Leeds Historic Downtown Walking Tour & Festivities

Embark on an exhilarating journey through time and dive into the vibrant history of Leeds! Join us on Saturday, April 13th, for an electrifying adventure with the Leeds Downtown Walking Tour. Prepare to be transported back to the 1940s as you stroll through downtown Leeds, encountering over 75 reenactors, each embodying the spirit of the era in authentic costumes. Get ready for an immersive experience as we unveil 30 stops along the route, each unveiling a different facet of Leeds’ rich past.
Our dedicated teams with over 150 volunteers have spared no effort in crafting an unforgettable experience for you. From extensive historical research to crafting compelling characters and securing authentic props, every detail has been meticulously curated to ensure your journey through time is nothing short of extraordinary like Miss Winnie, the Librarian, portrayed by Becky King, who you can meet at H. Evans Dry Goods. Hear stories about the old Sinclair Filling Station, Lovell’s Beauty Shop, Coopers, Atlanta and Pacific Tea Company, Clayton Clinic, Power’s Café, Nelson’s Sandwich Shop, Ben Franklin Stores, Leeds Theatre and so much more.
But the excitement doesn’t end there! Immerse yourself in the soul-stirring melodies of the Old Time Hymn Sing at Mosaic Church, where congregational singing will resound with timeless classics like “The Old Rugged Cross” and “Amazing Grace.” Then, venture to the historic train depot for a thrilling railroad adventure hosted by the Mid-South Chapter of the Railway & Locomotive Historical Society. Experience train demonstrations, telegraph displays and hear captivating stories of the unsung heroes of the rails. Also, receive a pretend train ticket for a pretend train ride!
As the day draws to a close, swing into history with the Jazz Fest Concert featuring the sensational Leeds High School Greenwave Jazz Ensemble. Let the melodies of the 1940s fill the air as you bask in the nostalgia of a bygone era. Bring your lawn chairs and dancing shoes for an afternoon of music and memories under the open sky.
The complete line-up for the day includes:
• 10a-2p – Historic Walking Tour with 75+ Reenactors in Full Costume Downtown Leeds on Parkway Drive Including 30+ Stops
• 10a-2p – Railway Adventures, Train Demonstrations at Historic Train Depot on Thornton Avenue
• Food Trucks, Kids Activities and More will be Stationed in the Green Space
• Vintage Vehicles Will Be Stationed Around Town including a Vintage Fire Truck
• 10:30a-2p – Old Fashioned Hymn Sing at Mosaic Church on Parkway Drive
• 2:30-3:30p – Jazz Fest Concert with Greenwave Jazz Ensemble in Green Space on 1st Avenue
This extraordinary event is made possible by the generous support of our sponsors: Leeds Trails and Tours, Leeds Historical Commission, Leeds Redevelopment Authority, Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce and Leeds Water Works Board and our supporters: Leeds Historical Society, Leeds Main Street, Leeds Jane Culbreth Library and Mid-South Chapter of the Railway & Locomotive Historical Society along with our contributors that include Guardian Systems, Inc., Show Ur Tees, adr Business & Marketing Strategies, Hommati 216, Heights Title and Livery Event Center, as well as a huge a team of passionate volunteers who share a love for Leeds’ history.
Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate Leeds’ rich history and community spirit. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious about Leeds, join us for a day filled with nostalgia, adventure, and unforgettable memories. Mark your calendars for April 13th, with a rain date of April 27th, and prepare for an extraordinary journey through the heart of Leeds, Alabama! For more information and a visual map of the walking trail, visit https://LeedsTrailsAndTours.com. See you there!