May

May 13 – 16 US 11 Antique Alley Yard Sale – Thursday thru Sunday following Mother’s Day –  Follow the scenic U.S. Highway 11 from Meridian, MS to Bristol, VA for more than 500-miles of yard sales! Explore charming historic communities and downtown districts like the 1889 boom town district of Fort Payne, Alabama. 888-805-4740 & 877-871-1386 www.visitlookoutmountain.com

May 28 Night Zipline Tour Taking the fun to a whole new level-soar through the tree canopy in DeSoto State Park with the moon light guiding your way! Are you brave enough to explore the dark forest with us? Enjoy six ziplines that range from 100 ft to 350 ft in length and six sky bridges that range from 50 ft to 150 ft in length. A spiral staircase tower begins the trek and allows for a bird’s eye view from up to 55 ft in the air. The full moon is sure to make your tour even more exciting with suspension bridges and zip lines to discover as you traverse the tree canopy and explore with your guide. Tour times: 7:00, 8:00, 9:00, and 10:00 PM DeSoto State Park~ Fort Payne, Alabama. Country Store & Information Center on County Road 89: Tickets are $49 per person, Spaces are limited. See Screaming Eagle’s website to book your tour: At www.desotozipline.com or over the phone from 9am-5pm. More info: www.alapark.com/DSP-aerial-adventure

May 28 – 30 Miller’s Bend Paddle Shack Miller’s Bend Paddle Shack in DeSoto Falls Picnic Area will be open this weekend to help you begin your scenic kayak trip up the West Fork of Little River. Rent sit-on-top kayaks to enjoy a peaceful flatwater paddle on Little River overlooking beautiful DeSoto Falls. Your adventure can be up to 4 miles round trip, or as long as you want to make it!Paddle trips are perfect for individuals or groups. Life vests & paddles are provided.Boat Shack Hours: Saturday & Sunday 10:00-6:00 pm (CST).Kayaks are also available by reservation Monday-Thursday: Appointment only during the times of 10 AM-6 PM, $50 Minimum.Location: DeSoto State Park-Fort Payne, Alabama. DeSoto Falls Picnic Area, 7 miles from the main park area of DeSoto State Park..Fee: Single sit-on-top kayak: $15.00 per hour. Tandem sit-on-top kayak: $25.00 per hour. Corcl’s: $10 per hour. Call DeSoto State Park’s Lodge for info-256.845.5380 www.alapark.com/kayak-little-river

May 29 Sculpt Your Own Flower Have you ever wanted to actually sit at the gaffer bench and feel what it is like to shape hot glass?  It’s all about hands on experience in a safe and fun atmosphere with a final product we know you will love. There is a minimum of 3 people and a maximum of 5 in each class. 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.   $75 per person Reservations are required. 256-523-3188

May 29 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 $39 per ornament blown and Reservations Required 256-523-3188

June

June 4 Paperweight Class This class is designed for those who really just want see what molten glass is all about.  Feel the heat, gather from the furnace, sculpt the glass into you own design.  Please join us for some in-depth discovery at Orbix Hot Glass.  Reservations Required $160 per person. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.  256-523-3188

June 4 – 6 Miller’s Bend Paddle Shack Miller’s Bend Paddle Shack in DeSoto Falls Picnic Area will be open this weekend to help you begin your scenic kayak trip up the West Fork of Little River. Rent sit-on-top kayaks to enjoy a peaceful flatwater paddle on Little River overlooking beautiful DeSoto Falls. Your adventure can be up to 4 miles round trip, or as long as you want to make it!Paddle trips are perfect for individuals or groups. Life vests & paddles are provided.Boat Shack Hours: Saturday & Sunday 10:00-6:00 pm (CST).Kayaks are also available by reservation Monday-Thursday: Appointment only during the times of 10 AM-6 PM, $50 Minimum.Location: DeSoto State Park-Fort Payne, Alabama. DeSoto Falls Picnic Area, 7 miles from the main park area of DeSoto State Park..Fee: Single sit-on-top kayak: $15.00 per hour. Tandem sit-on-top kayak: $25.00 per hour. Corcl’s: $10 per hour. Call DeSoto State Park’s Lodge for info-256.845.5380 www.alapark.com/kayak-little-river

