Believe it or not, Tuscaloosa doesn’t shut down when football season ends. In fact, the summer season is one of the best times to visit T-town, as it’s packed full of fun events and festivals for the whole family to enjoy. You can jam to live music, celebrate the local culture, shop local businesses til’ you drop, and even more. Best of all, WestGate’s prime location and pristine luxury make it the perfect home base for every summer event!
Here are the top 2024 summer events to savor this year in Tuscaloosa.
Live at the Plaza
If you like live music, you won’t want to miss the Live at the Plaza free summer concert series. Every Friday in May and June from 6pm to 9pm, head to the five-acre Government Plaza park to enjoy live performances from some of the best musical talent in Tuscaloosa. Be sure to bring a blanket or folding chair and your whole concert crew for an evening of music, kids activities, food trucks and fun.
Tuscaloosa Kids Triathlon
May 11, 2024
Lake Lurleen State Park
This fast-paced fundraiser gets our local kids on the move in a fun triathlon that promotes healthy living and supports local charities. Children ages 5-16 are invited to swim, bike, and run in support of Secret Meals for Hungry Children, a local nonprofit that strives to end childhood food insecurity by discreetly providing weekend meal packets to children in Alabama and Northwest Florida. Races are beginner-friendly, helmets are provided, and everyone gets a medal. Registration is $35.
Kentuck Art Night
June 6, July 4, August 1
Kentuck Art Center
Kentuck Art Nights are held on the first Thursday of each month at Kentuck Art Center in Northport. These fun family festivals include exhibition openings, live music in the courtyard, studio tours, pop-up shops from local vendors, kids’ crafts and more. Each event is free and open to the public.
Celebrate Local
June 11, 2024
The Tuscaloosa River Market
The 8th annual Celebrate Local event showcases some of the best local, independently-owned businesses in the area. From 11am to 7pm, shop and sample your way through artisanal goods and exhibitions from dozens of West Alabama businesses and artists, from jewelry, crafts and clothing to food, baked goods, service demonstrations, gifts and other delights. Visitors will receive a tote bag at the entrance that you can fill with free giveaway items from participating booths.
Tuscaloosa Restaurant Week
June 23-26, 2024
Government Plaza
Calling all foodies! Tuscaloosa Restaurant Week is your chance to savor and sample your way through some of the city’s most iconic and award-winning eateries. From famous BBQ pits and traditional diners to fusion food trucks and international tastes, there’s a flavor for everyone among our rich dining scene. During Tuscaloosa Restaurant Week, you’ll have the chance to enjoy a tasty trek of featured flavors over six delicious days. Participating eateries will offer unique items or special discounts on their most popular orders beginning Sunday and continuing through Saturday.
Celebration on The River
July 4, 2024
Tuscaloosa Amphitheater
Celebration on the River is the city’s annual Independence Day party, and it’s a true birthday bash for the USA. This free, family-friendly event at the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater includes kids’ activities, live music from the Tuscaloosa Symphony Orchestra, and a 9pm fireworks show over the Black Warrior River.
