Real Estate Information Archive

Retirement is more than a milestone — it’s a lifestyle shift.

After decades of working, raising families, building careers, and managing responsibilities, retirement offers something many people have been looking forward to for years: the freedom to decide what comes next.

And where you choose to spend those years can make a meaningful difference.

For retirees looking for a place that combines affordability, history, culture, community, and a comfortable Southern lifestyle, Montgomery, Alabama continues to stand out as a place worth considering.

💰Affordability That Can Make Retirement Dollars Go Further

One of the biggest considerations when choosing a retirement destination is affordability.

Montgomery offers a cost of living below the national average, with housing costs that can be significantly lower than those found in many U.S. cities. For retirees living on fixed incomes or carefully managing retirement savings, housing affordability can play an important role in determining how much flexibility remains for the things they actually want to enjoy.

That could mean more room in the budget for travel, hobbies, dining out, entertainment, or simply enjoying a little more financial breathing room.

Alabama also offers a tax-friendly environment for retirees, including favorable treatment of certain retirement income sources.

For many people, that combination of housing affordability and tax considerations makes Montgomery an appealing option when planning for the years ahead.

✨A City with History and Character

Montgomery isn't simply a place to live. It's a city with a deep and complicated history, distinctive architecture, museums, cultural attractions, and a story that continues to shape the community today.

For retirees who enjoy learning, exploring, and staying connected to their surroundings, there's plenty to discover.

From historic neighborhoods and landmarks to museums, local events, restaurants, and cultural activities, Montgomery offers opportunities to get out and experience something new without having to leave the city.

🎶A Variety of Ways to Enjoy Life

Retirement doesn't look the same for everyone.

Some people want a quiet neighborhood and a beautiful backyard. Others want to be close to restaurants, shopping, cultural attractions, parks, or entertainment. Some want space for family gatherings, while others are ready to simplify and spend less time maintaining a home.

Montgomery's variety of neighborhoods and housing options makes it possible to look for a home and location that fit different retirement lifestyles.

Whether you're drawn to the character of an established neighborhood or prefer the convenience of a location closer to everyday amenities, the goal is to find a setting that supports the way you want to live.

❤️Community Still Matters

Retirement can open the door to more free time but having places to go and people to connect with remains an important part of enjoying this stage of life.

Montgomery offers opportunities to become involved in the community through local organizations, cultural events, clubs, volunteer activities, neighborhood gatherings, and other community activities.

For many retirees, the opportunity to build new connections while maintaining existing relationships is just as important as the home they choose.

🔢Retirement Is About More Than the Numbers

Affordability matters. Location matters. Housing matters.

But retirement is ultimately about having the opportunity to enjoy the life you've worked hard to build.

Maybe that means having more time with family. Maybe it's traveling more, discovering new interests, becoming involved in the community, or simply enjoying a slower pace of life.

Montgomery offers a combination of affordability, culture, community, and lifestyle opportunities that can make it an appealing place to begin that next chapter.

And once you've chosen where you want to retire, the next question becomes even more personal:

What do you want your retirement days to look like?

➡️ Stay tuned for Part 2, where we'll take a closer look at how creating a flexible retirement routine can help you make the most of all that newfound time.

🏠Thinking About a Move to Montgomery?

Whether you're downsizing, searching for a lower-maintenance home, or simply looking for a place that better fits the lifestyle you envision for retirement, having the right local real estate guidance can make the process easier.

Sandra Nickel and her Hat Team of Professionals are here to help you explore Montgomery-area real estate and find a home that fits the way you want to live.

📞 Call today at 334-834-1500
🌐 Visit homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com to learn more.

🏡 Welcome Home to 909 Green Forest Drive, a charming Dalraida home with plenty of room to spead out! 

