Alabama is a state full of surprises, offering something for everyone — from colorful Mardi Gras parades along the Gulf Coast to quiet stretches of protected land for hiking, fishing, and horseback riding. Each week, communities across the state come together to celebrate heritage, art, and the outdoors: world-class dance and theatre performances, local quilt shows, curated supper clubs, and outdoor recreation all invite residents and visitors alike to connect, explore, and experience the best of Alabama’s culture and natural beauty. Here’s what’s happening across the state this week.
Mardi Gras Events Across the Gulf Coast
February 16–17 | Mobile, Fairhope, Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
(Mobile Mardi Gras/Contributed)
Mardi Gras reaches its grand finale along Alabama’s coast, where tradition, pageantry, and community take center stage. In Mobile, widely celebrated as the birthplace of Mardi Gras in the United States, Lundi Gras begins Monday morning with the arrival of King Felix III at Cooper Riverside Park, followed by a full lineup of parades rolling through downtown. Mystic societies, marching bands, and generations of families line the streets in a celebration that feels both historic and deeply personal.
On Fat Tuesday, the festivities continue from morning through evening, culminating in the iconic Order of Myths parade. For a full schedule of Mobile parade times and routes, click here.
Across the bay, Fairhope’s Order of Mystic Magnolias rolls Monday evening, while Gulf Shores hosts its parade Tuesday morning at 10 a.m., followed by Orange Beach at 2 p.m. From moon pies to masked riders, the Gulf Coast closes out Carnival season in unforgettable fashion.
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
February 17 | Auburn
(Alvin Ailey/Facebook)
The internationally acclaimed Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater takes the stage at the Woltosz Theatre at 7 p.m.
Founded in 1958 by Alvin Ailey, the company has performed in more than 70 countries and is recognized as a vital cultural ambassador. Forged during the civil rights movement, the company was established to uplift the African American experience while transcending boundaries through movement. Audiences can expect technical brilliance, emotional storytelling, and works that continue to shape the future of modern dance.
Rent at the Virginia Samford Theatre
February 19–22 | Birmingham
(Virginia Samford Theatre/Facebook)
The groundbreaking rock musical Rent opens this week at the Virginia Samford Theatre. Evening performances take place Thursday and Friday at 7:30 p.m., with matinees Saturday and Sunday at 2:30 p.m.
Written by Jonathan Larson, Rent chronicles a year in the lives of young artists navigating love, loss, and ambition in New York City’s East Village. With unforgettable songs like “Seasons of Love,” the production pulses with urgency while celebrating resilience, community, and hope.
Fanfare Quilt Show
February 20–21 | Huntsville
(Heritage Quilters of Huntsville/Facebook)
The Heritage Quilters of Huntsville present the annual Fanfare Quilt Show at the Von Braun Center East Hall.
A cornerstone of Huntsville’s arts scene since 1987, the show features more than 225 quilts in a judged exhibition, along with demonstrations, vendors, and special displays. This year’s Red, White and Blue exhibit honors the nation’s 250th birthday, highlighting quilting as both an art form and a living tradition passed down through generations.
Dollhouse: A Supper Club Experience
February 20 | Birmingham
(Randall Porter/Contributed)
An intimate, curated dining experience unfolds at Magnolia Point at 7 p.m. Dollhouse, curated by Randall Porter, is designed around thoughtful details — from the guest list to the ambiance. The evening includes a four-course chef-curated menu, a custom cocktail, unlimited wine and beer, live jazz, and a photo booth.
The experience blends food, storytelling, and connection — and it’s an event you won’t want to miss. Tickets are available here.
Lunar New Year Kite Festival
February 21 | Montgomery
(National Kite Festival/Facebook)
ALIEEP hosts a Lunar New Year Kite Festival from 1 to 4 p.m. in Montgomery, inviting the community to celebrate new beginnings with multicultural snacks, art, games, and a spirited kite competition. This event will bring together cultural organizations and businesses to provide diverse and enriching experiences for community members.
Participants can compete for prizes recognizing the highest flying kite, the longest time in the sky, and the most creative design. It’s a colorful, family-friendly afternoon designed to lift both kites and spirits.
Open Trails and Fishing at the Wehle Tract
February 21 | Midway
On Saturday, February 21, the Forever Wild Wehle Tract will open for hiking, horseback riding, and fishing from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Fishing is allowed in the Nature Center Pond, Blue Heron Lake, and Wood Duck Lake during Open Trails and Fishing weekends, offering visitors a peaceful way to experience the land and water.
Located in Midway, the Forever Wild Wehle Tract spans 1,505 acres of rolling pine hills and hardwood bottoms in Bullock County. Recreational opportunities abound across the property, where visitors can camp, fish, hike, horseback ride, and observe wildlife. Canoe usage on Blue Heron Lake is available upon request, and hunting opportunities exist on the Barbour Wildlife Management Area portion of the tract.
Whether through cultural performances, community gatherings, or engagement with Alabama’s natural landscapes, this week’s events offer residents and visitors alike an opportunity to participate in the state’s rich social, artistic, and environmental fabric.
Want more stories like this? Join our newsletter for more stories rooted in Alabama, delivered to your inbox every Friday.
