Annual Events & Festivals

January | Oysterfest brings fresh oysters and live music to Plaza Bar & Lounge for a full day of food and entertainment. Guests can enjoy oysters served raw or grilled, live performances throughout the day, games, and prize raffles, with shuckin’ starting at noon and events continuing into the evening.

February | The Opelika Book Festival brings readers and writers together for a celebration of books, storytelling and literary culture. Enjoy author appearances, workshops, book signings and opportunities to connect with fellow book lovers.

February/March | Get ready to let the good times roll as The Krewe De Tigris brings 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. 

February/March | Get ready to lace up your running shoes for the thrill of a lifetime at the fourth annual War Eagle Run Fest on February 23! Feel the rush as you kick off this spectacular event right from the iconic Jordan-Hare Stadium.

Select Sundays, monthly | Tea on Thach at 1856 - Culinary Residence offers an elevated high tea experience with specialty teas from Thrive Farmers and chef-crafted bites, creating a relaxed yet refined afternoon in Auburn.

Most Months | Food Truck Friday is a free community event featuring local food trucks, live music, and vendors in downtown Opelika. Hosted by the Opelika Chamber, it’s the perfect way to enjoy a fun, flavorful night on Courthouse Square.

March | Over the past five 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. 

April | The beloved annual event, the Old 280 Boogie is coming back! Every year, hundreds of music lovers gather in the charming town of Waverly, Alabama (just outside of Auburn) for this vibrant festival where the rhythm and energy are as infectious as the atmosphere itself!

June | 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.

June | Burger Wars returns to downtown Opelika for itsannual 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.

July | Cool off this summer at Cheers on the Corner, a yearly experience in downtown Auburn. 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. 

October | 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. 

Home Game Fridays in the Fall | Discover the thrill of seeing hawks, falcons, eagles, and other majestic birds soar overhead at Football, Fans and Feathers, Auburn’s exciting fall raptor show held on game day weekends at the Auburn University Raptor Center.

Nov-Dec | 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.

Nov-Dec | 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 2025 to January 2026.