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Alabama Tax Free Weekend: July 18 – 20, 2025

Posted on by Angie

Alabama’s Tax-Free Weekend is coming: July 18–20, 2025

Back-to-school shopping just got a little easier on your wallet! Alabama’s annual Sales Tax Holiday kicks off at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, July 18 and runs through midnight on Sunday, July 20—giving you a full weekend to stock up on school essentials without paying state sales tax.

This means clothing, school supplies, and tech items that fall within the state’s price limits are tax-free- and yes, that includes diapers too.

-Tax-Free Clothing Items

($100 or less per item)
Whether you’re checking off uniform lists or just updating your kids’ closets, all of these are tax-free during the weekend:

Shirts, pants, jeans, shorts

Dresses, pajamas, robes

Coats, jackets, rain gear

School uniforms

Socks, underwear, hosiery

Gloves, scarves, belts, neckties

Shoes, sandals, boots

And yes—diapers count!

-Computers & Tech

($750 or less, total purchase)
Shopping for school laptops or home tech upgrades? This is the time! These are eligible for the tax break:

Laptops & desktops (must be sold as a complete system)

Monitors, keyboards, speakers (if sold as a package)

Computer software

Printers & printer paper or ink

Flash drives, storage disks

Personal digital assistants or non-cellular schedulers

⚠️ Note: Tech accessories sold separately from a computer package (like individual keyboards or monitors) won’t qualify.

-School Supplies

($50 or less per item)
Grab everything from glue sticks to lunch boxes! These common school list items are included:

Binders, notebooks, folders

Crayons, markers, highlighters, chalk

Pencils, pens, erasers, sharpeners

Rulers, scissors, compasses

Calculators

Art supplies like paper, poster board, paste

Book bags & backpacks

Pencil cases and supply boxes

Index cards and legal pads

Lunch boxes

-Art Supplies

($50 or less per item)
Perfect for little creatives and classroom projects:

Colored pencils, paints, construction paper, and more!

Pro Tips for Parents:
Check with your child’s school for 2025 supply lists in advance.

Make sure to double-check that your city or county is participating—most are, including Birmingham.

Don’t forget to grab extras for later in the school year.

Need more back-to-school resources?
We’ve got events, tips, and shopping guides to help you make the most of the season. Follow @BirminghamMommy on Instagram and Facebook, and check our site for family-friendly things to do around Birmingham while you’re out shopping!

 

Family Road Trips from Birmingham: A Kid-Friendly Weekend in Huntsville

Posted on by Angie

Need a change of scenery that won’t break the bank or your sanity? Load up the car and head to Huntsville! Just a quick hop from Birmingham, the Rocket City is full of epic adventures for kids and grown-ups alike. Rockets? Check. Mountain views? Check. Lots of fun? Oh yeah. Let’s go explore!

Out-of-This-World Adventures

U.S. Space & Rocket Center


You can’t come to the Rocket City without seeing some rockets! Huntsville is home to one of the most iconic space museums in the world. Kids (and adults!) can explore hands-on exhibits, check out real space artifacts, and maybe even chat with someone who helped put people on the Moon. (Keep an eye out for folks in white lab coats with a NASA logo on the back; they’re often retired NASA engineers!) Who knows, maybe you will even spot an astronaut!

Don’t miss the massive Saturn V rocket inside the Davidson Center. It’s one of only three Saturn V rockets left in the world, and standing beneath it is nothing short of awe-inspiri

ng. While you are in the Davidson Center, make your way to the back of the hall to see the Apollo 16 capsule and a Moon rock!

For an unforgettable cosmic journey, head to the INTUITIVE® Planetarium, a state-of-the-art digital dome theater that brings the universe to life. You can’t go wrong with Our Place in Space. You’ll explore the entire solar system with breathtaking new images from missions like Juno and BepiColombo. You’ll fly past solar flares on the Sun, dive into Neptune’s diamond rain, and zoom out to the edge of the observable universe, all with your own guided tour. It’s one of the best ways to experience just how big, beautiful, and mysterious our universe really is.

If you want to take your visit even further, hop on the bus tour to Marshall Space Flight Center for a behind-the-scenes look at where space history was (and still is!) being made. (Just be sure to bring your ID; the bus tour requires a separate ticket and goes onto a working government facility. Bus tour would be better for older kiddos.)

