Festivals – Page 3 – Sunset Properties Blog

February 27, 2017

Summer Gulf Shores Events You Need to Know About

Part of the allure of Alabama’s Gulf Coast is the abundance of incredible events to keep you coming back. The sugar-white sand and sunshine is just a part of what makes a vacation down here so wonderful! Gulf Shores events only make it that much better to visit our beautiful stretch of beach. Want to know which events you should check out? Here are some of the best upcoming Gulf Shores events just for you!

Looking for incredible vacation experiences? Here at Sunset Properties, we have the expertise to guide you to sweet vacation memories you won’t soon forget! So, download our free Vacation Guide today and see for yourself how amazing it is to be down here. There are plenty of options for all types of vacationers, you’ll see!

Spring and Summer Gulf Shores Events To Put On Your Calendar

Here are a few of our favorite events we recommend! There are many wonderful events down here. It’s just a part of what makes it so great to visit Gulf Shores. There’s always something going on!

Festival of Art | March 11-12, 2017

The Orange Beach Arts Festival, or the Festival of Art, is a rite of spring of sorts for the area. It’s a celebration of arts, crafts, music, and, most importantly, the local artists, themselves. The entirely free event features some of the area’s best glassblowers, potters, painters, sculptors, wood artists, and more.

Wharf Boat and Yacht Show | March 23-26, 2017

For the boaters and boat-lovers, the Wharf Boat and Yacht Show is the biggest in-water boat show on the upper Gulf Coast. Over $90 million of boats are on display for your intrigue and amazement. View the more than 135 vessels in the water and over 450 boats on land. Plus, explore the exhibitors showing off the newest marine gear and electronics. $10 for adults and kids are free.

Zydeco & Crawfish Festival | April 15, 2017

Pots start to boil at 10 a.m. to kick start the Zydeco & Crawfish Festival, one of the most lip-smackingly good Gulf Shores events. Dive into some delicious crawfish and dance the day away listening to the best Zydeco bands in the South. If you need a warm up before the crawfish extravaganza, the 5k/One-Mile Fun Run is a great way to get the good times a’rollin.

Interstate Mullet Toss and Gulf Coast’s Greatest Beach Party | April 28-30, 2017

The wacky Interstate Mullet Toss draws all kinds of folks from all kinds of places for the friendliest fish-flingin’ function found on the Florida-Alabama state line! Come on out for the party, fling a fish, drink some beer, and listen to great music all on the beach with hundreds of your favorite friends! $15 buys you a chance to send a fish flying, but, otherwise, the event is just the cost of food and drink!

Orange Beach Billfish Classic | May 17-21, 2017

Think you’ve got what it takes to reel in a championship marlin? The Orange Beach Billfish Classic is one of the most celebrated events in the area and tests the grit of some of the best anglers. Come, get your adrenaline rush and enjoy the fierce competition to snag the biggest marlin.

The Hangout Music Festival | May 19-21, 2017

The annual music festival is one of the biggest music festivals in the South. Top 40 artists like Mumford and Sons, Twenty One Pilots, Frank Ocean, Chance the Rapper, Major Lazer, The Head and the Heart, Local Natives, Lil Yachty, and more will all be there! Come, hang out at The Hangout Music Festival! It’s a party and everyone will be there!

Blue Marlin Grand Championship of the Gulf | July 11-17, 2017

Another big-time marlin competition, test your grit to be the top angler in this adrenaline rush of an event. Enjoy the rock star treatment you and your team will receive when you register. Make memories on the water and on the spectacular weigh-in ceremonies. The Blue Marlin Grand Championship is the “greatest show in sportfishing.”

Book Your Gulf Shores Event Getaway Today

When you’re gearing up for your next trip to Gulf Shores for any one of these wonderful events, make the right choice and stay in a beautiful beach house or condo. Here at Sunset Properties, we offer only the best beach houses and condos just steps away from the beach and just minutes from the best events happening in the area. You can’t go wrong with any one of our beautiful vacation rentals. So, browse our availability and contact us to book your next escape! We are eager to accommodate you!

