Weekly roundup
Hey Rocket City Parents! đź‘‹
October is here, and you know what that means—cooler weather, pumpkin everything, and the perfect excuse to get the family out exploring! I've been checking out all the happenings around Huntsville this first weekend of October, and let me tell you, there's something for everyone.
Whether your kids are into music, arts, international culture, or (my personal favorite) rockets, this weekend is absolutely packed with amazing opportunities to make some memories!
Friday, October 3 | 5:30 PM – 3:30 AM
🎵 Tangled String Music and Arts Festival
Big Spring Park, Downtown Huntsville
Kicking off the weekend with some serious artsy vibes! This one runs late (hello, date night potential once the kids are in bed?), but the earlier hours are perfect for families.
What to expect: Live bands, interactive art installations, food trucks, and children's craft booths
Perfect for: Families who love music and hands-on creativity
Pro tip: Get there early for the best food truck options and less crowded craft stations
Cost: FREE!
Saturday, October 4 | 2:00 PM – 9:00 PM
🎪 The Madison Street Festival
Downtown Madison
Madison always throws fantastic community events, and this street festival is no exception!
What to expect: Live music, artisan vendors, food trucks, plus a dedicated kids’ zone with face painting, inflatables, and sidewalk chalk art
Perfect for: Families who want a classic festival
Why I'm excited: The kids' zone means parents can actually browse the vendors without constant "I'm bored!" complaints
Cost: FREE!
Saturday, October 4 | 8:00 AM
đźš´ Tour de Ville 2025
Begins at Campus No. 805, Huntsville
This is perfect for those early-bird families! Community bike rides are such a great way to explore downtown.
What to expect: Multiple route lengths to choose from, rides through historic downtown Huntsville, plus a post-ride gathering with snacks and kid-friendly activities
Perfect for: Active families who love biking together
Pro tip: Multiple route options mean you can pick what works best for your kids' skill levels
Cost: $20/adult; $10/child (12 and under)
Saturday, October 4 | 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
🌍 Annual International Festival of North Alabama (iFest 2025)
Jaycee Community Building (2180 Airport Rd NE, Huntsville)
Living in Huntsville means living in one of the most internationally diverse communities in Alabama. This festival celebrates that beautifully!
What to expect: International foods, crafts from around the world, live cultural performances, and engaging children's activities
Perfect for: Families who want their kids to experience different cultures
Why I love this: It's an amazing way to teach kids about the world without leaving Huntsville
Cost: Free admission; food and craft costs vary
Saturday, October 4 | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
🚀 Huntsville Area Rocketry Association Open House
GigaParts, Huntsville
Okay, NOW we're talking! As a Rocket City parent, how can you resist this?
What to expect: Hands-on rocketry exhibits, live demonstrations, and beginner workshops designed specifically for young rocket enthusiasts
Perfect for: Future rocket scientists and engineers (or any kid who likes things that go "whoosh!")
Why I'm pumped: This is exactly the kind of STEM experience that makes living in Huntsville so special
Cost: FREE!
đź’ˇ My Weekend Picks
If I had to narrow it down…
Tangled String Music and Arts Festival - Because who doesn’t love live music? But we will probably call it a night a lot sooner to put the little one down.
Huntsville Area Rocketry Association Open House - Because honestly, how often do your kids get hands-on rocket experience with actual experts? This is Rocket City gold!
That’s it for this week.
đź“ť Quick Reminders
Weather watch: October weather can be unpredictable—bring layers!
Early birds win: Several events start bright and early (Tour de Ville at 8 AM!), so set those alarms
Free fun: Three of these events are completely FREE, and two more are super affordable
Plan ahead: Saturday is packed! You might want to pick 2-3 and leave some breathing room
Have an amazing weekend exploring everything October has to offer! I'd love to hear which events you check out—drop me a line and let me know how it goes!
Happy exploring,
Ryan 🚀
P.S. See an event I missed for next weekend? Send it my way so I can include it in next week's newsletter!