Don't you just love it when your local festival comes to town? Sure, musical entertainment and handmade crafts are huge highlights of any festival, but let's be honest with ourselves. The delicious, and not-so-healthy, food is the main attraction of any festival. Funnel cakes anyone?
Alabama is fortunate to host a variety of festivals. Listed below are nine upcoming festivals in Alabama that are well known for their amazing food.
If you're a fan of gumbo, the Gumbo Gala is a festival you don't want to miss. Here, guests will get to sample gumbo from as many as 60 cook teams. If you have children, they can spend time in the kid zone on jump houses while you're walking around and sampling the delicious gumbo. You'll also be able to vote for your favorite gumbo/team. The Gumbo Gala will take place at Regions Field on April 23, 2016.
For the best strawberries and produce in North Alabama, you'll want to attend the Cullman Strawberry Festival. In addition to delicious fresh strawberries, people from all over come for the outstanding music, classic car show, amazing craft shows and numerous food vendors. The Cullman Strawberry Festival will take place May 6, 2016 to May 7, 2016.
3. Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival - Foley, AL
The Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival will feature more than 30 hot air balloonists from across the country. Guests will get to enjoy fun and free entertainment while watching these balloons light up the night sky. If you plan to attend this festival, don't forget to grab yourself a delicious BBQ plate or some delicious homemade ice cream. The Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival will take place May 6, 2016 to May 7, 2016.
At the Orange Beach Wine Festival (Waves of Wine), guests will have access to more than 120 wines. For those who aren't wine lovers, craft beer will also be available. Wine is of course the main reason for this annual festival. However, there will be delicious food from several distinguished local restaurants, including Cobalt, Cosmos, Sunset Corkroom and Rouses Fresh Mart. The Orange Beach Wine Festival (Waves of Wine) will take place on May 14, 2016.
On May 21, 2016, the 7th annual Bob Sykes BBQ & Blues Festival will be held in DeBardeleben Park. At this annual festival, guests will get to enjoy the music of local and national blues musicians, in addition to sampling Bob Sykes barbecue. Tickets to this event can be purchased at Bob Sykes Bar-B-Q, 1724 Ninth Ave North, Bessemer, or online at bobsykesblues.com.
If you're a fan of fried foods, then drop what you're doing right now and make plans to attend the Athens Grease Festival. At this annual festival, attendees will enjoy a variety of fried foods such as fish, okra, Twinkies, Oreos and Snickers bars. For an even more unique experience, attendees can dress in a toga if they so desire. The Athens Grease Festival will take place in downtown Athens on June 11, 2016.
At the Sweet Tater Festival, guests will get to enjoy many different types of arts and crafts, in addition to a car show and wonderful music. There will be a variety of foods sold at this event, including many that are made from fresh sweet potatoes. This family-friendly festival is one that shouldn't be missed. The Sweet Tater Festival will take place at Smith Lake from September 3, 2016 to September 5, 2016.
At the upcoming 45th Annual National Shrimp Festival, guests will get to enjoy fresh-from-the-gulf seafood. This popular festival lasts four days and attracts more than 300,000 people. Besides numerous musical acts, food is also a major highlight of the festival. At this year's National Shrimp Festival, 50 local and regional vendors will be offering a variety of mouth-watering delights. An estimated 200 pounds of shrimp will be prepared per day by some of the area's best chefs. The 45th Annual National Shrimp Festival will take place from October 13, 2016 to October 16, 2016.
Each fall, the National Peanut Festival is held in Dothan, Alabama - "Peanut Capital of the World." This annual festival is a ten-day event and attracts more than 150,000 people each year. The festival's different types of activities include carnival rides, animal attractions, concerts, livestock shows and a parade. Guests will also enjoy sampling different types of fair food, in addition to every type of peanut imaginable. The National Peanut Festival will take place at the fairgrounds from November 4, 2016 to November 13, 2016.
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Do you plan to attend any of these upcoming festivals? Does your town host an annual festival? What other Alabama festivals can be added to this list?
Are you a fan of trains in Alabama? We’ve got a real treat for you: a visit to Derailed Diner is an absolute must! When you think of a train restaurant, your mind probably goes to eating on a moving train that offers railcar dining. But Derailed Diner is something else entirely. Located in Robertsdale, this diner is part of the Oasis Travel Center and is open 24/7. It’s one of the most unique restaurants in Alabama, and if you love themed restaurants, you won’t want to miss it. You’ll definitely want to hop on board this unique train restaurant in Alabama as soon as you can.
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Eating at a truck stop doesn't always sound appealing, but this is one eatery that is far more exciting (and unique) than you'd expect.
After all, you don't get the opportunity to dine in a train restaurant like this one very often! This "train restaurant near me" in Alabama will make you feel like a kid again. After all, it's one of the most family-friendly restaurants in Robertsdale.
Once you step inside, you'll see what a unique experience this is.
Guests have the option of eating inside the main dining area which is decorated from floor to ceiling with a transportation theme. Or, visitors can step inside the full-size train car and eat there!
This is one of our favorite family-friendly restaurants in Robertsdale, Alabama, because no matter your age, the idea of eating inside a train is a blast.
This is a tailgating experience we'll bet you've never had before!
Derailed Diner in Robertsdale, Alabama, doesn't rest on the laurels of its fun atmosphere alone. The food is just as incredible as the environment, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Everything is prepared fresh from scratch. From buttermilk pancakes to stuffed biscuits, chicken fried steak to grilled country ham, there's a little something for everyone at Derailed Diner. The portions are huge and the prices can't be beaten. In fact, if you love breakfast, you may enjoy some of the best breakfast in Robertsdale at Derailed Diner.
Be sure to save room for the delicious fudge, or better yet, the Derailed Diner's famous pecan pie cheesecake!
It's been included in Alabama Tourism's guide to "100 Dishes to Eat In Alabama Before You Die," and it's as divine as it sounds.
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Whether you're a kid or a kid at heart, you'll love a visit to this unique place that's probably the only train restaurant in Alabama. It's truly "a little off the beaten track." For more information, follow Derailed Diner on Facebook.
If you thought dining inside of a train was unique, just wait until you see this restaurant in Alabama. Also, while you’re traveling through the state, here are some more fun things to do in Alabama.
If you need a place to stay during a visit to Robertsdale, Alabama, take a look at this Tiny Cabin Farm Stay and make a reservation on Airbnb.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
