Hoover November Calendar: 4:30 p.m. tastings, free Messiah, and a two-day craft market

The month of November in Hoover offers a dense schedule of public gatherings, ranging from free wine tastings to a two-day craft market at a major shopping center.

The city's cultural and commercial sectors have aligned their calendars for the final weeks of the year. Events are distributed across public libraries, gardens, church properties, and private dining establishments. Several programs are offered at no cost to residents and visitors, while others require prior registration.

The schedule begins early in the month with a series of complimentary wine tastings at Hoover Steaks & Wines. Located at 5868 Elsie Road, the venue hosts these sessions on Tuesdays and Fridays from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. throughout the month. Guests sample selections from rotating wineries and distributors. The sessions are designed for both experienced enthusiasts and newcomers.

A nature journaling class is scheduled for Nov. 7 and 11 at Aldridge Gardens, 3530 Lorna Road. The sessions run from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and are free, though registration is required. Instructor Amy Sides will guide participants through observation prompts. Pencils, paper, and colored pencils are provided by the venue.

The Hoover Public Library at 200 Municipal Drive hosts several programs. A Young Artist Reception is set for Nov. 8 from 3 to 4 p.m. in the Youth Program Room. The event allows families to view work from the library's featured young artists. On Nov. 4, a storytime session for children ages 4 and younger is held at 10:30 a.m. On Nov. 9, a 3 p.m. event in the Friends Meeting Room invites participants to create holiday cards for homebound residents. On Nov. 10, Mairin Odle presents a talk on tattoo history in early America at 6 p.m. In the evening, fingerstyle guitarist Bryce Mullins performs on the Plaza at 7 p.m.

The city of Hoover will hold its annual Salute to Service on Nov. 10 at the Finley Center, 5508 Stadium Trace Parkway. The program runs from 8:30 to 11 a.m. It recognizes veterans in the community, including members of the city workforce.

The Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce will host a monthly Coffee & Contacts event on Nov. 12 from 8 to 9 a.m. The location is to be announced. The free gathering allows members and local professionals to network over coffee before the workday begins. Each event is hosted at a different local business.

The Birmingham Fall Craft & Vendor Market will take place at Riverchase Galleria, 2000 Galleria Circle, on Nov. 14 and 15. The market operates from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Nov. 14 and from noon to 6 p.m. on Nov. 15. The two-day event features local makers and small businesses selling handmade goods and seasonal decor.

The Alabama Civic Chorale will present its 79th annual performance of Handel's 'Messiah' on Nov. 22 at 3 p.m. The venue is Riverchase United Methodist Church, 1953 Old Montgomery Highway. The performance is free and open to the public. Members of the Alabama Symphony Orchestra will accompany the chorale. Early arrival is recommended for attendees.