Some of the nation’s most highly acclaimed storytellers will make their way to North Alabama next month for the city of Athen’s annual celebration of storytelling, tall tales and readings. Now in its 17th year, the Athens Storytelling Festival returns to campus of Athens State University Oct. 24-28, bringing with it stories of adventure and excitement.

The Athens Storytelling Festival kicks off on Tuesday evening, Oct. 24 at 6:30 p.m. with a Student Tellers Olio. Admission is free. Thursday, beginning at 7:30 p.m., enjoy the energetic musical stylings of award-winning swing band, Three on a String. Admission is $25/adult and $15/child.

Slated to appear on Friday and Saturday are many of the favorite performers from previous years including author Donald Davis, National Storytelling Festival favorite Bil Lepp, highly accomplished old-time bluegrass and swing musician Josh Goforth, 2022 West Virginia Folk Artist of the Year Adam Booth and former teachers Randy Evensen and Carol Cain.

Stories will be told under the big tent on the campus of Athens State University by Brown Hall, located at 300 N. Beaty Street, five blocks from downtown Athens. Hours are 9 a.m. to 8:50 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. to 8:55 p.m. Saturday. In addition, food vendors, local restaurants and an eclectic mix of shops offering a wide variety of antiques, gifts, gourmet foods, clothing and hardware will be open just a short walk from the festivities. A complimentary shuttle from the festival tent grounds to downtown Athens will also be provided.

Ticket price for admission to all events (excluding school days) are $90/adult and $50/child (16 years and younger). Tickets for any combination of events or daily admission are also available. Tickets may also be purchased at UG White Mercantile located on the square in downtown Athens. All ticket holders must stop by the Ticket Office to pick up their swatches, which will allow them entrance to the tent during their ticketed times. The Ticket Office opens 1 hour prior to festival events.

For complete ticket pricing, a biography on each storyteller and a schedule of events, visit www.athensstorytellingfestival.com.