and in September, The World Celebration closes the season with the crowning of the World Grand Champions for each class. The Spring Celebration and The World Celebration are held at Morgan County Celebration Arena (67 Horse Center Road) in Priceville.

BEAUTIFUL ART FROM ACROSS THE REGION

River Clay Fine Arts Festival

Held annually on the 3rd 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!