The summer crowds are gone, leaves have just started to change, and a hint of a season change is starting to show here in Alabama. Football is on the TV every week and you may be starting to think of lighting a bonfire in your backyard. That means fall, y’all!

With the humidity dropping and the days getting shorter, it’s a wonderful time to scope out the exciting things happening on and around the lakes here in Alabama. Plan a quick weekend getaway that includes fall festivals and good times with family and friends.

Enjoy some fishing time on Logan Martin Lake, and when you work up an appetite, stop by A Taste of Louisiana Food Festival and Cook-off on October 5 from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. This exciting fundraiser event celebrates Cajun food and all things Louisiana right here in Alabama. Teams from throughout the state compete for best Cajun dish while the guests get to sample amazing foods in this truly spectacular culinary festival. Children twelve and younger are admitted for free, making this a popular family event.

If the Louisiana Food Festival and Cook-off leaves you wanting more, make your way to the Taste of Hoover event on October 10 in Birmingham. Sample famous dishes from well-known culinary artists in the Birmingham/Hoover area. This open-air dining experience lets you enjoy an evening under the stars while relishing amazing food and sipping international wines and local beers.

Travel on down to the Mobile-Tensaw River Delta, but don’t miss the 48th Annual National Shrimp Festival happening October 10-13 in Gulf Shores. This famous four-day seafood event attracts more than 300,000 seafood lovers and will feature 80+ hours of live music.

Is BBQ more your taste? The Scottsboro BBQ Cook-Off Festival is a must for your list of festivals to attend this fall. Held on October 12, it will feature backyard-BBQ-style cooking complete with a cornhole tournament, kids’ activities, and even a Barq-Off Dog Parade!