Name: Sword & Shield Gala at The Hotel at Auburn University
Start: 2026-10-09
End: 2026-10-09

Piccolo 241 Jazz & Cocktail is an intimate jazz lounge inside the Auburn Hotel, blending smooth live music with an elevated cocktail experience. With a cozy yet lively atmosphere, guests can enjoy premium cocktails while listening to talented local musicians in a warm, inviting setting. The bar offers a creative drink menu featuring specialty cocktails, fine wines, and craft beers, along with a selection of small bites perfect for pairing. Whether you're meeting friends for a relaxed night out or planning a special evening, Piccolo 241 delivers a sophisticated experience full of rhythm, flavor, and charm.

Piccolo 241 Jazz and Cocktails

Piccolo 241 Jazz and Cocktails offers an elevated lounge experience inside The Hotel at Auburn University, blending smooth live jazz with expertly crafted cocktails. Since opening in 2009, it has become a favorite for those looking to enjoy Auburn’s nightlife in a relaxed and intimate setting. Guests can choose from specialty cocktails, an extensive wine list, and craft beers, all complemented by a menu of Italian-inspired small plates from the adjoining Ariccia Cucina Italiana. Whether you’re planning a night out with friends or looking for a memorable date spot, Piccolo delivers great music, great drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Thrive Here at Auburn is a coffee bar and roastery offering expertly crafted coffee, espresso drinks, and a selection of fresh pastries made in-house. With its warm and inviting atmosphere, it provides the perfect retreat for hotel guests and visitors alike. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the space, drawing in those looking for a high-quality caffeine fix, whether it's a morning pick-me-up or an afternoon indulgence. Thrive has a full coffee bar in the Tony and Libba Rane Culinary Science Center and a smaller shop in the Auburn University Hotel and Conference Center. Open Monday through Saturday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., Thrive Here at Auburn serves a variety of beverages, including espressos, cappuccinos, lattes, and teas. Enjoy a selection of muffins, banana bread, biscuits, overnight oats, and croissants, along with bottled water and Topo Chico for those on the go. Whether you're staying at the hotel or just passing through, Thrive is the perfect place to enjoy a thoughtfully prepared cup of coffee in a cozy, convenient setting.

Thrive Here at Auburn

Inspired by the charm of an Italian hilltop town, Ariccia Cucina offers a modern take on traditional Italian dining in Auburn. The restaurant serves breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner daily, blending house-made pastas, fresh ingredients, and a warm atmosphere to create a memorable dining experience. Guests can enjoy meals in the intimate dining room or on the patio. Signature dishes include rigatoni Bolognese, spaghetti carbonara, truffle ravioli, and porchetta, featured on the list of 100 Dishes to Eat in Alabama Before You Die. The menu also includes wood fired pizzas, hearty paninis, and unique brunch selections. An extensive wine list, full-service bar, and elegant lounge space make Ariccia a popular choice for both everyday meals and special occasions.

Ariccia Cucina Italiana

Catering to You provides full-service and drop-off catering for events of all sizes, from intimate gatherings of 10 to large celebrations with up to 1,000 guests. The Hotel at Auburn University's expert team will help you design a customized catering experience with delicious, handcrafted menus tailored to your unique taste and event needs

Catering to You by The Hotel at Auburn

Khoodles brings the flavors of Malaysian street food to life with authentic noodles and rice bowls inspired by family recipes passed down for generations. Every dish is crafted with bold spices, fresh ingredients, and traditional cooking techniques, delivering a taste of Malaysia’s rich culinary heritage. From savory stir-fried noodles to hearty rice bowls, Khoodles offers a delicious and authentic dining experience that celebrates the flavors of home.

Eat Khoodles (Hey Day Market)

Hey Day Market is a multi-concept food hall located at The Tony & Libba Rane Culinary Science Center in Auburn, offering a diverse range of dining experiences in a vibrant, communal setting. Featuring a variety of local eateries, Hey Day Market is the perfect spot for friends, families, and food enthusiasts to explore Auburn’s local food scene. Its unique mix of dining concepts creates a dynamic and engaging atmosphere that sets it apart from other venues in the area. With rotating vendor menus and seasonal specials, there’s always something new to discover. Whether you're in the mood for a quick bite or planning a meal with family or friends, Hey Day Market delivers an exciting culinary experience in the heart of Auburn. Visit Hey Day Market to explore the best of Auburn's food scene, and check their website for more details on vendors, hours, and upcoming events.