MLS #590382 • 3 beds • 2 baths • 2,101 sq ft

Welcome home to this exceptionally well-maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home in Dalraida! Located on a quiet street in a great neighborhood, this spacious home offers plenty of room to spread out! The main floor conveniently has all of the bedrooms, a living room that opens to the kitchen, and hardwood floors that add warmth and coziness throughout. The bathrooms offer a great mix of old and new - one retains its charming original tile and vintage character, while the other has been nicely updated. Downstairs, a large additional living area offers even more space to relax, entertain, or make the perfect game room. There's also an additional room that would be an excellent office or 4th bedroom. Outside you'll find a large patio for enjoying the backyard, along with the convenience of a garage! The exterior has been freshly painted giving it clean and crisp curb appeal! This well cared for home is ready to meet its new owners!!

Want to See It Live?
🔑 Marketed by Montgomery AL Realtor, Ali Bertschy
📆 Book a showing today
📞 Contact us at (334) 834‑1500
✨ Let us help you imagine your next chapter at 909 Green Forest Drive! 

There’s something special about a great local bakery. Maybe it’s the smell of something freshly baked when you walk through the door, a favorite dessert you’ve been ordering for years, or finding a new neighborhood spot that quickly becomes part of your weekend routine. ☕🍰

Fortunately, Montgomery has plenty of locally loved bakeries and sweet shops to explore. From longtime Montgomery institutions and made-from-scratch cupcakes to custom celebration cakes and fresh morning donuts, these local favorites offer plenty of delicious reasons to get out and explore the city. 🧁🍩

Whether you’re a longtime Montgomery resident or new to the area, we’ve rounded up eight local bakeries in Montgomery, AL that deserve a spot on your must-try list.

1. Liger’s Bakery

📍3040 McGehee Road, Montgomery

Montgomery's Oldest Bakery Est.1944. A true Montgomery institution, Liger’s Bakery has been serving the community for decades and is especially well known for its cakes, petit fours, pastries, cookies, pies and other classic baked favorites. It’s the kind of longtime local business that has become part of Montgomery’s culinary history — and a great place to visit when you’re craving something traditional.

🔗More info: www.facebook.com/ligersgood/

🍰 Don’t miss: Their famous petit fours and classic cakes.

2. JoZettie’s Cupcakes

📍1404 South Decatur Street, Montgomery

If cupcakes are your weakness, JoZettie’s is one Montgomery stop you won’t want to skip. Everything is made from scratch, and the menu includes an impressive variety of flavors inspired by classic Southern desserts. Think banana pudding, peach cobbler, sweet potato, pecan pie, key lime and German chocolate — just to name a few. JoZettie’s also has a second Montgomery location on East South Boulevard.

🔗More info: www.facebook.com/jozettiescupcakes/

🧁Don’t miss: The sweet potato, banana pudding or peach cobbler cupcakes.

3. Lorraine’s Bake Shop

📍22 Dexter Avenue, Montgomery

Located on historic Dexter Avenue, Lorraine’s Bake Shop is a small-batch bakery and café that makes its sweets from scratch. It’s a particularly fun stop if you’re spending a day downtown, with baked treats alongside coffee, espresso, ice cream and milkshakes. Their weekly offerings also include cinnamon rolls, sourdough and fresh quiche. 

🔗More info: www.facebook.com/lorraines.bakeshop/

🥐Don’t miss: Their mid-week cinnamon rolls or a freshly baked sweet paired with coffee.

4. Shelley’s Donuts

📍65 Federal Drive, Montgomery

Sometimes the perfect bakery stop is a box of fresh donuts. Shelley’s Donuts has earned a loyal local following for its fresh-made donuts, and the shop’s early hours make it a popular choice for a morning treat. With its strong local reputation and high volume of customer reviews, Shelley’s is an easy addition to any Montgomery bakery bucket list.

🔗More info: www.facebook.com/pages/Shelleys-Donuts/615805621867859

🍩Don’t miss: Get there early for the freshest selection!

5. Cake Designs

📍3651 Debby Drive, Montgomery

Planning a birthday, wedding, anniversary or other special celebration? Cake Designs specializes in custom cakes and has become a go-to Montgomery bakery for celebration desserts. The family-owned shop is particularly known for wedding cakes, birthday cakes and cupcakes, making it a great local resource when you need something that looks as good as it tastes.