  • Ages: Best for 5+
  • Admission: $30 adults / $20 children (3–12) / Under 3 free (planetarium shows, simulators and bus tours are extra)
  • Hours: Daily, 9 AM – 5 PM
  • Website: www.rocketcenter.com
  • Address: One Tranquility Base Huntsville, AL 35805
    Nearby Eats: Bridge Street Town Centre is extremely close by and has several restaurants to choose from! (And you can stop by the LEGO store while you are there!)

History Comes to Life

EarlyWorks Children’s Museum



It’s all about FUN and learning at EarlyWorks Children’s Museum in downtown Huntsville.. EarlyWorks focuses on letting kids learn through hands-on History and STEM exhibits along with exciting and fun activities.

  • Ages: Ideal for 2–8
  • Admission: $12 for ages 4+, $7 for ages 1-3, free for below 1
  • Hours: Tues–Sat, 9 AM – 4 PM
  • Address: 404 Madison Street SE Huntsville, AL 358

Constitution Hall Park (right across the street from EarlyWorks)
Did you know Alabama’s statehood began right here in Huntsville? Constitution Hall Park marks the exact spot where delegates gathered in 1819 to draft the state’s first constitution.

It’s a peaceful downtown stop where history quite literally runs through the sidewalks (don’t miss astronaut Alan Shepard’s boot prints around back!). Be sure to swing in nearby Piper & Leaf Tea Co. location while you are there for the perfect iced tea guaranteed to quench your thirst.

Mountain Views, Gardens & Outdoor Fun

 

Burritt on the Mountain

Perched atop Monte Sano, Burritt offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into life in the 1800s complete with log cabins, barns, farm animals, gardens, a blacksmith shop and costumed interpreters. Be sure to explore Dr. Burritt’s mansion and explore some of the hiking trails!

  • Ages: All ages
  • Admission: $12 adults / $8 kids (3–12) / Under 3 free
  • Hours: Tues–Sun, 10 AM – 4 PM
  • Address: 3101 Burritt Drive SE Huntsville, AL 35801
  • Website: https://burrittonthemountain.com/

 

Huntsville Botanical Garden


This sprawling garden is perfect for families—kids can explore the interactive Children’s Garden, splash in the water play area during warm months, and wander trails filled with seasonal blooms. The garden also hosts fun events year-round, including scarecrow trails and Galaxy of Lights. Be sure to check out the Mama Zelda troll and maze!

  • Ages: All ages
  • Admission: $17–$20 adults / $11–$15 children (3–15) / Under 3 free
  • Hours: Daily, typically 9 AM – 5 PM (extended hours in summer or for special events)
  • Address: 4747 Bob Wallace Avenue
 Huntsville, AL 35805
  • Website: https://hsvbg.org/

Big Spring International Park


Located downtown, this scenic park is perfect for a stroll, duck feeding, or a picnic. Kids will love the iconic red bridge and the koi-filled lagoon.
Pro Tip: Park here and walk to Constitution Hall Park, EarlyWorks, and nearby shops. Also, make sure you grab some quarters to get food for the ducks and fish!

  • Address: 200 Church St SW, Huntsville, AL 35801

Where to Eat with Kids

Sam & Greg’s Pizzeria
This downtown gem has pizza, gelato, and a rooftop patio. It’s casual, family-friendly, and right near Big Spring Park.

Supper Heroes
Kids will love the superhero theme, and the food is hearty and homemade. A fun stop after your mountain adventures.

Stovehouse
A local favorite for families, Stovehouse offers a wide range of food options all in one place, from tacos and burgers to gourmet grilled cheese. The outdoor seating area includes a green space where kids can run and play while you relax.
Bonus Stop: Don’t miss the Milkshake Bar for a fun treat after your meal!
Pro Tip: Many kid-friendly restaurants in Huntsville offer outdoor seating, so if the weather’s nice, take advantage!

Bonus Stops

Hays Nature Preserve & Playground: Free, peaceful nature trails and a natural playground

Address: 7153 Hwy 431 S. Owens Cross Roads, Huntsville, AL 35763
Website: https://www.rocketcitymom.com/blog/2021/03/03/hays-nature-preserve/

Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment: Family-friendly arts center with frequent events, galleries, and fun snack spots

Address: 2211 Seminole Dr SW Huntsville, AL 35805
Website: https://lowemill.art/

Monte Sano State Park: Hiking, biking, and views—perfect for nature-loving families

Address: 5105 Nolen Ave. Huntsville, AL 35801
Website: https://www.alapark.com/parks/monte-sano-state-park

Final Tips

Bring sunscreen and refillable water bottles
Check out the Rocket City Kids Pass for discounts on some of Huntsville’s attractions and museums! https://www.huntsville.org/rocket-city-kids-pass/

Many attractions are close together—group visits by area to maximize your time

Be sure to follow Rocket City Mom for more Huntsville adventures! Feel free to send us a message or comment on one of our posts if you have any questions!

