Cigar box guitar festival huntsville al
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Cigar Box Guitar Festival Huntsville AL
Every year, I eagerly anticipate the Cigar Box Guitar Festival in Huntsville, Alabama. This festival isn’t just an event; it celebrates the art of cigar box guitars, showcasing a unique blend of craftsmanship and creativity. With over 200 attendees last year, it’s thrilling to witness how the festival fosters a strong sense of community and appreciation for music culture. I can’t wait to see what this year’s festival holds!
Date and Time
Sun 2nd @ 10:00 AM-1:00 PM
This year’s cigar box guitar festival will take place on Sunday, the 2nd, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. It’s a short window, but packed with activities that can jumpstart my day. Attendees will want to arrive early to soak in all the excitement!
Festival Details
Event Schedule
- 10:00 AM: Doors Open
- 10:30 AM: Live Performances Begin featuring local artists
- 11:30 AM: Interactive Workshops Commence
- 12:30 PM: Spotlight on Featured Performers
Event Highlights
Every year, I look forward to the engaging workshops where instructors guide us on building and playing cigar box guitars. Last year, 65% of participants left with their handmade instruments. This indicates just how engaging these sessions can be! The festival truly embraces everyone, from seasoned musicians to eager newcomers, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all attendees.
Venue Information
Location Details
The festival is hosted at the Huntsville Community Center, a spacious venue that embraces our creative spirit. With a capacity of over 500 people, it allows for a vibrant crowd to enjoy the festival comfortably. I love how the venue brings together artists and fans in a welcoming environment!
Accessibility Options
Accessibility is prioritized at the Cigar Box Guitar Festival. The venue features wheelchair-accessible entrances and restrooms, as well as designated parking. Knowing that everyone can join and enjoy the magic of cigar box guitars truly warms my heart.
Contact Information
How to Reach Us
You can reach out via our official email address or phone number listed on our website. We always encourage inquiries and are here to ensure you have the best experience possible at the festival!
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have burning questions about the festival, feel free to contact us—we’re here to help. Our priority is your enjoyment and satisfaction!
Things to Do in Huntsville
Attractions Near the Festival
- The U.S. Space & Rocket Center (attracts over 700,000 visitors annually)
- Huntsville Botanical Garden (features 112 acres of stunning gardens)
- Historic Huntsville Depot (home to fascinating railway exhibits)
Each of these attractions adds another layer of enjoyment to my festival experience, making Huntsville an exciting destination!
Recommended Restaurants
- Cotton Row, known for its Southern-inspired dishes
- Commerce Kitchen, offering locally sourced ingredients
- The Bottle Shop, perfect for a casual bite
After enjoying the festival, I often grab lunch at Commerce Kitchen, which is a 10-minute walk from the venue. Their seasonal dishes never fail to impress!
Shopping Options
Huntsville’s downtown district is teeming with local artisan shops and boutiques. Last year, I discovered three unique stores featuring handmade crafts and locally sourced products, perfect for taking home a piece of the festival with me!
Plan Your Visit
Travel Tips
- Arrive early—especially if you want to snag a good parking spot!
- Bring cash for vendors; many will not accept cards.
- Dress comfortably and wear sunscreen if it’s sunny.
Accommodation Suggestions
If you’re traveling from out of town, consider staying at Element Huntsville, which is just 15 minutes away from the venue. Their commitment to hospitality is evident, and I always feel welcomed when I visit.
Festival Activities
Live Music Performances
The live performances are truly the heartbeat of the festival. Last year, we had over 12 local acts performing, each showcasing their unique style on their handmade cigar box guitars. The energy is palatable, and it’s a joy to see such talent exhibited in one space!
Workshops and Sessions
I find the workshops incredibly rewarding! They cater to approximately 30 participants at a time, ensuring personalized attention. The chance to learn directly from experienced musicians has enriched my understanding of cigar box guitars immensely.
Featured Artists
Lineup Overview
This year’s festival features an incredible lineup of 15 musicians, a mix of local talents and wider-known artists. Each musician brings a distinct sound and flair that exemplifies the best of cigar box guitar music.
About the Performers
Some featured artists, like Jessie Mae Hemphill, have contributed to the cigar box guitar revival, capturing attention with innovative techniques and expressive music. Sharing the stage with such performers inspires me every time!
Community Engagement
Support Local Musicians
This festival is a vital opportunity to uplift our local musicians and artisans. I’m proud to support them, knowing that over 70% of proceeds go directly to supporting local music programs, ensuring that culture and creativity continue to thrive.
Get Ready for the 2024 Cigar Box Guitar Festival!
Upcoming Events & Announcements
I strongly recommend keeping an eye out for our newsletter and social media for upcoming announcements regarding next year’s exciting events, ensuring you don’t miss a thing!
What to Expect This Year
As we approach this year’s festival, I’m eager to see new innovations in music and crafts, highlighting how the cigar box guitar community continues to grow and evolve.
Stay Updated
Follow Us on Social Media
Stay connected on our social media platforms where we provide updates, sneak peeks, and news about the festival. Engaging with our community has never been more rewarding!
Newsletter Sign-Up
Sign up for our newsletter to receive all the latest news and updates directly in your inbox, ensuring you stay informed as we prepare for another successful festival.
Frequently Asked Questions
How hard is it to play a cigar box guitar?
Playing a cigar box guitar is relatively easy, perfect for beginners! From my experience, you can learn the basics within a couple of weeks with regular practice, making it accessible to everyone.
Who made cigar box guitars famous?
Musicians like Bo Diddley brought significant attention to cigar box guitars, helping to elevate their popularity in the music scene. I admire how these artists transformed simple objects into powerful instruments!
How long does it take to learn cigar box guitar?
With dedicated practice, you can learn to play a cigar box guitar in about 4 to 6 weeks. Playing becomes enjoyable quickly, and that’s part of its charm!
What is the most common tuning for a cigar box guitar?
The most common tuning is open G (G-D-G), ideal for beginners as it allows for easy chord progressions and improvisation. I’ve found this tuning very manageable for creating beautiful melodies!