June 5 110th DeKalb County Fiddlers’ Convention Landmarks of DeKalb County, along with the City of Fort Payne, are reviving this time honored folk tradition in the 130 year old Fort Payne Opera House. Featuring 12 categories for competition and over $5800 in prizes, contestants can register for a single category for $10 and $5 for each additional category. For more information contact:Landmarks of DeKalb County256/845/6888 landmarksdekalb@bellsouth.net Register at: https://www.landmarksdekalbal.org/110th-dekalb-county…/

June 5 Town of Hammondville Car Show Fun for the whole family! 10 am to 2 pm All donations will go to the refurbishment of the Hammondville Baseball Field

June 5 Sunset Simmer-Down Paddle Trip DeSoto State Park staff offers this relaxing guided sunset paddle trip on the scenic Little River. Enjoy the peace and quiet of nature as we paddle upstream on the ‘coke bottle clear’ waters of the West Fork of Little River. Learn about this outstanding water source with its clear water, plant & animal life, and about the history of the area around DeSoto Falls in Dekalb County, Alabama. This trip is approximately 4 miles round trip on flatwater, spans a 4-hour period and includes kayak & personal flotation device. What to bring: Appropriate clothing, headlamp or flashlight, bug spray, snacks, and drinking water.  4:00 pm-8:00 pm: Meet at DeSoto Falls Picnic Area-Miller’s Bend Paddle Shack (about 7 miles from main park area of DeSoto State Park): $30.00 for single kayak rental (tandem kayaks are available on a limited basis for $50.00) Pre-registration closes June 2nd, 2021 -5:00 p.m. To register, email Paige.Norsworthy@dcnr.alabama.gov. **Please provide date of paddle, a phone number; indicate number of boats and what type (single/tandem) requested for the trip. Payment will be required at time of registration**

June 5 Campfire Talk: Falconry in Alabama Campfire Talks are a series of educational & entertaining programs located outside in DeSoto State Park. Talks are for all ages, & open to everyone! Falconry is the hunting of wild animals in their natural state and habitat by means of a trained bird of prey. Join guest speaker Matt Whitfield to learn about falconry, which is one of the world’s oldest forms of hunting. Falconry is currently practiced in many countries around the world. In Alabama, the most commonly used bird is the red-tailed hawk and squirrel is the most commonly pursued game animal. There are currently 58 permitted falconers in the state.
Matt is a licensed Falconer in the State of Alabama and has 2 captive bred Harris Hawk he will be bringing. Come on out to meet them and learn about these beautiful birds! Seating is limited, so bring your own comfortable camp chair if you wish. : 7:00 pm: DeSoto State Park-Fort Payne, Alabama. Campfire Ring in the Improved Campground (In case of inclement weather will be located in the CCC Pavilion in picnic area)
Fee: Free, no pre-registration required; masks are respectfully requested when in proximity of others not in your household. For any details about the talk, email Brittney.Hughes@dcnr.alabama.gov

June 5 Tumbler Glassblowing Class This introductory glassblowing class teaches many fundamentals through the process of making a small tumbler (cup). Some safety material is provided before the class for you to review. Please join us for some in-depth discovery. Call us at 256.523.3188 or email us at info@orbixhotglass.com for more information or to make a reservation. Reservations and full payment required. Cost – $160.  9am to 1 pm  students Minimum age is 13 years old with parent.