🔗More info: www.facebook.com/cakesbydesignUSA/

 🎂Don’t miss: Their custom celebration and wedding cakes.

6. Lu Lu’s Cake Shop

📍2463 Highland Avenue, Montgomery

For a more traditional, neighborhood-bakery feel, put Lu Lu’s Cake Shop on your list. This family-run bakery specializes in scratch-made cakes, cupcakes and classic Southern-style desserts. It’s a smaller local spot with the kind of personal, welcoming feel that makes discovering Montgomery’s independent businesses so much fun.

🔗More info: www.facebook.com/LuLusCakeShop/

🍪Don’t miss: Their classic cakes and Southern-inspired desserts.

7. Little Red Cupcake

📍638 Hall Street, Montgomery

Looking for a local cupcake fix? Little Red Cupcake is a downtown Montgomery option specializing in gourmet cupcakes and custom cakes. It’s also a fun choice if you’re looking for something for a birthday, shower or other celebration. With its central location, it’s easy to pair a stop here with an afternoon exploring downtown.

🔗 More info: www.facebook.com/littleredcupcake/

🧁Don’t miss: Their gourmet cupcakes and custom cakes.

8. G & S Donuts

📍5800 Woodmere Boulevard, Montgomery

For Montgomery locals who appreciate an early-morning donut run, G & S Donuts is worth checking out. This mom-and-pop shop is known for fresh donuts and pastries, including yeast-raised and cake donuts, and has developed a loyal following among regulars. It’s also the kind of place where arriving early can pay off — popular items can sell out!

🔗 More Info: www.facebook.com/p/GS-Donuts-100077473045930/

🫐Don’t miss: The old-fashioned and blueberry cake donuts or a filled donut.

🥧Which Montgomery Bakery Will You Try First?

Whether you’re looking for a classic Montgomery favorite, a box of cupcakes for the office, a custom cake for a celebration or simply something sweet to enjoy with your morning coffee, there are plenty of local bakeries worth exploring.

And one of the best parts of living in Montgomery is having local businesses like these right in your own community. From longtime favorites to hidden gems, there’s always another neighborhood, restaurant, shop or bakery waiting to be discovered.

🏠🔑Ready to Find Your Place in Montgomery?

The best part of finding a home isn’t just the house — it’s discovering the local businesses, restaurants, parks and neighborhood favorites that make a community feel like home.

Whether you’re buying your first home, looking for more space, relocating to Montgomery or preparing to sell, Sandra Nickel and her Hat Team of Professionals are here to help. With local knowledge and experience, we can guide you through every step of your real estate journey and help you find the right fit for your next chapter in Montgomery.

Ready to start your Montgomery real estate journey?

📞 Call Sandra Nickel and the Hat Team at 334-834-1500
🌐 Visit https://www.homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com/ to learn more.

🏡 Welcome Home to 304 Sterling Drive, a charming Bellehurst Estates home with gleaming hardwood floors, a cozy fireplace and excellent outdoor living spaces!

MLS #590321 • 3 beds • 2 baths • 2,346 sq ft

Welcome to Bellehurst Estates! This inviting home sits on a large corner lot offers comfortable indoor-outdoor living with plenty of parking. Inside, hardwood floors flow throughout, and the family room features a stone wood burning fireplace for cozy evenings. Step outside to the screened-in porch, an ideal place for watching football. Just beyond is a stone patio that provides the perfect set up for grilling. Additional features include plantation shutters, enclosed garage for the perfect workshop and detached storage. The roof was replaced in August 2024 offering added peace of mind. This well-maintained home combines comfort, functionality and charm both inside and out. Come see for yourself today!

Want to See It Live?
🔑Marketed by Montgomery AL Realtor, Lauren Keen
📆 Book a showing today
📞 Contact us at (334) 834‑1500
✨ Let us help you imagine your next chapter at 304 Sterling Drive! 

