Annual Events & Festivals

Our community is alive with annual events that celebrate the unique culture and spirit of Auburn-Opelika. From the Opelika Songwriters Festival to Auburn’s beloved Cheers on the Corner, there’s always something happening that brings the community together. These events are perfect opportunities to experience local traditions and meet new friends.

Oysterfest

Saturday, Jan. 24, 2026 | 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.

Mardi Gras Parade & Krewe Krawl

February 14, 2026 | 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. 

War Eagle Run Fest

February 28 - March 1 2026 | 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.

Tea on Thach

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.

Opelika Songwriters Festival

March 26-29, 2026 | 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. 

Food Truck Friday

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.

The Old 280 Boogie

April 18-19, 2026 | 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!

SummerNight Downtown Art Walk

June 5, 2026 | 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.

Burger Wars & Touch-A-Truck

June 6, 2026 | 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.

Cheers on the Corner

July 24, 2026 | 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. 

On the Tracks

September/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. 

Oktoberfest

October | 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. 

Football, Fans and Feathers

Sept-Nov 2025 | 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.

Opelika's Very Merry Christmas

Nov-Dec 2025 | 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.

Hey Day Holiday

Nov-Dec 2025 | 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.