By: Cayce Lee
Summer has arrived and getting outside for sun and fun with our events in Athens-Limestone, Alabama will keep you busy. July is seeing more and more events being scheduled with social distancing practices in place, and below is just a few highlights of what’s happening. And if you want the details for any event – head over to VisitAthensAL.com and check out our calendars under Events or stop by the Athens-Limestone Visitors Center at 100 North Beaty Street in Athens.
Patriotic Fun fills Athens-Limestone…
Citizens near and far can enjoy a variety of patriotic-themed events, including painting classes, boat parties, and firework shows. The big-bang Red, White & Boom Firework show in Athens will be July 4th near the Athens Football Stadium starting after dark and is provided by the Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association, City of Athens, and the Limestone County Commission. Musical simulcast for the display will be available from Outlaw 105.1. Learn about all the fireworks event, where to park, social distancing requirements, and more at VisitAthensAL.com/red-white-and-boom—july-4.html
The annual Elk River Boat Only Party returns to Anderson Creek on July 4 at the Jackson Camp/Pier (just north of the Elk River Bridge approximately 3,000-5,000 feet on the west shore) with live music from Kosmic Mama from 3-7:00 p.m. with host Mike and Bridgett Jackson. The Bay Village Firework Show will follow the Elk River Boat Party after darkness has fallen at Lucy’s Branch Marina (providing the privately-organized firework show’s GoFundMe is successful in helping fund the barge-based display.
Some changes to Patriotic Happenings…
The J.J. Brindley Rock the Dock Boat Only Party will be later in the month on July 18 in the cove past the Elk River on the northern shore of Wheeler Lake. The Vietnam Veterans Spaghetti Lunch and Dinner has returned with a take-out-only offering on July 20. Cost is $8. The July Cruise-In on the Square has moved from July 4 to July 11. Central Church of Christ will not be hosting its annual 4th of July gathering during the fireworks show. Blanche Freedom Festival has canceled for 2020 as well. Joe Wheeler State Park’s annual 4th of July activities are canceled for 2020 too.
Fun Outside…
In Mooresville, 1818 Farms is bursting with blooms and will be offering several opportunities to participate in a bloom stroll and bouquet workshop that includes meeting some of the furry residents on July 7 and 9. Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful and Tennessee Valley Authority are offering free guided walking tours of Marbut Bend in Salem, AL – space is limited for each tour with RSVP available through Eventbrite. Enjoy fresh produce, locally-produced goods, activities for the family and live music at Athens Saturday Markets each Saturday 8 a.m.-noon under the Green Street Pavilion in downtown Athens. Redstone Harley-Davidson in Greenbrier is playing host to a variety of motorcycle rides, including fundraisers for kids’ sports, cancer and other local charities.
Music and more…
The Summer Concert Series: Singing on the Square hosted by Athens-Limestone Tourism will take over the Marion Street steps of the Limestone County Courthouse on July 17 to round out the activities of Fridays After Five hosted by Athens Main Street. Both activities will happen in Athens’ new Square Entertainment District, which allows open-air enjoyment of alcohol within the designated boundaries of the district in specially designated cups.
Many of Athens-Limestone’s music venues are back to booking live bands or hosting karaoke. For the most up-to-date information on who’s performing where – visit the events calendar at VisitAthensAL.com.
Looking To Escape…
Are you looking to get out into nature for a break from your four walls? Wondering about what there is to explore in Athens-Limestone’s backyard? Get ready to discover our trails, attractions, antique shops, farmers markets and roadside stands, disc golf courses, and other hidden gems in our ever expanding collection in our new “Plan Your Trip” section of our website where you’ll find a variety of themed topics to help you get out and explore the people, places, and spaces of Athens-Limestone Alabama.
By: Cayce Lee
Social Media Specialist, Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association
