Free in Decatur: Annual Family Fun Events

Decatur, a small town in northern Alabama, has a number of free things to do year round. It also has special free family friendly events that make it worth a visit The  annual free outdoor Christian music and worship event, SoulStock, expanded to 2 days in 2012. The next SoutStock is set for May 17-18, 2013

The 4th annual Cotton Pickin’ BBQ Cook-off returns May 18, 2013. Explore and shop in the historic downtown area while pros and amateurs smoke it out.

The Daikin Festival celebrates Japanese heritage and culture. The festival includes free food and drinks, from yakisoba to cotton candy, free parking and free shuttle service will be provided to the fairgrounds from Decatur Mall and Austin High School.  Live entertainment includes Japanese music and Taiko Drums, along with rock. The 19^th annual Daikin Festival is scheduled for May 24, 2013.

The 35^th annual Alabama Jubilee Hot-Air Balloon Classic, held Memorial Day weekend, includes colorful, giant balloons, live music, and family fun. Enjoy competitive races between hot-air balloonists, tethered rides, live entertainment, an IDOL competition, a military tribute, an evening “balloomination” and a fireworks show at Point Mallard Park in Decatur.  May 25-26, 2013.

Free Events at local Farmer’s Market. In May, July, and August, the Decatur-Morgan County Farmer’s Market offers free events celebrating the arrival of strawberries, tomatoes, corn, and watermelon.  Sample strawberries and strawberry shortcake on Strawberry Day, May 4, 2013. Corn Day returns July 13, 2013, with free samples of freshly boiled corn on the cob. Enjoy free tomato sandwiches on Tomato Day, August 3, 2013 and free slices of America’s favorite summertime fruit during the annual Watermelon Day, August 17, 2013.

Eva Frontier Days. A greased pig chase, frog jumping contest, and toe tapping music take center stage at the annual Eva Frontier Days.  The 25th annual free old-fashioned fun for the entire family, runs September 14 to September 22, 2013. Additional activities include a beauty pageant, bluegrass music, hayride, street dance, and Antique Tractor Show and Car Show, a Best Dressed Contest, pig calling contest, games for children, and a baking contest.