June 10 Yoga on the Mountain: Neverland Trail Yoga Hike Interested in starting your day in a positive way? Experience yoga while enjoying the beauty that is Desoto State Park! Join instructor Destin Padgett for a great outdoor experience of strengthening yoga poses AND hiking along beautiful trails. This hike will be a mix of trail hiking with an outdoor yoga session. Combining hiking and yoga practice in the great outdoors confers benefits unmatched in any other setting. You get the light cardio and strength-building that hiking offers, the toning, flexibility, and relaxation that yoga offers, and the powerful connection to Mother Nature that being outdoors offers. What to know: Yoga poses are alignment based which makes them perfect for those beginning or continuing their yoga practice. Wear closed-toe shoes & weather appropriate clothes; bring a hike-friendly yoga mat or towel if you wish (most poses will be standing poses), water and a snack. About the hike: This hike is approximately 3 1/2 miles round trip, moderate. Trail weaves thru hardwood forest with sandstone outcroppings, streams, wetlands, and an old homeplace along the trail.  5:30-8:00 p.m.: DeSoto State Park-Fort Payne, Alabama. Meet at DeSoto’s Country Store on Co. Rd. 89-will caravan to Lost Falls Trailhead: $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. www.alapark.com/DSP-Yoga

June 11 Tumbler Glassblowing Class This introductory glassblowing class teaches many fundamentals through the process of making a small tumbler (cup). Some safety material is provided before the class for you to review. Please join us for some in-depth discovery. Call us at 256.523.3188 or email us at info@orbixhotglass.com for more information or to make a reservation. Reservations and full payment required. Cost – $160.  12 pm to 4 pm  students Minimum age is 13 years old with parent

June 11 Ribbon Cutting Join us on Friday, June 11th for the local grand reveal of The Cottage Suites at 4th & Grand! Owners Claire & Bryan Northcutt own several rental properties and have added this VRBO and short/long-term rental cottage to their portfolio. With uniquely appointed private accommodations, this property is sure to wow you.

June 11 – 13 Miller’s Bend Paddle Shack Miller’s Bend Paddle Shack in DeSoto Falls Picnic Area will be open this weekend to help you begin your scenic kayak trip up the West Fork of Little River. Rent sit-on-top kayaks to enjoy a peaceful flatwater paddle on Little River overlooking beautiful DeSoto Falls. Your adventure can be up to 4 miles round trip, or as long as you want to make it!Paddle trips are perfect for individuals or groups. Life vests & paddles are provided.Boat Shack Hours: Saturday & Sunday 10:00-6:00 pm (CST).Kayaks are also available by reservation Monday-Thursday: Appointment only during the times of 10 AM-6 PM, $50 Minimum.Location: DeSoto State Park-Fort Payne, Alabama. DeSoto Falls Picnic Area, 7 miles from the main park area of DeSoto State Park..Fee: Single sit-on-top kayak: $15.00 per hour. Tandem sit-on-top kayak: $25.00 per hour. Corcl’s: $10 per hour. Call DeSoto State Park’s Lodge for info-256.845.5380 www.alapark.com/kayak-little-river

June 12 Blue Grass on the Rim Little River Canyon Center Bluegrass on the Rim Stay Tuned Tickets on Sale SOON Due to COVID-19 tickets will be limited so buy early!

June 12 Paperweight Class This class is designed for those who really just want see what molten glass is all about.  Feel the heat, gather from the furnace, sculpt the glass into you own design.  Please join us for some in-depth discovery at Orbix Hot Glass.  Reservations Required $160 per person. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.  256-523-3188

June 12th 6:30-8:30 S’mores & Roars Join us after the Preserve closes for an evening experience like no place else on earth. The doors open at 6:30 pm where you will be greeted by several animal ambassadors and a fire pit for making s’mores. Each couple will get a s’mores kit to enjoy and are free to interact with our barn yard gang and several animal ambassadors. After dusk we will give you a red flashlight and take you on a hike to see tigers, lions, wolves and bears. Once inside you will quickly understand why we call this limited engagement, S’mores and Roars!  This experience is $50 per person. Kids 12 and up are welcome but must be closely supervised by an adult. (reservations only, reserve below)

