Excitement Builds for Huntsville’s Inaugural South Star Festival!
If you’re in Huntsville, Alabama, you’re probably buzzing with excitement as the countdown continues for the first-ever South Star Festival happening this weekend! Set to kick off on Saturday and Sunday, the festival at John Hunt Park promises a fun-filled experience for everyone, and city officials are putting their best foot forward to ensure everything runs like a well-oiled machine.
City Departments Join Forces
City departments have been working around the clock to roll out the red carpet for festival-goers. A range of infrastructure improvements have been made to the festival grounds, which were partly planned as part of a larger master plan for the park. Expect to see new pedestrian paths and refreshed sod, creating a welcoming environment where you can enjoy the festivities.
“Thank you to all the City departments for their hard work and dedication in helping bring the South Star Festival to life,” said Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle. “This event represents a tremendous opportunity for our community, and I’m proud to see such a great display of teamwork.”
Festival Details You Need to Know
As the excitement builds, here are some essential details to keep in mind:
- Gates open: Saturday and Sunday at 1 p.m.
- Music ends: 11 p.m. each night
- Festival website: A welcome guide from festival producer C3 Presents is available online to keep attendees informed.
Driving & Parking Arrangements
With an expected crowd of 20,000 to 25,000 attendees, it’s important to plan ahead when it comes to driving and parking. The festival organizers have designated a single entrance at the roundabout near Philip Dotts Drive and Jaycee Way. Huntsville Police advise arriving early to secure parking and enjoy the show from the beginning.
“If you’re going to be attending the festival, be sure to get there in plenty of time to find some parking and get to the gate to see the first acts,” said HPD Capt. Stephen Anderson. “Expect congestion in the area and be patient with everybody.”
Paid parking will be available on a first-come, first-served basis at two nearby lots. You’ll find about 850 spaces on the south side of Airport Road at the volleyball, cross country, and tennis areas for a daily rate of $40 (credit card only). There are also 100 additional spots at 3242 Leeman Ferry Road near the Huntsville Ice Sports Center, available for $45 per day.
Public Transit & Ride-Share Options
If driving isn’t your thing, don’t worry! Three Orbit bus routes will service the event, and the closest stop is conveniently located at Hardees/Academy Sports on the Brahan Spring Route. The buses will run every 30 minutes and will operate for an additional hour after the festival ends. A one-way fare on the Orbit bus is just $1.
Focus on Safety
Your safety is a top priority! Huntsville Police and Huntsville Fire & Rescue will be present throughout the weekend, while C3 Presents will have private security on hand. “We want to make sure everyone acts responsibly inside the site,” emphasized HPD Chief Kirk Giles.
Cleanup Plans
After the festival, expect to see Huntsville’s Green Team on cleanup duty, ensuring the park looks as good as new. Extra trash bins will be available, and staff will be on hand to keep the area clean. Landscaper Management Director Brian Walker encourages everyone to pitch in and dispose of their waste properly. “Just putting trash in the bins makes a big difference for our environment and keeps our community looking its best,” he stated.
Conclusion
So, gather your friends and family, and don’t miss out on what promises to be an incredible weekend of music and community spirit at the South Star Festival! Get ready to kick back, enjoy great performances, and make lasting memories right here in Huntsville!