January 30, 2017October 21, 2021

What You Need to Know About the Mullet Toss

Every year, all kinds of folks flock to the Alabama-Florida state line for the wacky Mullet Toss competition. It’s a day full of flying fish, fun, food, contests, and sunshine for all people, mullets, and seagulls. The fish-throwing contest takes place smack-dab on the Alabama-Florida state line. Planning to take part? Here’s what you need to know about the Mullet Toss!

Are you looking for the most fun experiences on Alabama’s Gulf Coast? Then, you’ve come to the right place! That’s because here at Sunset Properties, we’re the experts when it comes to all things Gulf Shores. Check out our free Vacation Guide and see for yourself the incredible experiences that can be yours!

Mullet Toss Need-to-Know’s

What is a mullet toss, you may ask? The ceremonious, plentiful mullet is one of the more populous fish indigenous to the Gulf Coast area. It is the only fish with a gizzard and is fabled to possess mystical powers. It is known as bait fish on the east coast, but it is also a local delicacy here. The party that is the Mullet Toss consists of contestants throwing the no-longer-living piscine projectile from a 10-foot circle in Alabama. The airborne “delicacy” then flies across the state line and into Florida. Or into the crowd depending on the fish thrower’s aim and grip on the slippery fish, of course. The fun activities, music, and food are a great way to blow off some steam and have a good laugh at the same time.

For those concerned with the livelihood of marine life, the participating mullet are no longer alive, but, according to multiple accounts, do remain very friendly! After their generous sacrifice, the fish are then donated to the local avian menu. This is absolutely one of the don’t-miss events in the area!

How Much Does it Cost?

A paltry $15 buys you the chance to launch your favorite fish and garners you a nifty souvenir t-shirt, as well! Plus, 1st Place gets a trophy, a Flora-Bama gift certificate, and, according to the event, “any other junk [they] can find laying around.” The best part? A contribution of your fish-flinging fee goes toward local youth charities! Here are a few easy rules to keep in mind while you’re there!

You will toss approximately one whole mullet (roughly 1 lb.) across the Florida/Alabama state line.
To participate, you must submit a registration form at the beach.
$15.00 Entry Fee. You will receive your new favorite Interstate Mullet Toss t-shirt.
During your toss, no gloves or sand on mullet to improve grip is allowed.
Mullet will be picked out of the water bucket. After you throw, retrieve your mullet and toss it back into the bucket.
Mullet will be thrown from a 10′ circle down a designated alley.
No stepping out of the circle during your throw and follow through or you will be disqualified.
Throwing your mullet out of bounds will result in an automatic disqualification.
DON’T MISS! One chance only to qualify for finals.
There are six finalists in both the men’s and women’s divisions each day.

Toss Your Mullet Into the Sunset

Aim for the best place to stay on Alabama’s Gulf Coast when you’re tossing your mullet! Here at Sunset Properties, our condos and beach houses are the perfect fit for whatever reason you’re here. You’ll love their proximity to the beach, quality, and comfort. So, check out our available rentals! Then, when you’re ready to book, contact us! We are eager to accommodate you, and cheer you on, during your Mullet Toss adventure. For the best experiences in the area, Mullet Toss and otherwise, download our free Vacation Guide today!

April 18, 2016

18th Annual Orange Beach Billfish Classic

Are you ready for a new adventure? Join the top anglers in the country and lots of cheering fans at the 18th Annual Orange Beach Billfish Classic. This event takes place out of the marina at The Wharf. The events start on the 18th of May and go through the 22nd. You can keep track of your favorite team and check often for their weigh-ins. The fishing starts at noon on the 19th and goes until weigh in on at 11 AM on the 22nd. There is a Weigh in on Saturday also on Saturday from 6 until 10 PM. So come enjoy all the fun activities at The wharf and then see if your favorite team won the big prize! Below are all the details from the Orange Beach Billfish Classic Website.