Fall may be on the calendar, but here in Montgomery, Alabama, summer temperatures can stick around for a while! That doesn't mean it's too early to start thinking about your fall landscaping. In fact, now is the perfect time to plan for colorful flowerbeds and welcoming outdoor spaces that will shine as the weather eventually cools. 🍂

Before you start planting, take some time to research which flowers and plants perform best in our area. Montgomery's Zone 8b growing climate gives homeowners plenty of wonderful options for extending garden color into the fall and, in some cases, even into winter. ❄️

Here are a few favorites to consider for your fall garden.

🌺Chrysanthemums

Commonly called mums, chrysanthemums are one of the most recognizable flowers of the fall season. Their full, colorful blooms come in beautiful shades of red, burgundy, purple, yellow, orange, pink, and white.

When shopping for mums, look for plants labeled “hardy mums” or “garden mums.” Once you bring them home, plant them promptly. Giving mums plenty of time to develop a strong root system can help them establish themselves and last longer.

For an easy curb-appeal update, place colorful mums in containers around your front porch, entryway, or walkway.

🌞Helenium

Looking for a little extra sunshine in your garden? Helenium delivers with cheerful daisy-like blooms in shades of yellow, orange, and red.

These hardy perennials are relatively easy to grow and bloom later in the season, making them a great choice for adding color after many summer flowers have begun to fade.

Plant them in a sunny spot where their bright blooms can become a focal point in your flowerbed.

🦋Asters

Asters are another wonderful choice for late-season color. Their delicate blooms are available in shades of pink, purple, blue, and white, providing plenty of options for complementing your home's exterior.

They're also popular with bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Adding asters to your landscape can provide an important late-season food source while bringing beautiful color to your yard.

Plant them early enough in the season to give the plants time to establish a strong root system before cooler weather arrives.

🌸Pansies

Few flowers are as dependable for cool-weather color as pansies. These cheerful annuals are a favorite for fall flowerbeds, borders, window boxes, and containers.

Pansies are also wonderfully versatile. With proper care, they can continue blooming through winter and into spring, giving your landscaping color for months.

For a classic fall look, combine pansies with mums in complementary colors around your home's entrance.

🌿Sedum (Stonecrop)

If you're looking for a plant that's beautiful without demanding too much attention, sedum is worth considering.

These hardy, carefree plants come in a variety of sizes, colors, and forms, including creeping, mat-forming, and upright varieties. They work well in flowerbeds, borders, rock gardens, and containers.

Sedum can be especially appealing for homeowners who want attractive landscaping without a long list of maintenance tasks.

🌺Dahlias

For a flower that makes a statement, consider dahlias. Known for their impressive blooms, dahlias can add drama and personality to your garden.

They come in a wide range of colors and flower shapes and generally perform best with plenty of sunlight. Removing spent blooms regularly can encourage additional flowering and keep the plants looking neat throughout the season.

Their bold blooms can also make a beautiful addition to cutting gardens, allowing you to bring some of your outdoor color inside.

🍂Start Planning Your Fall Garden Now

Even though Montgomery may still be feeling like summer, it's not too early to start planning your colorful autumn flowerbeds. Choosing your plants, preparing your beds, and deciding where you'd like to add seasonal color now can help you make the most of the season ahead.

And whether you're staying put and making your current home even more beautiful or dreaming about a new place to call home, we're here to help.

🌱Let Your Next Move Bloom

Just as the right flowers can bring a garden to life, the right home can give you the perfect place to grow and flourish. My Hat Team of Professionals and I are here to help you navigate every step of your real estate journey. 🏡

Whether you're ready to plant roots in a new home, prepare your current home to bloom on the market, or simply see what's growing in Montgomery's real estate market, we'd love to help.

🌸 Ready to see where your next chapter can bloom?

📞 Call us today at 334-834-1500
🔍 Explore Montgomery listings at homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com

We look forward to helping you find a home where you can put down roots and grow!

If you’re looking for something fun to do around Montgomery before summer officially comes to an end, there are still plenty of chances to catch the Montgomery Biscuits at Riverwalk Stadium.

The Biscuits have 12 regular-season home games remaining, giving local baseball fans a dozen more opportunities to spend an evening at the ballpark.

