Spirit Idol

• One of the major competitive events in Decatur is the Spirit Idol contest that takes place during the Spirit of America Festival every Fourth of July. The festival and competition take place at Point Mallard Park, by the river. The Spirit Idol competition began in 2003, though the festival has been going on for 45 years. The competition is open to contestants in three age groups (6-12, 13-17, 18 and over). Individual and group singers and dancers are welcome.
  
  

King of the World Championship Competition

• The annual King of the World Championship Competition is a national contest for Elvis tribute artists. The finals are held in Memphis, of course, but the regional preliminary rounds are held in various locations across the country. In November 2011, the southeastern regional preliminary round, titled the River City Elvis Fest, will be held in Decatur.
  
  

Alabama Jubilee

• The Alabama Jubilee Hot Air Balloon Classic is held at Point Mallard Park every year in late May. Though the main draw for the festival is the hot air ballooning, the event also features car, tractor, and art shows, as well as live music acts. During the festival, WZYP radio station, from nearby Athens, hosts the North Alabama Idol contest. Contestants must be at least 16 years of age, and advance registration is required. The prize is $500, recording time at Better Music Records in Nashville, and a few other goodies.
  
  

Noncompetitive Music Events

• Not all musical events in Decatur are competitive. Concerts by the River is a series of free music concerts offered every Monday throughout the summer. These concerts take place at Rhodes Ferry Park from 6 to 8 p.m., and feature a wide variety of musical entertainment. Riverfest is another annual event held in Decatur; its primary focus is barbeque, but live regional bands are also featured. Riverfest is held at Ingalls Harbor in Decatur every September. Soulstock is a free event featuring Christian music that takes place every May at Point Mallard Park. Proceeds from the 2011 Soulstock went toward providing relief for the victims of the April tornadoes.