June 16 Job Fair 12 to 5 pm NACC

June 18 Sculpt Your Own Flower Have you ever wanted to actually sit at the gaffer bench and feel what it is like to shape hot glass?  It’s all about hands on experience in a safe and fun atmosphere with a final product we know you will love. There is a minimum of 3 people and a maximum of 5 in each class. 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.   $75 per person Reservations are required. 256-523-3188

June 18 Campfire Talk: iNaturalist 101 Join guest speaker Mike Ezell, Alabama State Parks Naturalist Emeritus for a presentation introducing iNaturalist, a free phone app that allows everyone to record their observations in nature. Mike will introduce iNaturalist and show all the ways the app can be used, whether on a hike or in your backyard. He will also be able to show participants how to set up the app and make observations. We will also host an iNaturalist walk during the day on Saturday to test your skills!: 8:00 pm: DeSoto State Park-Fort Payne, Alabama. Campfire Ring in the Improved Campground (In case of inclement weather will be located in the CCC Pavilion in picnic area): Free, no pre-registration required; masks are respectfully requested when in proximity of others not in your household. We recommend you bring your own smart phone or device & download the app prior (free wifi at Country Store, Lodge, & Nature Center). For any details about the talk, email Brittney.Hughes@dcnr.alabama.gov

June 18 – 20 Miller’s Bend Paddle Shack Miller’s Bend Paddle Shack in DeSoto Falls Picnic Area will be open this weekend to help you begin your scenic kayak trip up the West Fork of Little River. Rent sit-on-top kayaks to enjoy a peaceful flatwater paddle on Little River overlooking beautiful DeSoto Falls. Your adventure can be up to 4 miles round trip, or as long as you want to make it!Paddle trips are perfect for individuals or groups. Life vests & paddles are provided.Boat Shack Hours: Saturday & Sunday 10:00-6:00 pm (CST).Kayaks are also available by reservation Monday-Thursday: Appointment only during the times of 10 AM-6 PM, $50 Minimum.Location: DeSoto State Park-Fort Payne, Alabama. DeSoto Falls Picnic Area, 7 miles from the main park area of DeSoto State Park..Fee: Single sit-on-top kayak: $15.00 per hour. Tandem sit-on-top kayak: $25.00 per hour. Corcl’s: $10 per hour. Call DeSoto State Park’s Lodge for info-256.845.5380 www.alapark.com/kayak-little-river

June 19 Sculpt Your Own Flower Have you ever wanted to actually sit at the gaffer bench and feel what it is like to shape hot glass?  It’s all about hands on experience in a safe and fun atmosphere with a final product we know you will love. There is a minimum of 3 people and a maximum of 5 in each class. 1030am-11:30 or 12:30pm – 1:30pm.   $75 per person Reservations are required. 256-523-3188

June 19 iNaturalist Walk: Boardwalk Trail  Join Alabama State Park staff Mike & Brittney for a walk along the ADA-accessible Talmadge Butler Boardwalk Trail. Discover what can be observed & recorded using iNaturalist, a free app that can be used to record observations of all sorts of things — plants, animals, and even fungi. Learn how to use the simple app to help contribute to park species lists and about species seen in the park. 9:00-11:00: DeSoto State Park-Fort Payne, AL. Meet at Talmadge Butler Boardwalk Trailhead on Co. Rd. 89: Free, no pre-registration required; masks are respectfully requested when in proximity of others not in your household. We recommend you bring your own smart phone or device & download the app prior (free wifi at Country Store, Lodge, & Nature Center). For any details about the walk, email Brittney.Hughes@dcnr.alabama.gov

