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12 Events to Put On Your 2024 Bucket List in Auburn-Opelika

Get ready to make 2024 memorable in Auburn-Opelika! Our community is set to host a spectacular lineup of events that promise unforgettable experiences and cherished memories. From festivals to parades, live music, and local art, this carefully curated list is your passport to the best our region has to offer. Whether you're a local looking for new adventures or a visitor seeking the essence of Auburn-Opelika, join us as we countdown the top 12 must-attend events that will shape your year. Let the anticipation begin, and let's make this year one for the books!

Mardi Gras Parade and Krewe Krawl

February 10 | Downtown Auburn

Get ready to let the good times roll as The Krewe De Tigris bring the spirit of Mardi Gras to the heart of downtown Auburn! Join us for a festive experience that captures the essence of this beloved tradition. In conjunction with the Mardi Gras parade, the Auburn Downtown Merchants Association will host the 5th annual Krewe Krawl. The Krewe Krawl will feature exclusive discounts and specials only to those who purchase a wristband. The Krawl will start at 11 a.m. and will take place all day. Enjoy specials, live music, the parade at 3 p.m., and more at this entertainment district event.

Bring your friends, family, and your best Mardi Gras spirit – it's time to revel in the joy and excitement of our downtown Auburn Mardi Gras Parade.

War Eagle Run Fest

February 18 | Auburn

Get ready to lace up your running shoes for the thrill of a lifetime at the third annual War Eagle Run Fest on February 18! Feel the rush as you kick off this spectacular event right from the iconic Jordan-Hare Stadium. Whether you're a seasoned half marathoner, a spirited 5K enthusiast, or have little ones eager to dash in the kids' 1-mile run, there's a run for everyone.

Mark your calendars, rally your friends and family, and join us for the War Eagle Run Fest—an exhilarating celebration of fitness, community, and pure Auburn fun. On your mark, get set, and let the good times run!

Opelika On Tap

April 6 | Downtown Opelika

On Tap will feature over 30 craft breweries from across the country. All tickets include up to 50 beer tastings and a souvenir Opelika Main Street On Tap beer glass. Proceeds from the event will go to support Opelika Main Street, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and enhancing Historic Downtown Opelika.

Spring Boogie

April 19 & 20 | Standard Deluxe

See what all the hype is about at the 11th annual Spring Boogie on April 19 & 20! Hundreds flock to the small town of Waverly, Alabama (located just outside of Auburn) for this funky music festival that takes place twice a year. The home of the heralded Spring Boogie, the Standard Deluxe, looks exactly like the kind of place where communities gather to have a good time.

Opelika Songwriters Festival

May 16-19 | Downtown Opelika

Over the past four years, the Opelika Songwriters Festival has attracted die-hard live music fans from around the Southeast to hear original songwriters spanning many genres of music perform their songs. Restaurants, bars, a distillery, and an Inn in historic downtown Opelika become music listening rooms for two nights and a third day for over 40 singer-songwriters who come from all over the country to perform over 80 shows throughout the weekend of May 16-19.

SummerNight Downtown Art Walk

June 7 | Downtown Auburn

The SummerNight Downtown Art Walk is an arts festival that transforms downtown Auburn into its very own art district, featuring the work of local and regional artists, live musicians, street performers, great food, and children's activities. Each year, the Auburn Arts Association, City of Auburn, Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center (JDCAC), and Auburn Downtown Merchants Association host this event to highlight the many talented artists in our community in addition to promoting our unique downtown area.

Burger Wars & Touch-A-Truck

June 8 | Downtown Opelika

Burger Wars returns to downtown Opelika for its 10th annual grilling competition, welcoming all levels of grillers to showcase their skills. The event supports the Opelika Rotary Charitable Foundation, aiding the Food Bank of East Alabama Backpack program. If you're more into tasting than grilling, $2.00 tickets let you sample ¼ of a burger at any of the 30+ grilling stations. Arrive early at 10:45 for the best chance at trying all the burgers.

Touch A Truck is an event where vehicles of all types will line the street of downtown Opelika at this fun family event. Kids of all ages can come and explore military vehicles, race cars, dump trucks, and more. Admission is free, and visitors are encouraged to touch and go inside the vehicles.

Cheers on the Corner

July 26 | Downtown Auburn

Cool off this summer at Cheers on the Corner, an annual taste of downtown Auburn on Friday, July 26 from 6 - 10 p.m. During this sips and bites trail, guests will be provided a small pour of wine or bubbles paired with a savory bite from restaurants like The Hound, Acre, Draft House, and more. You will also receive a complimentary souvenir glass. There will also be a Best Small Bite and Best Sips contest where you get to vote for your favorite!

Oktoberfest

October 11-12 | Ag Heritage Park

AU Oktoberfest began in 2008 and has grown to be one of the largest beer festivals in the Southeast. There is live music, contests, educational presentations, stein hoisting, and food trucks, along with a multitude of breweries and beer. AU Oktoberfest hosts some of the best breweries in the country. Check out this growing list to see if your favorite is already registered! Homebrewers from central Alabama will be competing for your vote to name them the best. Come try brews from more than a dozen homebrewers. From the crowd-favorite Stein hoisting competition to wiener dog races, Mr. And Miss Oktoberfest competition, and more, there’s something for everyone at Oktoberfest!

On The Tracks

October 18 | Downtown Opelika

The annual "On the Tracks" wine trail event is in downtown Opelika. The streets of downtown Opelika will be filled with live music, a photo booth, caricature drawings, and wine trail stops featuring a diverse array of wine samples. Food trucks will be featured at the event, as well as late night shopping at local retail spots! They will also have a corporate tent area where a few businesses will be set up and have information and a few raffles.This event is hosted by Opelika Main Street.

Hey Day Holiday

Mid November - January | Hey Day Market Greenspace

It's time to gather your loved ones, bundle up, and immerse yourselves in all things merry and bright! Join on the Greenspace outside of Hey Day Market for a fun and festive winter season every day from 12:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. from November 15th to January 11th. They are bringing the most magical of holiday festivities to Auburn with a 24 ft Christmas Tree and an ice skating rink on our expansive Greenspace. This event will be fun and festive and open for all to enjoy during the winter season!

Opelika's Very Merry Christmas

December | Downtown Opelika

Our downtown turns into a magical Christmas destination each year. With beautiful decorations, tons of twinkling lights and unlimited events, you can find something for everyone in your family. There are plenty of places for you to take great selfies or family photos during the holidays. Please come enjoy our Christmas, Nov. 25 – Jan. 3. We hope you will visit, take photos and tag us with #MyOpelikaChristmas. In Opelika, it’s a Very Merry Christmas year after year.