Tourism

As a thriving county, the Ozark area meets the needs of both its residents and visitors. A plenitude of dining options are available, ranging from fast food restaurants, diners, elegant dining to ethnic cuisine. While many residents profit from a successful restaurant business, their patrons share in the sweet taste of success.

Accommodations are available for short or long term stays. Many attractions could keep one busy for days. Historical homes and churches are abundant. Guided walking tours are offered in the spring with other events and festivals throughout the year.

Both Ozark and Dale County enjoy a pleasant climate year round that lends itself to numerous outdoor activities. The outdoorsman will love fishing in Ozark throughout the entire year at Ed Lisenby Lake among many others, and there is also an abundance of wildlife for hunting.

Christmas is a wonderful season in Ozark. The town is traditionally decorated with businesses offering “Open House” on a Sunday afternoon. The annual Christmas Parade ushers in the season on the first Thurday evening in December.

Christmas City, located in nearby Ariton, is open from Thanksgiving night through December 31st, and offers hayrides, lights, art, and crafts.

Claybank Church, which is the oldest original log church in Ozark-Dale County, constructed in 1852, transports visitors to the past, and illustrates Dale County’s rich heritage. The Claybank Jamboree Arts and Crafts festival gives shoppers a chance to browse for bargains among exquisite antiques, vintage furniture and homemade quilts. Activities throughout the week include an Art Show and 5K Fun Run.

Calendar of Events
Armed Forces Day - This military-wide celebration is held in May each year at Fort Rucker. Open to the general public. Attendees will be able to view static displays of aircraft and military equipment. Free Admission

Bi-Plane Fly-In - Pitts aircraft show held in November at Blackwell Airfield in Ozark. Admission charged. (334) 774-1187

Business Expo - Held in August at the Ozark Civic Center. Large display of area businesses products and services. (334) 774-9321

Civil War Reenactment - Held the third weekend in October in Newton. Battle is staged at John Hutto Park. (334) 299-3672

Chamber Golf Tournament - Held at the Panther Creek Golf Course in June. This is a 3-person scramble with lots of prizes and a chance to win $1 Million and/or an automobile. (334) 774-9321

Christmas City - Open November 25th through December 26th in Ariton. Lights, entertainment, shops and restaurants. Admission fee. (334) 762-2380

Christmas Parade - Features lighted floats, marching bands, Santa Claus and more. December in downtown Ozark. (334) 774-2523

Claybank Jamboree - Held in Ozark the first Saturday in October. Activities include arts and crafts, food vendors, face painting, kiddy rides and entertainment. A 5K run is held in the morning at Ed Lisenby Lake. Jamboree call (334) 774-9321. For the 5K run call (334) 774-3694

Farm - City Week - Held in November, honors outstanding Dale County Farmers. Features equipment displays, petting zoo and student art contest. (334) 774-9321

Fourth of July Celebration - A patriotic band concert with Overture played by the 98th Army Band prior to a brilliant display of fireworks. Held each year at Fort Rucker around the 4th of July. Free admission.

Gulf States Retired Military Golf Tournament - Held in early May, this golf tournament is open to all retired military personnel and their spouses. Includes three days of golf. (334) 774-9321

Sacred Harp Sing, First Sunday in March - Held at the Church of God by Faith in Ozark. The first Sunday in March is Dewey P. Williams Day, proclaimed by the Mayor of Ozark in 1983. 112 King Avenue (334) 774-9493

Sacred Harp Sing - Held the first weekend in May at Mabson Church on Highway 27 north of Ozark. Sacred Harp music has played an important role in the social and spiritual lives of the people of Ozark and Dale County. Contact Tommie Spurlock. (334) 774-5092

South Alabama Pro Rodeo Classic - Held in Ozark. Seven events sanctioned by APRA. Good family entertainment. (334) 774-919