Does anything say springtime better than cherry blossoms? Select Traveler 2014 blasts off for Huntsville, Alabama, in the early spring next year, and as a result of later dates for next year’s conference, there’s a very good chance that delegates will enjoy the Rocket City’s resplendent cherry blossoms.
We thought it might be interesting to take a look at some of the spring events that highlight Huntsville’s warm Southern hospitality. This is a city that loves to get outside when the weather warms up to eat, drink and showcase its arts and culture.
“We have many cherry trees downtown, and I’d say there is a very good chance they’ll be in bloom for the Select Traveler Conference March 30 to April 1,” said Pam Williams, tourism sales manager for the Huntsville Convention and Visitors Bureau. “As a result, I would definitely recommend one of our walking tours downtown for any delegate that has some time. The hotels for the conference are right across from Big Spring International Park and the Huntsville Museum of Art, and our Alabama Constitution Village is about three blocks away. This is a very walkable city.”
Williams suggested the following three events that capture the essence of springtime in Huntsville.
Panoply
It’s all about the arts at this spring event. Downtown in late April, visitors can check out the Alabama Fiddling Competition, explore the city’s Art Marketplace or stroll through a Global Village to immerse themselves in international arts and culture.
“This festival is for any visitor who enjoys the performing arts, visual arts, music, you name it,” said Williams.
www.artshuntsville.org/our-programs/panoply-arts-festival
WhistleStop Weekend
Held in early May, this favorite weekend event features Alabama barbecue and great company on the grounds of the historic Huntsville Depot. Live entertainment, professional and amateur barbecue cooking competitions and the Alabama Corn Hole Championship make this festival a favorite with locals and guests alike.
“This festival is very family-friendly and, in addition to being about great barbecue, is also our largest music festival of the year,” said Williams.
Rocket City Brewfest
In early May, the Rocket City Brewfest is hosted by the Huntsville Chapter of Free the Hops. Entering its fifth flavorful year, the Rocket City Brewfest has become a weekend-long event dedicated to craft beers, one of the country’s hottest culinary trends. Held in the historic Huntsville Depot and Roundhouse, this event gathers the best craft beers around, pairs them with great local food vendors and entertains festival attendees with local and regional musical acts.
“We now have six microbreweries here, and many other craft brewers come from inside and outside Alabama for this festival,” said Williams. “We have lots of great food to go along with the different types of beers.”
Plan to join us for the 2014 Select Traveler Conference in Huntsville as we knock the winter chill off.
