A Newcomer’s Guide to Tailgating in Alabama

As the end of Summer approaches, there’s no better time to celebrate the abundance of fresh produce and local goods than during National Farmer’s Market Week! This annual celebration is observed across the United States and shines a spotlight on the vital role that local farmer’s markets play in our community.
Your neighborhood farmer’s market isn’t just a place to buy groceries—it’s a home for farmers, artisans, and neighbors to come together and support the community. From August 4th to August 10th, be sure to stop by and show some love to your local farmer’s market.
Why Farmer’s Markets Matter:
Ways to Celebrate:
Spring is in the air and what better way to enjoy the warmer weather than with a trip to a Spring Market? The River Region is home to many Farmer’s Markets that allow you to take advantage of the delicious and healthy harvests from our local farms. Here is a list of everything you need to know to shop local and eat fresh this season!
2362 Alabama River Parkway
June- October Only
Pick your own blueberries, muscadines, and persimmons at this local berry farm!
3740 Magnolia Dr.
Open Monday- Friday, 10 a.m.- 6 p.m.
Saturdays, 9 a.m.- 5 p.m.
Year Round
This locally owned market sells smoked meats, plants, fruits & vegetables, ice cream, and even has a gift shop!
3199 Main St. (Village Green Park)
Open Tuesdays, 7 a.m.- Noon
May- August Only
Local farmers line up in Village Green Park every Tuesday in the summer to sell produce, fresh eggs, and more!
7274 Eastchase Parkway
Open Saturdays, 7 a.m.- 12 p.m.
May- August Only
Saturday mornings at Eastchase are a one-stop shop for homemade goods and locally grown produce.
1665 Hwy 31 N.
Open Monday- Friday, 9 a.m.- 7 p.m.
Saturdays, 10 a.m.- 7 p.m.
Year Round
This Farm Market sells baked goods, candy, produce, and more!
332 Doster Rd.
Open Saturdays, 7 a.m.- Noon
June- August Only
Shop local produce and other goodies at Prattville Farmer’s Market this Summer. Also, keep an eye out for their seasonal pop-up markets during cooler months!
1388 Price Rd.
Open Thursday- Saturday, 9 a.m.- 4 p.m.
Year Round
Oakview farms is your stop for local raw honey and fresh berries!
304 East Coosa St.
Open Thursdays, 4 p.m.- 7 p.m.
May- August Only
This weekly Market features dozens of local vendors and makers and is the perfect place to find unique, one-of-a-kind gifts.
Christmas break is nearly here! While we know the holidays are usually filled with joy and excitement, you may find yourself going a little stir-crazy in the upcoming weeks. If you’re looking for some fun ways to keep the kids entertained and get out of the house, we’ve got you covered! Check out some of our favorite family activities to help overcome that winter slump in any weather:
The Roller Palace at Eastdale Mall is an indoor skating rink perfect for any weather!
Indoor play parks like Newtopia Fun Park and trampoline parks like Launch and Sky Zone, are the perfect opportunity for kids (and adults) to get moving and unleash that pent-up energy!
Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts frequently hosts free art classes for families and is a great way to get creative and try something new!
Check out The Alabama Shakespeare Festival or Pike Road Theatre Company for a fun performance the whole family is sure to love! (Note: While most shows are suitable for a general audience, be sure to check the maturity rating before purchasing tickets)
Don’t let the cold stop you! The Mann Museum at Montgomery Zoo offers a fascinating indoor learning experience that families are sure to love!
The River Region truly comes alive during the holiday season, offering plenty of family-friendly activities to create lasting memories for you and your loved ones. From dazzling light displays to visits with Santa Claus, the River Region has something for everyone to celebrate the true spirit of Christmas. Whether you’re a newcomer to the area or a longtime resident, you’re sure to find your new favorite holiday tradition this year.
Christmas Lights Festival at the Montgomery Zoo
Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Museum | December 1- 25
See the Montgomery Zoo transformed into a Winter Wonderland of thousands of twinkling lights and festive decorations!
The Shoppes at Eastchase | December 2 & 5
Santa is making his annual stop at Eastchase for Brunch on December 2nd and Bedtime Stories on December 5th! Don’t miss this fun holiday tradition that is sure to delight the whole family!
Riverfront Park | December 5
Experience the enchantment of live music, ice skating, and special appearances by Santa, Cindy Lou, and the Grinch!
First Baptist Church Montgomery | December 8- 10
This annual tradition aims to bring Christmas to life while sharing the gospel with the community.
Spillway Park, Downtown Prattville | November 30
Prattville’s Annual Christmas Tree Lighting features music, snow, and a visit from Santa while the city celebrates the lighting of its 35-foot Christmas tree and holiday display on Autauga Creek Dam!
Spillway Park, Downtown Prattville | November 30- December 31
Lace up your skates and glide into winter with the City of Prattville as they open their Ice Skating Rink in Spillway Park.
Historic Downtown Prattville | December 8
Lights, marching bands, dancers, candy, beads, and trinkets will be abundant as the parade travels through downtown Prattville, with the appearance of the jolly old elf himself!
Historic Downtown Prattville | December 12
Shop with local small businesses for the perfect Christmas gift and then enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides, carolers, hot chocolate and cookies, children’s make-and-take art projects, dancers, music, and more, plus a visit from Santa!
Downtown Wetumpka | December 2
Step back in time for one night only to experience a charming old-fashioned Christmas on the streets of Wetumpka!
Main Street, Downtown Wetumpka | December 9
Christmas on the Coosa is packed with holiday meet and greets, shopping, live entertainment, and more!
Alabama Safari Park, Hope Hull | December 9- 24
Enjoy the beauty of the Safari Park at night as you drive through thousands of sparkling lights!
Alabama Safari Park, Hope Hull | December 16- 17
Visit Santa, wander down the Candy Cane Trail, and explore the Safari Park as it is transformed into a Winter Wonderland at the inaugural Safari Wonderland Christmas Festival!