June 19 Third Saturday Sunset A family fun event featuring a cruise-in, children activities, food, art show, and live entertainment!  Gault Avenue in Downtown Fort Payne is closed from 1st-5th street for the event. A car cruise-in, music and other entertainment will take place throughout the event as well.  5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Contact: Amelia- 256-996-3857 or Terry- 256-996-2668

June 19 Campfire Talk: A World in Miniature: Lichens Join us for a fun campfire talk in the great outdoors! Lichens cover 6% of the earth’s surface and there are around 20,000 known species. They are capable of growing on any surface that is sufficiently stable and provides just the right microclimate for survival; they grow on rocks, tree bark, branches, on top of other lichens and mosses and also on the soil surface. Lichens are found on every continent on earth, including Antarctica. Observe these wonderfully enigmatic organisms and learn basic identification skills of the major growth forms to be able to start identifying these interesting organisms on your own. Guest Speaker: Curtis Hansen is the Curator of Plants at the John D. Freeman Herbarium at Auburn University and has a great interest in native plants, both vascular and non-vascular, of Alabama and the southeast.  8:00 pm: DeSoto State Park-Fort Payne, Alabama. Campfire Ring in the Improved Campground (In case of inclement weather will be located in the CCC Pavilion in picnic area) Free, no pre-registration required; masks are respectfully requested when in proximity of others not in your household. For any details about the talk, email Brittney.Hughes@dcnr.alabama.gov

June 24 Meandering Moonlight Paddle Trip DeSoto State Park staff offers this relaxing guided moonlight paddle trip on scenic Little River. Enjoy the peace and quiet of nature as we paddle upstream on the ‘coke bottle clear’ waters of the West Fork of Little River. Enjoy this flatwater paddle as the sun goes down and the full moon comes up. Experience the peace & quiet of the gloaming-time! What to know: This trip is approximately 4 miles round trip on flatwater, spans a 3 to 3 1/2-hour period and includes kayak, paddle, & personal flotation device. Weight limits: 300 pounds for singles & 450 for tandems. Ages 8 to adult.
What to bring: Appropriate clothing, headlamp or flashlight, bug spray, snacks, and drinking water. 7:00 pm-10:00 pm  DeSoto Falls Picnic Area-Miller’s Bend Paddle Shack (about 7 miles from main park area of DeSoto State Park) $30.00 for single kayak rental (2 person-tandem kayaks are available on a limited basis for $50.00)Pre-registration closes March 24th, 2021 -5:00 p.m. To register, email Paige.Norsworthy@dcnr.alabama.gov. **Please provide date of paddle, a phone number; indicate number of boats and what type (single/tandem) requested for the trip. Payment will be required at time of registration**

June 25 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 for a great outdoor experience of strengthening yoga poses AND hiking along beautiful trails. This hike will be a mix of trail hiking with an outdoor yoga session. Combining hiking and yoga practice in the great outdoors confers benefits unmatched in any other setting. You get the light cardio and strength-building that hiking offers, the toning, flexibility, and relaxation that yoga offers, and the powerful connection to Mother Nature that being outdoors offers. What to know: Yoga poses are alignment based which makes them perfect for those beginning or continuing their yoga practice. Wear closed-toe shoes & weather appropriate clothes; bring a hike-friendly yoga mat or towel if you wish (most poses will be standing poses), water and a snack. 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. 5:30-8:00 p.m.: DeSoto State Park-Fort Payne, Alabama. Meet at DeSoto’s Country Store 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. www.alapark.com/DSP-Yoga

June 25 LRWK Event P L E A S E  G A T H E R  W I T H  L I T T L E  R I V E R W A T E R K E E P E R  O N  J U N E  2 5 T H F O R  A” C H E F  A N D  B R E W E R S  D I N N E R ” A TN I P P E R S I N K  L O D G E  I N  M E N T O N E I T ‘ S G O I N G T O B E A W O N D E R F U L N I G H T O FM U S I C A L  E N T E R T A I N M E N T R S V P  @  T H E  F O L L O W I N G  L I N K  B Y  J U N E  1 1 T H Tickets Can Be Purchased on Eventbite

