Weekly roundup
Hey Parents! 👋
Fall’s officially knocking, and this weekend’s packed with the good kind of muddy, crafty, planty fun. Friday morning, you can turn over rocks with Kayla in Fagan Creek, then (if you’re feeling festive) craft a five-foot witches’ broom at Lowe Mill. Saturday’s for loading the wagon at the Botanical Garden Fall Plant Sale, and Sunday wraps with folk tunes scattered across Burritt’s Historic Park. Pack the water bottles and let’s go!
Friday, September 25 | 9 AM
Creekin' with Kayla at Monte Sano Nature Preserve
Monte Sano (Cleermont Trailhead)
There's something magical about turning over rocks in a shallow creek to see what's living underneath, and that's exactly what families will do during this guided creek exploration at Monte Sano Nature Preserve. Led by Educator Naturalist Kayla Wilson, this hands-on adventure invites children and their adults to wade into Fagan Creek to discover the small creatures that make their home in the water. It's a chance to learn about Alabama's aquatic ecosystem while getting genuinely muddy — the kind of outdoor experience that reminds kids (and parents) why creek stomping never gets old
What to expect: The morning will be spent in the shaded stream, so sun exposure shouldn't be a concern.
Perfect for: Best suited for children ages 6 and up; younger siblings are welcome to join the fun.
Pro tip: Come prepared for a proper creek adventure: everyone should wear shoes and clothes that can get wet and muddy. Water shoes or old sneakers work well
Cost: FREE!
Friday, September 25 | 1 PM
The Bewitching Hour Witches’ Broom Workshop
Lowe Mill Studios - Studio 116
Families looking to add a handmade touch to their Halloween celebrations will find pure magic at this witches' broom workshop at Lowe Mill. Participants get to transform a full five-foot rustic birch broom into a personalized Halloween decoration using an array of ribbons, florals, charms, feathers, and seasonal embellishments. Whether your family's style leans whimsical, gothic, vintage, or classically spooky, you'll craft a broom that reflects your unique vision. The workshop welcomes crafters with no previous experience, providing step-by-step guidance in a friendly, creative environment where mistakes are part of the fun.
What to expect: The finished brooms make impressive porch decorations, costume accessories, or statement pieces for your home's seasonal décor. They're substantial enough to greet trick-or-treaters with style or serve as a conversation-starting centerpiece throughout October.
Perfect for: Families, kids ages 5-14 who can work alongside adults, making it an ideal mother-daughter, grandmother-grandchild, or family friend outing
Pro tip: Space is extremely limited with only three seats available, so families interested in securing their spot should register early
Cost: $95
Saturday, September 26 | 8 AM - 4 PM
Fall Plant Sale · Public Sale
Huntsville Botanical Gardens
The Huntsville Botanical Garden's Fall Plant Sale opens its greenhouses to families looking to add some green to their yards and homes. This seasonal fundraiser brings together an impressive selection of trees, shrubs, perennials, native plants, herbs, fruits, and houseplants—many propagated directly from the Garden's own collections. While parents browse the inventory, kids can spot interesting varieties and help choose new additions for the family garden. The knowledgeable staff and volunteers are ready to answer questions about what thrives in North Alabama soil, making this a learning experience for curious young gardeners alongside their plant-shopping parents.
What to expect: The sale happens rain or shine on mixed terrain, including gravel paths, so sturdy shoes are recommended for everyone
Perfect for: All plant lovers!
Pro tip: Families should bring their own wagons or carts if possible, as the Garden's supply is limited during busy morning hours. The venue accepts credit and debit cards only, and all plants are sold first-come, first-served while supplies last.
Cost: FREE!!!
Sunday, September 27 | 12 - 4 PM
Music on the Mountain 2026
Burritt on the Mountain
Music on the Mountain invites families to step back in time and experience the joy of old-fashioned music-making at one of Huntsville's most beloved historic sites. As you wander through Burritt's Historic Park, you'll encounter musicians scattered throughout the grounds, sharing traditional tunes and folk favorites that have been passed down through generations. It's a wonderfully relaxed way to celebrate Huntsville Music Month while exploring the mountain's beautiful trails and historic buildings.
What to expect: Families can drop in for an hour or settle in for the afternoon—many visitors pack a picnic lunch and make a full day of it.
Perfect for: This is an ideal outing for families with children of all ages, from toddlers who'll enjoy the open spaces and gentle melodies to older kids interested in traditional instruments and Huntsville's musical heritage.
Pro tip: Consider bringing a blanket to spread out on the lawn, and don't forget sunscreen and water bottles for a comfortable afternoon on the mountain.
Cost: Check the Burritt website for ticket information
💡 My Weekend Picks
If I had to narrow it down…
Creekin' with Kayla at Monte Sano - Who doesn’t love a little wind down in the creek? This will be a great opportunity to learn about some amazing creatures!
Fall Plant Sale - Fall is here, and it is the perfect time to spruce up the florals inside and outside! I’m pumped to shop some ideas to decorate the front porch for Fall!
The Bewitching Hour Witches’ Broom Workshop - I expect to have so much whimsical fun with this one! This should be the perfect addition to my Fall decor an hopefully I can leave it on the porch and not feel the need to test drive it around town. (HeHeHe!!!)
That’s it for this week.
📝 Before You Head Out:
Friday’s creek stomp is free… wear shoes and clothes that can get wet and muddy (water shoes or old sneakers). The witches’ broom workshop is $95 with only three seats, so register now if you want in. Saturday’s plant sale is rain-or-shine on gravel paths; bring your own wagon if you can, and cards only. Sunday at Burritt is drop-in afternoon vibes… blanket, sunscreen, and water bottles make a full day easy.
Know about something we missed? Hit reply and tell me. If you end up creekin’ or hauling plants to the car, come say hi! I’ll be the dad pretending the wagon is for plants… while the little one negotiates if she can ride in it.
Happy adventuring,
Ryan 🚀