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I first visited Tuscaloosa, Alabama early in 2024 for a small group tour for travel writers to learn about the community and what it offers visitors.
It’s safe to say I quickly fell in love with this delightful town. I confess I had done no homework before arriving as it was one small stop on a whirlwind trip through the South that I lovingly dubbed “Southern Tour 2024.” This means I had no idea that Tuscaloosa is home to the Alabama Crimson Tide!
That’s impressive in and of itself, but I quickly discovered that Tuscaloosa has so much more to offer than Alabama events, not that those are to be overlooked. I mean, ROLL TIDE, right?
If you’re like I was, and Tuscaloosa is entirely off your radar, here’s a little frame of reference. It is situated just about 60 miles southwest of Birmingham and roughly 200 miles west of Atlanta.
During my quick 72-hour visit, we made a stop at the Kentuck Art Center in nearby Northport, where my hosts made mention of the Kentuck Festival of the Arts, held annually in October. Being the artsy sort I am, my ears perked when I heard about the South’s biggest art festival.
So, imagine the squeal of excitement a few months later when my new friends at Visit Tuscaloosa invited me back to capture the joy, the glory, and the artistry of the Kentuck Festival of the Arts! I think they may have heard me open the email from all the way down in Alabama!
Of course, the answer was a resounding YES, and today, I want to give you all the great reasons that you, too, must add the Kentuck Festival of the Arts to your list of must-do Festivals!
Table of Contents
But First, A Word About the Word Kentuck
The only time I’ve ever heard the word Kentuck is in the form of “Kentucky.” So, naturally, I had to ask if the Kentuck Art Festival had a Kentucky connection (I dare you to say THAT 3 times fast). The quick answer is nope. But there’s a great story behind the word Kentuck, and I am happy to share it.
Legend has it that before Northport was Northport, folks called it Kentuck (or maybe Canetuck, depending on who you ask). One popular theory suggests the name came from an old term meaning paradise or Shangri-La. And honestly, after spending a weekend at the Kentuck Festival of the Arts, I can see why—this place is an absolute heaven for art lovers, music fans, and anyone who appreciates a good dose of creativity with a side of Southern charm!
And now, back to our original subject…
Reason 1: This Historic Art Festival is in a Brand New Location
In 2024, the Kentuck Festival of the Arts celebrated its 53rd year. The first 52 years saw it held in Kentuck Park in Northport, the charming little burg tucked away on the north side of the Black Warrior River, just a stone’s throw from Tuscaloosa. But year 53 brought a whole new scene. Having never attended the previous location, I have no basis for comparison.
Since change (even good change) is hard for everyone, I imagine the location shift brought mixed feelings for those who have been faithful attendees for many years. However, I cannot imagine a more perfect location for this first-time visitor than Snow Hinton Park.
Snow Hinton Park is in Tuscaloosa rather than Northport and has been revamped. The 40-acre park had smooth, accessible pathways, abundant restrooms, and ample parking. Dual entrances to the festival kept lines short, and the 40 acres of space allowed plenty of room for everyone to stretch out. I loved that I could always find a spot with benches and concrete accents readily available when I needed to sit.
Reason 2. Over 270 Artists Showcasing Incredible Work
Once I entered the gates of Snow Hinton Park, a veritable sea of booths lay before me, wherein 270 incredible artists, artisans, and brilliant creators waited to share their wares with me and the many other visitors.
The first display I saw was a vintage Volkswagen van, painted and decorated in a fashion that would make any proper hippie proud. I hastily left the slower members of my group in my dust and darted over to the van, which, I’m pretty sure, was audibly calling me. Much to my delight, I found the van on display right next to a booth filled with quirky and brightly colored art. I greeted the artist in the booth, a handsome fella wearing a distinctive hat and worn overalls.
This unassuming fella is Justin Thomas Atkin: business owner, folk artist, storyteller, miller, and road warrior. As is typical, I quickly engaged in warm conversation with him. What a great way to begin my experience at the festival! I would have happily moved our discussion to a pair of ragged chairs on a Southern front porch, sipping sweet tea and listening to his stories of life and the road. But alas, the rest of the festival called, and Mr. Atkin had work to do, so he graciously posed for a selfie with me near his distinctive van before I moved along to the 269 other artists who were awaiting.
Reason 3. Hands-On Fun for Kids and Adults
If you’re a grandma who enjoys multi-generational travel, have no fear! The kids will love Kentuck. Even though I didn’t have grandkids along, I still enjoyed wandering the “Kentuck for Kids” area, where I found a whole slew of budding Picassos engaging in hands-on activities like tie-dye, clay modeling, and paper marbling. I would have loved to dig my hands into the tie-dye, but I wasn’t sure it was right or fair to take up a spot in the middle of even the short line of kiddos patiently waiting their turn.