Whether you’re coming for the rockets, the mountains, or the memories, Huntsville is ready to welcome your crew.

Rocket City Mom info:
Website: www.rocketcitymom.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rocketcitymom/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rocketcitymom/

4th of July Fireworks & Events Around Birmingham, AL

Posted on by Elizabeth Cleland

Looking for the best 4th of July celebrations in Birmingham, Alabama? Whether you’re into big firework shows, hometown parades, or family-friendly festivals, we’ve rounded up the top events happening in and around the Birmingham area for Independence Day 2025.

🎉 Chelsea Park Independence Day Bash

📍 Parkmont Park | June 21st | 5:30–7:30 PM
Celebrate early with face painting, balloon animals, live music, and more. A great family event in a neighborhood setting.

🎉 I Love America Day – Gardendale

📍 Bill Noble Park | June 26th | 6:00–9:00 PM
Gardendale’s biggest summer celebration is back with fireworks, live music, games, and food! Thousands are expected to attend — bring your lawn chairs and enjoy an evening of patriotic fun.

🇺🇸 I Love America Night – Vestavia Hills

📍 Wald Park | June 26th | Starts at 6:00 PM
A Vestavia tradition! Enjoy live music, kid-friendly activities, and a movie in the park to kick off the holiday season.

🚂 Stars & Stripes Train Ride – Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum

📍 Calera | June 28th | 10:00 AM & 1:00 PM rides
Enjoy a patriotic-themed train ride. Active military and veterans ride free with a paid passenger.

🎇 ChelseaFest & The Big Kaboom

📍 Chelsea Corners Way | June 28th | Starts at 6:00 PM
Celebrate big with The City of Chelsea! Kick off the night with the Yankee Doodle Dandy Children’s Bike Parade, followed by inflatables, face painting, live music, food trucks, and family fun. Bring your blankets for a picnic-style evening — capped off with a fireworks show you don’t want to miss.

🍔 Alabaster Fireworks Celebration

📍 Thompson High School | July 2nd | Starts at 6:00 PM
Enjoy food trucks, bounce houses, games, and fireworks at 9 PM. Great for families and community fun.

⚾ Birmingham Barons Game + Fireworks

📍 Regions Field | July 3rd
Celebrate early with America’s pastime! The Barons host a home game on July 3rd, followed by a family-friendly fireworks show in downtown Birmingham.

🔥 Fire on the Water – Oak Mountain State Park

📍 July 3rd | Gates open at 4:00 PM
Enjoy beach volleyball, kayak rentals, food vendors, and fireworks over the lake starting at 9 PM.
🎟 Admission: $15 per vehicle ($10 for Shelby County residents with ID)

🎶 Hueytown’s Red, White & Boom

📍 Hueytown City Park | July 3rd | 7:00 PM
Face painting, inflatables, crafts, and fireworks make this event fun for all ages.

🎤 Helena Old Town 4th of July Celebration

📍 Helena Amphitheater | July 3rd
Live music under the stars and a free fireworks show to cap off the night. A perfect small-town Independence Day celebration!

🎇 Thunder on the Mountain

📍 Vulcan Park | July 4th | 9:00 PM
Birmingham’s largest and most iconic fireworks show is back! Fireworks launch from Vulcan and can be seen from all over the city. Tune in to local radio stations for synchronized music.

🏛️ American Village Independence Day Celebration

📍 Montevallo | July 4th | 11:00 AM–9:00 PM
More than 50 patriotic-themed activities throughout the day including historical reenactments, games, music, and a fireworks show at 9 PM.
🎟 Admission: $10 adults, $5 kids (ages 5–18), free for kids under 4 and veterans.

🎆 Trussville Freedom Celebration

📍 Trussville Mall | July 4th | Starts at 6:00 PM
This festive evening includes local food vendors, family fun, and fireworks at 9 PM. Held in the Historic Cahaba Project area.

📍 Tip: Many of these events draw big crowds, so arrive early for the best views and parking. Be sure to double-check event pages for weather updates or changes.

140+ Things to do With Kids in Birmingham

Posted on by Elizabeth Cleland

Looking for fun things to do in Birmingham with kids this summer anf beyond? We’ve got you covered! Whether you’re a local or just visiting, this list of 140+ kid-friendly activities in Birmingham will help you fight off boredom and make the most of your family time. From free outings to creative adventures, there’s something for every age, interest, and energy level.

