The Florida and Alabama Gulf Coast is heating up with an incredible lineup of spring events that’ll make you forget all about January’s chill. Between late February and early March , this stunning coastline transforms into a festival paradise, drawing over 500,000 visitors to its major events.
There’s lots to enjoy during these events – fresh seafood straight from the Gulf, colorful Mardi Gras parades that rival New Orleans, art festivals showcasing the region’s creative spirit, and beachfront marathons with views that’ll make those miles fly by. The timing couldn’t be better too – you’ll catch the sweet spot when temperatures hover in the perfect 70s, tourist crowds are manageable, and hotel rates haven’t hit their spring break peak.
This stretch of coastline, spanning Mobile Bay to the Florida Panhandle, packs more celebrations into these few weeks than any other time of year. It’s when local culture really shines, bringing together the best of Southern hospitality, coastal cuisine, and outdoor festivities. So grab your calendar and get ready to plan – we’re about to dive into the most exciting events you won’t want to miss along the Gulf Coast this spring.
Mardi Gras Celebrations
Let’s talk about the biggest party on the Gulf Coast – Mardi Gras! While New Orleans might get all the headlines, here’s a fun fact: Mobile, Alabama, actually launched the very first American Mardi Gras celebration back in 1703, a full 15 years before New Orleans joined the party. Pretty cool, right?
Mobile’s carnival season kicks into high gear mid-February and keeps the good times rolling until Fat Tuesday on March 4th. The streets come alive with the sound of jazz bands, the shimmer of beaded necklaces flying through the air, and the mouthwatering smell of King Cake wafting through downtown. Don’t miss the Order of Myths parade – it’s Mobile’s oldest, dating back to 1867, and still draws crowds by the thousands.
But the fun doesn’t stop in Mobile! All along the Gulf Coast, towns put their own spin on carnival season. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach host family-friendly parades where kids can catch Moon Pies and stuffed animals tossed by masked riders. Pensacola Beach’s Krewe of Wrecks parade (early March) turns the sugar-white sand into party central, while Panama City Beach’s Beach Bash brings a distinctly coastal vibe to the celebrations.
Pro tip: Pack a parade bag with these essentials: a small cooler for drinks, some folding chairs, and definitely bring something to carry all those beads you’ll catch! The locals know to stake out their spots early, especially for the evening parades. And here’s an insider secret – the best viewing spots are usually near the parade’s starting point, where the krewes are full of energy and have plenty of throws to share.
Want to dive deeper into the traditions? Many krewes host balls and parties leading up to the main events. While some are invitation-only, others sell tickets to the public, giving you a chance to experience the more formal side of Mardi Gras. Just remember the dress code – these events are perfect excuses to break out your fancy attire!
Seafood and Cultural Festivals
Let’s dive into some seriously delicious festivals that’ll have your taste buds doing a happy dance!
The Orange Beach Seafood Festival and Car Show (February) is marking its 32nd year at The Wharf, and it’s basically seafood heaven. We’re talking fresh Gulf shrimp prepared every way imaginable, local oysters that’ll make you swoon, and crab cakes that could make a food critic cry tears of joy. Last year’s event drew over 15,000 seafood lovers, and 2025 promises to be even bigger!
While you’re munching on that perfectly fried grouper, check out the impressive lineup of classic cars and hot rods. The car show portion brings in collectors and enthusiasts across the Southeast, with more than 100 vehicles on display.
Pro tip: head to the cooking demonstrations early – those seats fill up fast when local chefs share their secret recipes for seafood gumbo and fish tacos.
Want my advice? Come hungry and pace yourself! There’s nothing worse than filling up at the first few booths when there’s so much more to try. And don’t forget to grab a schedule at the entrance – many festivals offer special tastings and demonstrations at specific times, and you won’t want to miss the best stuff.
Oh, and here’s a local secret: many vendors offer their best deals near closing time on the final day. That’s when you can score some amazing local products to take home – assuming you have any room left after all that incredible food!
Arts and Culture
Get ready to feast your eyes on some seriously amazing creativity at the Annual Orange Beach Festival of Art (March)! This isn’t your typical art show – it’s more like a full-blown celebration of everything artistic under the Southern sun.
Set against the gorgeous backdrop of Gulf State Park, this festival brings together more than 100 artists working in every medium you can imagine. You’ll find painters capturing those dreamy Gulf Coast sunsets, potters spinning local clay into beautiful pieces, and jewelry makers creating wearable art that sparkles like the ocean itself. Last year’s festival attracted over 10,000 art lovers.
The best part? You can watch art come to life right before your eyes! The demonstration area lets you see artists in action – glass blowers creating delicate pieces, woodworkers turning local timber into masterpieces, and even metal sculptors working with fire and steel. Kids absolutely love the interactive art stations where they can get their hands dirty and create their own masterpieces.
Sports and Recreation
Lace up those running shoes, because the We Run This Beach Marathon (February) is calling your name! This isn’t your average marathon – it’s 26.2 miles of pure coastal bliss along some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. Starting in Gulf Shores and winding through Orange Beach, runners get to experience sunrise over the Gulf while dolphins play in the distance. How’s that for race motivation?
Last year’s event drew 2,500 runners across all distances (they offer a half marathon and 5K too), and here’s the cool part: the course is mostly flat! That means it’s perfect for first-timers or anyone chasing a PR. Plus, the post-race party on the beach is legendary – think fresh seafood, local brews, and live music while you show off your new medal.
Pro tip for marathon participants: sign up early! Registration prices increase as race day approaches, and the beachfront hotels fill up fast. And if you’re heading to the boat show, go on a weekday if you can – the crowds are smaller, and you’ll get more time to chat with exhibitors about their coolest gear.
Vacation with us at Luxury Coastal Vacations
Planning your ultimate Gulf Coast spring getaway? Here’s the scoop on making the most of your visit.
Book your accommodations now – seriously, don’t wait! With all these amazing events happening back-to-back, hotels and vacation rentals fill up faster than a seafood festival’s parking lot. Pro tip: look into condo rentals in Gulf Shores or Orange Beach; they’ll give you a kitchen to store all those festival treats and a balcony to enjoy those gorgeous Gulf views. Luxury Coastal Vacations has the best vacation rentals to choose from.
Want to hit multiple events? Plan your home base strategically. Orange Beach makes a perfect hub – you’ll be right in the middle of the action for the Seafood Festival, Art Festival, and marathon events. Plus, you’re just a quick drive to Mobile’s Mardi Gras celebrations.
Don’t forget to pack a mix of casual beachwear and a few dressier options for those Mardi Gras balls or fancy festival nights. And hey, leave some room in your suitcase – between the art festivals, food vendors, and local shops, you’ll want space for all your Gulf Coast treasures.