Photo credit www.mlb.com/milb/montgomery

⚾ The Games

August 25–30:
The Biscuits return home for a six-game series against Pensacola.

September 8–13:
The team closes out its home regular season with another six-game series against Columbus.

That means there are still plenty of opportunities for a baseball night, a family outing, or a weekend downtown.

Why Go?

A Biscuits game is about more than baseball. Riverwalk Stadium offers an easy way to turn a game into a night out — grab some food, watch the game, enjoy the atmosphere and take advantage of whatever special promotion is happening that night.

For families, groups of friends, or anyone looking for something different to do, minor-league baseball can be one of the easiest local outings to put on the calendar.

 Montgomery Biscuits at Riverwalk Stadium

With only 12 home games left in the regular season, there are still plenty of opportunities to catch a game — and the Biscuits have packed those final home dates with special events and promotions.

⚾ Pick Your Perfect Biscuits Night

August 25 — Karaoke Night 🎤
Sing along and enjoy a night at the ballpark with some extra entertainment.

August 26 — 334 Night 📍
Celebrate Montgomery and show some hometown pride!

August 27 — College Night 🎓
College students can enjoy a night at the ballpark and score a special T-shirt giveaway.

August 29 — Family Faith Night 🙏
Bring the family out for an evening of baseball, faith and community.

August 30 — Big Mo's Birthday Celebration 🎂
Help celebrate the Biscuits' beloved mascot, Big Mo!

⚾ September at the Ballpark

September 8 — Half-Off Hot Dogs 🌭
Baseball and a ballpark favorite at half the price — sounds like a winning combination.

September 9 — 334 Night 📍
Another opportunity to celebrate the Montgomery community.

September 10 — Oktoberfest 🍂
Enjoy an Oktoberfest-themed night at the ballpark, including a T-shirt giveaway.

September 11 — First Responders Night 🚒
A special evening recognizing the first responders who serve the Montgomery community.

September 12 — Military Appreciation Night
Join the Biscuits in honoring and celebrating members of the military community.

September 13 — 2027 Schedule Poster Giveaway 📅
Wrap up the regular-season home schedule with a 2027 Biscuits schedule poster giveaway.

⭐ There really isn't a bad choice among the remaining games, but August 27's College Night, August 30's Big Mo's Birthday Celebration, and September 10's Oktoberfest stand out if you're looking for something beyond a traditional baseball game. And if you're planning a family outing, Family Faith Night on August 29 is an easy one to put on the calendar.

For a classic Saturday-night ballpark experience, September 12's Military Appreciation Night is another great option — and the Biscuits' schedule also lists MAX Fireworks following that game.

Sometimes the best plans are right here in town. So, grab your tickets, pick your theme night and head down to Riverwalk Stadium before the final pitch of the 2026 home season.

Check the Biscuits' official schedule and promotions

⚾ Find Your Home Field

Every great baseball team needs a home field — and every great community starts with finding the right place to call home.

Sandra Nickel and her Hat Team of Professionals know Montgomery and the surrounding communities from the ground up. Whether you're stepping up to the plate for your first home purchase, looking for a little more room, or preparing to make your next move, our local expertise can help you round the bases with confidence.

Consider us your home-field advantage when it comes to buying or selling in the Montgomery area.

📞 Call Sandra Nickel and the Hat Team today at 334-834-1500

🌐 Visit homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com to learn more about buying or selling a home in the Montgomery area.

Once the excitement of the first day has passed, many families discover that the real challenge is keeping everything running smoothly week after week. Between homework, sports, extracurricular activities, and family responsibilities, schedules can quickly become overwhelming. ⚽ 🎨 📚

These practical tips can help your family stay organized, connected, and less stressed throughout the school year.

🎒Establish an After-School Routine

Children often do better when they know what to expect. A simple routine might include:

• Snack time
• Homework
• Free time
• Dinner
• Evening activities
• Bedtime routine

Consistency helps everyone know what's next and can reduce daily stress.

🍎 Keep Healthy Snacks Ready

Kids usually come home hungry, so having nutritious snacks available makes afternoons easier. Fresh fruit, yogurt, cheese sticks, trail mix, veggies with dip, or whole-grain crackers are all quick options that help keep energy levels up until dinner.