This is the perfect place to engage the kids in crafting abandon while having none of the mess at home! And your cherished littles get a tangible reminder of their time crafting with one of their favorite people: YOU!
Reason 4. Delicious Festival Food You Won’t Want to Miss
Now, let’s talk grub. If you’ve been around, you know this Hip Grandma loves food. If we’re being honest, I have a bit of a problem – I love fair food far too much. But alas, it is what it is, and food noise aside, Kentuck did not let me down.
As I wandered the paved pathways in the sunshine, I heard the shake of ice at several booths serving up fresh-crushed lemonade. It was a warm and sunny day, making the lemonade booths some of the most popular throughout the park, although the beer and wine booth was a close second.
But what really caught my eye was the people passing me holding giant pineapples, complete with tropical umbrellas, hollowed out and accented with fresh pineapple rings. I had to get me one of those and I wouldn’t rest until my search was complete. Yep – I found the booth and treated myself to one of these tropical delights, hand-created right before my eyes! It lived up to its visual – it was like a vacation for my taste buds!
Hip Grandma tip: there’s enough here to share, so if you’re traveling with a friend, ask for two straws!
After slurping up my tropical delight and pointing many more people in the direction of the pineapple booth, I carried on.
Like fun roadside stops? Check out the Quirky Roadside Facebook Group!
Reason 5. Unique Experiences You Won’t Find Anywhere Else
A walk through the Kentuck Festival of the Arts is a treat for all the senses, not the least of which is sound. You’ll hear laughter, music, poetry, and general chatter. But one sound that stood out and immediately caught my attention was the didgeridoo. Yep – you read that right.
I heard the unusual sound and had a new mission – hunt it down and find out what was making it. As the sound grew closer, I turned the corner and made a most delightful discovery. In front of me was a booth featuring the didgeridoo and a handsome young fella splurting out the little tune. Once again, I quickly made a new friend in Will McGavin: artist, musician, and maker of the beautiful display of instruments in front of me.
The didgeridoo is a mesmerizing Australian wind instrument with a unique sound, part rhythm, part haunting whisper, and all compelling. After listening to Will make magic for a minute, I had to ask for a turn. Will happily obliged and tutored me in the basics. I gave it my best effort, puffed out my cheeks like a blowfish, and made a few comical attempts, to the delight of some good-natured onlookers. But trust me when I tell you I won’t be quitting my day job anytime soon!
Reason 6. The Kentuck Festival of the Arts is A Welcoming, Creative Atmosphere for Everyone
One of my favorite observations about the crowd wandering Snow Hinton Park during the Kentuck Festival of the Arts was the diversity of people around me. Art has a way of bringing people together in both good and challenging times.
I saw families of all ages, nationalities, and abilities, and everyone was having a positive experience. I loved seeing people mingle while shopping, observing artisans at work, listening to spoken word artistry, and trying new foods from the many food carts. The crowd was plentiful but never overwhelming, and spirits were high on both days.
Every artist with whom I interacted had a smile and was happy to answer questions and share their expertise, even if I knew nothing about the craft they displayed. All gave the new location a double thumbs up, which speaks volumes for the organizers and creators behind this festival.
Reason 7. Art Demonstrations for Everyone
Walking around the park, I was drawn in to watch an artisan at work multiple times. I love that the Kentuck Festival of the Arts isn’t just about purchasing artwork but about having an immersive art experience. I watched a potter sculpt, a weaver weave, an embroiderer stitch, a copper artist pound, a yarn artist knit, a painter paint, and more! I would have loved to try my hand at all of the arts, but for those who don’t want hands-on experience, the ability to stand and watch someone make magic with their hands is a gift.
I also learned that many artists collaborate with the local school system to bring their art into the classroom, instructing and engaging students in the arts and developing artists who will be celebrated at the festival 50 years from now. This art-loving Hip Grandma LOVES this!
Need a Place to Stay in Tuscaloosa?
You’ll find both the Alamite and Hotel Indigo on this map, which are both excellent options. Hotel Alamite is downtown, and Hotel Indigo overlooks the Black Warrior River. You’ll find many additional options that cater to your unique style and budget.
Conclusion – You’ll Definitely Want to Take Something Home from the Kentuck Festival of the Arts
In summary, the Kentuck Festival of the Arts is, hands down, the best art show I’ve ever attended. From the diverse art forms to the family-friendly activities and scrumptious food, it’s an experience that lingers in your heart. So, pack your bags—and your wallet! You’re bound to find a masterpiece (or two) that simply must come home with you. As for me, I’ll be enjoying my funky new hat from artist Jackie Miller, who kindly posed for a selfie with me!
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