In Gulf Shores, spring is a time for renewal and celebration. There are many exciting events to enjoy, from festivals to outdoor activities. While visiting on vacation, these events add a touch of magic to your springtime adventures. Here are our favorite Gulf Shores spring events, offering a glimpse into what makes this time of year special.
Ballyhoo Festival
Dates: March 1-2, 2025
The Ballyhoo Festival in Gulf Shores is an annual celebration of art, culture, and heritage. This vibrant event features an art show with a variety of mediums on display, including paintings, sculptures, photography, and crafts. Attendees can enjoy live music, dance performances, and authentic demonstrations of Native American culture, including storytelling and traditional dances. Food vendors at the festival serve up a delicious selection of local and regional cuisines. The event also includes interactive activities and workshops, providing attendees with the opportunity to engage with artists and craftsmen. This family-friendly event takes place in Gulf State Park, offering a beautiful natural backdrop. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a history buff, or just looking for a fun day out, the Ballyhoo Festival in Gulf Shores offers something for everyone.
Mardi Gras
Dates: March 1-4, 2025
Mardi Gras in Gulf Shores brings the lively spirit of New Orleans to the Alabama Gulf Coast with parades, parties, and family-friendly activities. The celebrations start weeks before Fat Tuesday with the Gulf Shores Mardi Gras Parade. The parade has decorated floats, marching bands, and colorful costumes, and spectators enjoy collecting beads and moon pies.
Local restaurants and bars have Mardi Gras-themed events with traditional foods like king cake, gumbo, and jambalaya, along with live music. Family-friendly parades and events make sure everyone can join in safely. Local krewes, like the Mystic Order of Mirams, add to the festive atmosphere, building community spirit. Whether collecting beads, dancing to live music, or enjoying Cajun cuisine, Mardi Gras in Gulf Shores is a memorable and joyful experience.
Wharf Boat and Yacht Show
Dates: March 21-23, 2025
The Wharf Boat and Yacht Show is a popular event for boating enthusiasts and industry professionals. It takes place annually at The Wharf in Orange Beach and features a wide variety of boats, from luxury yachts to personal watercraft. The event also showcases marine accessories, electronics, and services, making it a convenient one-stop shop for boating needs. In addition to the boats and marine products, the show includes live music, educational seminars, and family-friendly activities. With its beautiful waterfront location and extensive offerings, the Wharf Boat and Yacht Show is a must-visit for anyone interested in the boating lifestyle.
Elberta German Sausage Festival
Dates: March 29, 2025
The Original German Sausage Festival in Elberta, Alabama, is a beloved local tradition that attracts thousands of visitors each year. Held twice a year in March and October, this festival celebrates the town's rich German heritage with a day full of food, fun, and festivities. The star of the event is the German sausage, made from a secret recipe passed down through generations. Attendees can enjoy these sausages along with other traditional German foods like sauerkraut, potato salad, and baked goods. In addition to the food, the festival features live music, arts and crafts vendors, and activities for the whole family. The event is organized by the Elberta Volunteer Fire Department, and proceeds support their operations and community initiatives.
Mullet Man Triathlon
Dates: April 19, 2025
The Gulf Shores' Mullet Man Triathlon is a popular yearly event that gathers athletes and fitness fans from the region. Participants swim 1/4 mile in the Gulf of Mexico, bike 17 miles along the coast, and run 4 miles through Gulf Shores. People of all skill levels are welcome - from beginners to seasoned triathletes. The event is well-organized, with safety measures and support stations along the course. In addition to the physical challenge, the triathlon offers live music, food, and activities. The triathlon is part of the annual Mullet Toss Weekend hosted by the iconic Flora-Bama Lounge, which donates proceeds to local charities and community projects. Whether you're competing or cheering, the Mullet Man Triathlon is a memorable event in the Gulf Shores area.
Mullet Toss
Dates: April 25-27, 2025
The Interstate Mullet Toss is an annual event held at the Flora-Bama Lounge, located on the Florida-Alabama state line. This unique festival attracts thousands of visitors each year. The main attraction is the mullet toss itself, where participants compete to throw a mullet--a local fish--as far as they can across the state line from Florida into Alabama.The event usually takes place over a weekend in late April and features not only the fish-throwing competition but also live music, food, drinks, and a festive atmosphere that captures the spirit of the Gulf Coast. Competitors of all ages can take part in the mullet toss, with separate categories for men, women, and children, ensuring that everyone can join in the fun.
In addition to the main event, the Interstate Mullet Toss weekend includes various other activities and contests, such as a bikini contest, a tug-of-war competition, and various beach games. Proceeds from the event often support local charities and community projects, adding a philanthropic element to the festivities.
Blue Angels Practice Days
Dates: Select Days in March through October
The Blue Angels practice at Pensacola NAS is an exciting experience for aviation enthusiasts. The U.S. Navy's flight demonstration squadron conducts practice sessions from mid-March through early November. Spectators can see the precision and skill of the pilots as they perform aerobatic maneuvers. The practices are held at Sherman Field and are usually open to the public for free. Check the schedule on the official Blue Angels website or social media. The practice sessions provide a close look at the aerobatic skills that make the Blue Angels renowned worldwide. Security measures are in place, and visitors must have a valid ID. Overall, the practices showcase the incredible capabilities of the U.S. Navy's elite flight demonstration team.
Book your Gulf Shores Vacation Rentals for Spring
When planning your spring trip to Gulf Shores, make sure to check out these exciting events that capture the spirit of this coastal area. Gulf Shores offers a wide range of experiences, from music festivals to delicious food, ensuring you'll have lasting memories. Whether you seek relaxation on the beaches or adventure in the outdoors, booking a Gulf Shores vacation rental will give you a comfortable place to stay after enjoying these events. Start planning your spring trip today to experience the beauty of Gulf Shores.