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Articles by Lauren Denman
12 easy Huntsville-themed Halloween costumes only locals will know
Be an astronaut for Halloween this year! (Hville Blast) If you’re like me and plan last-minute when it comes to Halloween, we have some easy family-friendly costume ideas that are sure to be a hit with locals! Check out these Huntsville-themed Halloween costumes: Starting with a personal favorite—a Lowe Mill artist! Wear paint-splattered clothes and apron, best accented with: Piper & Leaf mason jar Tote bag from Vertical House Records Paint + brushes from Huntsville Art Supplies Print your...
NEW: Japanese bar + restaurant bringing sushi + omakase to downtown [PHOTOS]
We first spotted Ozu’s signage on Wednesday, October 21. (Hville Blast) Sushi lovers, get ready! Downtown Huntsville’s newest restaurant and bar is officially debuting on November 5, and we got an inside look on what to expect. Read more below, and make sure to subscribe to our newsletter to get news like this delivered to your inbox. Ozu in downtown Huntsville (Ozu) Ozu will be a Japanese bar and restaurant dedicated to sushi, cocktails and omakase.
7 spots with beautiful fall foliage in North Alabama
Huntsville, Cullman, Guntersville + more will start seeing colorful leaves soon π (Hville Blast) With October almost to a close and November right around the corner, fall foliage has been popping up across Alabama. Here in Huntsville, we are lucky enough to be some of the first in the state to see the Autumn colors of the season. Outside of Huntsville, there are tons of breathtaking nature preserves with captivating red, orange and yellow leaves.
What’s going on this weekend in Huntsville – Spellbound, haunted houses + more [Oct. 23-25]
Don’t miss Huntsville Botanical Garden’s adults-only event running all weekend! (HBG) It’s that time of the week again, and boy do we have some fun events going on this weekend! With Halloween only one week away, the city has already gone into full spooky mode. Whether you’re looking for fall family fun or a thrilling haunted dance party, we’ve got events sure to match your niche. Make sure to subscribe to our newsletter to get guides like this delivered straight to your inbox.
Nucor to invest $60 million in Morgan County facility
Nucor Towers will invest $60 million into its North Alabama operations. (Nucor Steel) Gov. Kay Ivey announced on October 20, 2026, that Nucor will invest $60 million to expand its Nucor Towers & Structures facility in Trinity. She said the project will add 60 jobs with average annual wages exceeding $87,000 and increase production of steel poles and other steel structures for utility infrastructure.
How does Huntsville keep up with its growth? Find out at this community event October 28
Sponsored Community members unite every year to discuss Huntsville’s growth. (Committee of 100) Do you have ideas for Huntsville’s growth, or questions about what the future of our city looks like? I have good news. One of Huntsville’s largest annual gatherings of business and civic leaders is happening Wednesday, October 28 to address these very questions, and you’re invited to join the conversation.
5 talented Huntsville-based authors you need to check out
Calling all local readers! (Ben Johnson / Hville Blast) Did you know there are many Huntsville-based authors with national recognition? The Rocket City is full of extremely creative people writing thriller, fantasy, hometown stories and more. From renowned memoir writer Homer Hickam to beloved romantasy author A.G. Porter, the writing talent in North Alabama is absolutely astonishing. We gathered a list of five authors from the area to help you find your next captivating read.
Nearly $1M worth of upgrades coming to Decatur’s parks + police department
The Decatur City Council meets on the first floor of the City Hall building. (Ben Johnson / Hville Blast) Nearly $1M worth of upgrades are on the way to Decatur’s police force and playgrounds after a City Council meeting on Monday, October 19. In a unanimous 5-0 vote, $650,000 was approved to be used for upgrades on four local playgrounds, and a federal grant was accepted worth $325,000, which will go towards the Decatur Police Department.
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🎃 SPOOKY COCKTAILS: We hit six Huntsville bars to find the best seasonal cocktails, from a bright green Witches Brew to a haunting Halloween pop-up you have to see. 👇
How to have a Gilmore Girls inspired day in Huntsville
Big Spring Park’s adorable gazebo reminds me so much of Stars Hollow! (McCarley Northway / Hville Blast) I don’t know about you, but the second fall weather hits Huntsville, I have to rewatch Gilmore Girls. In my opinion, that show is the definition of autumn. Though these days the bustling atmosphere of Huntsville might feel far from the quaint community that is Stars Hollow, you can’t argue that the Rocket City still has the heart of a small town.
What to do in Huntsville this weekend- Maple Hill Cemetery Stroll, Rocket Sessions + more [Oct. 16-18]
Watch a movie in the park every Friday in October! (Michael Seale / Hville Blast) It’s weekend time! The rain from last weekend has passed and we have (hopefully) sunny skies this weekend. With Halloween only two weeks away, the city has already begun celebrating. From Fall Festivals to cemetery strolls, Huntsville has an event for everyone this weekend, October 16-October 18, 2026.
