The arrival of May brings with it a host of diverse activities across Alabama, perfect for all ages. From outdoor adventures to community gatherings, there's something for everyone this spring. Let's dive into the array of events awaiting you this month in Sweet Home Alabama.

May 8-12 | Greystone Golf and Country Club

The upcoming 2024 Regions Tradition, one of five prominent championships on the PGA Tour Champions golf tour, is scheduled to be held at Greystone Golf and Country Club in Birmingham. It kicks off with the celebrity Pro-Am on Wednesday, May 8, followed by four days of competitive golf from May 9 to May 12.

Attendees and participants will include some of the biggest names in sports and entertainment, like Charles Barkley, Nick Saban, Hugh Freeze, Kirby Smart, Tommy Tuberville, Riley Green, and many more.

In addition to the excitement on the greens, Regions Tradition places a strong emphasis on philanthropy. The tournament has raised over $23 million for charity since its inception, with the primary beneficiary being the Children’s of Alabama hospital. Numerous local nonprofits also benefit from the proceeds through initiatives like the Birdies for Charity program.

General admission tickets for the tournament are priced at $30, but children ages 15 and below get in free with a ticketed adult. Group ticket packages range from $425 to $1,500. 

May 9 | Huntsville Botanical Garden

Get ready to don your most fabulous statement hat at the Huntsville Botanical Garden for the 10th Annual Spring Hat Luncheon! This cherished springtime gala is not just any luncheon; it’s an experience woven with delightful cocktails, the thrill of a silent auction, and a gourmet meal prepared by the renowned Grille on Main. The highlight? A special program and book signing session with the esteemed floral artist, Cathy B. Graham, whose creations inspire awe and admiration.

Participation shines a light on the work of the Huntsville Botanical Garden’s Butterfly Program, with all proceeds directly supporting this cause. This event is a testament to the power of community and the shared commitment to nurturing the natural beauty and ecological diversity of Huntsville's beloved Garden.

May 10-11 | Historic Downtown Prattville

Prattville Cityfest is a two-day festival in Historic Downtown Prattville that promises a weekend full of art, music, food, and boundless entertainment. This event showcases local artisans, culinary delights from various vendors, and free concerts.

Families with children are in for a treat with plenty of activities including inflatables, pony rides, a petting zoo, and more.

Admission is priced at $2 per person, with a reduced rate of $1 for military personnel, while children under five enjoy complimentary entry.

May 10-12 | Lakeside Park

The South's largest in-water boat show and festival is back for 2024, and this year promises to be the definitive event to kick off summer for lake lovers in Alabama.

The festival will feature over 80 models of boats and personal watercraft, with attendees having the opportunity to test drive the vessels. There will also be live music from talents like The Velcro Pygmies, food vendors, lake lifestyle vendors, and a fireworks show Friday night at dark.

This event is free to all who attend. If you love the lake and the lake lifestyle, this show is for you!

May 11-12 | John B. Foley Park

Calling all art lovers! An annual event since 1971, Art in the Park features over 100 fine artists and crafters from throughout the Southeast. This event is always held on Mother’s Day weekend and is a competitive juried fine arts show with cash awards. 

Art in the Park is held each spring on the lawn of the John B. Foley Park in downtown Foley and has grown to attract thousands of attendees. Artists showcase their talents while providing unique, hand crafted cultural experiences and shopping opportunities.

May 16-19 | Historic Downtown Opelika

Entering its 5th year, the Opelika Songwriters Festival attracts die-hard music lovers from around the Southeast. This year's headliners are Shawn Colvin, KT Tunstall, and Sister Hazel. Over 80 shows in 9 venues throughout Downtown Opelika include John Emerald Distillery, Resting Pulse Brewery, Irish Bred Pub, Heritage House, Jailhouse @ Rock N Roll Pinball, and Market Street Paint Shop.

Founded in 2019 by Rob & Jen Slocumb, aka, Martha’s Trouble, Opelika Songwriters Festival is a multi-day festival featuring world-class artists in a small, southern, railroad town. Intimate listening rooms are created in restaurants, coffee shops, a distillery, pubs, and galleries and create a custom-made setting for a unique small town, multi-day music festival.

May 17-19 | Downtown Montgomery Riverwalk Amphitheater

Red Bluff Music, Arts & Food Festival is Montgomery’s newest premier cultural event held each May by Vintage Hospitality Group at Riverwalk Amphitheater along the city's historic waterfront. Drawing in performers and music enthusiasts far and wide, the music venue, Red Bluff Bar at the Silos, has evolved into a lively communal hub for the entire community to revel in the greatness of Montgomery.

The festival honors Montgomery's rich musical legacy by featuring top-tier artists influenced by blues, country, jazz, and the soulful Southern sounds of the region. The annual festival brings in prominent musical talents of the year while also spotlighting local and regional bands, as well as visual and culinary artists. 

The main lineup includes The Princess of Southern Soul West Love, 14-time Grammy winner and world-leading dobro master The Jerry Douglas Band, and the world reigning heavyweight champion of blues and rock guitar, the one and only Eric Gales. A portion of the festival proceeds will go to support our affiliated charity,The King’s Canvas, dedicated to providing essential arts and community development opportunities to West Montgomery.

Entry is free on Friday and Sunday. General admission tickets for Saturday are $40 and VIP tickets are $100.

May 17-19 | Gulf Shores

Hangout is a more than a three-day festival on the white sand beaches of Gulf Shores, AL. Hangout is the ultimate kick off to summer, where quintessential beach vacation meets high end music festival. Kick back and relax with your toes in the sand, hang loose with all of your friends, while listening to your favorite music and making memories that last a lifetime.

Listen to three days of music ranging from Grammy award-winning artists to local talent who won the battle of the bands to perform on stage. This year's lineup includes Zach Bryan, Lana Del Rey, Odesza, The Chainsmokers, and more of the biggest names in music.

May 21-26 | Hoover Metropolitan Stadium

The SEC Baseball Tournament features the top 12 collegiate baseball teams from the Southeastern Conference and will be held at the Hoover Metropolitan Stadium for the 24th consecutive year. Seeds 5-12 will meet in a single elimination format on the opening day of the tournament, followed by traditional double-elimination play Wednesday-Friday. The tournament will return to single elimination play on Saturday. Seventeen total games will be played throughout the tournament.

Catch the best college baseball teams in the country compete for the chance to make history. This family-friendly event features the free SEC FanFest which includes a Ferris wheel, sports bar, entertainment and interactive games.

May 25-26 | Point Mallard Park

The Alabama Jubilee Hot-Air Balloon Festival is the oldest hot-air balloon race in the mid-South. It started in Decatur, Alabama in 1978. The Jubilee is one of the largest hot air balloon gatherings in the Southeast, and draws about 60 pilots from 20 states for two days of competition during the annual Memorial Day holiday weekend.

More than 60 hot air balloons participate in races, key grab, tether rides and a balloon glow. Enjoy arts and crafts, food vendors, an antique car and tractor show, musical entertainment, children's activities, and more.

Admission and parking for the Alabama Jubilee Hot Air Balloon Festival are free.