Spring awakens on the Alabama Gulf Coast with a March lineup that will have you celebrating the season in true coastal style! With each weekend bringing new excitement and energy to our shores, this month offers the perfect opportunity to shake off any winter blues and embrace the warmer days ahead.
Ballyhoo Festival
The artistic soul of the Gulf Coast shines on March 1-2 as the Ballyhoo Festival returns to Gulf State Park! This celebrated fine art and culture festival transforms Gulf Shores into a haven for art lovers, bringing together exceptional artists, live music and a vibrant celebration of American heritage.
Mardi Gras Parade & Party at OWA
Let the good times roll on March 2 when Downtown OWA explodes with Mardi Gras magic! This free, family-friendly celebration brings all the parade excitement, flying beads and festive atmosphere of the traditional carnival season to a vibrant street party that everyone can enjoy. After catching treasures from colorful floats, keep the celebration going with live music on OWA Island and test your sweet tooth at the Moon Pie Eating Contest. It's all the joy of Mardi Gras without the hassle – making it the perfect way to experience this iconic Gulf Coast tradition.
Gulf Shores Mardi Gras Parade
Gulf Shores Mardi Gras Parade
Baldwin County's oldest Mardi Gras tradition returns on Tuesday, March 4 at 10 a.m. when the Gulf Shores Mardi Gras Parade brings carnival spirit to the coast! Born in 1978 thanks to the festive vision of the Pleasure Island Players, this celebration has grown into a cherished community tradition that captures all the joy and excitement of the season. Stake out your spot early, bring your catching hands and prepare for a shower of beads, moon pies and memories as this beloved parade proves that Gulf Shores knows exactly how to laissez les bon temps rouler!
Orange Beach Festival of Art
Spring blooms early at the award-winning Orange Beach Festival of Art on March 8-9! For over 50 years, this completely free celebration has marked the season's arrival with a dazzling showcase of visual, literary, performing, musical and culinary arts. Recognized among the top 100 national fine art shows and named Alabama's Best Art Show three times in five years, this cultural gem features continuous entertainment on two stages and showcases work from exceptional artists.
Orange Beach Invasion
Orange Beach Invasion
The ground will rumble and chrome will shine March 14-16 when the Orange Beach Invasion brings automotive excellence to the coast! This three-day celebration of horsepower features hot rods and custom trucks from across the U.S. and Canada, all gathered to show off their spectacular builds and modifications. With over 40 vendors serving up everything from automotive specialties to tasty treats, this event has earned its reputation as one of the Gulf Coast's premier car and truck shows.
The Wharf Boat + Yacht Show
Float into spring March 21-23 at the northern Gulf's most prestigious boating event – The Wharf Boat + Yacht Show, presented by Porsche Mobile! This aquatic paradise showcases over $100 million in vessels and marine innovations from more than 120 exhibitors. Dive into a sea of options with 120 boats in wet slips and 700+ center and dual console beauties on land, all while enjoying live music and expert seminars. From first-time buyers testing the waters to seasoned captains seeking their next flagship, this celebrated "Top Boat Buying Show" delivers an ocean of possibilities in one spectacular weekend!