A Year-Round Getaway: Seasonal Activities at Peninsula

There’s no shortage of things to love about calling Wilson Lake, Alabama, home. The people are kind and welcoming, the pace of life feels just right, there are activities for all ages, and you get the best of both worlds: small-town charm and close proximity to vibrant, big cities.

But if we had to pick the thing we love the most about our region, it would probably be that we get to experience all four seasons, with endless ways to explore and enjoy each of them. 

Each time of year has its own rhythm and rewards….

Spring brings fresh blooms, lively days on the water, hiking, and plenty of community events.

Summer follows with warm but manageable temperatures, perfect for festivals, boating, fishing, water sports, and time spent outdoors with friends, family, and neighbors.

Fall sweeps in with crisp air and transforms the hillsides with vibrant colors, making it an ideal season for leaf-peeping, more scenic hikes, and festive fall events.

And when winter settles over the lake, a sense of stillness arrives with it. There are still plenty of winter events and holiday festivities to enjoy, but the pace slows, offering quiet views of the water and cozy moments at home.

Whether you are searching for a family-friendly place to grow your family, a community to retire where every day you wake up feels like a getaway, or you’re just planning a visit to our region, Peninsula at Wilson Lake delivers an unforgettable year-round getaway lifestyle.

Today, we’ll take you through the seasons at Peninsula at Lake Wilson and highlight some standout activities and events both here at home and nearby.

Spring and Summer at Wilson Lake

There is a reason why our area is known to be “a boater’s paradise.” Spring and summer are locals’  and visitors’ favorite seasons at Wilson Lake.

The temperatures are just right from sunrise to sunset, providing the perfect atmosphere for spending time outdoors, enjoying the water, and gathering with family, friends, and neighbors.

Whether it’s boating or water sports, fishing, hiking, attending community events and festivals, or exploring nearby cities, there is no shortage of things to do in the spring and summer months.

Top Spring and Summer Water Sports and Lake Activities

Life at Peninsula at Wilson Lake means “lake life” is always in your backyard. Residents and guests can enjoy boating, fishing, kayaking, and swimming without ever needing to leave the community. 

There are also endless water sports and lake activities nearby. It would take writing a book to list everything these seasons bring to our area, but here are a few favorites. 

Local Favorites (Within 65 Miles of Wilson Lake)

• Joe Wheeler State Park Marina (Rogersville, AL): A full-service marina with rentals, fishing access, and launch ramps, ideal for anyone who wants to spend a day on Wilson Lake.
• Florence Harbor Marina (Florence, AL): Located in McFarland Park just below Wilson Dam, this marina offers everything you need and more for a day on Pickwick Lake. The park also features campsites, a driving range for golfers, a soccer and baseball field, playgrounds, picnic shelters and tables, a paved jogging trail surrounding the harbor, and a restaurant.
• Rockpile Recreation Area & Boat Ramp (Muscle Shoals, AL): A popular public launch near Wilson Dam with river access, trails, and scenic spots for paddling and fishing.
• Wilson Lake Fishing Tournaments and Kayak Races: If a little friendly competition sounds appealing, Wilson Lake hosts seasonal fishing tournaments and kayak races throughout the spring and summer. These events welcome both seasoned anglers and casual participants, providing a great way to connect with other outdoor enthusiasts.
• Scottsboro Dragon Boat Race and Festival (Lake Guntersville, AL): A cultural and competitive favorite featuring traditional dragon boat racing, food vendors, and family-friendly activities.
• Guntersville HydroFest (Lake Guntersville, AL): A high-energy summer event with thrilling boat races across multiple classes, including H1 Unlimited Hydroplanes and Grand Prix America.
• Great Alabama 650 Paddle Race (Weiss Lake, AL): A world-class endurance event kicking off at Weiss Lake. This multi-day challenge covers 650 miles by kayak, canoe, or paddleboard and draws competitors statewide.