Hey Day Market

Little Darling is a classic, all-American spot with specialty burgers that are sure to impress! Enjoy one-of-a-kind burgers and sandwiches at this cute stop at Hey Day Market. From a variety of aioli sauces to a house-made ketchup, find the perfect pairing for their delicious fries! Along with their delightful food menu, satisfy your sweet tooth with one of their hand-spun milkshakes or floats! Be sure to stop by soon to check out the shake of the week! The Hey Day Market is open daily. Student dining dollars, with the exemption of block meals, can be used at Little Darling as well as all other vendors at Hey Day Market.

Little Darling Burger Co (Hey Day Market)

Loud Roots, located in Hey Day Market, is a build-your-own-bowl restaurant concept offering fresh, wholesome ingredients that are nourishing to the body. This unique dining spot stands out for its commitment to providing healthy, customizable meals that cater to various dietary preferences. Whether you're looking for a quick, nutritious lunch or a fulfilling dinner, Loud Roots allows you to craft your perfect bowl with a selection of vibrant, flavorful ingredients. The menu at Loud Roots is centered around its build-your-own-bowl experience, where customers can choose from a variety of fresh vegetables, proteins, grains, and house-made dressings. Popular options include hearty grains like quinoa, fresh greens, and a range of flavorful sauces that enhance each bowl's flavor. Seasonal ingredients and rotating specials ensure there’s always something new to try. If you're looking for a nourishing and delicious meal that you can customize to fit your taste, Loud Roots offers a satisfying and health-conscious dining experience. Stop by Hey Day Market to create your perfect bowl or visit their website to learn more about their menu.

Loud Roots (Hey Day Market)

Pokemen, located in Hey Day Market, offers a fresh and modern twist on traditional Hawaiian poke bowls in Auburn. This fast-casual eatery allows guests to build their own bowls, choosing from a variety of fresh ingredients, including sushi-grade fish, vegetables, and flavorful toppings. Pokemen stands out for its commitment to quality and customizable options, making it a unique choice within the market's vibrant food scene. The menu features signature bowls or the option to craft your own, starting with a base of rice or greens and adding proteins like ahi tuna or salmon. While Pokemen does not host ongoing events or specials, its focus on fresh, healthy, and delicious food makes it a top choice for those seeking a nutritious meal on the go. Whether you're a poke fan or new to the dish, Pokemen is a must-visit in Auburn. Stop by Hey Day Market to create your perfect bowl, or visit their website to explore menu options and learn more!

Pokemen (Hey Day Market)

Saint Bernardo Gelato brings a taste of Italy to Auburn with small-batch, handcrafted gelato made fresh daily. With classic and creative flavors like pistachio, tiramisu, and birthday cake, every scoop is made with premium ingredients and serious attention to texture and taste. Whether you’re stopping in for a cup, cone, or flight, it’s a sweet spot for gelato lovers of all ages—no passport required.

Saint Bernardo Gelato (Hey Day Market)

Wild Child Taco, located in Hey Day Market, is a Southern Californian-inspired street taco bar bringing bold, authentic flavors to Auburn. Known for its specialty street tacos, Wild Child serves each taco on handmade heirloom blue corn masa tortillas, paired with your choice of queso or fresh guacamole. The menu offers a variety of creative taco options, along with traditional sides like Mexican street corn, queso "sucio," and fresh guacamole. This taco spot is perfect for a quick and flavorful bite in the heart of Auburn’s popular Hey Day Market. In addition to their tacos, Wild Child also serves nachos "locos," quesadillas, and churros, making it a standout among Auburn's dining options. Pair your meal with a refreshing Mexican soda for a complete experience. Student dining dollars (excluding block meals) are accepted, making it a convenient stop for Auburn University students. Hey Day Market is open daily, ensuring easy access to this must-try spot. Whether you're craving a street taco or looking for something unique, Wild Child Taco offers a fresh and flavorful twist on classic Mexican dishes. Visit Hey Day Market to experience it for yourself, or check out their website for more details on their menu and specials.

Wild Child Taco (Hey Day Market)

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Things to Do in Auburn-Opelika

Explore the beauty and excitement of the Auburn-Opelika area, where there is something for everyone. Visit the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art to appreciate world-class art exhibits. Experience the natural beauty of Chewacla State Park with its hiking trails and waterfalls. Take a stroll through historic downtown Opelika and enjoy its unique boutiques and vibrant dining scene. For sports enthusiasts, catch an Auburn Tigers game at Auburn University, known for its spirited football, basketball, and baseball games. Don't miss the Opelika Pickleball Facility, with 24 individually fenced, covered, and lighted courts, perfect for year-round play.