Because let’s be honest… you’re going to hear “Mom, I’m bored” at least once (an hour). Save this list and stay one step ahead.

Where to See Animals

Let the kids go wild (literally)! Whether it’s feeding goats or spotting flamingos, animal encounters are always a hit.

  • Birmingham Zoo
  • Goat Yoga Bham
    Outdoor yoga classes on a farm with certified yoga instructors & adorable baby goats. Additional special events include, Piggy Parties, Piglets and Pilates, puppy yoga and more! Follow them on Facebook to stay up to date with all upcoming events!

Arts and Crafts

  • Artsy Studio- Located in downtown Trussville, Artsy Studio is all about fun, creativity, and self-expression! From kids to adults, they offer open-ended art play that inspires imagination and joy.
  • Art Zone
  • Do it Yourself Crafts
  • Painting with a Twist
  • Pinspiration

Birmingham Landmarks

  • Alabama Theatre – The Alabama Theatre was built in 1927 by Paramount Studios as an Alabama showcase for Paramount films. It was used primarily as a movie palace for 55 years, with the exception of the annual Miss Alabama pageant and the weekly Mickey Mouse Club. The new Alabama Theatre for the Performing Arts hosts many live events, as well as films, a Childrens Summer Film Series and the annual showing of Polar Express
  • Murals – Birmingham has become a hot spot for some really cool murals, spend a day tracking them down and see how many you can see. Follow Murals of Birmingham on Facebook for a list
  • Rickwood Field – America’s oldest baseball park
  • Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark – the only industrial museum in the country that gives visitors the chance to walk around and explore a 20th century blast furnace site.
  • Vulcan Park and Museum- Vulcan is the world’s largest cast iron statue; made of 100,000 pounds of iron and 56 feet tall, he stands at the top of Red Mountain overlooking the city of Birmingham. But Vulcan is more than just a statue—Vulcan Park and Museum features spectacular views of Birmingham, an interactive history museum that examines Vulcan and Birmingham’s story. Make sure to ask for the Scavenger Hunt – the kids will love exploring the grounds to complete the list.

Kid Friendly Breweries (Yes, Really)

These local spots welcome kids with open arms and often have playgrounds, food trucks, and lots of open space.

  • Avondale Brewing
  • Back Forty
  • Brocks Gap Brewing
  • Cahaba Brewing Company
  • Ferus Artisan Ales
  • Good People Brewing Company
  • Monday Night Brewing
  • Oversoul Brewing
  • Trim Tab Brewing

Hiking and Exploring (and camping)

Trade screen time for trail time and burn off that extra energy. Want some trails that are stroller friendly, here are 7 of our favorites

  • Irondale Furnace Ruins Trail
  • Lakeshore Trail
  • Moss Rock Preserve
  • Oak Mountain State Park (camping)
  • Red Mountain Park – Beautiful hiking and biking trails- and Dog Park!
  • Rickwood Caverns State Park
  • Rotary Trail
  • Ruffner Mountain
  • Tannehill State Park (Camping)
  • Turkey Creek Nature Preserve  (Check out our 5 things to know before you go!)
  • Vulcan Trail

Indoor Activities/Play Places

  • Activate Games
  • Altitude Trampoline Park
  • Birmingham Boulders
  • Bowlero
  • Breakout Games
  • Build A Bear Workshop – Riverchase Galleria
  • Carousel – Riverchase Galleria
  • Chuck E Cheese
  • Dave and Busters
  • Hooligans Arcade
  • K1 Speed
  • Let’s Play Birmingham – 2 locations, 280 and Hoover off 150
  • Oak Mountain Lanes Bowling
  • Pelham Ice Skating Rink
  • Putter Up – Opening June, 2025
  • Skates 280
  • Sky Zone
  • Sparetime Bowling – Trussville
  • Trussville Playstation
  • Urban Air, Homewood or Trussville
  • Urban Air Raceway – Homewood
  • Vestavia Bowl

Libraries

Birmingham-area libraries seriously show up for families—especially in the summer. From storytimes and puppet shows to STEM activities, magic shows, and craft days, there’s always something happening. Best part? Most of it is completely free

  • Birmingham Public Library
  • Gardendale Public Library
  • Homewood Public Library
  • Hoover Public Library
  • North Shelby Library
  • O’Neal Public Library
  • Springville Road Library
  • Trussville Library
  • Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest

Movies

  • AMC – Vestavia, Hoover, Summit
  • AmStar Cinemas in Alabaster
  • Grand River Drive – In – Located at the Outlet Shops of Grand River – head out there to see a drive in movie, play mini golf and grab some dinner while watching the kiddos play on the playground while you wait for your movie time.
  • McWane Science Center Imax
  • Premiere  Cinemas
  • Regal Cinemas – Trussville

Museums and Science Centers

  • Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame
  • Alabama Sports Hall of Fame
  • American Village (A little further outside of Birmingham in Montevallo, perfect for a day trip!)
  • Barber Motor Sports- Barber Motorsports hosts dozens of races a year and also happens to be a beautiful course. Make sure to stop by the museum and check out some vintage motorcycles.
  • Birmingham Civil Rights Institute
  • Birmingham Museum of Art – The museum is free to the general public and includes incredible exhibits, including an outdoor sculpture garden and a kids area! Check their calendar for special children’s events.
  • Christenberry Planetarium at Samford University – Schedule a tour for your group or just yourselves through their website
  • McWane Science Center – Changing lives through science and wonder. McWane Science Center combines unique assets to create unique, hands-on, science-learning experiences that parents and teachers value and kids love.
  • Southern Museum of Flight

Outdoor Activities

Swap screen time for trail time with these outdoor adventures that burn energy and make for great family memories.

  • Alabama Adventure/Alabama Splash Adventure
  • Aldridge Gardens
  • Birmingham Botanical Gardens
  • Cahaba River Tubing
  • Central Alabama Paintball Park
  • City Walk Birmingham
  • Flip Side Watersports at Oak Mountain State Park- Inflatable Obstacle Course is settled over the water on Beaver Lake inside Oak Mountain State Park and includes two slides, a tower, a tunnel, a moon jump, a small pyramid, and a wave section. The course changes frequently, so you never get bored!
  • Jones Valley Teaching Farm
  • Local Splash Pads – See our full list HERE
  • Statue of Liberty – Liberty Park
  • The Market at Pepper Place –  every Saturday April – December. Rain or Shine.
  • TopGolf

Parks

  • Avondale Park
  • Bessie Estell Park
  • Buck Creek Park – Alabaster and Helena
  • Byrd Park
  • Cahaba Lily Park
  • Crestline Tot Lot
  • Crestwood Park
  • Explore Park and Splash pad in Hoover
  • Heardmont Park
  • Homewood Central Park
  • Joe Tucker Park
  • Kelly Ingram Park
  • Leeds Memorial Park
  • Linn Park
  • McCallum Park
  • Overton Park
  • Patriot Park – West Homewood
  • Railroad Park
  • Russet Woods Park
  • Veterans Park in Alabaster
  • Veterans Parks in Hoover
  • Wald Park – Vestavia

Shopping

  • Bass Pro Shop
  • Brook Highland Plaza
  • Outlet Shops of Grand River
  • Riverchase Galleria
  • Shops of the Colonnade
  • Summit Shopping Center – make sure to stop by the Churro Station for a tasty treat!
  • The Pinnacle

Sports

From cheering on the Birmingham Barons to catching a UAB game, these teams bring the fun all year long. Check their calendars for themed nights, fireworks, and giveaways!

  • Birmingham Barons
  • Birmingham Bulls Hockey
  • Birmingham Legion Soccer
  • Birmingham Stallions
  • Birmingham Squadron
  • UAB Sports – The men’s basketball program has a long history of success spanning several decades. In addition to basketball, UAB also has programs in men’s sports for baseball, golf, soccer, and tennis. Women’s sports programs include softball, basketball, golf, soccer, bowling, tennis, track and field (indoor and outdoor), cross country, volleyball and sand volleyball

Sweet Treats

  • Bendy’s Cookies & Cream, Cahaba Heights and Trussville
  • Bruster’s Ice Cream
  • Cookie Dough Magic
  • Cookie Fix
  • Edgewood and Mountain Brook Creamery
  • Insomnia Cookies
  • K & J’s Elegant Pastries
  • Milky Way Ice Cream Bar
  • Neighbors – West Homewood
  • The Spun Cow
  • Memory Lane Ice Cream Parlor in Homewood

Theatre

Introduce your kiddos to the magic of the stage!