A Little Further Away (Over 65 Miles)

• Mulberry Fork Canoe and Kayak Races (near Birmingham, AL): About 100 miles away, a nationally recognized whitewater slalom race featuring fast-paced canoe and kayak competitions on the Mulberry Fork of the Black Warrior River.
• Chattanooga River Games (Chattanooga, TN): About a three-hour drive to East Tennessee, you’ll find a very popular extreme sport and adventure festival in Chattanooga that combines wakesurf competitions, kayak launching, “death diving,” and nightly live music along the Tennessee River.
• Wakefest (Center Hill Lake, TN): Also a roughly three-hour drive away is the well-known wakeboarding festival Wakefest, held in Center Hill Lake, which is about an hour east of Nashville. Expect competitions, lakeside parties, and a lively summer social scene that draws crowds from across the Southeast.
• Cumberland River Kayaking (Nashville, TN): About 2 ½ hours away from Wilson Lake, you can visit Music City and hit the lake for guided and self-guided kayak routes on the Cumberland River.
• Oak Mountain State Park Marina (Birmingham, AL): Also, a roughly two-hour drive or less from Wilson Lake is Oak Mountain State Park Marina, which offers non-motorized rentals such as kayaks, canoes, pedal boats, and paddleboards.
• The Wolf River Conservancy (Memphis, TN): If you are up for a 3-hour drive, The Wolf River Conservancy and local outfitters run guided paddles and rentals on the Wolf River and downtown harbor.
• Kayaking The Chattahoochee River (Atlanta, GA): About 4 hours from Wilson Lake, The Chattahoochee River is home to outfitters offering kayak and SUP rentals. There are both calm stretches for beginners and light rapids for more adventurous paddlers.

Must-Attend Spring and Summer Events and Festivals

While lake living is the heart of spring and summer at Peninsula at Wilson Lake, with plenty of activities right in our backyard and nearby, there are also endless festivals and events that bring even more to do during these seasons.

Whether you want to stay close or enjoy a day trip, from community celebrations to world-famous music festivals, there’s something for everyone. Exact dates can vary from year to year. We suggest checking local tourism sites, city event calendars, or official festival websites before planning your visit.

Local Favorites (Within 65 Miles of Wilson Lake)

• Arts Alive Festival (Florence, AL): A beloved spring event that transforms downtown Florence into a lively showcase of local and regional artists. Spend a few hours or an entire day browsing outdoor exhibits, enjoying live music, and exploring family-friendly activities.
• Spirit of Freedom Celebration (Florence, AL): A Fourth of July favorite featuring fireworks over the Tennessee River, live performances, food vendors, and community festivities.
• W.C. Handy Music Festival (Florence, AL): An annual ten-day celebration of “The Father of the Blues,” W.C. Handy. The Shoals comes alive with live music at parks, restaurants, and community venues, making it one of the most anticipated summer traditions in North Alabama.
• Shoals Symphony Summer Performances (Florence, AL): The Shoals Symphony at UNA hosts seasonal concerts featuring classical and contemporary works. Summer shows often take place at iconic venues like Norton Auditorium.
• Alabama Jubilee Hot Air Balloon Classic (Decatur, AL): One of the nation’s oldest hot-air balloon festivals, held each May at Point Mallard Park. Expect colorful balloon launches, tethered rides, children’s activities, and live music.
• Concerts by the River (Decatur, AL): A seasonal concert series that combines live music with food trucks and a festive outdoor atmosphere throughout spring and summer.
• CoalFest (Brilliant, AL): A unique heritage festival celebrating the region’s coal mining history. Includes parades, live entertainment, craft vendors, and family activities.

A Little Further Away (Over 65 Miles)

Nashville Area

• Cherry Blossom Festival (April): A family-friendly celebration of Japanese culture featuring food vendors, traditional performances, and a beautiful cherry blossom display at Public Square Park.
• CMA Fest (June): The ultimate country music celebration, with free daytime concerts, ticketed arena shows, and meet-and-greets with top artists.
• Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival (June): A world-famous multi-genre festival featuring camping, large-scale art installations, and performances from leading artists across all genres.

Birmingham Area

• Spring Festival: Held at Railroad Park, typically in April, this family-centered festival includes live music, food trucks, and kids’ activities in the heart of downtown.
• Taste of 4th Avenue Jazz Festival: A vibrant celebration of Birmingham’s heritage, pairing jazz music with food vendors, cultural exhibits, and community pride.

Atlanta Area

• Summer Shade Festival (August): A lively end-of-summer tradition in historic Grant Park featuring live music, artist markets, food vendors, and a dedicated kids’ one.

