Ice cream lovers, train enthusiasts, and families are invited to the Summerville Depot on Saturday, June 20, for the 2026 Chill & Churn Homemade Ice Cream Contest and Dairy Day at the Depot celebration.
The City of Summerville has taken another step toward adding a new family-friendly attraction by approving a contract for a splash pad at J.R. “Dick” Dowdy Park.
During a recent meeting, the Summerville City Council approved awarding the project to Gametime at a cost of approximately $399,948.80. City officials said the splash pad is expected to enhance recreational opportunities for local residents and visitors.
Summerville City Manager Jason Winters discussed the project with council members prior to the vote, noting that the splash pad represents a significant investment in community recreation. The facility is expected to provide a safe and enjoyable place for children and families to cool off during the summer months.
The addition of the splash pad is part of the city’s ongoing efforts to improve parks and recreational amenities. Once completed, the new attraction will become a centerpiece of Dowdy Park and is expected to serve residents for years to come.
City leaders expressed optimism about the project and its potential to enhance quality of life while providing another destination for families in the community.
Families in Chattooga County will have an opportunity to get up close to a variety of emergency, utility, and service vehicles today during the City of Summerville’s Touch A Truck event.
The sensory-friendly event is scheduled for 10 a.m. until noon today, Saturday, June 13, on East Washington Street in downtown Summerville. Organizers say the event is designed specifically with the special needs community in mind while remaining open and welcoming to everyone.
Children and families will have the chance to climb aboard, explore, and learn about police vehicles, fire trucks, ambulances, bucket trucks, tow trucks, tractors, and other specialized equipment used throughout the community.
Participants will also have an opportunity to meet local first responders, public safety officials, and community exhibitors, including representatives from the Summerville Police Department, Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, fire services, EMS, public works, and other local organizations.
Free Kona Ice will be available during the event, courtesy of United Community Bank and Southeast First National Bank.
Organizers say the event will feature a reduced-noise environment, hands-on exploration, and a supportive atmosphere designed to make the experience enjoyable for all ages and abilities.
One of Northeast Alabama’s most popular summer traditions returns this weekend as Bluegrass on the Rim celebrates its 13th year at the Little River Canyon Center.
The event will take place Saturday, June 13, in the scenic setting overlooking Little River Canyon and will feature performances by Three On A String and Foggy Hollow Bluegrass.
Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, coolers, family and friends for an evening of music under the stars. J-Bird’s BBQ will be on site with food available for purchase, leashed pets are welcome, and children ages 10 and under will be admitted free.
Gates open at 5 p.m., with music beginning at 6 p.m.
Organizers say the event combines great bluegrass music, beautiful scenery and family-friendly entertainment, making it a favorite annual gathering for residents and visitors alike.
Additional information and tickets are available through the Little River Canyon Center.
Think you have what it takes to be the top hot dog eater in Chattooga County?
The City of Summerville is looking for contestants to take part in a Hot Dog Eating Contest during the 2026 Celebrate Independence Festival and Fireworks celebration.
The contest will be held Thursday, July 2, at the Chattooga County Agricultural Center as part of Summerville’s celebration of America’s 250th birthday.
Organizers are encouraging residents who enjoy friendly competition and community fun to sign up and test their eating skills in front of a crowd during the festival.
The Celebrate Independence Festival will feature activities, entertainment, and fireworks as the community comes together to commemorate the nation’s semiquincentennial — the 250th anniversary of American independence.
Additional details about contest registration and festival activities are expected to be announced by the City of Summerville.
The Band Chickamauga will bring its mix of rock classics and Southern rock favorites to Trion this Saturday as part of the 5th Annual Chattooga River Fest.
James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park will host two guided hikes on Saturday, June 13, giving visitors a chance to enjoy the park by day and night.
The first event will be a Guided Marble Mine Hike at 2 p.m. Park rangers will lead participants on a moderately strenuous 1.5-mile hike to the Marble Mine, where hikers can learn about the park’s nature and history while exploring the Marble Mine Trail. Participants should meet at the park office, bring water, and wear comfortable shoes.
Later that evening, the park will host a Firefly Night Hike along the Upper Lake Trail. Participants will meet at the park office at 8:30 p.m., with the hike beginning at 9 p.m. The event will give visitors a chance to see the glow of fireflies and learn how they can help protect them.
Each hike is $3 per person, and a $10 park pass is required. Registration is required for both events.
To register or for more information, call the park office at 706-857-0826.
Families looking for a fun and educational summer activity can visit the Chattooga County Library today as the Sara Hightower Regional Library System hosts a special petting zoo event featuring animals from Blessing Creek Farms.
The event will take place today from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. at the Chattooga County Library, located at 360 Farrar Drive in Summerville.
Children and families will have the opportunity to meet and interact with a variety of animals, including Highland calves, a pony, goats, and rabbits from Blessing Creek Farms.
Library officials say the event is open to the public and is designed to provide a fun, hands-on experience for children during the summer months.
The two-hour event is free to attend and is expected to be a popular attraction for local families.
For more information, contact the Chattooga County Library.
A special community event focused on supporting individuals with special needs and connecting families with valuable resources is coming to Summerville later this month.
Spark Day will be held on Saturday, June 27, from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. at Dowdy Park.
Organizers say the event is designed to bring together the special needs community, local service providers, entrepreneurs, and families for a day of fun, fellowship, and information sharing.
Activities will include a foam party, free food, vendors, and opportunities to learn about available medical, respite, and community services. Attendees will also have the chance to meet special-needs entrepreneurs and browse a variety of vendor offerings.
According to promotional materials, free nachos will be available, and visitors can enjoy art, baked goods, coffee, jewelry, T-shirts, and a community resource meet-and-greet.
Organizers encourage families, caregivers, and community members to attend and show their support while learning more about resources available for individuals with special needs in the region.
Homemade ice cream makers will have an opportunity to put their recipes to the test later this month during the Chill & Churn Homemade Ice Cream Contest at the Summerville Depot.
The contest will take place on Saturday, June 20, from 11:45 a.m. until 2:30 p.m., with judging beginning at 12:45 p.m. Organizers are inviting individuals and groups to compete for cash prizes and bragging rights as the maker of the best homemade ice cream in town.
Contestants may enter one flavor and must pre-register by June 15. Setup begins at 10:30 a.m., with ice cream churning scheduled to begin at 11:45 a.m. Participants must provide their own ingredients, supplies, and electrical cords if needed.
Judges will evaluate entries based on flavor, body, texture, and overall appearance. The winning recipe will receive a $500 cash prize and a People’s Choice Award plaque. Second place will receive $250, while third place will be awarded $100.
Visitors attending the event will have the opportunity to sample the ice cream entries by purchasing a wristband and voting for their favorite flavor in the People’s Choice competition. Organizers say all proceeds from voting and wristband sales will benefit Main Street Summerville.
For more information or to register, contact Main Street Summerville before the June 15 deadline.