October 23 Black Bears in Alabama Did you know Black Bears are Alabama’s State Mammal?
Black bears are native to Alabama and their population is on the rise. Historically found in the southwest area of the state, bears have also been migrating into northeast Alabama from northwest Georgia over recent years. Following in their wake are myths, tall tales, and misconceptions. Join Auburn University graduate student Hannah Leeper to learn more about bears, ask questions, and hear about current black bear research happening in Alabama.  6:00 pm Where: DeSoto State Park Lodge- (Weather plan: will be moved to CCC pavilion in picnic area in case of rain) Plenty of room to spread out on deck for social distancing.  Free & open to everyone. Limited seating, bring your own chair if you wish, as this program will be outside on the Lodge deck (in case of rain, program might be cancelled so be sure to check with the park before coming-256.845.5380)  For any info about session, contact DeSoto State Park Naturalist Brittney Hughes: Brittney.Hughes@dcnr.alabama.gov

October 23 – 25 FUMY Fall Retreat. Location: Alpine Camp.   All youth are welcome to join us. Register now! First United Methodist Church Fall Retreat

October 24 Heart of Dixie Poultry Club – Fall Show VFW Fairgrounds Sonja Oden (256) 312-9577
or sonjaoden@outlook.com More details as available.

October 24 Dixie Long Riders– Shoot with Dixie Series 1st Shoot Agri Business Center 256.638.1650

October 24 Blow An Ornament Come design and blow your own ornament with the help of one of our glass artists.  No reservations are needed, it is on a first come, first serve basis.   9 a.m. to 2 p.m.    Orbix Hot Glass.  Cost is $38 per ornament blown 256-523-3188

October 24 Paint your Own Pumpkins Come pick out, paint, and take home your own pumpkin. One Orange or White pumpkin is provided. Paint is provided. You select one pumpkin that you want when you arrive. Pumpkin spice coffee and tea are also provided. Pumpkins are available at the store on a first come first serve basis and are reserved for those who made reservations here. One pumpkin per per purchased ticket. Pumpkins range in size and are smaller. Average height being eight to six inches or under. They will not be mini size. Pumpkin size can not be guaranteed. You paint your pumpkin however you would like. No pumpkin painting instruction given. Reservations are required. Space is limited. Boxed Leaf Co 2 pm to 3 pm

October 24 Adventure Hike-DeSoto Falls Basin Set out on an adventure hike with DeSoto State Park staff to the bottom of one of Alabama’s tallest waterfalls, DeSoto Falls! About the hike: This hike is approximately 1.5 miles total but considered moderate to strenuous due to the mountainous terrain and elevation. Will be hiking on rocky terrain down to the West Fork of Little River and walking upstream to the view of DeSoto Falls.  Free, pre-registration is required so to know how many to expect. Hike is open to ages 8 to adult. We will be social distancing on the trail as much as possible. Email Brittney.Hughes@dcnr.alabama.gov for more info or to pre-register.

October 25 Dixie Long Riders Mounted Shooters Association Competition MSA competitions at the Northeast Alabama Agri-Business Center in Rainsville.  Free admission for spectators.  9 am to 5 pm 256-638-1650

October 24 – 25 Tiger Lily Christmas Extravaganza Who is ready for Christmas? I think we are all ready to put 2020 behind us. In the meantime, may we suggest shopping therapy? Tiger Lily Flowers & Gifts are currently preparing for their Christmas Extravaganza, scheduled for October 24-25! This is a shoppers dream weekend, a Christmas tree wonderland. Mark your calendars now, but don’t worry we will remind you.

October 25  Fall Harvest Festival Join us for a trunk or treat, cow train, food, and a concert!! We can’t wait to see you!! Crossville First Baptist Church 4 pm – 6pm

October 26 Hike with a Naturalist Join the JSU Field School staff on these monthly hikes as we hit the trail and explore Little River Canyon National Preserve. Trails will be determined and announced closer to time and hike time will be dependent on trail (stay tuned to FB for further details) Things to bring: Plenty of water and/or sports drink, snacks, hiking poles/staff (optional), sturdy shoes (open toe shoes are not recommended). Please be sure to dress appropriately according to seasonal temperatures/weather. WEATHER: As with all outdoor events, if it’s raining/stormy or very poor trail conditions, we may have to cancel. If the weather is questionable, please check with the park before leaving home. Please make every effort to arrive early or on time so that you do not hold up the group. 9 am For details contact 256-845-3548

