The streets are buzzing with the life of spring energy and fun things to do throughout the Huntsville area! From shopping vintage markets to premier art festivals, pet costume contests, denim-themed cookouts, and much more, here is a list of events that you won’t want to miss this April.
All month long
Calling all space cadets and aerospace gurus! Immerse yourself in an up-close experience of current and future technologies of space exploration in the U.S. Space and Rocket Center’s evolving exhibit, Dare to Explore: Frontiers of Space. Attendees can observe a plethora of models, including a 1/10th scale model of ULA’s Vulcan rocket, Boeing’s Starliner Pressure Capsule test vessel, a 1/10th scale model of NASA’s SLS rocket, Blue Origin’s Mannequin Skywalker, and, coming soon, Chris Sembroski’s Inspiration4 SpaceX launch and entry suit. Tickets are available online and include full access to the museum.
April 4
Don’t miss opening day for the Outdoor Market at Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment! Every Saturday, from April 4 until October 24, patrons, pickers, and art lovers can enjoy an open-air shopping experience (weather permitting) with the finest handmade, second-hand, or made-by-the-earth products. Admission is FREE, and vendor booths are open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Every spring and fall, the Huntsville/Madison County Convention & Visitors Bureau offers free walking guided history tours! Local experts guide tours and focus on the historic districts of Twickenham (Huntsville) and Madison. Glimpse Alabama’s most beautiful antebellum mansions and businesses, as well as hear historical stories about the structure’s owners and distinctive styles. Tours last one to two hours, and strollers and leashed pets are welcome! No tickets or reservations are needed for walking tours.
April 5
Break out the denim in honor of Blue Jean Sunday at The Orion Amphitheater’s Denim Sunday Cookout! Presented by LuxLife Hospitality in partnership with HSV Hoop Therapy, attendees can celebrate culture, community, and creativity as they enjoy shows from live DJs and musicians, as well as a culinary variety from local food trucks. With family-friendly activities like face painting and bounce houses, no babysitter is required. Tickets and early bird prices are available now on the event’s website.
April 8, 9, 10, & 11
Pour a glass and make a toast for the first annual Rocket City Winefest – a three-day celebration of wine, food, and community! The event opens with the Vintner Dinner, inviting attendees to either dine at a participating restaurant to support local charities or host their own gathering for community impact. Day two’s Grand Tasting features over 100 world-class wines and bubbles, curated cuisine, a silent auction, and the opportunity to support the Food Bank of North Alabama and EarlyWorks Children’s Museum. Topping off the event, Bubbles and Brunch is a curated champagne tasting and elevated brunch that benefits the Crim Compassion Fund – directly supporting St. Jude Clinic families at Huntsville Hospital for Women and Children. Tickets for each activity can be purchased online.
April 12
For four paws running, Pup Palooza has been Huntsville’s FREE, pup-friendly festival! Presented by The Orion Amphitheater and The Greater Huntsville Humane Society, human and furry friends alike can donate to the shelter supply drive and participate in a pet costume contest, all while perusing goods from local food trucks, vendors, and more. Visit The Orion Amphitheater from 1 to 5 p.m. for a howling good time!
April 16
Returning for the first time in over 12 years, Little Valley Academy’s and Valley Fellowship Christian Academy’s Spring Gala – A Night to Bloom will be on April 16! The elegant fundraiser invites attendees to don their formal attire and enjoy a night out at the Roundhouse with tasty hor d’oeuvres, an art gallery – featuring upper school artworks for purchase – and a silent auction. All event proceeds will support enhancing student experiences by improving both schools’ campuses and strengthening Christian learning environments. Tickets are available for purchase online.
April 18
Beep beep – see you at the car meet! From 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., become immersed in the great outdoors and nostalgia of car culture at Village Green’s Car Meet. With the opportunity to exhibit or get a close-up look at various classic and modern car models, this family-friendly event offers something for attendees of all ages!
April 19
AM Collective presents The Hunt – their ninth-annual all-women-owned vintage and maker’s market! Grab a friend or loved one and join the hunt for unique vintage finds at this vibrant display of wares, goods, and local artistry and craftsmanship. From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m, shop and sip the event at Back Forty Brewing.
April 23
Need an opportunity to wear that colorful hat? Showcase your chic fashion and love for colorful blooms at the Huntsville Botanical Garden’s Spring Hat Luncheon. Guests will enjoy a delightful lunch curated by Purveyor and a special presentation by Christin Geall – floral artist and author of Cultivated: The Elements of Floral Style and Flora Culture. Proceeds from the luncheon will support the Garden’s mission to cultivate education, plant science, conservation, and community enrichment. Tickets are available online.
April 24-26
Witness Huntsville’s innovative spark shine at the Panolopy Arts Festival – the Southeast’s premier arts weekend! Held at Big Spring Park, the festival will feature more than 100 visual artists from various mediums in the fan-favorite Art Marketplace, featuring more than 20 musical acts by local bands and musicians, kid-friendly interactives and STEAM activities, community art projects, and so much more! Whether you’re looking to expand your art collection, enjoy family activities, or simply explore one of Huntsville’s many parks and green spaces, there is something for everyone. Day and weekend passes are available online.
April 25
Celebrate the importance of trees and their impact on the Rocket City at the Arbor Day 5K Race and Sapling 3K Run. Wind through the scenic paved and gravel roads of Huntsville Botanical Garden and the U.S. Space and Rocket Center, with the timed 5K beginning promptly at 8 a.m. and the 3K Sapling Run following at 8:30 a.m. Strollers are welcome for the 3K Sapling Run, and all participants under 16 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is live online.
Abby Callahan, BA, Cum Laude
Abby Callahan is a graduate of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC), where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in Spanish and the distinction of Cum Laude. She also graduated Magna Cum Laude from Chattanooga State Community College, earning honors through the Global Scholars Honors Program. Prior to joining CMC Media & Marketing Group as editor/digital content specialist, Abby successfully fulfilled roles in marketing and event planning, as well as strategic communications and storytelling for a wide variety of initiatives. Today, Abby leads ideation, conceptualization, and development of numerous health, wellness, business, sports, and lifestyle articles published in print and online for HealthScope®, CityScope®, and Choose Chattanooga® magazines – premier publications serving S.E. Tennessee and North Georgia.