June 25 Tree Ring Printing: Telling Nature’s Story Join us for a fun campfire talk in the Great Outdoors!
Campfire Talks are a series of educational & entertaining programs located outside in DeSoto State Park. Campfire programs are held many Friday & Saturday evening (June –October) in our large campfire ring inside the improved campground. Talks are for all ages, & open to everyone! 8:00 pm (CST)
Where: DeSoto State Park-Fort Payne, Alabama. Campfire Ring in the Improved Campground (In case of inclement weather will be located in the CCC Pavilion in picnic area)
Fee: Free, no pre-registration required; masks are respectfully requested when in proximity of others not in your household. For more details about the talk, email Brittney.Hughes@dcnr.alabama.gov

June 25 – 27 Miller’s Bend Paddle Shack Miller’s Bend Paddle Shack in DeSoto Falls Picnic Area will be open this weekend to help you begin your scenic kayak trip up the West Fork of Little River. Rent sit-on-top kayaks to enjoy a peaceful flatwater paddle on Little River overlooking beautiful DeSoto Falls. Your adventure can be up to 4 miles round trip, or as long as you want to make it!Paddle trips are perfect for individuals or groups. Life vests & paddles are provided.Boat Shack Hours: Saturday & Sunday 10:00-6:00 pm (CST).Kayaks are also available by reservation Monday-Thursday: Appointment only during the times of 10 AM-6 PM, $50 Minimum.Location: DeSoto State Park-Fort Payne, Alabama. DeSoto Falls Picnic Area, 7 miles from the main park area of DeSoto State Park..Fee: Single sit-on-top kayak: $15.00 per hour. Tandem sit-on-top kayak: $25.00 per hour. Corcl’s: $10 per hour. Call DeSoto State Park’s Lodge for info-256.845.5380 www.alapark.com/kayak-little-river

June 26 Freedom Fest Bring the family to Rainsville Freedom Fest, Free entertainment, featuring JOHN STONE Free admission, Free kids activities Great food & arts & craftsFor additional information, call the Rainsville Chamber of Commerce 256-638-7800

June 26 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 $39 per ornament blown and Reservations Required 256-523-3188

June 26 Serious Skills Series: Art of Woodburning-DeSoto Falls Hosted by DeSoto State Park. The Serious Skills series is a variety of classes and workshops that provide opportunities to discover a hidden talent or learn a new skill for personal enrichment. Classes are open to local residents, overnight guests, and park visitors. Participants in this class will learn the basic techniques of decorative wood burning and painting designs from artist April Blanks, and will work on making a piece featuring DeSoto State Park’s DeSoto Falls (some other design options may be available). This class is for ages 14 to adult. 10:00-12:00 pm OR 1:00-3:00 pm (2 class times to choose from) : DeSoto State Park in Fort Payne, Alabama (Location disclosed at time of registration) $25.00 -includes all supplies. Class space is limited, pre-registration is required for attendance in this class. Email Brittney.Hughes@dcnr.alabama.gov to sign up or for more info. This class will be held outside under a covered pavilion-in case of inclement weather the class will be held inside a large room. Masks are required for participants.

June 26Little River Arts Council Live music at the Linger Longer Pavillion (Mentone Inn). Our Summer Music Series starts again with the Black Sedans, Saturday, June 26th. Good ‘ol time rock and roll! See you there!

