Crowd enjoying the Fort Morgan Oyster Fest at Beach Club Resort

Winter Festivals & Events

in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach

September 4, 2025

Alabama's Beaches boast just as much fun in the off-season as in the summer. The mild weather and seasonal celebrations make our area a fantastic spot for a winter getaway. From December to February, plenty of festivals occur across Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan. Check out the best winter events along Alabama's Beaches and plan a trip!

Winter Events & Festivals on Alabama's Beaches

decorative and lighted boats cruising down the Intracoastal Waterway during the lighted boat parade in Gulf Shores

Annual Lighted Boat Parade

Our area turns into a white-sand winter wonderland in December, but we like to celebrate Christmas beach-style. On the evening of December 13, decorative boats cruise from LuLu's down the Intracoastal for the Annual Lighted Boat Parade. This holiday happening is free for onlookers and is highly anticipated each year. The Wharf Marina is one of the best public places to view the parade, as it has plenty of parking and space. Many attendees bring chairs to comfortably sit and watch the passing boats.

Crowd listening to live music at Flora-Bama famous beach bar in Orange Beach

Flora-Bama's New Year's Eve Bash

Ring in the New Year on the line at Flora-Bama's New Year's Eve Bash. If you want to kick off 2026 with a bang, this is the place to be. The beloved bar throws a can't-miss party on December 31, complete with live music, dancing, and a midnight countdown. A ticket is required to attend, but it includes access to an all-you-can-eat dinner buffet, breakfast buffet, champagne toast, and party favors. Secure tickets in advance as this event always sells out fast!

Polar Bear Dip

Brave the cold and take the plunge this New Year at Flora-Bama's Polar Bear Dip. On January 1, thousands of beachgoers head to the beach to start the year with a run into the Gulf. Those who submerge entirely are rewarded with a free draft beer and traditional New Year's lunch, including ham, black-eyed peas, cornbread, and greens. The dip occurs at noon, and all ages are welcome to participate in this free event.

Runners racing along the paved trails in Gulf State Park in Orange Beach

Big Beach Marathon

If you're ready to lace up your shoes and hit the ground running, sign up for the Big Beach Marathon. This annual race offers participants a scenic course along the beach and throughout the flat, paved trails in Gulf State Park. Aren't ready for a full 26.1 miles? Opt for the half-marathon or Safari 7K. The 7K is on Saturday, January 24, while the marathon and half-marathon are on Sunday, January 25. All racers will receive medals, t-shirts, and free beer at the post-race party at The Hangout!

Couple racing in the Sea Turtle Half Marathon in Gulf Shores

Sea Turtle Half Marathon & Sweetheart 5K

What better way to spend the day of love than with some exercise? On February 14, head to The Hangout for the Sea Turtle Half Marathon, Sweetheart 5K, and Be Mine 1 Miler. The cool weather makes this an excellent time of year to run throughout our coastal area. Like the Big Beach Marathon, the course is flat, fast, and scenic. All racers will receive free beer and food after finishing.

Kids smiling during the Kid and Pets Mardi Gras parade at The Wharf in Orange Beach

Mardi Gras Celebrations

We let the good times roll on Alabama's Beaches! In the weeks leading up to Fat Tuesday, our area celebrates Mardi Gras with parades, parties, and good eats and drinks. The festivities begin on February 14 with The Mystics of Pleasure night parade. On Fat Tuesday (February 17), the party continues with the Gulf Shores parade, Orange Beach parade, and LuLu's party and boat parade. We like everyone to be included in the fun, so our parades and events are family-friendly. The little ones and pups can even participate in the kid and pet parade at MoonPies on Main at The Wharf.

Family checking out a classic car at Bama Coast Cruisin' Car Show in Orange Beach

Orange Beach Seafood Festival & Car Show

On February 28, Orange Beach hosts its Annual Seafood Festival and Car Show. Classic cars, hot rods, and antiques line Main Street and dozens of food booths and arts and crafts vendors are set up across The Wharf. If cool cars and fresh seafood aren't enough, the event also has live music from two stages and a kids' zone with inflatables and games, making it a fun festival for the entire family. This event is free, but donations are accepted by parents and students who help park cars to support Orange Beach schools.

Fort Morgan Oyster Fest

The farm-raised oysters found on the Alabama Gulf Coast are unparalleled. Savor the flavor of locally grown oysters at the Annual Fort Morgan Oyster Fest at Beach Club Resort on February 28-March 1. This all-you-can-eat event is a must for seafood lovers. In addition to delicious food and drinks, the festival boasts live music, artist vendors, kids' activities, and an oyster shucking competition. A ticket includes access to all the fun plus a buffet that includes plenty of local oysters and other great eats.

These blogs are written by the destination experts at Alabama's Beaches. From the best restaurants and hidden gems to tips and tricks for making the most of your stay, our knowledgable team has the lowdown on our area.