Huntsville is once again home to one of the most distinctive music festivals in the world. The Cigar Box Guitar Festival, now in its 21st year, will take place over three days from May 30 through June 1, with events happening across the city and culminating in a full day of music and family-friendly programming at The Orion Amphitheater.
Recognized as the world’s longest-running cigar box guitar festival, this event continues to celebrate musical innovation, handcrafted instruments, and community creativity.
All proceeds from the festival benefit the Microwave Dave Music Education Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to integrating music into education for children across North Alabama.
Friday, May 30 – Jazz and Casino Night at AVIQ
The festival opens with an evening of music and classic casino fun at AVIQ (1833 University Drive NW). This ticketed event features live jazz by The Cigar Box Serenaders of New Orleans, food and drinks, a silent auction, and an intimate setting to kick off the weekend. Space is limited, and tickets are $50.
Saturday, May 31 – Workshops, Performances, and Dancing at Lowe Mill A&E
The second day of the festival brings hands-on experiences to Lowe Mill A&E. Throughout the day, guests can attend free workshops on building and playing cigar box guitars, hosted by local experts at The Cigar Box Guitar Store, Tangled String Studio, and the Huntsville Traditional Music Association. Attendees can also enjoy solo performances at Kar’s Char Texas BBQ and browse artist studio specials throughout the Mill.
Saturday evening, the energy turns up with a swing dance concert at the Saturn Jive Dance Space, featuring the genre-blending sound of April Mae & The June Bugs. Known for performing on handcrafted and recycled instruments, the band brings together elements of jump blues, jazz swing, and rockabilly in a highly engaging show. Tickets for the concert are $15.
Sunday, June 1 – Grand Finale at The Orion Amphitheater
The festival wraps with a full day of programming at The Orion Amphitheater, presented by Whitney Stringer of Redstone Realty Solutions. The day is split into two parts: a free daytime celebration open to the public, and a ticketed evening concert showcasing nationally recognized talent.
11:00 am – 2:00 pm: Free Family Activities
Guests can enjoy interactive music experiences, meet local vendors, and grab lunch from food trucks. Activities include:
• Recycled instrument building for kids
• An interactive blues lesson and jam session with Microwave Dave
• Environmental music and storytelling from Miss Calliope
• A performance by The Cigar Box Serenaders, playing handmade instruments created from upcycled materials
5:30 pm – 9:00 pm: Evening Concert Featuring Grammy Winner Gary Nichols
The gates reopen at 5:30 for the festival’s signature finale event. The evening concert features Grammy-winner Gary Nichols performing with the FAME Gang, the iconic studio musicians from Muscle Shoals. A number of special guests from the Huntsville area are also expected to join. Tickets for the evening show are $15, with all proceeds supporting the Microwave Dave Music Education Foundation.
A Festival with Purpose
In addition to its music and creative offerings, the Cigar Box Guitar Festival highlights Huntsville’s growing arts scene and community spirit. With support from local sponsors and volunteers, the festival remains free and accessible during the day while raising funds for an organization that champions the role of music in education.
For tickets, vendor information, and a complete schedule, visit:
www.CigarBoxGuitarFestival.com
Katelyn Henderson has lived in Huntsville for over 12 years and feels like it is her true home. She owns We Are Huntsville and loves supporting local business, sharing fun exciting news, and finding all the secret treasures that make Huntsville so special. You can always send her an email! katelyn@wearehuntsville.com
Leave a Reply