  • Alabama Theatre
  • Alys Stephens Center
  • Birmingham Children’s Theatre
  • Carver Theatre for the Performing Arts
  • Red Mountain Theatre- Birmingham’s premier professional theatre, known for bringing top-quality performances to the stage year-round. Whether you’re a fan of timeless classics, fresh new works, or beloved family favorites, Red Mountain has something for everyone.
  • Virginia Samford Theatre

Bookmark this list! We update it often, and you never know when a new family-friendly gem will pop up.

Know a spot we missed? Message us or leave a comment!

Follow @BirminghamMommy for even more family fun around the Magic City.

 

Children’s of Alabama Celebrates 114th Birthday

Posted on by Angie

The state’s only freestanding pediatric hospital is celebrating another year of providing hope, healing, and miracles for thousands of families across the Southeast. Children’s of Alabama turns 114 years old on June 17.

“We are celebrating another year of caring for patients and their families,” said Tom Shufflebarger, Children’s of Alabama CEO and President. “We exist today because of the support we receive from the community. For 114 years, our goal has remained the same. We will always be there to help families create healthy communities across the state of Alabama and the Southeast.”

Over the past year, the hospital’s key achievements include more than 680,000 patient visits and more than 16,000 patient admissions. The hospital experienced growth in two key areas: the addition of 11 beds to the inpatient behavioral health center and an additional six beds to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). In addition to these achievements, Dr. Yung Lau was named the new chair of the UAB Department of Pediatrics and Physician in Chief at Children’s of Alabama.

To mark the hospital’s 114th birthday, Children’s will host the 6th annual Celebrate Campaign. We will honor patients, families, community partners, and staff from June 17 to 21.  You can help Children’s celebrate by signing a birthday card, giving a gift, or purchasing a Children’s car tag. You can find information on how to donate on childrensal.org/celebrate.

In addition to celebrating with the community, Children’s held a birthday party today, presented by Chick-fil-A Birmingham. Patients currently in the hospital, their siblings, and employees attended.

” We’re honored to support Children’s of Alabama and be part of the incredible work they do for kids and families across our state. Partnering with the hospital for the Celebrate event is a meaningful way to give back and show our appreciation for the care and hope they provide every single day”, said Nathaniel Humphreville, local Owner-Operator of Chick-fil-A 5 Points.

Family Road Trips from Birmingham: Owa Parks and Resort

Posted on by Angie

Looking for a family getaway with major summer energy? Just a few hours south of Birmingham, OWA Parks & Resort in Foley, Alabama is serving up nonstop fun all Summer long-  and it’s a perfect long weekend trip or mini beach detour!

 

-Tropic Falls (Alabama’s largest indoor water park!) brings the thrills with water slides, a lazy river, and the only indoor waterpark in the U.S. with an attached outdoor wave pool. But that’s just the start…

Here’s what’s happening this July at OWA:

🎆 Fourth of July Weekend Celebration (July 4–6)
Three days of patriotic fun with live entertainment, games, and OWA’s brand new fireworks show on July 5th lighting up the sky over Downtown OWA.

🌺 Luau Tuesdays (Every Tuesday through August 5)
From 5–9PM, enjoy hula dancers, live island music, and tropical vibes the whole family will love.

🎧 Beats Bash Thursdays
Dance it out with live DJs and high-energy fun every Thursday night in Downtown OWA.

💦 H2OWA Fridays
Water-themed parties take over Downtown every Friday — don’t forget towels!

🎤 OWA Live Music Series (July 26)
Free performances by Yeah, Probably, Elise Taylor, and Wes Loper — perfect for families and music lovers alike.

New This Summer

Aura Adventures: Glow-in-the-dark kayaking on OWA’s lake (yes, it’s as cool as it sounds).

Jon Smith Subs: A fresh new spot to grab hot grilled subs and fries — now open in Downtown OWA!

🎭 OWA Theater Events

OWA Theater Showcase Spectacular – July 5

Landslide: A Tribute to Fleetwood Mac – July 11

KISS Army Tribute – July 18

Whether you’re in it for the thrill rides, live shows, water play, or just exploring Downtown OWA — this spot checks all the boxes for a summer family trip.

📍 Located in Foley, AL-  about 4.5 hours from Birmingham
Stay overnight or make it a part of your beach trip itinerary!

Why We Recommend It:

Whether you’re planning a full beach vacation or just looking to shake up your summer with a quick road trip, OWA Parks & Resort packs in all the fun without the stress. From adrenaline-pumping rides and splash-worthy slides at Tropic Falls to glow-kayaking on the lake and laid-back luau vibes in Downtown OWA, there’s something for every age and interest. It’s family-friendly, walkable, and filled with enough entertainment to keep everyone smiling all day long – and did we mention the fireworks? It’s the perfect combo of beach-town charm and amusement park magic.