✏️Make Homework Less Stressful

Set aside a regular homework time each day and create a quiet space with good lighting and basic supplies. Encourage short breaks if assignments are lengthy and celebrate effort as much as achievement.

🍝 Keep Meals Simple

Not every dinner has to be elaborate. Rotating a handful of family favorites can save time and reduce decision fatigue. Consider assigning themed nights like Taco Tuesday, Pasta Night, or Slow Cooker Thursday to simplify meal planning.

📚Take Advantage of Local Resources

Montgomery offers many opportunities for families to stay active and engaged throughout the school year. Visit your local library for books and programs, enjoy an afternoon at a neighborhood park, or explore community recreation activities that fit your family's interests.

❤️Schedule Family Time

With busy schedules, it's easy for quality time to slip away. Even one evening each week dedicated to family—whether it's game night, pizza night, or a walk around the neighborhood—can help everyone reconnect.

📅Don't Forget to Reset on the Weekend

A little preparation each weekend can make Monday much less hectic. Wash backpacks and lunch boxes, review the week's calendar, grocery shop, and lay out plans for upcoming activities. Starting the week organized can make a big difference.

✨Remember to Take Care of Yourself

Parents are often juggling just as much as their children. Give yourself permission to keep things simple when needed, ask for help, and celebrate the small victories. A flexible routine is often more sustainable than trying to make every day perfect.

🌟Enjoy the Journey

The school year will fly by before you know it. While schedules can get busy, it's often the everyday moments—packing lunches together, cheering from the sidelines, helping with homework, and sharing dinner around the table—that become the memories families treasure most.

Here's wishing all of Montgomery's families a school year filled with learning, laughter, and plenty of memorable moments along the way.

As the school year settles into a routine, you may find yourself thinking about what your family needs—not just for this semester, but for the years ahead. If you've been wishing for a dedicated homework space, a larger backyard, a shorter commute, or a home that better fits your lifestyle, now may be the perfect time to explore your options.

Sandra Nickel and her Hat Team of Professionals are here to help make your next move as organized and stress-free as possible. Whether you're buying your first home, upgrading for more space, or getting ready to sell, their local expertise and personalized service will guide you every step of the way.

📞 Call Sandra Nickel and the Hat Team today at 334-834-1500

🌐 Visit homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com to learn more about buying or selling a home in the Montgomery area.

Get ready for an action-packed August in Montgomery! From award-winning films and handcrafted art to festivals, live music, football, car shows, and family fun, this month's lineup is bursting with events for every age and interest. Grab your family, invite your friends, and start filling your calendar with these can't-miss happenings around the Capital City!

Montgomery Film Festival

📅Friday, August 7^th to August 9^th
📍Capri Theatre, 1045 E Fairview Ave, Montgomery

The Montgomery Film Festival returns for the summer, celebrating 17 years! Join in at the Capri Theatre on August 7-9, 2026 for features, global shorts, retrospectives, and local gems.

THE SAMURAI AND THE PRISONER (dir. Kiyoshi Kurosawa)
POSSUM TOWN (dir. Daniel Christian)
DANNY IS MY BOYFRIEND (dir. Lucy Sandler & Mechi Lakatos)
CHRONOVISOR (dir. Kevin Walker & Jack Auen)

Retrospective Screening • Newly Restored
HARD BOILED (dir. John Woo)

Short Film Blocks
STUDENT WORKS • ALABAMA TIES • COAST-TO-COAST

More info HERE.

Timeless Treasures Handmade Arts and Crafts Show

📅Saturday, August 8th
📍555 Eastern Blvd, Montgomery

Handmade Craft Show. Food Trucks. Face Painting.
Admission Free to Public
Inside Venue
Concessions available

Come support creativity in the community!

Event info HERE.

