I’ve often said when it comes to sunsets at the lake, no two are alike. The only thing they have in common is how stunning they can be.
This time of year, as winter chills linger a little longer, interrupted occasionally with the warmer hints of Spring, sunsets put on quite the show around these parts. Deep, deep hues of pinks and purples, vibrant oranges and fiery yellows splash across a dusky sky. Their colorful reflection splashes in the water below as the fleeting light of the day makes its descent.
It’s that kind of spectacular show that signals evening’s arrival and underscores one of myriad reasons we call this place home.
All around us, we see others treasuring our lakes and creating ways to enhance their allure.
LakeFest certainly fits that descriptor. Now in its 16th year, it ushers in lake season on Logan Martin with crowds between 50,000 to 60,000 for musical entertainment, lake lifestyle vendors, fireworks and plenty of activities for all ages. This year’s event is May 14-16 at Pell City Lakeside Park.
Near Neely Henry Lake, Noccalula Falls is putting on quite a show, too. Never before seen until now, the park is playing host to an incredible traditional Chinese lantern festival weekends now through April 5. Magical lanterns in all shapes and sizes light up the nighttime sky while acrobats put on an impressive show.
Coosa Island is coming alive once again with the opening of Oh Sherri Island Pub blending and Irish spirit with an island vibe. This is the second venture for the owners of Oh Sherri Pub in Moody. And soon, a third will open on Neely Henry in Ohatchee.
Step inside the home of Dr. Harold and Virna Settle on Logan Martin, and you’ll find treats for the senses – impressive dishes cooked for friends and family, an art gallery of Virna’s work, her pottery studio and outside, you’ll discover his handiwork – a nationally known rose garden.
The Tiki Hut kicks off its fifth year in May drawing boaters and land lovers alike to what has become a top destination point on Logan Martin. With its River’s Edge Burgers & Breakfast, the marina and tiny home rentals, it’s only natural it draws a crowd throughout the season.
Other tasty events luring traffic their way are the annual Smoke on the Falls Barbecue Competition at Noccalula Park in April and the Wild Game Cook-off at Talladega Superspeedway in March .
Smoke on the Falls is a national competition, and where you see smoke there’s bound to be good food and good times ahead. Wild Game Cook-Off is a regional competition all around the state, showing off original culinary creations with wild game while supporting Alabama Wildlife Federation.
Dedicated to making our lakes better places, Logan Martin Lake Protection Association is set for its annual Lake Clean Up in April and Neely Henry Lake Association is joining efforts with Renew Our Rivers.
And if fishing is your thing, bass pro Zeke Gossett’s column is the must read for you. He shares his tips, tricks, trends and takeaways as he travels Logan Martin and Neely Henry, rod in hand, to catch the Coosa.
It’s all here and more in this issue of LakeLife 24/7. Turn the page and discover it all with us!
Carol Pappas
Editor and Publisher
