Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 18th of October.
Good morning, Huntsville.
Residents can give back at Food City during the Day of Giving event — a chance to support local needs in Huntsville.
A Huntsville gala blending cozy farm life with city glam will raise funds for specific Next Step Farms programs—organizers say the event will support targeted initiatives at the farm.
Rocket City Mom previewed several family-friendly activities set for this weekend in Huntsville — the preview offers local families a variety of fun options to choose from.
The Riley Center in Huntsville will host sensory-friendly indoor trick-or-treating on Halloween + costumes are encouraged to create a welcoming event for all children.
Toyota Alabama began production on three new lines for truck parts that help with turning, backed by a $282 million investment that added 350 jobs at the Huntsville plant.
Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle and local leaders attended the October 15 event—marking the project's faster-than-usual schedule.
New York Times bestselling author and podcast host Jen Hatmaker will appear at Blue Apple Books to share her new memoir, Awake, on her nationwide book tour.
At the recent State of Higher Education event hosted by the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber, presidents from UAH, Alabama A&M, Calhoun Community College and Drake State detailed how rising enrollments and local industry ties have boosted the local economy and workforce.
They also warned that aging facilities, funding shortfalls and federal delays may hinder future growth — a challenge that calls for ongoing support.
Families in Huntsville will attend an info session for the Alabama School of Healthcare Sciences on Thursday, Oct.
23 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Dowdle Center Auditorium in Huntsville Hospital (the session details the plans for Alabama’s new tuition-free high school). The school, built in Demopolis to train future healthcare workers for rural areas, will open in Fall 2026 (promising a curriculum that offers hands-on clinical experience and college credit opportunities).
Huntsville Utilities said it will not enforce late fees or disconnect customers for the rest of the government shutdown—now in its 17th day—to ease financial strain on families, and it will work with customers on payment plans when operations resume.
Gilda Ham-Battista, a local woman with metastatic breast cancer, launched an in-person support group for women facing the disease — the initiative offers shared advice and emotional support.
Publix recalled a lot of its Rich and Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream (sell-by date June 19) because it may contain an undeclared egg that could cause life threatening reactions for those allergic.
The product was distributed in Alabama and other states, has been removed from stores, and customers are advised to return it for a full refund.
USDA is dropping bait packets containing an oral rabies vaccine over Autauga and Elmore counties and a Vestavia Hills pet owner reported her 11-month-old puppy chewed over 20 packets—its foaming at the mouth led to a vet exam that found no lasting harm.
Dr. Dee Jones said that most pets ingest only two or three packets which may cause vomiting and diarrhea, and he advised that owners monitor their pets closely if symptoms persist.
Sip & Stroll Night Market: Spooky Spirits
5-9 p.m. — The Orion Amphitheater — Free entry — Enjoy a night of artisan goods, food trucks, and tarot readings with a Halloween twist.
Straight No Chaser: Holiday Road Tour
7:30-9:00 p.m. — Mark C. Smith Concert Hall — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening of captivating a cappella performances with Straight No Chaser.
Friday Night Flick: Beetlejuice
6-9 p.m. — Land Trust of North Alabama: Three Caves — $15 for members — Enjoy a classic spooky film under the stars in a unique natural setting.
Daikaiju Concert
9:00-11:59 p.m. — St. Stephens Music Hall — Tickets available — Experience the energetic surf rock stylings of Daikaiju, featuring kabuki masks and an anonymous performance.
Senior Saunters: Bradford Creek Greenway
2-4 p.m. — Monte Sano Nature Preserve (Bankhead Trailhead) — Free for members — Discover the beauty of nature on an easy stroll through Bradford Creek Greenway.
Phat Sammy’s Phusion Comedy Open Mic
9-11 p.m. — Phat Sammy's — Free entry — Enjoy a night of laughter hosted by local comedians at a weekly open mic comedy event.
Witches Day Celebration
11 AM – 7 PM — Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment — Free entry — Celebrate all things witchy with activities, scavenger hunts, and costumed walks at this family-friendly event.
Zombie Prom
8pm - Midnight! Groove with the Pat Jamar & The Funky Few Band in one room, hit the DJ dance floor in the other, and enjoy spooky drinks, eerie bites, and a $1,000 costume contest to die for! Get your tickets now!
Farmers Market Open
8 AM – 4 PM — Madison County Farmers Market — Free entry — Early birds enjoy fresh produce and local goods every Saturday.
Phat Sammy's Phusion Comedy Open Mic
9-11 p.m. — Phat Sammy's — Free entry — Enjoy a night of laughter featuring local comedians in a fun, laid-back atmosphere.
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