Taking it inside: Weather forecast changes Senior Fun Fest site

HUNTSVILLE — The forecast for Tuesday calls for rain to return as a front moves through the Tennessee Valley, but whether or not inclement weather comes with it remains to be seen.

For now, TARCOG’s Senior Fun Fest will go on rain or shine even though the event is moving to a venue that is more suitable for potential wet conditions.

For the first time in 37 years, Fun Fest won’t be held at Sharon Johnston Park in New Market. Due to the uncertain weather, the Alabama A&M Agribition Center on Moores Mill Road in Huntsville will host the event.

“This is our first regional Fun Fest since 2019, before the pandemic, and we do not want to disappoint those planning to come to our biggest event of the year to celebrate Older Americans Month,” TARCOG Executive Director Michelle Jordan said. “After the damaging storms we experienced (last) week, and looking at the rain chances for next week, our team searched for a suitable indoor space rather than canceling.”

Jordan said the lineup and schedule will remain the same, except there won’t be an opportunity to fish.

“We will all miss the park, it’s a beautiful setting for a celebration,” Jordan said. “The important thing is that we won’t have to cancel Senior Fun Fest. It’s going to be a fun day of celebration that everyone who attends is sure to enjoy.” 

Seniors are expected from TARCOG’s region including DeKalb, Jackson, Limestone, Madison and Marshall counties. Fun Fest is sponsored annually by TARCOG and the Madison County Commission, with ticket sales and other local businesses also providing financial support to offset costs.

Tickets are $7 and may be purchased at the event, which will be Tuesday, May 14, from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. While participants are arriving between 9-9:45 a.m., a Tai Chi for Arthritis class will be held before the festivities begin. Snacks and a boxed lunch will be served, and there will be entertainment, a photo booth, and activities like BINGO, Corn Hole, Nerf Ball Throw, Frisbee Throw, and more — plus door prizes. 

For more information call 256-830-0818 or visit www.tarcog.us.