April is probably one of the busiest months for tourism in Selma because there are so many events during the week and multiple events on the weekends. We won't complain about having too many things to do though! Here are a few of the highlights from April:
150th Anniversary Observance for the Battle of Selma
The April 1865 Society held the 150th Battle of Selma Official Observance and Unveiling on April 2 to commemorate the Battle of Selma. Nearly 100 people gathered at ArtsRevive to learn about the Battle of Selma and the new series of historic markers. The seventh in a series of historic markers was unveiled near ArtsRevive and a Brooke Cannon was fired to conclude the commemoration.
Alabama River Chili Cook-off
Over a thousand people sampled all kinds of chili at the annual Alabama River Chili Cook-off. Proceeds from the event were donated to SABRA Sanctuary in the amount of $12,500!
April 1865 Society Historic Marker Unveilings
A total of 10 historic markers were unveiled before the 150th Battle of Selma Re-enactment this year. Each historic marker is complete with a map and a QR Code on the back. The April 1865 Society has plans to install an additional 10 historic markers in the coming months. Contact us at tourism@selmaalabama.com if you would like a complete list of the locations of the first 10 historic markers.
Central Alabama Crawfish Festival
The Selma Lions Club held its first annual Central Alabama Crawfish Festival this year. It was a huge success with nearly 1,000 people in attendance for this first-time event. We are already looking forward to next year!
Alabama Legislative Tourism Bash
I attended the Alabama Legislative Tourism Bash in Montgomery for the second year in a row and enjoyed meeting with other tourism professionals from across the state. Also, there was a giant astronaut at the event.
Low Country Boil at the Old Depot Museum
The Old Depot Museum held its annual Low Country Boil to raise money for the museum. Hundreds of people attended the event to eat delicious crawfish and to support the Old Depot.
ArtsRevive Roots and Wings Art Show
The annual ArtsRevive Roots and Wings Art Show features work from artists throughout Alabama. Every space imaginable in the ArtsRevive building had a piece of art either for sale or for show.
Battle of Selma Living History Tours
Over 1,000 students from all over Alabama, and even a group from California, visited Selma to attend the Battle of Selma Living History Tours. The students had the opportunity to see firsthand how soldiers fought, dressed, and lived during the Civil War.
April Walking Tours
Each year, the Alabama Tourism Department organizes the April Walking Tours in cities throughout the state so that visitors can learn more about Alabama and the various cities. The tours last approximately one hour each Saturday in April. On our last walking tour this year, we had 13 visitors (some not pictured) that toured our historic downtown and learned a small portion of Selma's history.
Rock N Ribs Benefit
Blackbelt Benefit Group held another incredible Rock N Ribs Benefit with all-you-can-eat ribs and hors d'oeuvres, as well as live music throughout the day.
Battle of Selma Grand Military Ball
One of the favorite events during the Battle of Selma Re-enactment weekend each year is the Grand Military Ball. Guests are required to dress in period costumes and have the opportunity to dance the night away with dances from the 1800s. Visit www.battleofselma.com for information about next year's Re-enactment and Grand Military Ball.
Battle of Selma Re-enactment
Over 1,500 re-enactors from across the United States came to Selma to participate in the 150th Battle of Selma Re-enactment. An estimated 5,000 spectators were in attendance for the battles on Saturday and Sunday.
Mayor George Evans also surprised the Re-enactors one evening by providing boxed dinners and distributing 150th Anniversary coins.
And it wouldn't be tourism season without at least one interview in an antebellum dress and an interview at 6:00 AM, but it is always worth it!
