Gulf Shores Area Events

Sunny skies and comfortable temperatures most of the year mean that any time's a good time for a celebration in Gulf Shores. Two of the best-known festivals celebrate the local shrimping industry and the talent of area musicians.

More than 300 vendors offering arts, crafts, clothing, jewelry, and other retail goods make the National Shrimp Festival one of the nation's most exciting outdoor events. The four-day festival celebrates its 37th year this October.

The Frank Brown International Songwriters Festival, held each November at various spots in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and other nearby communities, offers 10 days of live musical entertainment. It's named for the late Frank Brown, a music fan who worked as night watchman at the legendary Flora-Bama Lounge for 28 years. The festival was founded as a venue for aspiring writers and musicians to showcase their work.

The city also celebrates the Fourth of July with a fireworks display, and ushers in the holiday season with a Christmas tree lighting and open house.

And there are plenty of other special events scheduled year-round - concerts, theater and dance performances, wine tastings, food festivals, arts and crafts shows - even a rodeo. Check out our calendar of events for an up-to-date list of what's going on while you're in town.

May 2025

Stand In My Boots Music Festival

Get ready for the ultimate music experience at the Stand In My Boots Music Festival ! Taking over the

May 16, 2025

S'mores on the Shores

Twice a year, Gulf Shores hosts a fun, family-friendly event to celebrate summer. This May, head on over...

May 22, 2025

Nest Fest 2025

Nest Fest is an engaging outdoor festival honoring local conservation efforts with a special focus on

May 31, 2025

June 2025

Sand, Songs and Cinema

This June, enjoy live music from Lee Yankie and a showing of Moana 2 on the big screen! The Lions Club

Jun 03, 2025

The 9th Annual Corn Festival

In its 9th year, the Corn Festival includes a wide array of fun activities including the Corny Dad

Jun 14, 2025

July 2025

Independence Day Street Party

Celebrate 4th of July Weekend with this epic event on Main Street! Begin the night with family-friendly

Jul 02, 2025

Independence Day Celebration

The City of Gulf Shores celebrates the red, white and blue with an exciting fireworks show at 9 p.m.

Jul 04, 2025

Sand, Songs and Cinema

This July, enjoy live music from Jesse Taylor Perry and a showing of Shark Tale on the big screen

Jul 22, 2025

S'mores on the Shores

Twice a year, Gulf Shores hosts a fun, family-friendly event to celebrate summer. This July, head on

Jul 31, 2025

September 2025

Sunset Music Series

The City of Gulf Shores hosts weekly nights of free live music throughout the month of September

Sep 04, 2025

November 2025

Frank Brown International Songwriters' Festival

In its 41st year, the songwriters' festival will feature over 200 nationally acclaimed songwriters across...

Nov 06, 2025