First of the Gulf Coast tournament season and the kickoff tournament of the Gulf Coast Triple Crown Championship series. The Orange Beach Billfish Classic was formed in 1998 for the express purpose of providing financial support for organizations that speak effectively for all recreational fishermen. The OBBC quickly became a top event on the Gulf Coast tournament circuit and serves as an important fundraiser for The Billfish Foundation and the Coastal Conservation Association (CCA). In 2011, over $50,000 was donated to these organizations, bringing the total contributed over the history of the tournament to over $500,000.

The OBBC is the country’s only non-profit billfish tournament with 100% of all net profit donated to qualified 501(c)(3) conservation organizations. The OBBC is an all-volunteer effort so there is no overhead to deduct from the financial support that’s provided to our conservation beneficiaries.

Beginning in 2013, The Wharf Marina Entertainment Complex hosted the Orange Beach Billfish Classic for the first time, and hosted the tournament again in 2014 and 2015. Over the course of the four day event, the crews, anglers and participants enjoy a series of fun and food-filled events, with a Captain’s Meeting on Wednesday evening and culminating with an awards brunch on Sunday morning. The organizers look forward to a big turnout this year in order to continue to support the organizations that fight for our resources.

“I’d like to take a minute to personally invite everyone to join us for the 2016 Orange Beach Billfish Classic,” Dorland said in a recent interview. “Our staff will welcome you with open arms and we’ll all do our best to show you what a great experience this event has become, from the great fishing to our world-famous Gulf Coast hospitality. Come fishing with us this year — you won’t be disappointed.”

Interested participants are welcome to contact Dorland personally at (251) 402-8190 for more information.

Orange Beach Billfish Classic schedule of events is as follows.
Wednesday, May 18th• 4-11 pm: Registration and Optional Cash Awards open under the big tent • 6 pm: Cocktails and Hors d ’Oeuvres • 7 pm: Dinner • 8-11 pm: Optional Cash Awards Pot Party 2016

Schedule Of Events Thursday, May 19th • 10:00 am: Mandatory Captain’s Meeting under the big tent • 10:30 am: Boats may leave The Wharf through Perdido Bay to Perdido Pass • 12 noon: Boats may leave Perdido Pass. Any boat choosing to leave through Sailboat Bay may not leave The Wharf Marina until NOON, May 19th • 12 noon: Fishing Commences Friday, May 20th • 7-10 pm: Weigh in at The Wharf Saturday, May 21st • 6-10 pm: Weigh in at The Wharf Sunday, May 22nd • 9-11 am: Tournament Awards Breakfast

February 26, 2016

The 24th Annual Orange Beach Seafood Festival

Are you looking for a fun Saturday event? Of Course it needs to have something for everyone in the Family! Well look no further. Take the entire family out to The 24^th Annual Orange Beach Seafood Festival. Not only will you have fantastic seafood but there is also a craft show, fun games and activities for kids and a classic Car Show. This entire event is held annually and is the to raise money for the Association’s major fundraiser to support sports-related activities in our community, specifically youth baseball, softball and T-Ball. Proceeds are used to purchase uniforms, equipment, insurance, and pay for expenses of officials and sponsor clinics.

The Festival remains the same full day of delicious food, 85 arts & crafts vendors and music for the whole family. The festival includes a silent auction, food booths, car show featuring antique, classic & hot rod vehicles, a Kids Zone with climbing wall, activities & more.

– 85 Arts & Crafts Vendors

– Food Booths

– Musical Entertainment

– Military Display & Memorabilia

– Open Car Show

– Silent Auction

– Kids Zone with Activities & More

Dates & Times

Feb 27, 2016 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Location

4830 Main St.Orange Beach, AL, 36561

From I-10 – Take Exit 44, Gulf Shores Parkway, and head south. Just north of Foley turn left onto the Foley Beach Express. The distance from the beginning of the Expressway to Orange Beach is 14 miles. The toll for the Expressway is $3.50 per car. After going over the bridge, the Expressway ends at Hwy. 180, Canal Road and The Wharf. Parking will be on both sides of the Expressway. Follow signs for parking directions.

