Alabama Impact Crater Discovery Week, 2026

Discover the impact. Explore the science. Experience Alabama’s crater.

Alabama Impact Crater Discovery Week is a week‑long series of educational programs, guided experiences, and community events centered around the Wetumpka Impact Crater, one of the best‑preserved impact structures in the world.

This annual initiative invites residents, educators, students, scientists, and visitors to explore how a single geologic event helped shape Alabama’s landscape, ecosystems, and scientific importance.

Proud Sponsors of Alabama Impact Crater Discovery Week

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Hampton Inn Wetumpka - Accommodations Sponsor

Why AL Crater Week Matters Statewide

Many Alabamians have heard the phrase, “the stars fell on Alabama.” What makes that saying especially powerful is that Wetumpka is where it actually happened!

The Wetumpka Impact Crater marks the site where a massive meteorite struck Alabama millions of years ago, leaving behind one of the most significant and best-preserved impact structures in the world. This is not just local history; it is a statewide geological landmark with national and international scientific relevance.

AL Crater Week brings that story to the forefront by:

Connecting a familiar piece of Alabama culture to a real, measurable cosmic event
Highlighting Alabama’s unique place in planetary science and impact research
Supporting STEM education through hands-on, place-based learning
Elevating the crater as a destination for educational and heritage tourism

By dedicating a full week to exploration and education, AL Crater Week helps Alabamians understand that this is where the story of “the stars fell on Alabama” truly comes to life, through science, discovery, and a deeper appreciation of our state’s natural history.

Map showing the estimated blast radius of the Wetumpka Impact Crater over modern-day Alabama

Illustration of a meteorite impact similar to the event that formed the Wetumpka Impact Crater

A Week of Science, Exploration, and Community

AL Crater Week is designed as a multi‑day, multi‑audience experience, with programs that appeal to both seasoned science enthusiasts and those simply curious about the world around them. Events take place throughout the week and may include:

Guided hikes and tours within and around the crater
Lectures and talks by geologists, researchers, and educators
Stargazing and astronomy programs linking Earth impacts to space science
Interactive demonstrations and hands‑on learning experiences
School outreach and student‑focused programming
Community events that blend science, history, and outdoor exploration

Together, these events tell the complete story of the crater, from its violent origins to its lasting influence on Alabama’s geology, rivers, wildlife, and communities.

Map showing the prehistoric marine environment when the Wetumpka Impact Crater formed

Chalk cliffs exposed within the Wetumpka Impact Crater in Alabama

Discovery for Everyone

AL Crater Week is a growing, week-long celebration of discovery that is grounded in science and designed for everyone. Built on the success of the Wetumpka Impact Crater’s established tours and programs, the initiative brings together schools, universities, museums, science organizations, and community partners to offer engaging, accessible learning experiences.

From students and educators to families, outdoor enthusiasts, heritage travelers, and lifelong learners, AL Crater Week connects Alabama’s unique natural history to science, education, and exploration. No scientific background is required, just curiosity.

Event details are announced throughout the year, with full schedules released closer to the week of programming. We invite you to stay connected, get involved, and be part of this uniquely Alabama experience.

Dr. David King examining geological core samples from the Wetumpka Impact Crater

Tony Neathery, known as the father of the Wetumpka Impact Crater discovery