October 26 Get Your Feet Wet With Watercolor Join artist/instructor Virginia Urani  for this exciting beginners watercolor class. Bring nothing but a “spirit of adventure” as all supplies are furnished. Cost of class is $195 and limited to seven students. Prepayment is required to be a confirmed student. Email mentoneartscenter@gmail.com for reservation information.  Mentone Arts & Cultural Center 1 pm to 2 pm

October 27 Moon Lake Book Club  “The Nightingale” The book club decided to explore historical fiction for our next discussion. We will read THE NIGHTINGALE by Kristin Hannah (Macmillan, 2015).  EVERYONE is welcome to join the book club for our monthly discussions! We meet online via Zoom. The Zoom room will open at 6:15 p.m. for a period of socializing before we begin the discussion. Here are the details for our October meeting: 

October 30 – 31 Spookapalooza at DeSoto State Park Trick or treating, games, live animals, storytelling, and more are in store during this popular annual event. Grab your favorite costume, bring the family, and come stay with us! All events are free to the public & great for all ages! More details to come. DeSoto State Park in Fort Payne, Alabama Call 256-997-5025 or see www.alapark.com/DSP-Spookapalooza for complete details.

October 31 Blow An Ornament Come design and blow your own ornament with the help of one of our glass artists.  No reservations are needed, it is on a first come, first serve basis.   9 a.m. to 2 p.m.    Orbix Hot Glass.  Cost is $38 per ornament blown 256-523-3188

October 31 Rainsville Trunk – A – Treat Rainsville City Park 5 pm to 7 pm 

October 31 Paint Your Own Pumpkin Come pick out, paint, and take home your own pumpkin. One Orange or White pumpkin is provided. Paint is provided. You select one pumpkin that you want when you arrive. Pumpkin spice coffee and tea are also provided. Pumpkins are available at the store on a first come first serve basis and are reserved for those who made reservations here. One pumpkin per per purchased ticket. Pumpkins range in size and are smaller. Average height being eight to six inches or under. They will not be mini size. Pumpkin size can not be guaranteed. You paint your pumpkin however you would like. No pumpkin painting instruction given. Reservations are required. Space is limited. Boxed Leaf Co 2 pm to 3 pm

October 31 Trick or Treat Come Trick or Treat with us. Snap a photo with your FAVE DISNEY CHARACTER. Enter the pumpkin carving contest. Mountain & Main Real Estate Group brokered by EXP Realty 4 pm to 9 pm

October 31 CIMA Halloween 2020 IT’S GOIN’ DOWN @ OL’ TYMERS! Y’all get your costumes ready, cuz you know we always do it big on Halloween! For COVID safety reasons, we will be keeping OT’s at half capacity. ***ONLY 100 TICKETS WILL BE SOLD***Tickets must be purchased at Cima256.com. Your ticket will be emailed, and must be shown on your phone at the door when you arrive to the event.****THIS IS A PRIVATE BYOB EVENT*******Costume Contest with $100 prize***Dusty Smith will open with a killer hour long solo performance, followed by Cima’s live band set — Jack Mahoney on guitar, Brax Harris on drums, & Dusty Smith joining again on bass.After the band, Cima will DJ and perform several of his classic rap songs. We will also have water pong and much more! DON’T MISS THIS! 8 pm to 12 am

November

November 6 Yoga on the Mountain: Yoga Hike Along Little River Interested in starting your day in a positive way? Experience yoga while enjoying the beauty that is Desoto State Park! Join instructor Destin Padgett and park naturalist Brittney Hughes for a great outdoor experience of strengthening yoga poses AND hiking along beautiful trails. This hike is approximately 1 1/2 miles round trip, moderate. Trail weaves thru hardwood/pine mix forest with sandstone outcroppings & glades, Rhododendron & Mountain Laurel, a 1930s-era CCC trailside shelter, Indian Falls, & the West Fork of Little River. 4 pm : DeSoto State Park-Fort Payne, Alabama. Meet at DeSoto’s Country Store & Information Center on Co. Rd. 89: $10.00 per person. Pre-registration is required, so we know how many to expect. Hike is open to ages 8 to adult. Email Brittney.Hughes@dcnr.alabama.gov for more info or to pre-register. See www.alapark.com/DSP-Yoga for class dates