 

Turkey Creek: 5 Things to Know Before You Go!

Posted on by Angie

Ready to chase waterfalls, splash in a cold creek, and let the kids burn some energy without melting in the summer heat? Turkey Creek is a Birmingham-area favorite for a reason—but before you throw snacks in a bag and hit the road, here are a few things to know to make your visit smooth, safe, and super fun.

1. It’s not open every day
Turkey Creek is open Wednesday through Sunday from 9 AM to 5:30 PM—and closed Mondays, Tuesdays, and major holidays. (hours change seasonal so make sure to check when summer is winding down for updated hours)

2. Admission is free—but don’t ghost the donation box
There’s no charge to visit or park, but dropping a few bucks in the donation box helps preserve the trails, protect endangered wildlife, and keep this natural gem open and clean.

3. Protect those little feet
The rocks in the creek are slippery, and sometimes sharp. Water shoes, grippy sandals, or even snug old sneakers will save the day—and avoid tears mid-adventure.

4. Bring the goods—there’s no snack shack here
Turkey Creek is all nature—no vending machines or food stands. Pack your own snacks, drinks, and maybe even a picnic lunch. Bonus points for remembering a trash bag so you can leave no trace!

5. Weekends = packed. Go early or pick a weekday
This place gets popular fast—especially in summer. If you want a peaceful swim or slide down the rocks, try arriving when the gate opens or visiting midweek if you can swing it.

Bonus Tips:
Over 6 miles of trails: Perfect for hikers, bikers, and even preschoolers with energy to spare.

Wildlife alert: From turtles and butterflies to rare fish and colorful birds—there’s always something cool to spot.

New overflow parking: If you’ve visited in years past and had parking stress, good news—there’s expanded parking near the Highlands trailhead.

Bottom Line:
Turkey Creek is a top-tier, screen-free family day. Bring your water bottles, your patience, and your best nature vibes—and you’ll leave with tired kids and happy memories.

 

Birmingham Area Farmer’s Markets for Summer 2025

Posted on by Elizabeth Cleland

Birmingham Farmers Markets: Where to Shop Local This Season

Are you a fan of fresh, locally sourced produce and artisanal goods? Birmingham is home to a vibrant array of farmers markets that cater to every food lover’s needs. From bustling urban hubs to charming neighborhood setups, Birmingham’s farmers markets offer an unparalleled shopping experience. Read on to discover your next favorite market and support our community’s hardworking farmers and artisans.

   .

Alabama Farmers Market

Located at 344 Finley Avenue, this is the longest-running farmers market in the Birmingham area! More details can be found on their website, including weekly produce and vendor offerings.
Hours: Sunday–Saturday | 6am–7pm

East Lake Farmers Market

This market offers a variety of goods, from fresh fruit and homemade jams to gooey cinnamon rolls and savory cheese straws.
📍 7753 1st Ave S
Hours: Saturday | 8am–12pm

Farmers Market at Brock’s Gap

Featuring made-from-scratch food, local art, and more, this market brings together small businesses each week.
📍 500 Mineral Trace, Suite 100 (Brock’s Gap Brewing Company parking lot)
Hours: Saturday | 8am–12pm

The Market at Pepper Place

With dozens of local vendors, this popular market also offers activities for the whole family and plenty of delicious food options.
📍 Pepper Place
Hours: Saturday | 7am–12pm

Pinson Fresh Farmers Market

Located at 8971 Grand Bay Wilmer Rd, this market features fresh produce, local honey, and handmade art.
Hours: Friday | 2pm–6pm

Ross Bridge Farmers Market

This market hosts a variety of events every Friday, with a new specialty featured each week.
📍 Ross Bridge
Hours: Friday | 4pm–8pm

Trussville Fresh Farmers Market

Located at 101 Beech St in Trussville, this market offers an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables.
Hours: Saturday | 8am–12pm

West Homewood Farmers Market

This community-focused market features local vendors, food trucks, fresh produce, and handmade goods.
📍 160 Oxmoor Rd
Hours: Tuesday | 5pm–8pm

Birdsong Farmers Market

A farmer-run market with an emphasis on organic and sustainably grown produce from local farms.
📍 2824 5th Ave S
Hours: Saturday | 7am–12pm

Please note that hours are subject to change without notice to BirminghamMommy. Be sure to check each market’s official page or social media before heading out- especially if the weather looks iffy!

