Venue Spotlight: A Week of Huntsville Music
In Huntsville, it can be easy to look longingly at the music scenes of Nashville and Atlanta. But the Rocket City has plenty of rhythm of its own. Here’s how to spend a summer week in Huntsville listening to local live music.
Monday: Concerts in the Park at Big Spring Park
On every Monday for ten summer weeks, Huntsville hosts a free concert in Big Spring Park from 6:30-8:30pm. Each concerts has two acts, with genres ranging from bluegrass to Reggae to mariachi. Arts Huntsville and Huntsville Parks and Rec provide the music, you provide everything else.
Tuesday: Summer Sunset Concerts at Ditto Landing
Every second Tuesday in May, June, July, and August, the Huntsville Music Office and Artemis Music Productions host a concert along the Tennessee River. With concerts going from 6-8pm, sit along the boat-filled marina and watch the sun set over the Tennessee River while being serenaded by local musicians.
Wednesday: St. Stephen’s Music Hall
Nestled in the hallways at Campus 805 is the Grateful Dead-inspired St. Stephen’s Music Hall, a place for all the 60’s-loving dads and everyone else. Say hello to the kindly bartenders and listen to a variety of visiting and local artists on Wednesdays from 6pm-12am. St. Stephen’s is open Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays too at the sane time and occasionally on Tuesdays and Sundays.
Thursday: “805 After 5” at Campus No. 805
On the third Thursday from May to October, Downtown Huntsville and the Huntsville Music Office host “805 After 5” on the Butler Green of Campus No. 805 (the green space between Straight to Ale and Yellowhammer for the uninitiated) from 5-9pm. This year’s lineup ranges from brass bands to Grateful Dead tribute bands to costumed electronic DJ sets. Bring the chair you used for Monday’s Concert in the Park and have your purple cup ready to jam to both local music and intriguing visitors on the pop-up stage.
Friday: The Camp
A Huntsville staple, The Camp hosts free shows highlighting local artists from any genre (among other kinds of spectacles) every week. It’s the only place in Huntsville to get a frozen Tito’s lemonade, take your pick of food trucks, try a delicious hand-crafted espresso martini in The Greenroom, and listen to good local music, all at the same time.
Saturday: Mad Malt’s Brewing
Known to be slightly less mainstream, Mad Malt’s is the go-to for punk, metal, and house shows. With a cozy upstairs, a dance floor, and a spacious backyard, Mad Malt’s offers unique brews and the ability to choose-your-own vibe for the night.
Sunday: Blues Jam at The Voodoo Lounge Bar & Grill
On Sunday nights when most people are facing the Sunday scaries or prepping for the next day at work, others are gathering in the dimly lit basement of the Voodoo Lounge. At 9pm (ish), the music starts, filling the air with the vibrant sounds of blues. Hosted every Sunday, this free blues jam highlights both regular and newer local players. Listen to some good music and get a $2 PBR while you’re at it.