November 6 Sculpt a Flower Have you ever wanted to actually sit at the gaffer bench and feel what it is like to shape hot glass?  In this class, its all about a hands-on experience in a fun atmosphere with a final product we know you will love. After watching us shape glass into a flower, it’s your turn to sit at the bench to a sculpt your own from an array of colors. Our artists are there to step in and lend a hand or guide you as you shape the glass.  Classes are about one hour in length with a minimum of three people and a maximum of five. Reservations and full payment are required. Please call us (256.523.3188) or email us (info@orbixhotglass.com) for more information or to reserve a spot.Cost:  $75 per person.  Minimum age 13 years old.  Shipping $8. each, or you may pick the pieces up on the following Tuesday or later.

November 7 Blow An Ornament Come design and blow your own ornament with the help of one of our glass artists.  No reservations are needed, it is on a first come, first serve basis.   9 a.m. to 4 p.m.    Orbix Hot Glass.  Cost is $38 per ornament blown 256-523-3188

November 7 – 8 NEAL Cutting Horse Show Weekend Show only. Agri Center at 256.638-1650

November 7 Dutch Oven Cooking Dutch ovens have been in use for hundreds of years; especially when our country was expanding and families were on the move. Unable to bring their large cook stoves with them, women learned how to cook entire meals from stews & soups to bread & desserts, in their Dutch ovens. Learn the basics about Dutch ovens, how to clean & care for your cookware, AND cook (& eat!) dinner & dessert at the same time! Starts around 10:00 am, located at JSU’s Little River Canyon Center. This is a demonstration, so the best part is when food is just coming off the fire- drop in whenever you like & check out the food! JSU’s Little River Canyon Center10 am-Until the food runs out Free, call 256-845-3548 for more details

November 8 Yoga on the Mountain: Yoga Hike Along Little River Interested in starting your day in a positive way? Experience yoga while enjoying the beauty that is Desoto State Park! Join instructor Destin Padgett and park naturalist Brittney Hughes for a great outdoor experience of strengthening yoga poses AND hiking along beautiful trails. This hike is approximately 1 1/2 miles round trip, moderate. Trail weaves thru hardwood/pine mix forest with sandstone outcroppings & glades, Rhododendron & Mountain Laurel, a 1930s-era CCC trailside shelter, Indian Falls, & the West Fork of Little River. 4 pm : DeSoto State Park-Fort Payne, Alabama. Meet at DeSoto’s Country Store & Information Center on Co. Rd. 89: $10.00 per person. Pre-registration is required, so we know how many to expect. Hike is open to ages 8 to adult. Email Brittney.Hughes@dcnr.alabama.gov for more info or to pre-register. See www.alapark.com/DSP-Yoga for class dates

November 8 Trail Trekker Hike Series: Gilliam Loop Can you say “I Hiked Them All”? DeSoto State Park challenges you to become a DeSoto State Park Trail Trekker! Hike the designated 22 miles of trails in DeSoto, (whether on your own or in a group, no time limit) and collect your prize, a Trail Trekkers Patch. Just log your hikes in the Trail Trekker log and record the date for each trail listed. Sign completed form and turn in to DeSoto State Park Country Store or Lodge to receive your patch! This hike series is designed for those that prefer some company out on the trails with experienced park staff or volunteers. Each month there will be a different hike so you can start marking them off towards your patch! DeSoto Scout Trail Section (From Lodge to DST exit 2, come back CCC road) -Hike is approximately 5 miles round trip, moderate to strenuous along rocky mountainous terrain. 12:00 -5:00 pm  DeSoto State Park-Fort Payne, Alabama. Meet at DeSoto’s Lodge. Free, pre-registration is required so to know how many to expect. Hike is open to ages 8 to adult. Email Brittney.Hughes@dcnr.alabama.gov for more info or to pre-register.

November 14 Soarin’ With the Eagles 5K and Fun Run Hosted by Cornerstone Christian Academy. Dekalb Lake in Sylvania 8 a.m.

