Can’t Miss Alabama offers the best of the South: Barbecue, lake fun and funky music
When summer gets this close, Alabamians are ready to hit the water, and festival season hits high gear. A waterside setting is a major element in some of this weekend's festivals. (Contributed)
This edition of Can’t Miss Alabama takes you on a tour of festivals across the state.
Don’t miss the Logan Martin LakeFest in Pell City May 20-21
You’ll feel like summer is here when you stop by the Logan Martin LakeFest at Lakeside Park in Pell City. Enjoy the scenic beauty of Lake Logan Martin, as well as live music, lifestyle vendors, a fireworks show, giveaways and an in-water Boat Show on May 20-21. Attend free from noon to 9 p.m. on Friday and from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday.
Blues and soul singer Lauren Mitchell is among the acts at this year’s Bob Sykes Blues Festival. (Contributed)
Get out to the Bob Sykes Barbecue and Blues Festival in Bessemer May 21
Come out for good times and great barbecue at Sykes Barbecue Festival in downtown Bessemer on May 21.
Hear award-winning national and local blues musicians perform from noon to 8 p.m., with gates opening at 11 a.m. The festival is a great family event at DeBardeleben Park, with lots of activities for everyone.
A portion of festival proceeds go to Clay House Children’s Center for abused and neglected children.
Get down with top groups at the Birmingham Funk Fest May 21
Listen to some great musical acts at the Funk Fest from 3 to 11 p.m. at Legion Field in Birmingham. The lineup includes New Edition, Guy, Silk, SOS Band and more.
New Edition is bringing the hits to this year’s Funk Fest at Legion Field. (Contributed)
General admission tickets are $40 per person for upper-level stadium seating. Call Xorbia Tickets at 1-877-350-7404 to charge by phone. The event will be held rain or shine at the stadium at 400 Graymont Ave. West.
Go to the Rhododendron Festival in Mentone May 21-22
A bonfire and delicious food is always a great start to the Rhododendron Festival. The event highlights the best of Mentone, with mountain music, draft demonstrations, arts, children’s games and activities, a heritage farmstead and a “Taste of Mentone.” Attend from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Honor our military at the Blue Star Salute Celebration in Mobile May 21
On Saturday, attend Armed Forces Day and honor Alabamians who serve and those lost in military service to our country. Held at the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, the Blue Star Salute Celebration begins at 10 a.m. and includes a Rolling Thunder motorcycle procession, buffalo soldiers, flyovers, the laying of the memorial wreath, flag ceremonies, live entertainment and children’s activities. For details, call 251-865-4741.
Double up with two riverfront festivals in Montgomery May 20-21
On Friday and Saturday, the tunes will flow from the Union Station Train Shed and Riverfront Amphitheater as 11 bands hit two stages for the free River Jam Music Festival. Music starts at 6 p.m. Friday and 5:30 p.m. Saturday.
Meanwhile, Friday’s Riverbend Brewfest, beginning at 6 p.m., is also conveniently located at the Train Shed, with a variety of craft beers from local to international for $25. Call 334-625-2100 for more information on both festivals.
