Beach lovers, July is about to serve up more entertainment than you can shake a beach umbrella at. The Alabama Gulf Coast is pulling out all the stops this month, and your summer memories are about to get a serious upgrade.
Fourth of July
Let's kick things off with the granddaddy of all patriotic celebrations. This year's Fourth of July lineup is more packed than your favorite beachside restaurant, and just as satisfying.
July 2nd brings us the Independence Day Street Party in the Entertainment District, and they're not messing around. We're talking bubble trucks, bounce houses for the energetic kiddos, and – wait for it – camel rides. Yes, camels. On the Gulf Coast. Because the Alabama Gulf Coast likes to keep things interesting. Lady Liberty and Uncle Sam will be making appearances, probably enjoying the sea breeze just as much as everyone else.
July 4th itself? You've got options galore.
Head over to Flora-Bama for their legendary beach bash. Nothing says "America" quite like cold drinks, live music and fireworks over the water at 9 PM. It's the perfect spot to celebrate in true Gulf Coast style.
If you're looking to treat yourself, Perdido Beach Resort is hosting their Independence Day Celebration. For $60 per adult, you get a Southern buffet that'll satisfy any craving, live music from The Mixed Nuts, and what they're calling "the best firework show on the island." That's some confidence we can get behind.
Meanwhile, the City of Gulf Shores is keeping it classy with fireworks launched from the Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier. Pro tip: grab your spot at Lake Shelby or the Beach Pavilion because the pier parking is closed (construction drama, we get it).
And because Mobile refuses to be left out of the party, they're throwing their own bash at the USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park. Free admission, food trucks, live music from Tip Tops and Fly By Radio, plus fireworks at 9 PM. The only catch? Parking is $10 for cars and $30 for RVs, cash only, because apparently we're living in 2005 when it comes to payment methods.
More Than Just Fireworks: July's Greatest Hits
Pirates and Princesses Breakfast at The Hangout is happening all month long, and if you haven't experienced an all-you-can-eat breakfast dance party with pirates and princesses, you're missing out. For $19.99 adults and $9.99 for kids, you get biscuits, gravy, eggs, bacon, sausage and breakfast potatoes. Plus, your kids can upgrade to the "Golden Ticket Experience" for some extra VIP treatment.
Every Tuesday means Sunset Sounds at Portside, where you can relax with live music while kids enjoy face painting and giant Jenga. The SPECTRA Laser Light Experience at 8:30, 9 and 9:30 PM adds a cool tech twist to your evening.
For the early birds and fitness enthusiasts, the Shark Run 5K happens on July 4th at 7 AM. Start your Independence Day with a run, then head to the after-party at Sandshaker – because you've earned it.
When Fishing Gets Fancy
July 9-12 brings the Blue Marlin Grand Championship at The Wharf, which they're calling "the Greatest Show In Sportfishing." The confidence is admirable, and honestly, if you're going to throw around superlatives, might as well go big or go home.
Later in the month (July 18-20), the Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo takes over Dauphin Island. Founded in 1929 (because apparently our ancestors knew how to party), it's now the largest fishing tournament in the world with over 4,000 anglers and 100,000 spectators. That's more people than most small towns, all gathered to watch other people catch fish. America is beautiful.
Music to Our Ears
Concert lovers, your time has come. The Red Clay Strays with Muscadine Bloodline and Justin Jeansonne are hitting The Wharf Amphitheater on July 3, 4 and 5. Three nights of music because apparently two wasn't enough, and honestly, we respect the commitment.
July 26 welcomes Parker McCollum with Randy Rogers Band and Laci Kaye Booth. It's giving country vibes with a side of "I definitely should have bought tickets earlier."
The Sweet Ending
Cap off your July adventures with S'mores on the Shore – because nothing says "summer goals" like campfires, live music and melted chocolate on the beach. It starts at 6 PM at the west end of Gulf Shores Public Beach, and it's free, which in today's economy is basically like winning the lottery.
The Alabama Gulf Coast is ready for you – the question is, are you ready for it?