June 26 Campfire Talks: Scales & Tails Join us for a fun campfire talk in the Great Outdoors! Campfire Talks are a series of educational & entertaining programs located outside in DeSoto State Park. d. Talks are for all ages, & open to everyone! Join guest Naturalist Lauren Muncher from Oak Mountain State Park for an educational experience about animals that live under the earth all the way up to the sky flying predators. Get an up-close encounter with some ‘creature teachers’ to understand just some of our natural world and wonders around us!
Seating is limited, so bring your own comfortable camp chair if you wish.: 8:00 pm (CST) : DeSoto State Park-Fort Payne, Alabama. Campfire Ring in the Improved Campground (In case of inclement weather will be located in the CCC Pavilion in picnic area): Free, no pre-registration required; masks are respectfully requested when in proximity of others not in your household. For any details about the talk, email Brittney.Hughes@dcnr.alabama.gov

June 26 Night Zipline Tour Taking the fun to a whole new level-soar through the tree canopy in DeSoto State Park with the moon light guiding your way! Are you brave enough to explore the dark forest with us? Enjoy six ziplines that range from 100 ft to 350 ft in length and six sky bridges that range from 50 ft to 150 ft in length. A spiral staircase tower begins the trek and allows for a bird’s eye view from up to 55 ft in the air. The full moon is sure to make your tour even more exciting with suspension bridges and zip lines to discover as you traverse the tree canopy and explore with your guide. Tour times: 7:00, 8:00, 9:00, and 10:00 PM DeSoto State Park~ Fort Payne, Alabama. Country Store & Information Center on County Road 89: Tickets are $49 per person, Spaces are limited. See Screaming Eagle’s website to book your tour: At www.desotozipline.com or over the phone from 9am-5pm. More info: www.alapark.com/DSP-aerial-adventure

June 27 Yoga on the Mountain: Dusk to Dark Yoga Want to end your day in a positive way? Enjoy a yoga class along the banks of Little River, as the sun goes down and the full moon comes up. Experience the peace & quiet of the gloaming-time as yoga instructor Destin Padgett guides you with relaxing, alignment-based poses. Perfect for those beginning their yoga practice or for those wanting to try something new! Classes are open to local residents and park visitors alike. No pre-registration required!  7:00-8:00 p.m.: DeSoto State Park, Fort Payne, Alabama. DeSoto Fall Picnic area, 7 miles from the main park area.: 5.00 per participant per class (cash or checks) $4.00 parking fee to park in picnic area. Bring mat/towel & water if you wish. If weather is questionable- check with DSP Lodge before coming: 256.845.5380. See www.alapark.com/DSP-Yoga for class dates

July

July 2 Paperweight Class This class is designed for those who really just want see what molten glass is all about.  Feel the heat, gather from the furnace, sculpt the glass into you own design.  Please join us for some in-depth discovery at Orbix Hot Glass.  Reservations Required $160 per person. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.  256-523-3188

July 3 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 $39 per ornament blown and Reservations Required 256-523-3188

July 5 – 7 DeSoto State Park’s Annual Independence Day events atop Lookout Mountain This annual event is fun for both children & adults! Celebrate Independence Day and enjoy good ol’ fashioned fun at DeSoto State Park. Participate in the flag making contest, sit back & enjoy DeSoto’s parade, & eat home-made ice cream at the annual ice cream social. Date: July Where: DeSoto State Park in Fort Payne, Alabama
Fee: Free to the Public; Great for all ages!
Events:
Flag-Making Contest
Make your own homemade flag to be judged in this fun contest. All ages are welcome to participate. Materials & flag-making rules will be available at the campground pavilion in the Improved Campground starting July 3rd. Flags MUST be turned in no later than 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 6th to be judged. (Turn in flags at DeSoto’s Nature Center) Examples of flags from year’s past can be seen at the Nature Center. Free to participate and open to all ages!
Splish & Splash Pool Party
Join the fun at our 7th Annual Splish & Splash Pool Party! Cool off in our Olympic-size pool, play pool games, eat home-made ice cream, & enter for door prizes!
$1.00 per person-admission fee.
Friday, July 5, 2019 from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Independence Day Parade
This annual event is fun for both children & adults! Decorate your vehicle to show your spirit!
Parade will start at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 6, 2019.
Begins at DeSoto’s Park Headquarters & ends in DeSoto’s Improved Campground in time for the Ice Cream Social. If you wish to ride along, meet at DeSoto’s Park Headquarters at 2:30 pm. We would love to have you join us in celebrating our Country’s Independence Day! Free to participate!
Ice Cream Social
Social starts at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 6th, located at the Campground Pavilion in DeSoto’s Improved Campground. Sit around & relax, eat home-made ice cream, & meet your fellow guests at DeSoto State Park. Flag-Making Contest winners will be announced at the Ice Cream Social.
You are welcome to bring your own favorite homemade ice cream recipe or other desserts to share with your fellow guests.
Bring your own comfortable camp chair as seating is limited. Free to participate, & open to everyone! Campground gate will be open for you.