Local Highlights
Auburn University: Known for its beautiful campus and sporting events, Auburn University is a hub of activity and culture.

Downtown Opelika: Enjoy the charm of a historic downtown area with a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

Chewacla State Park: A natural retreat offering hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and camping.
Opelika Pickleball Facility: One of the best pickleball facilities in the Southeast, providing year-round play on 24 lighted courts.

Dining and Accommodations
With a wide range of dining options from casual eateries to fine dining, the Auburn-Opelika area caters to all tastes. Notable mentions include The Hound for its hearty Southern fare and Café 123 for a fine dining experience in a historic setting. Accommodations range from the luxurious Auburn Marriott Opelika Resort & Spa at Grand National to charming bed-and-breakfasts.

Plan your visit to Auburn-Opelika today and discover why it is a prime destination for sports, culture, and Southern hospitality! For more information, visit Auburn-Opelika Tourism.

Auburn-Opelika Tourism

Attend the fourth annual Sword & Shield Gala, an evening of faith, fellowship and celebration benefiting St. Michael Catholic School, at The Hotel at Auburn University.

Hosted by St. Michael Catholic Church, the gala supports the school's mission of providing academic excellence rooted in the Catholic faith. Proceeds help fund tuition scholarships, strengthen fine arts and STEM programs, and sustain a rigorous curriculum that nurtures students academically, spiritually and personally.

Guests can enjoy an evening dedicated to supporting the future of St. Michael Catholic School while celebrating the impact of Catholic education in the Auburn community.

Sword & Shield Gala at The Hotel at Auburn University

Limitbreaker Lockdown will take place October 2-4 at Lake Wilmore Park Recreational Center in Auburn. This gymnastics meet will feature athletes competing in Levels 1-5, Xcel, and HUGS, with participants, coaches, families, and spectators expected throughout the weekend. Local residents are welcome to come out and watch the competition and support the athletes. Visit the event organizer’s website for meet details, schedules, and spectator information.

Limit Breakers Lockdown Gymnastics Meet

The 2026 Powerball Alabama State Championship, presented by Carvana PPA Tour and Southern Pickleball, will take place October 2-4 at the Opelika Pickleball Complex. The tournament will feature singles, doubles, mixed doubles, and junior divisions for a wide range of age groups and skill levels, with play beginning as early as 8 a.m. each day. Spectators are welcome to come out and watch the competition throughout the weekend, and players can register beginning June 1. Visit the tournament page for registration details, division information, event fees, and the full schedule.

2026 Powerball ALABAMA State Championship presented by Carvana PPA Tour & Southern Pickleball

The Southern Pickleball Association is dedicated to growing the sport of pickleball across the United States by offering affordable, professionally managed amateur events and supporting local pickleball communities. Since our inception in 2021, we have proudly become a cornerstone of community, camaraderie, and competition in the southeast, setting a new standard for what it means to run pickleball tournaments.

With nearly 200 tournaments hosted and over 30,000 players on our courts over the past 4 years, Southern Pickleball continues to bring people together through the joy of the game, fostering connections both on and off the court. Whether you're a seasoned competitor or new to the sport, we strive to create opportunities for everyone to experience the excitement and spirit of pickleball.

Southern Pickleball Association

Welcome to the Alabama Bass Federation Open Challenge, taking place Saturday, October 3, 2026, on Lake Harding in the Valley–Auburn area. This one-day tournament will launch from Po Boys Boat Ramp and bring competitive anglers together for a full day of bass fishing on one of the region’s premier lakes. Participants and spectators will find dining options nearby in Valley, Opelika, and Auburn, with convenient stops for breakfast before launch and meals following weigh-in. View the “Hotels” tab for live and discounted rates, and reach out to Auburn-Opelika Tourism with any destination-related questions. We look forward to welcoming anglers for a well-organized and successful tournament weekend on Lake Harding.

Alabama Bass Federation Open Challenge 

The 2026 ITA DI Men's Southern Regional Championship is a collegiate tennis tournament hosted at Auburn University in Auburn, Alabama, from October 8–12, 2026. Designed for NCAA Division I men's players, the competition is limited to up to 32 players and features Men's Open singles and doubles events. Organized through the Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA), the tournament gives eligible college athletes an opportunity to compete in a regional championship format.

Sword & Shield Gala at The Hotel at Auburn University

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