Longer days and warmer weather can only mean one thing: Alabama’s spring event season is in full swing. Across the state, festivals, performances, markets, and community celebrations are bringing people together to enjoy the sunshine and beauty of spring. From downtown streets filled with artists to rodeo arenas and reading festivals, there are plenty of reasons to get out and explore in the week ahead.

Cherry Blossom Festival 
March 21 – Birmingham

The 19th Annual Cherry Blossom Festival returns to the Birmingham Botanical Gardens for a day of cultural performances, hands-on activities, and community connection beneath blooming Sakura trees. Highlights include Taiko drumming, traditional dance, Kendo demonstrations, flute and piano performances, and children’s programming. Visitors of all ages can experience the beauty of the blossoms while celebrating Japanese culture and the joys of spring.

Fairhope Arts and Crafts Festival
March 20–22 – Fairhope

Fairhope’s downtown streets will come alive for the beloved Fairhope Arts and Crafts Festival, celebrating over 70 years of Southern charm. Visitors will enjoy a dazzling array of arts, food, and entertainment as the town’s population swells from 25,000 to nearly 300,000. This year’s theme, “Classic Fairhope in Black and White,” highlights the timeless beauty, intricate details, and rich history of this coastal community. Festival-goers can wander through local art booths, sample culinary delights, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere that has made this one of the Gulf Coast’s most cherished spring traditions.

The Market at MidCity
Sundays – Huntsville

The Market at MidCity returns for its eighth season at 900 Mid City Drive in Huntsville, bringing together nearly 60 local farmers, bakers, and artisans every Sunday from 12:00–4:00 p.m. Guests can browse fresh produce, handmade goods, and specialty items while enjoying live music and family-friendly activities. The Market supports local businesses within a 150-mile radius, fostering community connections and giving visitors a chance to shop directly from regional producers. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a Sunday outing and pick up some spring produce while supporting North Alabama’s local economy.

Birmingham Squadron vs. Maine Celtics
March 16–17 – Birmingham

Basketball fans have one of their last chances to see the Birmingham Squadron in action before the team relocates closer to its NBA parent club, the New Orleans Pelicans. March 16 is Women’s Empowerment Night, and March 17 features a festive St. Patrick’s Day matchup. Fans can cheer on the G-League team while enjoying exciting basketball action at the Legacy Arena, marking the end of an era for Birmingham basketball.

Raptor Shows
March 19 – Huntsville

Be amazed by nature’s most skilled hunters at the Huntsville Botanical Garden with an unforgettable Raptor Show, presented by the Auburn University Raptor Center. Expert handlers will introduce hawks, owls, falcons, and other birds of prey, showcasing their flight skills and natural behaviors. This high-energy, educational experience inspires a deeper connection to Alabama’s wildlife and is perfect for visitors of all ages.

Southeastern Livestock Exposition Rodeo 2026
March 20–22 – Montgomery

The Southeastern Livestock Exposition Rodeo is back with a full schedule of events, from bull riding and barrel racing to family-friendly activities like the Stick Horse Rodeo and Western Festival. All proceeds support youth in Alabama agriculture, including livestock shows, scholarships, FFA programs, 4-H, and more. Attending this rodeo means more than entertainment—it’s a chance to participate in the preservation and growth of Alabama’s next generation of farmers and agricultural leaders.

Bluegrass Revival Festival
March 20–21 – Ashford

Each March, the Bluegrass Revival Festival celebrates authentic rural charm at the Historic Dupree School in Ashford. Bluegrass fans from across the Southeast gather for epic performances by The Tennessee Bluegrass Band, a special showcase of Jimmy Martin’s 1942 Martin guitar, and appearances by fiddlers connected to Bill Monroe’s legendary circle. With RV camping available, families can immerse themselves in a weekend of music, tradition, and community under the wide Alabama skies.

Rocket City Reading Festival
March 21 – Huntsville

Celebrate National Reading Month at the Rocket City Reading Festival, in partnership with the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library and Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library of Alabama. Activities for readers of all ages include book swaps, story hours with local authors, signings, and the HMCPL Bookmobile. Visitors can also enroll in Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library and enjoy programming designed to foster a love of reading and learning in the community.

No matter your interests, this week in Alabama is packed with opportunities to enjoy the season, explore local culture, and make lasting memories with friends and family. From lively festivals and sporting events to music, art, and literary celebrations, there’s truly something for everyone to experience across the state.

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