9 of the Best Fall Events in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach

Everyone knows Alabama’s beaches provide the ultimate in summer vacations, but fall is a special time in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach as well.

July 8, 2021

Nationally known festivals and even community events coupled with great weather make fall a fun time to visit the beach. We’ve rounded up a few of the top events between Labor Day and Thanksgiving that are well worth making a break for the beach this fall season.

54th Annual 2021 Mobile Big Game Fishing Club Labor Day Invitational
Sept. 2-6
Observers and anglers are welcome to participate in this exciting weekend full of big game fishing competition.

2021 Brett-Robinson Alabama Coastal Triathlon
Sept. 11
The Brett-Robinson Alabama Coastal Triathlon begins early Saturday morning on Gulf Shores Public Beach. Starting with a 1.5k swim in the Gulf of Mexico and followed by a 40k bike ride through the beautiful Gulf State Park, this event is complete after a 10k scenic run. Perhaps the “Tri-It-On” is for you—a 300-yard swim, a 9-mile bike ride and a 2-mile run. Afterwards, join the after party and awards ceremony at The Hangout.

2021 Sweetest Chefs - an EATYALL Signature Event
Sept. 17-18
A top-shelf culinary event highlighting the country’s top pastry chefs, Sweetest Chefs gives everyone an excuse to eat dessert first. This year the event is held at The Wharf and includes more than 20 dessert tastings, demonstrations and opportunities to vote for your favorites in the 2021 Sweetest Chefs Awards. Wear your stretchy pants and leave with sweet dreams.

Annual John L. Borom Alabama Coastal BirdFest
Oct. 6-9
Baldwin and Mobile Counties are the sites of prime real estate to see migratory birds during this annual event. Attracting visitors from more than 27 states and Canada, visitors love this birding and nature festival. You’ll find unique opportunities to see not only birds, but also alligators, wildflowers, dolphins and more, all while learning about their natural habitats.

Annual National Shrimp Festival
Oct. 7-10
This nationally known seafood festival attracts more than 300,000 folks annually for food (of course), live entertainment, vendors, races and activities for the kiddos. The festival is held on the main Gulf Shores Public Beach.

Annual Oyster Cook-Off & Craft Beer Weekend at The Hangout
Nov. 5-6
Kick off the weekend with the Oyster Cook-Off & Craft Beer Weekend at The Hangout. On Friday evening, sample craft beers from 30 breweries, as well as live music. The Oyster Cook-Off on Saturday offers a multitude of oyster preparations from chefs coming from all over the country. Don’t miss the cooking demonstrations and workshops during the day. There’s even an oyster shucking contest and Bloody Mary Invitational.

*Please note, as of this writing, this event has not yet been confirmed for 2021. These are the anticipated dates for the Annual Oyster Cook-Off and Craft Beer Weekend at The Hangout.

37th Annual Frank Brown International Songwriters' Festival
Nov. 4-14
This annual event, named for the late Frank Brown who was the night watchman at the Flora-Bama for 28 years, attracts more and more folks each year. Held across multiple venues at different times, you’ll want to do a little homework before heading out to ensure you don’t miss your must-sees. Known for up-close and personal concert experiences, it’s great to hear the stories behind the songs straight from the original songwriters themselves. Most venues are free or charge only a small cover charge.

2021 Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show
Nov. 5-6
The Blue Angels will fly on both Friday and Saturday around 2 p.m. for the annual Homecoming Air Show. Don’t miss a performance unlike anything you’ve ever seen. This event is held at the National Museum of Naval Aviation in nearby Pensacola.

2021 Coastal Half Marathon and 5k Run
Nov. 27
This year marks the 14th year for the annual coastal marathon events. Bring the family and enjoy everything from a one-mile fun run to a 5k run or a half-marathon. Participants will enjoy the scenic, paved trails meandering through the Gulf State Park followed by a post-race party at the Orange Beach Sportsplex.