Fall at Peninsula at Wilson Lake

When autumn arrives in North Alabama, throw on a sweater and get your camera ready because you are in for a treat!

Temperatures cool to the perfect fall afternoons and evenings, and the hillsides surrounding Wilson Lake transform into a stunning canvas of vibrant reds, oranges, and golds.

It’s the ideal season for those who love the outdoors, nature, breathtaking scenery, and community events.

Best Fall Leaf-Peeping and Hiking Spots

If you love the beauty of changing leaves, North Alabama and the surrounding region boast some of the most stunning fall colors in the Southeast.

You can enjoy the changing leaves right from the Peninsula at Wilson Lake community or set off on nearby adventures to explore vibrant landscapes and peaceful trails.

Local Favorites (Within 65 Miles of Wilson Lake)

• Joe Wheeler State Park Trails (Rogersville, AL): Miles of wooded trails wind along the Tennessee River with overlooks that provide stunning views of brilliant fall colors.
• Rockpile Recreation Area (Muscle Shoals, AL): Walking trails, rocky outcrops, and calm waterside views make this a peaceful spot for autumn strolls, birdwatching, and soaking in the beauty of the changing season.
• Cane Creek Canyon Nature Preserve (Muscle Shoals, AL): A 693-acre preserve with more than 15 miles of trails over rolling hills and creeks. Overlooks here deliver some of the best panoramic views of North Alabama’s fall foliage.
• Rainbow Mountain Nature Preserve (Madison, AL): Trails weave past striking rock formations and wooded slopes that are alive with autumn color.
• J.D. & Annie S. Hays Nature Preserve (Owens Cross Roads): More than 10 miles of trails through forests that glow with vibrant fall shades each year.
• Madison County Nature Trail (Huntsville, AL): A peaceful trail perfect for easy hikes surrounded by fall foliage.
• Monte Sano Nature Preserve (Huntsville, AL): Expansive trails and overlooks across colorful woodlands with sweeping views of the Tennessee Valley.

A Little Further Away (Over 65 Miles)

• Natchez Trace Parkway (spans TN, AL, and MS): This historic route offers one of the most scenic drives in the South. In the fall, the trees light up in reds, yellows, and oranges. Numerous hiking trails, picnic areas, and historic stops make it the perfect day trip.
• Little River Canyon National Preserve (Fort Payne, AL): Dramatic canyon vistas and scenic trails all framed by brilliant fall foliage… yes, please!
• DeSoto State Park (Fort Payne, AL): Known as one of the region’s top fall destinations, with waterfalls and spectacular autumn hues.
• Bankhead National Forest (Double Springs, AL): Home to the Sipsey Wilderness, this forest has sweeping overlooks and miles of trails surrounded by peak fall colors.
• Nashville Area: Montgomery Bell State Park and Radnor Lake offer gorgeous fall trails just outside the city.
• Birmingham Area: Oak Mountain State Park and the Birmingham Botanical Gardens are top spots for leaf-peeping and family-friendly fall outings.
• Memphis Area: Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park pairs river views with colorful fall forests and quiet hiking trails.
• Atlanta Area: Vogel State Park and the Chattahoochee National Forest in North Georgia are famous for breathtaking mountain foliage and fall hiking.

Top Fall Events and Festivals

Fall in Wilson Lake, Alabama, might be known best for its stunning foliage, but it’s also a lively season filled with festivals and outdoor fun. Whether you stick close to home or venture out a bit, you’ll find plenty to do.

Most of the following events are held in September and October. However, exact dates can vary from year to year. We suggest checking local tourism sites, city event calendars, or official festival websites before planning your visit.

