While some places hibernate through January, the Alabama Gulf Coast is wide awake and ready to play! Start your year with the courage of a polar bear, the stamina of a marathon runner, the appetite of a gumbo connoisseur or the soul of a country music fan. This month's lineup proves that winter is just another excuse to party on the Gulf Coast.
Flora-Bama Polar Bear Dip
Start the new year off with a splash—literally! There's no better way to kick off the new year than by diving into the chilly waters of the Gulf of Mexico on January 1. The Flora-Bama Polar Bear Dip is the event on the Gulf Coast, where thousands gather in everything from swimsuits to wet suits, and yes, even wacky costumes. Whether you're dressed as a penguin, a superhero or something downright hilarious, everyone’s ready to brave the brisk waters at high noon. Fully submerge yourself and you’ll be rewarded with a free draft beer and a delicious New Year’s lunch of ham, black-eyed peas, greens and cornbread. It’s the perfect way to start 2025—with a splash, a laugh and plenty of food to go around.
Dauphin Island Gumbo Festival
Get ready to spice up your winter at the Dauphin Island Gumbo Festival on January 25. This annual event celebrates the Gulf Coast’s favorite dish, gumbo, with an exciting day of food and fun. Everyone will be dishing out their best gumbo recipes, so come hungry and ready to taste a variety of styles—from seafood to sausage and everything in between. It’s the perfect opportunity to indulge in some of the best gumbo around!
Big Beach Marathon
While some folks are cozying up with their winter blankets, the Alabama Gulf Coast is calling all runners to shed their layers and hit the pavement on January 25 and 26 during the Big Beach Marathon. While the rest of the country might be shoveling snow, runners here are soaking up ocean views as they cruise through the beautiful Gulf State Park. The fun kicks off at The Hangout and—for the truly ambitious—it doesn’t stop at just one race. Saturday’s Safari 7K sets the stage for Sunday’s main events, offering the chance to take on either the Shark or Dolphin challenge. Complete both days' races and you'll score not just bragging rights, but an impressive haul of medals, exclusive shirts and (because they know what runners really want) extra beer tickets. Now that's what we call starting the year on the right foot!
Winter Concert Series
Just when you thought January couldn’t get any better, country music legend Larry Gatlin is bringing his six decades of storytelling magic to the Gulf Coast during the Winter Concert Series. The Nashville Songwriters Hall of Famer—whose pen has blessed the likes of Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash and even Barbra Streisand—will be taking the stage for two unforgettable nights of authentic country music, January 27 and 28. Doors open at 6 p.m., with the music starting at 7 p.m., giving you plenty of time to settle in for an evening with one of country music's finest storytellers. Make sure you secure your ticket soon!