From I-65 – Take Exit 37, Gulf Shores Parkway, and head south. It is approximately 50 miles from I-65 to Orange Beach. Just north of Foley turn left onto the Foley Beach Express. The distance from the beginning of the Expressway to Orange Beach is 14 miles. The toll for the Expressway is $3.50 per car. After going over the bridge the Expressway ends at Hwy. 180, Canal Road and The Wharf. Parking will be on both sides of the Expressway. Follow signs for parking directions.

From Pensacola – Hwy. 98 – Follow Hwy. 98 from Pensacola. Just east of Foley, turn left onto the Foley Beach Express. The toll for the Expressway is $3.50 per car. After going over the bridge the Expressway ends at Highway 180, Canal Road and The Wharf. Parking will be on both sides of the Expressway. Follow signs for parking directions.

Admission

Admission is free.

Event Info

The 24th Annual Orange Beach Seafood Festival is a major fundraiser for the Orange Beach Sports Association to support sports-related activities in our community, specifically youth baseball, softball and T-Ball. Proceeds are used to purchase uniforms, equipment, insurance, and pay for expenses of officials and sponsor clinics. The Festival is a full day of delicious food, 80 arts and crafts vendors, military memorabilia and music for the whole family. This is an alcohol-free event. The festival includes a silent auction, car show featuring antique, classic and hot rod vehicles, a Kids Zone with climbing wall, inflatables and games and a children’s performance pavilion.

Contact Us

PHONE: (251) 981-1524

WEBSITE: https://www.obparksandrec.com

October 17, 2014

Fill up on bold flavors at the 3rd Annual AL Festival of Flavor!

Who doesn’t love great food, good drinks, and live music? This October, the 3rd Annual Alabama Festival of Flavor brings all that and more to historic downtown Foley! From 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on October 18, sample menu favorites from local restaurants, listen to live entertainment, and learn more about sustainable living. With kids’ activities and beer and wine tastings for the adults, the Festival of Flavor offers something for everyone just a short drive from the sandy beaches of Fort Morgan, AL.

A fix for those on a budget, 2014’s Alabama Festival of Flavor offers FREE admission and free parking for the festival. Live entertainment all day will fill the air with sounds to tap your toes to. For the kids, enjoy face painting and interactive entertainment and activities! There are even volunteer opportunities if you want to lend a helping hand. At 1 p.m., cheer on your favorite team as you watch the competition during the Tailgate Corn Toss Tournament.

Throughout the day, the Edutainment Seminars (10 a.m. – 6 p.m.) teach a bit about sustainable living. Learn about raised-bed gardening, canning, fiber weaving, and hydro and aquaphonic gardening, participate in the rain barrel workshop, and become more educated on the perfect food and wine pairings.

Of course, going to the Festival of Flavor calls for trying lots of delicious foods. With the Foodie Fix tickets ($1 each, $5 for 6, $10 for 15, and $20 for 40), sample fare from local restaurants, including:

Oak Hollow Farm
The Wash House
Portabella’s
The Hangout
Gabby’s Tortillas
Jimmy Jax
Gelato Joe’s
Derailed Diner
Villaggio Grille

Pair your delicious selections with beer and wine tastings, with treats prepared by Chef Chris Sherill, Chef Brandon Thrash, and students from the Gulf Coast Culinary Institute. Beer and Wine Tastings are just $25 for the VIP Experience tickets and $15 for General Admission tickets.

If you want to test out your own culinary skills, check out the online recipes from the South Baldwin Chamber.
*Sorry, no pets, smoking, or outside coolers allowed.*

With delicious local fare, beer and wine tastings, kids’ activities, seminars, and live entertainment all day, the 3rd Annual Alabama Festival of Flavor in downtown Foley has something for everyone. Enjoy the beautiful Gulf Coast weather, Southern tastes, and family fun this fall!

