Crafts, Fishing, Tractors, History, Rodeo and More – Tourism

The 2013 tourism year started in Athens-Limestone County with an outstanding crowd at the first Cruise-In and Athens Cars & Bikes on the Square. Singing on the Square and Earth Day Celebration and Outdoor EXPO had to be moved inside. Belle Chevre Cheese opened in downtown Elkmont and 1818 Farms in Mooresville had their first Sheep Shearing Party. From The Year of Alabama Food to Agri-tourism, it’s all in our communities.

May brings lots of fun and exciting events. We’ll kick off the events with the Athens State University Homecoming Weekend, May 3 & 4. The festivities for Homecoming Weekend will coincide with Geezerfest III (self-titled reunion of 1965-1975 Greeks). Contact 256-233-8185.

34th Annual Athens Bible School Homespun, May 3 & 4, craft show is adding a charity 5k race and a car show to the family-fun weekend. The starting gun of The Homespun Wheels and Deals Charity 5K Run will fire at 8:00 a.m. on May 4. “Smoking’ Chief BBQ will sell baby back ribs, whole Boston butts, and plate lunches on Saturday of Homespun. This show is the perfect place to buy those special handmade gifts and beautiful plants. Contact: 256-232-3525.

Ardmore Lions Club Tractor Pull will be May 3 & 4 at 7 PM on Friday and 6 PM on Saturday. The Ardmore Lions Club presents the Mid-South Sanctioned Tractor and Truck Pull that will be held at the John Barnes City Park, 30515 Ardmore Ridge Rd., Ardmore, TN. Gates open Friday Night at 7pm and Saturday Night at 6pm. Admission: $10, 6 and under FREE. Contact Mike Magnusson at 256-468- 4950.

Relay for Life-Limestone County, May 3 & 4 from 7:00 PM – 7:00 AM. This year we are “Saving the World, One Cure at a Time.” Opening Ceremonies will be May 3 at 7:00 PM Athens SportsPlex on Hwy 31. Closing Ceremonies will be May 4 at 7:00 AM. Contact Ina Holland at ina4relay@gmail.com or 256-777-5396.

Athens Cruise In on the Square will be May 4 at 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM. Bring your antique vehicle and family and make it a family night. Contact Tom at 256-457-9179.

2nd Annual Relay for Life Fishing Tournament, May 4, will be at Ingalls Harbor on Wheeler Lake in Decatur. There is a guaranteed $4,500 payout with cash prizes for first through 10th place. The Athens Gas Department’s grilling team will provide lunch to registered boaters. For more information call Anna Leigh Peacock at 256-656-2463 and Heather Rouse at 256-497-6737.

The Living History Festival will be May 11 at 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM at the Donnell House. The Festival features a working Confederate & Federal Encampment by the SCV, a strolling minstrel and a reenactment of a crucial turning point at the Donnell House with Federal troops which impacted Limestone County. Step back in time as history comes alive as period characters give a glimpse of civilian life amid the turmoil of the war. There will also be cannon firings throughout the day and long rifle demonstrations. Fun activities are planned for the kids including enlisting in the Donnell House Regiment, physical examinations prior to being accepted for “rifle training” and more. Contact 256-434-0441 or 256-232-5411.

Limestone Sheriff Rodeo Parade will be May 11. Lineup begins at 1:00 PM at the Rodeo Arena. Parade begins at 2:00 PM. For more information contact 256-232-0111, limestonesheriff.com.

Limestone Sheriff’s Rodeo Street Dance will be May 14 downtown Athens.
Contact: 256-232-0111, limestonesheriff.com. Free.

Singing on the Square sponsored by Champion Chevrolet will be May 17 at 6:00 PM. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy the free concert featuring Just Down the Road. Contact: 256-232-5411. Free.

31st Annual Limestone Sheriff’s Rodeo will be May 17 & 18 at the Rodeo arena. Gates open 6:00 p.m. Coronation of Miss Limestone Sheriff’s Rodeo during intermission. Contact: 256-232-0111.

Annual Historic Mooresville Walking Tour will be May 17 & 18. There will be workshops, home tours, concerts and picnic supper on Friday. Reservations and fees apply to some events. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 6-12, under 6 free. All funds will be used to support the preservation of historic Mooresville. Streets will be closed to traffic with free parking available at the front of town. Contact www.mooresvilleal.com/walking-tour.

Visit the Athens Visitors Center located at 100 Beaty Street North for information on the above events and other events and attractions in Athens-Limestone County or call 256-232-5411 or 256-867-1438.
By: Jeanette Dunnavant Jones, President, Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association