The Ultimate Guide to Annual Events in Gulf Shores, Alabama
Explore the best Gulf Shores Annual Events happening annually. From music festivals to cultural celebrations, find out what makes Gulf Shores a must-visit destination.
Start the Year Right — Winter Community Events
Gulf Shores Mardi Gras Parade
Kick off the year with color, costumes, and confetti during the Gulf Shores Mardi Gras Parade. Mardi Gras may be more closely associated with New Orleans, but Gulf Shores brings its own unique flair with a locally cherished parade that features floats, music, and community spirit. This annual event is a great way to embrace the Gulf Coast’s festive culture early in the year and is beloved by families and visitors alike.
Art, Culture, and Nature — March Festivities
Annual Ballyhoo Festival
Every March, Gulf Shores hosts the Ballyhoo Festival, an outstanding celebration of fine art and culture set against the natural beauty of Gulf State Park’s Lake Shelby picnic area. This two-day event brings together talented artists, performers, and artisans for a weekend of live music, cultural experiences, and creative displays.
Music at Meyer Park Concerts
Music lovers stay engaged year-round in Gulf Shores, but the Music at Meyer Park Concert Series is a standout community event in 2026. These free concerts bring live music to the heart of the city and showcase a variety of local and touring bands. While specific dates are announced closer to the event, these concerts are a beloved tradition for visitors and locals looking for laid-back nights with great music.
Food Festivals Worth Traveling For
2026 National Shrimp Festival
One of the most iconic annual events in Gulf Shores is the National Shrimp Festival, scheduled for October 8-11, 2026. This four-day celebration is a paradise for seafood lovers, with more than 50 local and regional vendors serving shrimp in every style imaginable—boiled, grilled, fried, and everything in between. Beyond shrimp, you’ll find live music, arts and crafts, and local culture shining through at every turn.
Orange Beach Seafood Festival & Car Show
Just a short drive from Gulf Shores, the Orange Beach Seafood Festival & Car Show is an annual event on February 28, 2026 that pairs delicious seafood with an impressive classic car show. With more than 100 artists, a Kids’ Zone, and live music, this family-friendly event brings together food, culture, and vintage automobiles for an unforgettable day on the Gulf Coast.
Sports and Competition Events
Independence Day Celebration & Fireworks
July 4th in Gulf Shores means classic American fun—especially at the annual Independence Day Celebration. This vibrant event blends patriotic festivities with an incredible fireworks show on the beach. Whether you’re watching from the sand or celebrating with loved ones nearby, the sights and sounds of this event create unforgettable memories.
Quirky and Fun Traditions
Flora-Bama Interstate Mullet Toss & Beach Party
For a truly unique Gulf Coast experience, you can’t miss the Interstate Mullet Toss & Gulf Coast’s Greatest Beach Party at the legendary Flora-Bama. Held April 24-26, 2026, this event blends beach culture with playful competition in a way only the Gulf can. Participants compete to see who can toss a mullet fish the farthest across the Alabama-Florida state line, and then the party truly begins.
Flora-Bama Annual Beach Events
The Flora-Bama isn’t just about the mullet toss—it’s a festival hub with a long list of traditional annual events. In 2026, you’ll find:
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Polar Bear Dip — January 1, 2026: Start the year with a splash as brave souls take a chilly Gulf swim together.
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Super Chili Bowl Cook-Off — February 7, 2026: A spirited culinary competition supporting charity.
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Annual Beach Run/Walk — March 14, 2026: Get active with this scenic run along Gulf Shores’ shoreline.
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Easter Egg Hunt & Bunny Drop — March 28, 2026: A family-friendly festival with crafts, games, and treats.
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Mullet Man Triathlon — April 18, 2026: A fun athletic challenge for participants of all levels.
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Bulls On The Beach — September 10-12, 2026: A major rodeo event that’s perfect for thrill-seekers and families alike.
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Oktoberfest — October 11, 2026: Celebrate Bavarian culture with food, music, and festivities.
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Santa Drop — December 6, 2026: Watch Santa land on the beach in a festive holiday kickoff.
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Flora-Bama’s New Year’s Eve Bash — December 31, 2026: Ring in the new year with music, food, and celebration.
These events blend quirky traditions with community pride, offering something for everyone across all ages.
Seasonal Highlights — Spring to Fall
As the Gulf Shores calendar shifts from winter to spring and summer, the community thrives on outdoor experiences and beachfront fun. You’ll find arts festivals, food celebrations, and cultural gatherings as the weather warms. From late-March art walks to early-May races and spring concerts, the season is filled with opportunities to immerse yourself in coastal life.
Tips for Planning Your Trip Around Events
When planning a visit to Gulf Shores in 2026, consider these helpful tips:
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Book Early: Major events like the National Shrimp Festival and the Mullet Toss draw large crowds, so accommodations tend to fill up quickly.
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Check Event Schedules: Dates and details can be updated by local organizers closer to the event, so it’s always smart to confirm schedules before you travel.
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Mix Culture and Cuisine: Gulf Shores is famous for seafood and Southern hospitality. Pair festival attendance with sampling local eats and beachside dining.
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Budget for Fun: Many events are free, but ticketed concerts or special activities may require advanced purchase.
Planning around these annual events can turn a simple beach trip into a memorable festival-filled adventure.
Conclusion
Gulf Shores, Alabama is more than just a sunny beach destination—it’s a community that loves to celebrate life in all its forms. From food festivals and arts celebrations to quirky traditions and family fun, 2026 is shaping up to be an unforgettable year of annual events. Whether you’re diving into shrimp at the National Shrimp Festival, tossing a mullet at the beach, or enjoying a holiday parade, Gulf Shores delivers experiences that are as rich and diverse as its coastal landscape. No matter what time of year you visit, there’s always a reason to smile, gather, and celebrate in this charming Gulf Coast town.