Story By Katie Hightower

The buzz of laughter, music, colors, shapes and the smells of food all permeate the air every year on the first Sunday before Labor Day in King Caldwell Park. The Art Sunday tradition in Scottsboro started years before many residents were born. Those who moved away often feel compelled to come back for a visit so they can continue the tradition, catch up with familiar faces and spend time with family. 

On Aug. 31, the Scottsboro Three Arts Club will host its 52nd Annual Art Sunday in King Caldwell Park in Scottsboro. Each year, the annual event has attracted thousands of art enthusiasts, locals and out-of-state visitors eager to shop and socialize. 

This year’s event will feature vendors who specialize in art, craftsmanship, hobbies, gardening and food. From elaborate oil paintings and sketches to crocheted shawls and cutting boards, the event will showcase a wide-variety of items to purchase.

Live music by local entertainers will provide audio entertainment to those in attendance. Local students and adults will show their musical skills while having a good time.

There will be plenty of entertainment for children who attend as well. Face-painting, bouncy houses, crafts and other activities will be available for children to enjoy.

A wide-variety of food and drink vendors will also be at Art Sunday. From corn and grilled meats to popcorn and baked goods, attendees will be sure to find refreshment at the event.

There will also be a photography contest for both kids and adults. Submissions for the photography contest cost $5 per entry and can be submitted to the Scottsboro or Jackson County boards of education by Aug. 28. Submission may also be turned in on Aug. 31 at the Will Maples Girl Scout Cabin between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. All entries will receive free entry to Art Sunday. For more information about the photography contest, please visit www.scottsborothreeartsclub.com.

Proceeds from Art Sunday will go toward many local programs or institutions including violin lessons for local third graders, student field trips to plays, ballets and symphonies, a scholarship for a local senior, the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, the IMPACT Learning Center, the Scottsboro Public Library and Veterans Memorial Park of Jackson County.

Art Sunday will begin at 9 a.m. and last until 5 p.m. Admission will cost $3 per adult and $2 per school-aged child. Children 5 and under, veterans with military ID and anyone wearing a 2025 Art Sunday teeshirt will get in free.

"Art Sunday is a celebration of creativity, community and is a long-standing tradition that so many in Scottsboro and the surrounding areas look forward to each year,” said Rachael Graham, President of the Scottsboro Three Arts Club. “Each year, we’re thrilled to welcome both new and returning artists, as well as families and visitors who come to enjoy a day filled with art, music, food and fun under the trees at King Caldwell Park. It’s more than just a festival. It’s an opportunity to support the arts and give back to our community in meaningful ways. We invite everyone to join us for a wonderful event on Sunday, Aug. 31!”