Weekly roundup
Hey Parents! 👋
July is winding down, but Huntsville isn’t. This weekend has a splash pad party for the littles, nature art on the mountain, free ukulele lessons at Lowe Mill, and Shakespeare under the garden sky to cap it all off. Summer’s final stretch deserves a good sendoff. Let’s go make some memories!
Friday, July 24 | 1 PM - 3 PM
Splish Splash Bash 2026
Brahan Springs Park
When the summer sun is blazing, the Splish Splash Bash offers the perfect midday escape for preschoolers. Huntsville Parks & Recreation invites families with children ages 3-5 to enjoy an afternoon of water play at the Everybody Can Play Splash Pad, where kids can run through fountains and cool off while parents relax nearby. The Everybody Can Play Splash Pad is designed with accessibility in mind, making it welcoming for children of all abilities. Parents should plan to stay with their children throughout the event, as adult supervision is required for all participants.
What to expect: The event adds special touches to regular splash pad fun, including popsicles to beat the heat, simple crafts to spark creativity, and upbeat music to keep the energy flowing.
Perfect for: Ages 3-5
Pro tip: Bring towels, sunscreen, and a change of clothes for your little ones. Water shoes can help protect tender feet on warm surfaces.
Cost: FREE!
Saturday, July 25 | 11 AM - 3 PM
Makers on the Mountain: Flower and Leaf Rubbings
Burritt on the Mountain
This hands-on workshop invites young artists to transform Burritt's natural beauty into take-home art. Kids will explore the historic park's grounds, collecting leaves and flowers, then learn techniques for making botanical prints and rubbings that capture the intricate details of their finds. It's a perfect blend of nature walk and art project that appeals to creative minds.
What to expect: Plan to spend at least 45 minutes to an hour so kids have time to gather materials and complete their projects.
Perfect for: Ages 5-12
Pro tip: Dress for outdoor exploring in comfortable shoes, and consider bringing a water bottle since you'll be moving between the grounds and the crafting area.
Cost: Free!
Saturday, July 25 | 11 AM
Free Ukulele Classes with Kirk Jones
Lowe Mill
If you've got a budding musician in your household or simply want to try something new together, Kirk Jones's free ukulele classes at the Huntsville Traditional Music Association offer the perfect low-pressure introduction to making music. These beginner-friendly sessions welcome anyone ages 10 and up, whether you're a parent wanting to learn alongside your child or a tween eager to pick up a new skill. Jones focuses on building confidence through essential chords and easy songs, so even complete beginners will walk away feeling like they've accomplished something tangible.
What to expect: You don't need to bring anything—instruments are provided if you don't own a ukulele—though if your child has been asking for one, this is an excellent way to test the waters before making that birthday wish list investment.
Perfect for: Ages 10 and up
Pro tip: Plan to arrive a few minutes early to get settled and pick out an instrument if you're borrowing one
Cost: FREE
Saturday, July 25 | 7:30 PM
Shakespeare in the Garden
Huntsville Botanical Gardens
There's something wonderfully unexpected about watching Shakespeare performed outdoors as the sun sets over Huntsville Botanical Garden. Shakespeare in the Garden returns this summer with UAH's "Huntsville Shakes" presenting rotating productions of two beloved comedies: Much Ado About Nothing and The Taming of the Shrew. With minimalist staging that lets the language and performances shine, these timeless tales of wit, romance, and mistaken identities feel fresh and accessible against the Garden's lush natural backdrop. It's live theater at its most inviting—perfect for introducing kids to the Bard or enjoying a cultured summer evening out as a family.
What to expect: Ticket scanning begins at 6:30
Perfect for: Everyone
Pro tip: Give yourself some time to settle in and grab refreshments from Fern & Feast On-The-Go food trailer or the Garden Bar, which offers both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
Cost: $25-$35
💡 My Weekend Picks
If I had to narrow it down…
Splish Splash Bash - What a great way to cool down with all this insanely hot weather! This one is sure to bring the smiles for everyone!
Flower and Leaf Rubbings - Burritt is always a blast and the kids get to take their creation home with them. While you’re there check out the animals!
Shakespeare in the Garden - There is something magical about classic theatre performed outdoors! It has been a bit since I’ve taken in a play so this will be fun!
That’s it for this week.
📝 Before You Head Out:
Here’s the weekend weather plot twist: Friday is the nice day; low 80s and mostly dry, basically perfect splash pad conditions — while Saturday carries a strong rain chance. If you’ve got tickets to Shakespeare in the Garden, keep an eye on the Garden’s updates in case the weather forces a call. And if Saturday’s plans wash out, the ukulele class at Lowe Mill is free, indoors, and instruments are provided.
If you end up at any of these, come say hi! I’ll be the dad at the splash pad who said “I’m just going to stand at the edge” and is somehow fully soaked within ten minutes.
Happy adventuring,
Ryan 🚀