21 Things to Make You Smile in 2021

We are already feeling like 2021 is off to a great start. And it can only get better from here.

To put a smile on your face, we’ve pulled together a list of 21 things to do in 2021 that will do just that…. make you smile!

21 Things to Make You Smile in 2021 is sponsored by

1. Go to a Trash Pandas Game

The Rocket City Trash Pandas will finally take the field and bring baseball back to North Alabama. We can’t wait. Find their schedule here.

2. Enjoy the View at Burritt on the Mountain

A gorgeous view of Huntsville from the top of the mountain. PLUS there is plenty to do on the museum grounds. Make a day of it.

3. Spend a whole day at Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment

Eat. Shop. Buy Art. Eat some more. Explore.

4. Shop a Farmer’s Market

We love our fresh fruits, veggies, eggs, and meat around here. To help you find just what you are looking for, visit our Farm Fresh Food Guide!

5. Go Kayaking on the Flint or Paint Rock Rivers

Hit the water. Discover your new obsession. (PS We speak from experience here!)

6. Take a Picture in Front of Your Favorite Mural

Make it a challenge to visit some murals and take some selfies or fun family photos. The is a great way to show off that 2021 smile!!

7. Try 20 New Foods From our 100+ Things to Eat List

With a list of over 100 fun foods to try in Huntsville, we created a realistic goal of 20 this year. You can do it!!

8. Check Out a Book at Your Local Library Branch

Visit a brand new branch like the North Huntsville Library! There are over 10 branches all around Huntsville, so there has to be one convenient to you.

9. Play in John Hunt Park

With new tracks, sand volleyball courts, soccer fields, and more, you’ll find something fun to do at John Hunt Park!

10. Attend an Art Festival

Whether it’s Huntsville or the surrounding North Alabama area, there are art festivals throughout the year. Check our calendar or chat with your art-loving friends to get the scoop!

11. Jam at a Free Outdoor Concert

Huntsville, especially Downtown Huntsville, is known for lots of live music. Warmer months mean outdoor concerts, and many are free. Keep an eye on our calendar to catch a free show.

12. Go on a Quest for the Best Frozen Treat

Popsicles. Milkshakes. Frozen coffee. Shaved ice. Ice cream.
Spend the summer searching for your favorite frozen treat! There are so many options around town!

13. Tour a Local Historic Home

There are many historic homes open in our area, for tours and educational experiences. You can find a few of them here. Don’t miss out on a fun opportunity to see interesting homes from Huntsville’s past in 2021.

14. See a Show at INTUITIVE® Planetarium

Huntsville is lucky enough to have its own Planetarium, at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center no less. This 8K Digital Planetarium and Digital Dome offers educational astronomy shows, live entertainment and more.

15. Visit the HC Blake Art & History Museum

This place is a Huntsville treasure! Go for a visit, and then stop at Dark. Side coffee, located right next store. Read more from our own visit here.

16. See a Comedy Show

Huntsville hosts many locally based and super talented comedians. We also are lucky enough to have venues that bring in comedians from all over the world – Stand-Up Live and the VBC.

17. Visit a New Greenway Trail

By “new” we mean new to you. But if you are looking for brand new, there is a great South Huntsville greenway off of Haysland Road. It’s great for walking, biking or skateboarding. Here is the list for more options.

18. Find All the Lucky Ducks in Downtown Huntsville

If you’ve looked for the ducks before, can you remember where they are? If you haven’t found them all, what are you waiting for? Find all 14 this year!

19. Purchase a Piece of Local Art

“Local” is open to interpretation here. It can be art purchased from a local retail establishment or art made by a local Huntsvillian. Either way, adding local art to your home or office is a great investment in your well-being and the community!

20. Becoming a Plant Parent

2021 is a continuation of the house plant craze. Go ahead and spend 2021 expanding your indoor garden, or starting one if you are missing that indoor greenery. Find a new favorite house plant (and keep it alive)!

21. Go on a Ghost Walk

Mark your calendars for fall in Huntsville because that’s when the ghosts come out! Well, it’s not guaranteed you will see a ghost on a Huntsville Ghost Walk, but you leave knowing where they hang out! Check the schedule… slots sometimes fill up fast.