40^th Anniversary Buckmasters’ Expo

📅August 14-16^th
📍Renaissance Montgomery hotel & Spa at the Convention Center, 201 Tallapoosa St, Montgomery

The Buckmasters Expo, presented by Mountain Dew, returns to the Montgomery Renaissance Convention Center August 14–16 for its 31st year. As Buckmasters celebrates its 40th Anniversary in 2026, this year's Expo promises to be one of the biggest and most exciting yet, bringing together outdoor enthusiasts from across the country for a weekend of hunting, family fun, entertainment, and community.

To celebrate 40 years of Buckmasters, the organization is partnering with Mountain Dew and leading outdoor brands for the 40 Days of Giveaways Countdown, featuring daily prize giveaways leading up to the Expo. The campaign will culminate with a grand prize drawing on the final day of the Expo, giving outdoor enthusiasts even more reasons to join the celebration.

More info HERE.

ASU’s Buzz Run 5K + Stinger’s Fun Run

📅Saturday, August 15^th, 7AM
📍ASU Stadium, 915 S. Jackson Street, Montgomery

Prepare to swarm! The fourth annual Alabama State University Buzz Run 5K + Stinger’s Fun Run is back and better than ever! Benefitting ASU’s Track & Field Program and The Office of Accessibility & Veteran Affairs, this event is sure to get the whole family moving. The 5K race starts and ends at the ASU Stadium. Immediately following, Stinger’s Fun Run race will begin with children ages 4-12 racing against Stinger in a 100-yard dash!

More info HERE.

2026 Engineering Day

📅Saturday, August 15^th, 10 AM to 1PM
📍Morningview Elementary School, 2849 Pelzer Ave, Montgomery

Get ready for one of Montgomery's most exciting STEM events of the year!

NSBE Montgomery Professionals invites K–12 students and their families to join us for a day of hands-on STEM activities, engineering challenges, technology demonstrations, prizes, food, and fun as we explore the exciting world of engineering, science, and innovation.

More info HERE.

2026 Library Fest

📅Saturday, August 15^th, 10 AM to 1 PM
📍Montgomery City-County Public Library Juliette Hampton Morgan Library, 245 High St, Montgomery

Join the Montgomery City-County Public Library for Library Fest 2026. Games, Library Resources, Mini Book Sale, DJ, Community Resources, Line Dance, Inflatable, Food Trucks, and FUN!!

More info HERE.

7^th Annual Midtown Family YMCA Tailgate BBQ Cook Off

📅Saturday, August 15^th, 11:00 AM – 1:30 PM
📍Midtown Family YMCA

BBQ lovers, this is your sign! The 7th Annual Midtown Family YMCA Tailgate BBQ Cook Of is just around the corner, and you won't want to miss one of the tastiest events of the summer.

Bring your family and friends for an afternoon filled with incredible BBQ, friendly competition, and community fun—all while supporting the YMCA's mission to strengthen our community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

Tickets HERE.

Capital City Car Show

📅Saturday, August 15^th from 3-6 PM
📍Montgomery Motor Speedway, 480 Booth Road, Montgomery

Calling all car enthusiasts! Whether you’re a member of a car club or simply an individual who loves showing off your ride, this event is for YOU! Admission to the car show is FREE and will lead right into the evening’s racing action featuring the Saturday of Speed Twin 73’s!

More info HERE.

The Montgomery Premier Music and Craft Festival

📅August 15^th and 16^th from 10 AM to 5PM
📍Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 1 Museum Drive, Montgomery

Get ready, Montgomery! Step into a vibrant, high-energy celebration filled with live music, handcrafted treasures, delicious food, and unforgettable moments at the Montgomery Premier Music and Craft Festival. This isn’t just a festival—it’s a lively experience bursting with color, creativity, and connection. From the rhythm of the music to the sparkle of handmade goods, every corner of this event is designed to inspire and excite.

FREE admission for everyone!

More info HERE.

9^th Annual Hog Days of Summer BBQ & Music Festival

📅Saturday, August 22^nd
📍Union Station Train Shed, 271 Water Street, Montgomery

The Druids Charity Club is pleased to announce the 9th annual BBQ and Americana Music festival! The Hog Days of Summer is a charity event benefitting Hogs for the Cause and other carefully selected local charities.

