Top Events for February 2012

• African American Leadership Conference

  Troy | Feb 3-4, 2012

  Celebrate Black History Month with entertainment, symposiums, presentations by local and national speakers, and more. .

• Mercedes-Benz Marathon Weekend

  Birmingham | Feb 10-12, 2012

  Athletes of all ages and abilities are welcome to participate in the many activities of the annual Mercedes-Benz Marathon Weekend. Events include the Mercedes Marathon, the Mercedes Half-Marathon, 3N3 Alabama Marathon Challenge, Mercedes Marathon Relay, 5KBR and the Kids Mercedes Marathon.

• Millbrook Mardi Gras Festival and Parade

  Millbrook | Feb 11, 2012

  The Millbrook Revelers are proud to host the largest Mardi Gras celebration in Central Alabama. The festival features Cajun food and traditional fare from four states, as well as a parade more than a mile long. Enjoy live entertainment, children's activities and catching beads along the parade route.

• Rose Pruning Party

  Mobile | Feb 11, 2012

  Join us as we prune more then 2,000 roses in the award-winning Bellingrath Rose Garden. Speak with rose expert Linda Guy and learn how to prune and care for roses in your own yard.

• 32nd Annual Black Heritage Festival

  Anniston | Feb 18, 2012

  Celebrate the culture and history of African-Americans at the Anniston Museum of Natural History. Watch as students participate in the oratory competition and browse among African-inspired crafts and jewelry, available for purchase.

• River City Chili Cook-Off

  Decatur | Feb 18, 2012

  Four-person teams compete for bragging rights to the best chili around. Come for a free taste and enjoy music and games too. Door prizes will be given away as well. Proceeds benefit United Methodist Residential Alternatives.

• 11th Annual Taste of Homewood

  Homewood | Feb 23, 2012

  Downtown Homewood once again welcomes visitors to come sample offerings of local neighborhood eateries. Beer- and wine-tastings and music are part of the fun. Tickets are $35 in advance and $40 at the event.

• Shelby County Cattlemen's 25th Annual Rodeo

  Columbiana | Feb 24-25, 2012

  Chuck wagon races, bull riding, calf roping, team roping, steer wrestling and bareback riding mean rodeo fun for the whole family at this yearly event. Food vendors and entertainment are in store as well.

• Orange Beach Seafood Festival and Antique Car Show, 20th Annual

  Orange Beach | Feb 25, 2012

  Tasty Alabama seafood is the draw at this festival. You'll also find local artisans offering handmade wares for sale, along with an impressive auto show showcasing classic cars, hot rods and newer models. This festival is the major fundraising event for the Orange Beach Sports Association to support the city's youth sports activities.

• Hospice of Limestone County Chili Challenge and Silent Auction

  Athens | Feb 25, 2012

  Taste the favorite chili recipes of more than 30 area teams and individuals, and bid on hundreds of items in the silent auction. Enjoy musical entertainment, arts and crafts, and children's activities, too, at this fundrasier for Limestone County Hospice. Tickets are $10; children age 10 and under are admitted free.