Local Favorites (Within 65 Miles of Wilson Lake)

• Labor Day Weekend Parade & Festival (Tuscumbia, AL): A beloved community tradition with parades, car shows, live music, and plenty of family-friendly activities.
• North Alabama State Fair (Florence, AL): This is a classic fall fair experience featuring rides, carnival games, food vendors, and nightly live entertainment.
• Alabama Renaissance Faire (Florence, AL): Each fall, Wilson Park transforms into a medieval village filled with costumed performers, artisan vendors, jousts, and live entertainment.
• Shoals Dragon Boat Festival (Florence, AL): A fall riverfront event featuring dragon boat races on the Tennessee River, along with food, music, and family activities.
• ShoalsFest (Florence, AL): A two-day Americana and folk music festival on the river that draws top artists and music fans from across the region.
• Muscle Shoals Songwriters Festival (Florence, AL): A two-day festival that brings acclaimed songwriters to intimate venues across Florence and Muscle Shoals.
• Pumpkin Picking at McGee & Isbell Farms (Florence area): A family favorite for hayrides, pumpkin picking, and enjoying the crisp autumn air.
• Tuscumbia’s Carecrow Trail (Tuscumbia, AL): Downtown merchants create life-sized scarecrows for a community-wide display that supports local charities.
• Halloween in the Shoals (Florence, Muscle Shoals, Sheffield, and Tuscumbia): Local towns host haunted houses, ghost walks, and family trick-or-treat events, creating a festive atmosphere across the region.
• Haunted History of Florence Ghost Walk (Florence, AL): Evening walking tours through downtown Florence share eerie ghost stories and spooky local legends.
• Trail of Tears Commemorative Ride & Pow Wow (Florence/Tuscumbia): Thousands gather for this cultural event honoring Native American history with a commemorative motorcycle ride, traditional food, arts and crafts, and live performances.
• Cullman Oktoberfest (Cullman, AL): A German heritage festival featuring parades, biergartens, traditional music, arts and crafts, and family contests.
• Boaz Harvest Festival (Boaz, AL): A two-day event with live music, artisan vendors, car shows, and a pumpkin contest that captures the charm of small-town fall celebrations.
• Festifall at Huntsville Botanical Garden (Huntsville, AL): A seasonal event featuring scarecrow trails, themed gardens, and hands-on fall activities for children.
• St. Florian Oktoberfest (St. Florian, AL): Just outside Florence, this annual Oktoberfest features traditional food, music, and a popular car and truck show.

A Little Further Away (Over 65 Miles)

• Nashville, TN: Hosts popular events such as the Franklin Pumpkinfest and the Tennessee State Fair. Parks like Montgomery Bell and Radnor Lake also draw leaf-peepers with their colorful autumn trails.
• Birmingham, AL: Fall brings arts and crafts fairs like the MADE SOUTH Fall Market, Oktoberfest celebrations, and seasonal events at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens.
• Memphis, TN: The Cooper-Young Festival and Southern Heritage Classic are major cultural draws, while the Memphis Parks Fall Festival offers family-friendly fun with music, food, and educational activities.
• Atlanta, GA: Iconic events include the Candler Park Fall Fest, the Atlanta Greek Festival, Festival on Ponce, and large seasonal arts and crafts markets that attract thousands of visitors.
• Franklin, TN: The Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival brings thousands to Harlinsdale Farm each fall, featuring nationally renowned artists, local food vendors, and artisan markets that celebrate the spirit of Southern creativity and community.

Winter at Peninsula at Wilson Lake

Winter is a quieter season at Peninsula at Wilson Lake. Many appreciate this time of year for spending quality moments at home, nestled by a fireplace with expansive, peaceful lake views.

Many also like heading outdoors in the winter. We do get snow from time to time, but North Alabama winters aren’t harsh. Local residents love to grab their coffee and sit outside on a crisp morning, watching mist rise from the water.

Or, if you’re in the mood to get out and explore winter in and around Wilson Lake, there are plenty of winter events, light displays, and holiday festivities throughout the region or close by that you can enjoy with family and friends.

Winter Views

You don’t have to leave Peninsula to enjoy the still beauty of the season. The lakefront itself offers serene walks and frosted morning scenery. But if you want to venture out, here are a few nearby places with beautiful views and winter-friendly adventures.

Local Favorites (Within 65 Miles of Wilson Lake)

• Joe Wheeler State Park (Rogersville, AL): The marina and shoreline trails are calm and uncrowded in winter, perfect for fishing, birdwatching, or peaceful walks along the water.
• Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge (Decatur, AL): A premier birdwatching destination year-round, and especially vibrant in winter when thousands of migratory birds gather across the wetlands.
• Rockpile Recreation Area (Muscle Shoals, AL): A quiet place for light winter hikes and river views, with less traffic compared to warmer months.
• UNA Planetarium & Observatory Winter Programs (Florence, AL): Seasonal stargazing and special astronomy events that are perfect for cooler nights.

