A Night to Howl About: The 17th Annual Moon Dance

The 17th Annual Moon Dance at Historic Three Caves near Five Points was another huge success. Land Trust of North Alabama's premier fundraiser featured live entertainment by Muscle Shoal's very own Kozmic Mama; dinner and cocktails by Washington Square Catering; and tables upon tables of must-have prizes for bid. Mother Nature even gifted this year's crowd with a Full Moon. Perfection! In case you missed it, here are five great reasons to attend next year.

Five Reasons to attend the 18th Annual Moon Dance. 

1. Historic Huntsville. The Three Caves are the remnants of a limestone quarry that operated between 1945 and 1952, alongside neighboring Blossomwood subdivision. Residents' frustration over the constant drilling noise and flying debris sent the quarry operation on a quest for a different mining approach. The new technique, called "Pillar and Post" created the Three Caves areas present today. Mid century grinding equipment is still on the property, to the left of the trail head. Once mining discontinued, The Three Caves served various purposes. In 1962, during the Cuban Missile Crisis, community leaders chose the space for a neighborhood fallout shelter, but the idea was quickly discarded. Next, the caves became film sets for several Hollywood movies. Finally, in 1989, the Land Trust acquired the property. Today, the space serves as a musical entertainment venue throughout the summer and fall months, and the space for an athletic competition in the spring. Read more about the rich history here.

"Though the Caves are man-made, Mother Nature is slowly asserting her influence. Geological formations such as flowstone, cave pearls, stalactites, and stalagmites have formed. Possibly some bats along with birds, lizards, and lichens have become cave residents." 

2. That Magical Setting. The caves' perfect acoustics and 65-degree temperature provide the perfect locale for a summer concert. The combination of stars, moonlight, and nature's grandeur has inspired more than one love-struck gentleman to propose on bended knee.

3. Family Tradition. Many Moon Dance patrons have attended the party every year since its inception in 1999. Back then, the "regulars" were young couples hiring sitters and heading to the caves for a night on the town. 17 years later, their children are grown and hiring sitters of their own to join the party.

4. Soulful Music. Kozmic Mama’s lead singer Carla Russell earned her pipes in Alabama’s own Muscle Shoals recording industry, playing with The Muscle Shoals All Star Band. The band is highly respected among R&B fans and has performed with many well-known artists to include Alecia Keys, Phish, and others. 

5. A Great Cause. The Land Trust stewards over 6,000 acres of natural wonder in five counties throughout North Alabama. The organization maintains close to 60 miles of trails for North Alabama residents to explore, and provides educational outreach for local youth. Read more about Land Trust's many programs on their website http://www.landtrustnal.org

Plan Ahead. The popular Moon Dance Event is held every September. The event sells out quickly, so mark your calendars now. It's never too early to support the Land Trust of North Alabama.