A Newcomer’s Guide to Tailgating in Alabama

New to the South? You’ve likely noticed college football is kind of a big deal around here! You’ve also probably seen or heard people talk about the great football tradition of tailgating before or during games. Tailgating used to mean just hanging around a pickup truck, but it has grown and evolved into something much more exciting.

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National Farmer’s Market Week: Shop Fresh and Local

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:

  1. Fresher Produce: Unlike supermarket produce, which often travels long distances, farmer’s markets offer fresh-picked fruits and veggies grown right inside your community. Whether you’re craving juicy tomatoes, crisp greens, or perfectly ripe berries, locally grown is the way to go for the best flavor and freshness.
  2. Supports Local Economy: When you shop at your local farmer’s market, you help farmers and artisans grow. Your dollars stay within the community and work to sustain small-scale agriculture and local businesses.
  3. Connecting With Community: Farmer’s markets foster connections between consumers and producers. You can chat with the farmers about their growing methods, learn new recipes from vendors, and maybe make a few new friends.
  4. Environmental Benefits: Buying locally reduces the carbon footprint associated with transporting food long distances. It promotes sustainable practices and helps preserve farmland in your area.

Ways to Celebrate:

  • Visit a Local Market: Find a farmer’s market near you and explore its offerings. You might discover heirloom varieties of vegetables, artisanal cheeses, homemade jams, or handcrafted goods!
  • Try Something New: Challenge yourself to cook a meal entirely sourced from the farmer’s market. Experiment with seasonal ingredients and enjoy the difference in taste and quality.
  • Spread the Word: Share your farmer’s market experiences on social media using #FarmersMarketWeek. Be sure to tag your neighborhood market while you’re at it!

Eat Fresh in the River Region

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!


Millbrook

Barber Berry Farm

2362 Alabama River Parkway

June- October Only

Pick your own blueberries, muscadines, and persimmons at this local berry farm!

Ingram’s Farmer’s Market and Garden Center

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!

Millbrook Farmer’s Market

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!

Montgomery

The Farmer’s Market at Eastchase

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.

Prattville

Kendrick Farm Market

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!

Prattville Farmer’s Market

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!

Wetumpka

Oakview Farms

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!

Wetumpka Farmer’s Market

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.

Weekend Getaway

Whether you are on a girl’s or guys trip, a solo traveler looking to relax or a couple’s trip looking for a fun place that’s close by, Montgomery has a little something for everyone!


5 Indoor Family Activities to Enjoy this Winter

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:

1. Skate at Eastdale Mall

The Roller Palace at Eastdale Mall is an indoor skating rink perfect for any weather!

2. Play Indoors at an Adventure Park

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!

3. Get Creative at MMFA

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts frequently hosts free art classes for families and is a great way to get creative and try something new!

4. Catch a Show at a Theater

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)

5. Learn Something New at the Mann Museum

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!

Holiday Family Fun in the River Region

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.

Montgomery

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!

Santa at Eastchase

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!

Christmas on the Riverfront

Riverfront Park | December 5

Experience the enchantment of live music, ice skating, and special appearances by Santa, Cindy Lou, and the Grinch!

The Living Christmas Tree

First Baptist Church Montgomery | December 8- 10

This annual tradition aims to bring Christmas to life while sharing the gospel with the community.

Prattville

Christmas Tree Lighting

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!

Ice Skating on Autauga Creek

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.

Prattville Christmas Parade

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!

Main Street Christmas

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!

Wetumpka

Downtown Dickens Christmas

Downtown Wetumpka | December 2

Step back in time for one night only to experience a charming old-fashioned Christmas on the streets of Wetumpka!

Christmas on the Coosa

Main Street, Downtown Wetumpka | December 9

Christmas on the Coosa is packed with holiday meet and greets, shopping, live entertainment, and more!

Nearby

Safari of Lights

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!

Safari Wonderland

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!