A few clouds, maybe a shower, and a little sunshine throughout the day is typical of a north Alabama spring.

No matter what, the 35th annual Bloomin’ Festival is a rain or shine event. With the gates opening to historic St. Bernard Abbey at 9 a.m. today and Sunday, visitors can expect a variety of arts and crafts from locally-talented creators as well as many from across the country.

Recognized as one of the region’s best events, the Bloomin’ Festival has long been the signal of spring and the beginning of an exciting season of festivals in Cullman County.

Along with the carefully selected vendors’ work, this festival is known for a lot of good food, including bread baked on site by monks, and outstanding musical performances.

And while you’re there, be sure to enjoy the Ave Maria Grotto and its internationally-recognized 125 miniature reproductions of some of the most famous religious structures of the world. The four-acre site, developed in an old rock quarry, is on the National Register of Historic Places.

There is also time today to learn more about the history of Cullman with the annual walking tours beginning at the Cullman County Museum at 10 a.m. for no cost. The tours, which explore the older buildings and include some fascinating stories, are offered each Saturday in April.

For those who want more than the one-hour tour, there is an extended option available at the conclusion. Learning local history can be a fascinating adventure and enlightening to how Cullman was settled and developed.