November 14 Marathon Challenge HAVE YOUR HEARD!!!!!! Register and COMPLETE “The Ultimate Crazie” Marathon (which is you run the marathon alone, all 26.2 miles) you will receive a FINISHERS JACKET! That’s right…. The first ever Crazies Marathon Finishers Jacket. DeKalb Schools Coliseum Early Discount Registration ends this Friday, July 31st… Register online at: www.runsignup/craziesmarathonchallenge or message us for a form.

November 14 Blow An Ornament Come design and blow your own ornament with the help of one of our glass artists.  No reservations are needed, it is on a first come, first serve basis.   9 a.m. to 2 p.m.    Orbix Hot Glass.  Cost is $38 per ornament blown 256-523-3188

November 14 – 15 Creative Spirit Market   Hosted by Little River Arts Council & DeSoto State Park Adding a new twist to a typical art fair, this event is designed as an open air showcase, with artist demonstrations, locally & regionally created fine & folk art, premium hand-crafted goods, live acoustic music, as well as interactive kid’s art area. 10 am to 3 pm each day: DeSoto State Park. Country Store/Picnic Area on County Road 89 Fee: Event is free & open to everyone. Rain or shine. Call 256-997-5025 or email for more details. www.alapark.com/creative-spirit-market

November 20 Sculpt a Flower Have you ever wanted to actually sit at the gaffer bench and feel what it is like to shape hot glass?  In this class, its all about a hands-on experience in a fun atmosphere with a final product we know you will love. After watching us shape glass into a flower, it’s your turn to sit at the bench to a sculpt your own from an array of colors. Our artists are there to step in and lend a hand or guide you as you shape the glass.  Classes are about one hour in length with a minimum of three people and a maximum of five. Reservations and full payment are required. Please call us (256.523.3188) or email us (info@orbixhotglass.com) for more information or to reserve a spot.Cost:  $75 per person.  Minimum age 13 years old.  Shipping $8. each, or you may pick the pieces up on the following Tuesday or later.

November 20 – 21 Vintage Pickin’ Christmas Market Antiques & Home-Decor Shopping Event Shop the BEST antiques, home decor & holiday accents from 50+ of our top curated vendors from all over the U.S. in the beautiful Northeast Alabama. Home to the scenic Little River Canyon, DeSoto State Park, Bucks Pocket, Lake Guntersville & more! Make it a beautiful weekend full of shopping, beautiful inspiration & quality time with those you love. VFW Fairgrounds in Fort Payne, AL 151 18th St NE, Fort Payne, AL 35968 Visit vintagepickin.com/alabama for overall event info such as vendor list, parking, food info, FAQs as well as sneak peek photos from vendors & videos of previous previous events to get an idea of what makes Vintage Pickin’ events so unique!  FRIDAY Early Pickin’ – 12P – 3PM ($18 online or $20 at-the-door)and General Admission – 3PM – 7PM ($8 online or $10 at-the-door)
SATURDAY | General Admission – 10AM-4PM ($8 online or $10 at-the-door) 12 & under are FREE & Parking is FREE These vendors have done the hunting for you! They bring truckloads of vintage, one-of-a-kind antiques, repurposed, specialty “finds” & vintage-inspired handmade goods that will be unique to you.

November 21 Adventure Hike-DeSoto Falls Basin Set out on an adventure hike with DeSoto State Park staff to the bottom of one of Alabama’s tallest waterfalls, DeSoto Falls! About the hike: This hike is approximately 1.5 miles total but considered moderate to strenuous due to the mountainous terrain and elevation. Will be hiking on rocky terrain down to the West Fork of Little River and walking upstream to the view of DeSoto Falls.  Free, pre-registration is required so to know how many to expect. Hike is open to ages 8 to adult. We will be social distancing on the trail as much as possible. Email Brittney.Hughes@dcnr.alabama.gov for more info or to pre-register.

