Frank Brown Songwriters' Fest
The Annual Frank Brown International Songwriters’ Festival returns to the Gulf Coast on November 6-16, 2025 celebrating its 41st year. Get ready for 11 days of incredible music from over 200 award-winning songwriters as they share their stories and sounds. You can catch these performances at various locations along Alabama's Beaches.
Frank Brown International Songwriters' Fest on Alabama's Beaches
History of Frank Brown Fest
History of Frank Brown Fest
Joe Gilcrest, the founder of Flora-Bama, created the festival decades ago to shine a light on talented musicians from across the world whose work often goes unnoticed. The festival was named after the late Frank Brown, a watchman at the Flora-Bama for 28 years. When performers left the bar, Frank was the last person they saw at closing time. Today, the festival is one of the largest songwriters’ fests in the country.
Songwriter Sessions
Songwriter Sessions
Hear the unique stories behind some of your favorite songs, as told by the songwriters themselves and listen to the sounds of these outstanding musicians as they perform around the Gulf Coast. Most performances take place on small stages for an intimate entertainment experience.
Workshops & Seminars
Workshops & Seminars
Develop your musical talents and learn how to promote yourself as an artist at one of the festival’s workshops and seminars. Whether you’re new to the music world or a seasoned musician, you’ll take home some useful tips
Open Mic Nights
Open Mic Nights
Show off your musical talent and bring your instrument and your voice to the stage. Sign up for one of the many open mic nights at the iconic Flora-Bama Lounge happening throughout the festival.
Ready to tap your toes to the tunes? Check out the schedule of festival events to learn more about what’s happening venues across Alabama's Beaches
Frank Brown Songwriters' Festival Schedule & Tickets
Frank Brown Songwriters' Festival Schedule & Tickets
The festival takes place over the course of 11 days across the Gulf Coast with multiple performances each day. You can find the official schedule of who’s performing, where, and when on the event’s site. Most shows are free; however, some locations may require a cover charge or pre-purchased tickets.
Festival Venues
Festival Venues
From waterfront bars and restaurants to local libraries and museums, music lovers can catch performances at dozens of venues in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Each location provides a unique atmosphere catering to different types of performances and sessions. While the event is family-friendly, several venues are 21+, so be sure to check each beforehand when planning to attend.