Your ultimate guide to wedding venues in North Alabama
I just can’t get over this picture! (The Padgett Place) Hunting for a wedding venue in North Alabama can be a stressful and overwhelming process. There are tons of beautiful venues across the Tennessee Valley, making it often feel impossible to choose just one. We compiled an extensive list of wedding venues you are sure to love, whether you’re looking for a rustic barn or a glittering view of the water.
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👻🎃HAUNTED HSV: Spooky season is officially here! Looking for the most thrilling haunted house or the scariest ghost story? Check out these spooky attractions in and around the Rocket City!
7 peaceful study spots in Huntsville you need to know about
Check out Bus Stop Coffee in Downtown Huntsville! (Lauren Denman / Hville Blast) Midterm season is officially here, but don’t stress, we’ve got a list of peaceful study spots perfect for all your cramming needs. From coffee shops to libraries, these spots are sure to give you the distraction-free atmosphere you desperately need.
LOWE MILL X MAKE-A-WISH: Local artists auction painting for $20K
Artists Kait Steward + Jules Carter with their painting, “Launching Joy” (Kait Steward + Jules Carter, Lowe Mill Studio 324 + 325) On September 18, 2026, two local artists auctioned a Rocket City-themed painting for $20k, and all of their proceeds went to Make-A-Wish. With the title, “Launching Joy,” this piece of art encapsulates the city of Huntsville and provides a strong message of hope.
7 spots in + around Huntsville that feel like a trip to Europe
Check out Brother Joseph’s stunning miniatures at the Ave Maria Grotto (Lauren Denman / Hville Blast) Although it may sound crazy to say you can find a piece of Europe in Northern Alabama, you might be surprised at what Huntsville has to offer. From Irish pubs to Italian grottos, there are many spots that are so immersive in European culture it feels like you just traveled the world.
The Sandra Moon Community Complex is finally here – Here’s what to know
An outside look at the brand new Sandra Moon Community Complex (Lauren Denman / Hville Blast) The Sandra Moon Community Complex officially opened its doors today at a ribbon cutting ceremony led by Mayor Tommy Battle. Sitting in the old Grissom High School, the community has been desperate to know what would come of this iconic building. The new complex features fun for the entire community, no matter the interests or the age.
How to find the best fall drinks in Huntsville
Check out the new Rooster’s Crow fall menu! (Lauren Denman / Hville Blast) In case you were wondering if it is too soon to be ordering fall drinks, the answer is no. Absolutely not. September is finally here, which means Pumpkin Spice Lattes are officially back in stock. One by one, Huntsville coffee shops have been dropping their highly anticipated fall menus, and no one is more excited than us.
How to find the best retro diners in Huntsville
Travel through time at Bubby’s Diner in Huntsville (Lauren Denman / Hville Blast) If you’re a fan of “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives” or you’re just looking for some Southern comfort food in the Huntsville area, we’ve got you covered. The Rocket City is full of historical diners and classic cafes, with meals that make you feel right at home. From “donut burgers” to country fried steak, Huntsville’s diners have a lot to offer.
How to find the best trampoline parks in North Alabama
Check out this extreme dodgeball court at Upsurge in Decatur (Lauren Denman / Hville Blast) Whether you’re looking for an exciting place to let out some of your child’s energy or a thrilling spot for you and your friends, North Alabama is home to multiple trampoline parks full of exhilarating adventures. From bouncy obstacle courses to trampoline-based dodgeball, these five spots in North Alabama have everything you need to get all of your excess energy out.
7 educational museums you need to see in North Alabama
The captivating “Recorded Sound” exhibit at SIGNALS: Museum of Information Explosion (Lauren Denman / Hville Blast) One of the greatest things about North Alabama is the fact that there is always something new to learn or see. From art and music to the depths of outer space, there is truly is a museum for everyone. If you’re looking for a cool spot to bring your friends from out of town or an educational experience for you and your children, this is the list for you.
7 unique spots to watch the sunset in Huntsville
Beautiful view of Huntsville from Blevins Gap Nature Preserve (Lauren Denman / Hville Blast) I think I can speak for everyone when I say that there’s nothing quite like the perfect view of a breathtaking sunset. Something that makes Huntsville’s sunsets so incredible is the diversity of the city’s scenery. From mountains and rivers to an urban downtown, there are so many spots that perfectly frame the illuminated sky at the end of each day.
