Huntsville’s Cigar Box Guitar Festival Returns for a Weekend of Music, Makers, and Southern Culture

The unmistakable sound of a cigar box guitar is returning to Huntsville this spring as the world’s longest-running Cigar Box Guitar Festival celebrates another year of music, craftsmanship, and community connection.

Taking place May 29-31, 2026, the festival brings together musicians, instrument builders, artists, and music lovers from across the region for a weekend filled with live performances, workshops, interactive experiences, and family-friendly activities throughout Huntsville. 

Now in its 22nd year, the festival has become a beloved Huntsville tradition and a unique celebration of Southern roots music and handmade artistry. Proceeds from ticketed events benefit the Microwave Dave Music Education Foundation, helping support music education initiatives throughout the community. 

Friday, May 29, 2026

Festival Kick-Off Concert featuring John Nickel and 5’ive O’Clock Charlie & Otis Walker

The festival begins Friday evening at Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment with a free outdoor concert featuring John Nickel and 5’ive O’Clock Charlie & Otis Walker. Guests are encouraged to bring a chair or blanket and enjoy a relaxed evening of live music, community, and Southern charm on the dock. Food and drinks will be available for purchase, and picnics are welcome. In the event of rain, the concert will move inside the Connector.

When: Friday, May 29 | 6:00 p.m.
Where: On the Dock at Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment
Cost: Free admission, $10 parking

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Saturday, May 30, 2026

Free Daytime Activities at Lowe Mill A&E

Saturday’s festivities continue with a full day of free programming for cigar box guitar fans throughout Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment. Throughout the day, cigar box guitar fans can learn about playing a CBG in both beginner and advanced lessons as well as get tips on building their own CBGs. There will be a screening of “Songs Inside The Box,” a documentary about the 2006 Cigar Box Guitar Festival in Huntsville and a preview of an upcoming documentary about the significance of cigar box guitar music in Alabama.

When: Saturday, May 30 | 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Where: Multiple indoor locations at Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment
Cost: Free

Evening Performance at Ravenwood Meadery

Saturday evening wraps up with live music from Box of Smoke and Lindy Urban at Ravenwood Meadery inside Lowe Mill. Guests are invited to enjoy an intimate performance while supporting the Microwave Dave Music Education Foundation through a suggested donation.

When: Saturday, May 30 | 6:00 p.m.
Where: Ravenwood Meadery at Lowe Mill
Cost: Suggested $10 donation benefiting the Microwave Dave Music Education Foundation

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Sunday at The Orion Sunday

Vintage & Vinyl Market featuring April Mae & The June Bugs

Sunday afternoon brings the festival to The Orion Amphitheater for a free Vintage & Vinyl Market featuring more than 40 curated vendors selling vinyl records, vintage goods, handmade items, and local art. Guests can also enjoy live music from April Mae & The June Bugs, food trucks, kids activities, and instructor-led cigar box guitar jam sessions. Festivalgoers are encouraged to bring their own cigar box guitars if they would like to participate in the jams.

When: Sunday, May 31 | 2:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Where: The Orion Amphitheater grounds
Cost: Free admission

Benefit Concert featuring Gary Nichols & The FAME Gang

The festival concludes Sunday evening with its only ticketed event: an intimate benefit concert featuring GRAMMY-winning artist Gary Nichols and the legendary FAME Gang of Muscle Shoals. Presented by Whitney Stringer, ReMax Realty, the concert will take place on the fully covered main stage at The Orion with limited seating for just 300 guests. All ticket proceeds directly benefit the Microwave Dave Music Education Foundation.

When: Sunday, May 31 | Gates open at 6:30 p.m., show begins at 7:00 p.m.
Where: Main Stage at The Orion Amphitheater
Cost: $23-$70 admission
Tickets on Sale: Purchase Now

What makes the Cigar Box Guitar Festival so unique is its blend of music, creativity, and accessibility. Whether attendees are longtime musicians, curious first-time visitors, or families looking for a memorable weekend activity, the festival offers an experience that feels both deeply rooted in tradition and unmistakably Huntsville.

For tickets, schedules, and festival updates, visit Cigar Box Guitar Festival.