There is nothing like music, fun and fellowship on an early summer night in Pell City’s historic downtown or taking a stroll through Lakeside Park, browsing booth after booth of creative works by noted artists from around the corner and around the state at the Artscapes Festival. You can take your child fishing at the Catfish Rodeo or bundle up and head downtown for the city’s Christmas Parade. They all are part of annual events that make this a special place for the entire family.
Hometown Block Party is an outdoor musical festival featuring bands and singing groups on stages strategically placed around the courthouse and city hall square. Held the first Friday evening in June, the fun kicks off at 5 p.m. and goes well into the night, offering an array of food, vendors, rides and games for the kids and music to suit any taste — country, bluegrass, Motown, rock ‘n roll, Gospel and so much more. There is no charge for admission.
Artscapes Festival brings out the art and the art lovers in an exhibit, show and sale of art in all kinds of mediums. From wood carving and turning to paintings, from pottery to jewelry, this festival continues to grow in popularity. Held against the backdrop of Logan Martin Lake in Lakeside Park, it’s more than just an artshow, it’s an event that keeps you coming back for more.
Kids’ Catfish Rodeo draws hundreds of children and their parents to Lakeside Park on the Saturday after Hometown Block Party. More than 1,500 pounds of catfish are deposited in a netted area of the lake, enhancing children’s chances of not letting the ‘big one’ get away. It, too, is a free event designed to promote fishing and offer an event the whole family can enjoy.
The Christmas Parade that makes its way through downtown Pell City and beyond each year is a sight to behold. Floats, bands, convertibles, the antics of the Shriners and Jolly Old Saint Nick himself are part of the festivities as Pell City rings in the season in early December. Thousands of visitors line the streets each year to get a glimpse of the lights, the pageantry and the spirit of Christmas that abounds in what has become one of the region’s largest parades.
Fourth of July Fireworks in Pell City aren’t just any fireworks display. This spectacular show lights up the summer sky over Logan Martin Lake, attracting tens of thousands of people by boat, by car and truck and on foot to see one of the best fireworks displays in the state. Sponsored by the city of Pell City, it is one of the most anticipated events of the year, drawing visitors from near and far to celebrate our country’s independence in an extra special way.
