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.

December 2024

LuLu's Lighted Boat Christmas Parade

Take part in one of the oldest Christmas traditions in Coastal Alabama with the Lulu’s Lighted Boat Parade...

Dec 14, 2024

Lulu's Noon Year's Eve

Lulu’s hosts a kid-friendly New Year’s Eve event with festive music, arts & crafts, a

Dec 31, 2024

January 2025

Big Beach Marathon, Half Marathon & Safari 7K

Run along a beautiful, award-winning route at the Big Beach Marathon. The race starts at the Hangout

Jan 25, 2025

February 2025

Sea Turtle Half Marathon and Sweetheart 5K

Race for the sea turtles with this Half Marathon, 5K or 1-mile fun run. The route runs down West Beach

Feb 15, 2025

We Run This Beach Marathon

We Run This Beach Marathon is a Boston Qualifier race that is flat, fast and stunning. Runners begin

Feb 22, 2025

Annual Fort Morgan Oyster Fest

Join the Annual Fort Morgan Oyster Fest for a day packed with food, fun and oyster perfection! Your ticket...

Feb 22, 2025

March 2025

BallyHoo Festival

This annual festival is a local favorite renowned for its exceptional art and cultural celebrations.

Mar 01, 2025

Gulf Shores Mardi Gras Parade

Join the Mardi Gras celebration with the Gulf Shores Parade, a beloved tradition dating back to 1978.

Mar 10, 2025

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