Hog Days of Summer 2026 lineup:

-Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe
-Cracker
-Lyrics Born
-Billy Allen + The Pollies

Get ready for an unforgettable day of incredible live music, amazing food, and the best community around.

Tickets HERE.

Red Tails Classic: Tuskegee Golden Tigers vs. West Alabama Tigers

📅 Sunday, August 30^th, 7 PM
📍Cramton Bowl, 1022 Madison Ave, Montgomery

The Boeing Red Tails Classic is an annual college football kickoff game featuring Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and honoring the historic World War II Tuskegee Airmen.

More info HERE.

From finding the perfect place to call home to making your next move with confidence, Montgomery’s vibrant community has something for everyone—and Sandra Nickel and my Hat Team of Professionals are here to help you every step of the way. 🏡✨

Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or explore your next real estate opportunity, let our experienced team help you achieve your goals and make your move a success.

📞 Call us today at 334-834-1500
🌟 Visit https://www.homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com for more information!

The start of a new school year is an exciting time filled with fresh opportunities, new routines, and plenty of anticipation. But let's be honest—it can also feel a little hectic! Between shopping for supplies, adjusting sleep schedules, and juggling everyone's calendars, the transition from summer to school can be overwhelming.

The good news is that a little preparation can go a long way. Here are eight simple ways to help your family enjoy a smooth and stress-free start to the school year.

1. Ease Back into a School Sleep Schedule 😴

If bedtime drifted a little later over the summer, you're not alone. Begin shifting bedtimes and wake-up times 15 to 20 minutes earlier each night about a week before school starts. A gradual adjustment helps everyone wake up feeling more rested on that first day.

2. Create a Family Command Center 📌

Choose one spot in your home to keep everything organized. A calendar, school schedules, permission slips, meal plans, and important reminders all in one place can help keep the entire family on track.

3. Prep the Night Before 🌙

Mornings are much easier when a few things are done ahead of time. Encourage everyone to:

• Lay out clothes.
• Pack backpacks.
• Fill water bottles.
• Prepare lunches or lunch ingredients.
• Place shoes and backpacks by the door.

These simple habits can make mornings feel much less rushed.

4. Double-Check Your School Supplies ✏️

Before the first day, take a few minutes to make sure everything is ready to go. Check that backpacks, notebooks, calculators, chargers, lunch boxes, and water bottles are packed and labeled if needed.

5. Set Up a Homework Space 📖

Whether it's a dedicated desk or a quiet corner of the kitchen table, having a consistent place for homework helps children stay focused. Good lighting and a few basic supplies nearby can make homework time much easier.

6. Plan Easy Weeknight Meals 🍽️

The first week back is often one of the busiest. Planning a few simple dinners ahead of time can save both time and stress. Slow cooker meals, sheet-pan dinners, taco night, or breakfast for dinner are all family-friendly options.

7. Talk About the New School Year 💬

Take time to ask your children how they're feeling. Whether they're excited, nervous, or somewhere in between, open conversations can help build confidence and make the transition smoother.

8. Celebrate the First Week 🎉

Starting a new school year is a milestone worth celebrating. Whether it's a favorite family dinner, a trip for ice cream, or a movie night at home, ending the first week with something fun gives everyone something to look forward to.

🌟 Here's to a Great School Year! 🎓🍎

Back-to-school season doesn't have to be stressful. By planning ahead and creating simple routines, your family can spend less time worrying about the little things and more time enjoying everything the new school year has to offer.

We wish all of Montgomery's students, teachers, and families a wonderful, successful school year!

As your family settles into a new school year, it's also a great time to think about your next chapter. Whether you are looking for more space, downsizing, or simply exploring your options in the Montgomery area, Sandra Nickel and her Hat Team of Professionals are here to help.

With local expertise and a commitment to making every step of the buying or selling process as stress-free as possible, they'll help you find the right home for your family's needs—this school year and beyond.

📞 Call Sandra Nickel and the Hat Team today at 334-834-1500

🌐 Visit homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com to learn more about buying or selling a home in the Montgomery area.