TUSCUMBIA– The highly anticipated 29th Annual Northwest Alabama Saddle-Up for St.
Jude Trail Ride and Concert is set to bring together horse enthusiasts, music lovers, and
dedicated supporters of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital on July 17-19, 2025, at Gardiner
Farms in Tuscumbia, Alabama. This remarkable event centered around horse riding, has grown
into a captivating three-day concert series, trail ride, and auction.
“I was at a point in my life where I was able to give back, and I wanted the money to go towards
something meaningful. We did the first event out at Bankhead (National Forest), and that’s
when Jimmy Gardiner approached me and said he had just the place. We’ve been having Saddle
Up for St. Jude at Gardiner Farms ever since. I’m proud of all we’ve accomplished, sending
millions to St. Jude over the years. I hope everyone comes out and has a good time with us!”
said Jimmy King, founder of Saddle Up for St. Jude of Northwest Alabama.
The Northwest Alabama Saddle-Up for St. Jude Trail Ride and Concert invites attendees to
explore over 3,000 acres of breathtaking riding trails while being treated to a stellar lineup of
performances by local musicians and renowned country music stars. This year’s headliners
include Deana Carter on Thursday evening, T. Graham Brown on Friday evening, and Easton
Corbin on Saturday. The full event schedule and weekend tickets can be found at
www.SaddleUp4Kids.org.
For the past 29 years, this Shoals area event has played a pivotal role in raising millions for St.
Jude Children’s Research Hospital–making it the #1 fundraiser in the Trail Ride series in monies
raised for St. Jude. By participating in the Northwest Alabama Saddle-Up for St. Jude Trail Ride
and Concert, attendees demonstrate their unwavering support for the hospital’s life-saving
work, providing hope and healing to children and their families during their most challenging
times.
“We are so excited about this year’s St. Jude event that promises to raise hundreds of
thousands of dollars for such a worthy cause,” said Susann Hamlin, President/CEO of Colbert
County Tourism and Convention Bureau. “These are top notch entertainers, and it is great to
have a full weekend of trail rides and fantastic music, performed in such a beautiful, serene
location,” Hamlin said.
In addition to horse riding trails & musical entertainment, there will be activities for kids, pony
rides, and ample concession food and drink throughout the weekend. Grab your lawn chair and
bring a heart full of gratitude as we continue the tradition of supporting this remarkable cause.
The Northwest Alabama Saddle-Up for St. Jude Trail Ride and Concert offers an unforgettable
weekend that combines the joy of trail riding, the magic of live music, and the opportunity to
make a profound and meaningful difference in the lives of children.
Media Release/Maryanne Floyd
Director of Communications
Colbert County Tourism