 

 

Recipe! Campfire Waffle Cones

Posted on by Angie

Let me start by clarifying that there is nothing about me that cooks by campfire, makes fire or even camps but we found this cute dessert circulating the web and decided to try them out ourselves… we used our grill. That’s one of the great things about this recipe, you can actually pop them in the oven, put them on the grill or yes.. even melt them over an actual campfire!

What you need:

Waffle Cones (yes they must be waffle cones, the others don’t work)
Aluminum Foil (we used the non stick)
Toppings of your choice! Anything goes, here are some suggestions:

Marshmallows
Fresh Fruit
Chocolate Chips
White Chocolate Chips
Nuts
Caramel
Favorite Chocolate treat – Rolos, Snickers, Kit Kat, York Peppermint Patty, Reese’s Peanut butter cups.. You get the idea…

What You’ll Do:

Fill Each cone with your choice of toppings, fill it to the tip top
Wrap tightly in Foil (we wrote names on the outside so we didn’t mix them up)
Grill for 7-10 minutes or until toppings are gooey (or bake 350 for 5-7 minutes)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Remove from grill and enjoy!

Some of our favorite combinations were:

Turtle
Chocolate
Caramel Bits
Nuts
Marshmallos

Peanut Butter Banana
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
Banana Slices

S’mores
Marshmallows
Chocolate

Think how fun this would be for a Birthday party treat – set up a bar with all the treats and let each kiddo build their own!

What combination will you make?

 

 

Family Road Trips from Birmingham: Summer at Callaway — A Camp Escape for Every Generation

Posted on by Angie

Looking for a summer getaway that goes beyond your average vacation? Just over two hours from Birmingham, Callaway Resort & Gardens in Pine Mountain, Georgia brings all the nostalgic charm of summer camp — reimagined for the whole family. With hands-on daytime activities, family bonding in the afternoons, and fun-filled evenings under the stars, Summer at Callaway is a multigenerational experience that brings families together like never before.

We know firsthand how special this experience is — BirminghamMommy participated in this camp years ago and had the BEST time. It’s the ideal blend of kids-only fun and adult downtime during the day, then everyone comes together for memory-making in the evenings. If you’re looking for something unique to do this summer, we can’t recommend this enough.

Why Summer at Callaway Works for All Ages:

Whether your kids are building birdhouses, you’re sipping wine and building charcuterie boards, or grandparents are enjoying the peaceful gardens, there’s something for every generation.

Activities for All Ages Include:

  • Nature walks, scavenger hunts, and tie-dye
  • Yoga, smoothie-making, and wellness crafts
  • Birdhouse building, tubing, and outdoor games
  • Wine and charcuterie workshops for adults
  • Family bike rides and glow-in-the-dark games
  • Campfire s’mores, movie nights under the stars, beach dance parties

Every day is built to offer a mix of structured fun and flexible relaxation — so you can do as much (or as little) as you like.

Themed Activity Days:

Mondays: Nature & Discovery
Tie-dye crafts, bug encounters, tubing, and exploring the great outdoors.

Wednesdays: Relaxation & Wellness
Yoga, smoothie-making, self-care crafts, and peaceful vibes.

Fridays: Hawaiian Fridays
Tropical-themed fun with an optional beachfront Luau dinner add-on.

Each session creates opportunities to learn something new, play hard, and enjoy time together as a family.

Daily Schedule Highlights:

Morning Activities: Kids and adults break off into themed programs.

Afternoons: Reconnect with family-friendly events like games, competitions, and nature walks.

Evenings: Join in for campfires, glow games, beach parties, or cozy movie nights under the stars (popcorn bar included!).

All-Inclusive Overnight Packages Include:

Daily themed activities for kids and adults

Lunch for activity participants

Afternoon family-focused fun

Evening entertainment every night

Optional Luau dinner available for separate purchase

Know Before You Go:

-Where: Callaway Resort & Gardens, Pine Mountain, GA
-Distance from Birmingham: Approx. 2 hours and 15 minutes
-When: Select weeks this summer — don’t wait to book!
-Perfect For: Families with kids of all ages, especially those seeking a mix of camp-style fun and downtime

Why We Recommend It:

There’s something special about slowing down and enjoying summer together. Summer at Callaway makes that possible — whether you’re chasing fireflies, conquering a scavenger hunt, or unwinding by the lake. We loved it years ago and can confidently say: this is a summer memory waiting to happen.

👉 Learn more and book your Summer at Callaway package now

 

 

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