7 of the best gluten free pizza spots in Huntsville
Check out Sam and Greg’s gluten-free pizza in Downtown Huntsville (Lauren Denman / Hville Blast) Giving up gluten is quite the daunting task. Whether it’s due to an allergy or dieting, it can feel impossible to cut out one of America’s favorite foods: pizza. When I first cut gluten out of my life, saying goodbye to a greasy slice of pepperoni pizza just about broke my heart. Thankfully, here in Huntsville, there are multiple local pizza shops with gluten-free options.
Calhoun professor Matthew Riggle to compete on Jeopardy!
Catch Matthew Riggle on the Jeopardy! stage Thursday, July 23! (Sony Pictures Television) On Thursday, July 23, Calhoun Community College mathematics professor Matthew Riggle will be taking on the Jeopardy! stage. The iconic game show has won 46 Emmys and rakes in over 20 million weekly views, giving this Huntsville professor quite the stage to test his knowledge. Riggle will be competing against Jacqueline Ziegler of New York, as well as a mystery returning champion.
[VIDEO] Meet a Huntsville local with a passion for homesteading
Meet local homesteader, Ashley! (Ben Johnson / Hville Blast) Huntsville local, Ashley DeRuyter, is a gym trainer and mother who has a passion for homesteading. With chickens, turkeys, watermelons and peaches, her backyard really has it all. Find out how Ashley began homesteading and take a tour through her at-home farm👇 Read more below, and make sure to subscribe to our newsletter to get news like this delivered to your inbox.
Huntsville named the best place to live in the South by WorldAtlas
The Huntsville community celebrating America’s 250th in Big Spring Park (Lauren Denman / Hville Blast) Huntsville was ranked the #1 place to live in the South in 2026 by WorldAtlas. The list features the 9 best places to live in the South, with cities spanning from Texas to Virginia, so landing the #1 spot is a pretty big deal.
[VIDEO] Check out this beautiful view of Huntsville from above
A stunning view of Huntsville (Ben Johnson / Hville Blast) It’s no secret that Huntsville is a gorgeous city with breathtaking views, but have you ever wondered what it might look like from the sky? We took a drone out to give you a unique perspective of some of Huntsville’s most iconic spots. From Lowe Mill to MidCity to Big Spring, our city is full of captivating scenery that looks even cooler from above.
US-72 / Florence Boulevard lane closures: what to expect
Construction continues in Florence, so be prepared and expect delays! (AL Department of Transportation) If you’re planning on traveling to or from Florence this week, you may want to prepare for some delays. US-72 / Florence Blvd in Lauderdale County is currently undergoing construction, resulting in lane closures throughout this week. Contractors have begun milling during the night and asphalt leveling during the day, so expect both daytime and nighttime holdups.
5 beautiful swimming holes in North Alabama: everything you need to know
Check out the Hippie Hole in Fort Payne! (Lauren Denman / Hville Blast) Summer is in full bloom in the south, and there truly is nothing quite like Alabama heat. Thankfully, the unforgiving humidity is not the only thing our state is known for. Huntsville is lucky enough to be surrounded by creeks, waterfalls and other breathtaking swimming holes, perfect for the scorching summer days.
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10 FUN FACTS: Huntsville is full of interesting stories and fun facts- watch this video to learn more!
Pizzelle’s Confections named one of the best chocolate shops in US
Try Pizzelle’s beautifully hand-crafted chocolates today! (Ben Johnson / Hville Blast) For the third year in a row, Huntsville’s own Pizzelle’s Confections has made the list of USA Today’s 10 best chocolate shops in the country. Read more about Pizzelle’s ranking among US chocolatiers, and make sure to subscribe to our newsletter to get news like this delivered to your inbox.
Screen-free in Huntsville: 5 local ways to detox digitally + unplug
Explore local museums (Ben Johnson / Hville Blast) These days it may feel impossible to go one whole day without your phone. It can be so hard to fully unplug and give your mind and eyes a moment to rest. Thankfully, in Huntsville, there are many fun things to do that will give you a nice break from screens.
LIVE MUSIC: 5 unique alternative bands in North Alabama you need to see this summer
Support local bands this summer! (The Orion Amphitheater) Summer is the season of live music, and if you’re anything like me, you are probably itching to find bands that are not only local, but also have a sound you genuinely enjoy. My personal favorite is alternative rock, and there are quite a few bands in Huntsville to dive into.
[VIDEO] Meet the Lowe Mill artist with incredibly photo-realistic works
Robert Stampas, an artist at Lowe Mill, with his photo-realistic work. (Ben Johnson / Hville Blast) Based in Lowe Mill Studio 301, Robert Stampas creates large-scale photo-realistic art using both pencil work and oil paint. His extremely detailed pieces are created entirely by hand. He even created a true-to-life portrait of our team! Starting art at only 10 years old, Stampas has spent his life travelling, working and serving our country, but never lost his passion.
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