• July 20, 2018 to July 29, 2018
• FLORENCE, AL

Named for W.C. Handy, known locally as the "Father of the Blues, the festival brings music lovers of all ages together for a 10-day celebration and the pleasure of hearing over 100 artists. The celebration also features athletic competitions, art shows and various exhibits along with numerous traditional cuisine offerings.

• August 20th-26th, 2018
• Theatre District, Downtown Birmingham in BIRMINGHAM, AL

This annual film festival takes place in the historic Theatre District at seven different venues and brings together independent filmmakers who showcase their work and diverse, passionate filmgoers who descend on the city to experience true Southern hospitality. The two groups have the opportunity to fraternize with one another as they move from one film to another and during meals, field trips and parties.

• October 4 - 6, 2018
• Athens State University, Athens in ATHENS, AL

Fiddlers come from all over the country every year to this North Alabama town to compete in 18 different categories for the coveted trophy and prize money. Children compete in separate categories. The winner is awarded the title "Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddle Champion."

• October 11-14, 2018
• GULF SHORES, AL

Hundreds of thousands flock to the picturesque Alabama gulf beaches in the middle of October for three days of entertainment, competition and great food. Activities include sand sculptures, foot races, arts and crafts displays and kid orientated fun.

• The festival is permanently housed in the Carolyn Blount Theatre
• Carolyn Blount Theatre, Montgomery in MONTGOMERY, AL

Shakespeare Theater, housed in the Carolyn Blount Theatre, presents Shakespeare's plays year- round to people from all around the United States as well as from other countries. 400,000 performances of Shakespeare's plays are presented each year along with other genres, often emphasizing Southern playwrights.