November 21 Blow An Ornament Come design and blow your own ornament with the help of one of our glass artists.  No reservations are needed, it is on a first come, first serve basis.   9 a.m. to 2 p.m.    Orbix Hot Glass.  Cost is $38 per ornament blown 256-523-3188

November 21 – 22 Little Britches Rodeo Alabama Little Britches Rodeo, for more information https://www.albra.rodeo/schedule  Agri Business Center in Rainsville 256-638-1650

November 27 The Black Friday Boutique Market We are hosting our FIRST vendor market! The Black Friday Boutique Market is a shopping event that will provide an outstanding Black Friday shopping experience. Boutiques across northeast Alabama have joined together to provided a one stop shopping event. At this event you can shop 25+ vendors (adding vendors daily) including women’s/men’s apparel, accessories, home decor, gift items and food. This event is located at The VFW Fair Grounds in Fort Payne, AL. 151 18th ST. NE, Fort Payne, AL 35968 Entrance & Parking will be FREE This event will begin at 6am, November 27th. There will be a surprise for the early birds (First 20 people in line). Vendor spotlights will be posted during the month of October. This event is hosted by The Blue Charm Boutique. If you would like to be a vendor at this event Please email TheBlueCharmBoutique@gmail.com This is going to be an AMAZING opportunity for locals to support small businesses from all over northeast Alabama.

November 27 Blow An Ornament Come design and blow your own ornament with the help of one of our glass artists.  No reservations are needed, it is on a first come, first serve basis.   9 a.m. to 2 p.m.    Orbix Hot Glass.  Cost is $38 per ornament blown 256-523-3188

November 28 Blow An Ornament Come design and blow your own ornament with the help of one of our glass artists.  No reservations are needed, it is on a first come, first serve basis.   9 a.m. to 2 p.m.    Orbix Hot Glass.  Cost is $38 per ornament blown 256-523-3188

November 30 Hike with a Naturalist Join the JSU Field School staff on these monthly hikes as we hit the trail and explore Little River Canyon National Preserve. Trails will be determined and announced closer to time and hike time will be dependent on trail (stay tuned to FB for further details) Things to bring: Plenty of water and/or sports drink, snacks, hiking poles/staff (optional), sturdy shoes (open toe shoes are not recommended). Please be sure to dress appropriately according to seasonal temperatures/weather. WEATHER: As with all outdoor events, if it’s raining/stormy or very poor trail conditions, we may have to cancel. If the weather is questionable, please check with the park before leaving home. Please make every effort to arrive early or on time so that you do not hold up the group. 9 am For details contact 256-845-3548

December

December 5 Blow An Ornament Come design and blow your own ornament with the help of one of our glass artists.  No reservations are needed, it is on a first come, first serve basis.   9 a.m. to 2 p.m.    Orbix Hot Glass.  Cost is $38 per ornament blown 256-523-3188

December 5 The Boys are Back! Save the date, December 5th in Fort Payne, once again benefitting The SAM Foundation and Fort Payne-Main Street Alabama. We are still working out details for the safety of our band, volunteers, and all of you, but we are so excited to Jam with you again! Roll On! Sponsorship opportunities available soon. If interested please email us info@thealabamatribute.com

December 12 Blow An Ornament Come design and blow your own ornament with the help of one of our glass artists.  No reservations are needed, it is on a first come, first serve basis.   9 a.m. to 2 p.m.    Orbix Hot Glass.  Cost is $38 per ornament blown 256-523-3188

December 19 Blow An Ornament Come design and blow your own ornament with the help of one of our glass artists.  No reservations are needed, it is on a first come, first serve basis.   9 a.m. to 2 p.m.    Orbix Hot Glass.  Cost is $38 per ornament blown 256-523-3188

December 28 Hike with a Naturalist Join the JSU Field School staff on these monthly hikes as we hit the trail and explore Little River Canyon National Preserve. Trails will be determined and announced closer to time and hike time will be dependent on trail (stay tuned to FB for further details) Things to bring: Plenty of water and/or sports drink, snacks, hiking poles/staff (optional), sturdy shoes (open toe shoes are not recommended). Please be sure to dress appropriately according to seasonal temperatures/weather. WEATHER: As with all outdoor events, if it’s raining/stormy or very poor trail conditions, we may have to cancel. If the weather is questionable, please check with the park before leaving home. Please make every effort to arrive early or on time so that you do not hold up the group. 9 am For details contact 256-845-3548

Annual Christmas Parades and Holiday Open Houses

December 11 – 12 Merrytime Artisan Market