Brine & Shine!
On Alabama’s Beaches, it’s always oyster season. Every November, The Hangout hosts Experience the Oyster, a beachfront seafood festival featuring a variety of oyster dishes from chefs across the Southeast. Raw, fired, chargrilled, and baked – this two-day event has them all. This year’s event is November 6-7, 2026.
2026 Experience the Oyster
Oysters
This food festival is a dream come true for oyster lovers. Renowned chefs from the Alabama Gulf Coast and surrounding areas craft unique dishes with fresh oysters. All the oysters are harvested from different farms across the Southeast, each contributing a distinct flavor. Attendees can sample these offerings from over 25 talented chefs, curating unique dishes.
Cocktails
Oysters are the main star of the show, but the handcrafted cocktails are worth a spotlight. While enjoying oysters, guests can sip delectable drinks like made-from-scratch cocktails, wine, and beer. After all, fresh seafood is best paired with a cold drink.
Entertainment
Throughout the event, local musicians will be doling out the tunes to complete the coastal vibe. And since it’s football season, SEC games will be played on the big screens, so attendees won’t miss a second of the action.
Tickets
General admission tickets are $75 and include 10 tasting tickets on Saturday. All attendees have access to the bar and live music and have the opportunity to connect with the chefs. Additional tasting tickets are $40 per set.
VIP
VIP tickets are $200 and include all the general admission accesses plus extra perks. VIP ticket holders are invited to an exclusive kick-off party on Friday evening at Zeke’s Restaurant. This event features a meet-and-greet with the chefs and oyster farmers, along with complimentary oysters, appetizers, beer, and wine. On Saturday, VIPs receive early entrance to the event, followed by chef demos. Complimentary caviar, beer, wine, and cocktails are available in a private VIP area.
Parking
Public parking is available at The Hangout and at nearby public beach accesses. Zeke’s has plenty of parking for VIP guests attending Friday night’s party.
Book Your Stay
Still craving more fresh Gulf oysters?
Embark on the oyster trail to savor a variety of raw, baked, and grilled oysters and oyster dishes from local seafood restaurants along Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan. Your taste buds will thank you!