July 9 Tumbler Glassblowing Class This introductory glassblowing class teaches many fundamentals through the process of making a small tumbler (cup). Some safety material is provided before the class for you to review. Please join us for some in-depth discovery. Call us at 256.523.3188 or email us at info@orbixhotglass.com for more information or to make a reservation. Reservations and full payment required. Cost – $160.  9 am to 1 pm  students Minimum age is 13 years old with parent.

July 10 Sculpt Your Own Flower Have you ever wanted to actually sit at the gaffer bench and feel what it is like to shape hot glass?  It’s all about hands on experience in a safe and fun atmosphere with a final product we know you will love. There is a minimum of 3 people and a maximum of 5 in each class. 10:30am-11:30 or 12:30pm – 1:30pm.   $75 per person Reservations are required. 256-523-3188

July 10 Canyon Rim Run and Trail Ride Meet up at 9am at Little River Falls parking area. ALL Ride proceeds will benefit The Sam Foundation. Jeep registration will be $30 per Jeep. Ride will begin with a Canyon Rim tour and then a ride thru Billy Fords area. A boston butt fundraiser to follow with LIVE MUSIC from Dooley, Chris Posey and more. Plates will include smoked boston butt, cole slaw and baked beans. 9 AM – 9 PM Tickets · $30 Event by Little River Jeep Club

July 17 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 $39 per ornament blown and Reservations Required 256-523-3188

July 17 Third Saturday Sunset A family fun event featuring a cruise-in, children activities, food, art show, and live entertainment!  Gault Avenue in Downtown Fort Payne is closed from 1st-5th street for the event. A car cruise-in, music and other entertainment will take place throughout the event as well.  5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Contact: Amelia- 256-996-3857 or Terry- 256-996-2668

August

August 5 – 8 World’s Longest Yard Sale – 1^st Thursday thru Sunday – Travel the scenic byways of America for more than 450-miles of yard sales and unique treasure finds. Follow the Lookout Mountain Parkway from Gadsden, Alabama to Chattanooga, TN for the southern portion of the sale. Connect with the U.S. Highway 127 in Chattanooga for the remainder of the route to Hudson, MI. 888-805-4740 

September

September  17 – 18 Boom Days Heritage Celebration – This annual art and musical event displays citizens of Fort Payne taking a second look at their past and the heritage passed down to them through the arts and crafts of our area.  Many events will take place the week prior to the celebration. The Boom Days Heritage Celebration will feature many of these facets in the presentation of musical performances as well as art displays in City Park.  256-845-1524

September 27 – October 2 DeKalb County VFW Agricultural Fair Rides on the midway, great food, live entertainment, livestock exhibits, agricultural displays, awards, and so much more. Held at the VFW Fairgrounds. Gates open at 5 p.m. 256-845-4752

October

October 16 – 17 Mentone Colorfest  – 3^rd Weekend – Come and enjoy the Fall season at the annual Mentone Colorfest. This event is filled with arts, crafts, great food, live entertainment and much more. It is held at the scenic Mentone Brow Park and downtown Mentone on Saturday and Sunday.

October 29 – 30 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.

November

November 13 – 14 Creative Spirit Market

December