A Little Further Away (Over 65 Miles)

• Rickwood Caverns State Park (Warrior, AL): Known for its “Wonderland Under Warrior” holiday light display inside the caves, creating a unique underground winter experience.
• Wind Creek State Park (Alexander City, AL): Winter brings quiet to lakeside trails and overlooks, making it ideal for uncrowded hikes.
• Fiery Gizzard Trail (Cumberland Plateau, TN): Rugged and dramatic, this trail offers winter hikers waterfalls, deep gorges, and panoramic overlooks. It is a top-rated route all year, but particularly striking in winter.
• Nashville, TN: Beautiful in winter with scenic parks like Radnor Lake that remain open for hiking year-round, plus opportunities for city-based nature walks.
• Birmingham, AL: Oak Mountain and Ruffner Mountain are popular hiking destinations, even in cooler months.

Winter Events and Holiday Festivities

Winter in North Alabama brings a host of winter events, festive traditions, light displays, and cultural events. From small-town celebrations to big-city attractions, there’s always something to enjoy.

Exact dates can vary from year to year. Weather can also create cancellations or date changes. We suggest checking local tourism sites, city event calendars, or official festival websites before planning your visit.

Local Favorites (Within 65 Miles of Wilson Lake)

• Festival of the Cranes (Decatur, AL): Held each January at Wheeler Wildlife Refuge, this event celebrates the migration of sandhill cranes with birdwatching tours, children’s activities, and educational programs.
• Wilson Lake Campground & Resort Holiday Activities (Wilson Lake area): Check the calendar for holiday light decorating contests, visits with Santa, and themed parties during the winter holidays.
• Local Holiday Markets and Light Displays: Many nearby towns around Wilson Lake host small-scale winter markets and holiday-themed events with crafts, seasonal treats, and family activities during November and December.
• Downtown Florence Tree Lighting & Holiday Open House (Florence, AL): Each December, downtown Florence kicks off the holiday season with a festive tree lighting, decorated storefronts, and extended shopping hours that bring the community together.
• Florence Christmas Parade (Florence, AL): A downtown holiday favorite featuring floats, music, and seasonal cheer.
• Sheffield Christmas Parade (Sheffield, AL): Another nearby holiday parade that draws families to celebrate together with lights and music.
• Cullman Christkindlmarkt (Cullman, AL): A German-inspired holiday market featuring the Southeast’s tallest Christmas pyramid, a quaint ice-skating rink, carousel rides, the Christkindlmarkt parade, a festive train ride through holiday lights, and traditional treats like chimney cakes and sausages
• Sportsman Lake Park Winter Wonderland Light Display (Cullman, AL): A dazzling display of over a million holiday lights along the park grounds, complete with carriage rides, a photo booth, hot chocolate, and festive entertainment.

A Little Further Away (Over 65 Miles)

• Nashville, TN: Holiday traditions include Christmas at Gaylord Opryland, Holiday LIGHTS at Cheekwood Estate & Gardens, and Zoolumination at the Nashville Zoo.
• Birmingham, AL: Seasonal highlights include the Winter Light Trail at the Botanical Gardens and festive holiday tours at historic Sloss Furnaces.
• Memphis, TN: Features Zoo Lights at the Memphis Zoo, live concerts on Beale Street, and the famous Christmas Lighting Ceremony at Graceland.
• Atlanta, GA: Known for the Atlanta Botanical Garden’s Garden Lights display, seasonal performances at Fox Theatre, and the winter market at Ponce City Market.

Live The Four-Season Lifestyle at Peninsula at Wilson Lake

Some places are beautiful or full of activities for a season. At Peninsula at Wilson Lake, with scenic spots and hidden gems around every corner and in every season, everyday life feels like a year-round getaway.

Our community really is the ultimate Alabama waterfront lifestyle, offering an unbeatable blend of breathtaking lakefront living, small-town charm, and year-round opportunities for both relaxation and adventure, all wrapped in the beauty of four seasons.

Ready to see it for yourself? Your dream waterfront community awaits! Schedule a visit or browse sample home layouts to discover what a year-round getaway lifestyle could look like for you.