For a great place to stay in Fort Morgan, browse our condos and beach houses. Fort Morgan’s beautiful beaches will offer a peaceful escape from the busy streets of Gulf Shores and Foley. Have fun at the festival and then head back to a quiet beach rental where you can listen to the sound of the waves.

3rd Annual Alabama Festival of Flavor
October 18
9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Historic downtown Foley
Foley Heritage Park
112 East Laurel Avenue
Foley, AL 36535
877.461.3712
www.alabamafestivalofflavor.com

September 26, 2014

Lick your lips for Shrimp Fest 2014!

Dubbed the “fruit of the sea” by Bubba Gump, shrimp can truly be served up just about any way you can think of – barbecued, boiled, sauteed, broiled, baked, fried, stir fried, in shrimp salad, along with potatoes and onions, on a burger, in a sandwich, and alongside almost any other dish. And at the 43rd Annual National Shrimp Festival in Gulf Shores, referred to as the Shrimp Fest by most, you’ll likely find all those varieties and more.

Art, music, and games are featured, along with a massive amount of shrimp, at this fun and family-friendly beach event. This year’s festival will be held October 9-12 and is presented by Zatarain’s (so you’ll definitely run across some Cajun flavors) on the gorgeous beaches of Gulf Shores, Alabama. Best of all, Shrimp Fest is FREE to all! Just head to the public beach access (in Gulf Shores) at the intersection of Highway 59 and Highway 182 for some delicious flavors, live music, beautiful beach weather, and tons of fun!

Bringing in an estimated 250,000 people, Shrimp Fest is one of the biggest and best outdoor festivals in the country. More than 300 vendors will be on hand to showcase and sell their fantastic arts and crafts, fine art, clothing, accessories, and of course, shrimp!

No one is left out at the Shrimp Fest, with stages, vendors, and designated areas that will appeal to people from 1 to 100. Live music goes round the clock at the two stages, and the Children’s Activity Village offers art activities and games for kids. The Outdoor Village will appeal to the guys. It’s all about fishing, hunting, boating, and outdoor recreation. Others will enjoy the goods at the Retail Marketplace, the fine arts tents, and the arts and crafts exhibitors.

Want to do more than just look around? The 43rd Annual National Shrimp Festival will feature contests for all. Lace up your tennis shoes and take part in the 5K or 10K run on October 11, show off your skills at the Sand Sculpture Contest from 11 a.m – 5 p.m. on the same day, or sign up to be a vendor at next year’s show (the application process for 2014 is closed). Also, come out and support area schools and students as you listen to the most talented youths in Baldwin County, Alabama. The Shrimp Festival Idol Contest is back by popular demand (at the west stage) and will be held from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday.

Food & Drink
Saturday will feature the announcement of the 7th Annual Restaurant Challenge winners at 3:15 p.m. It’ll give you great ideas on where to eat while you’re in town! While it’s unlikely that you’ll be able to resist trying the shrimp (and why would you want to?), there are lots of other options for those so inclined. Shrimp Fest vendors will have dessert, burgers, tacos, and more, so everyone can find something they love.

Music
The Annual National Shrimp Festival doesn’t disappoint when it comes to great music, and this year’s festival is no exception. Everyone from The Sand Band and The Tip Tops to Meghan Linsey and Keith Anderson will be setting the stage for tons of fun. Check the lineup online to see a full list of performers and show times.

Parking is on a first come, first serve basis, and it will be crowded. It’s often smart to take advantage of the shuttle services. Shuttles are just $2/person/way, and they run from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. A list of pick up and drop off spots can be found online.

Because Gulf Shores is so busy during Shrimp Fest, Fort Morgan is the perfect place to stay. You’ll be just down the road from all the action, but you’ll be far enough away to avoid the worst of the traffic. Enjoy peaceful days on the beach in Fort Morgan before you head to the packed festival! When you don’t feel like hanging out at Shrimp Fest, you won’t be fighting crowds to relax on the beach. Check out our condos or beach houses for a great place to stay in Fort Morgan!