A week of culture and fun on the Gulf Coast this week
From history to Halloween to the National Shrimp Festival, a guide to local October events
Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) –
In a week teeming with cultural enrichment and seasonal festivities, the communities of Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, and surrounding areas have a plethora of events to choose from. From delving into the rich history of Orange Beach at the Indian and Sea Museum to savoring the autumnal atmosphere at BuzzCatz Coffee and Sweets, there is something for everyone. Whether it's embarking on a scenic cruise to witness the local marine life, attending a theatrical performance inspired by Edgar Allan Poe, or participating in the 50th Annual National Shrimp Festival, residents, and visitors alike have ample opportunities to engage with the local culture. The week also features family-friendly events such as the 7th Annual Oktoberfest at Luna's Eat and Drink and a variety of Halloween-themed activities at OWA Parks and Resort. Here's a comprehensive guide to what's happening in the area this week.
Monday, Oct. 9th - Also known as Columbus Day or Indigenous Peoples Day, a day to embrace history or to learn about some. Today we get to celebrate the land we stand on while remembering those who stood on it before us. It’s a perfect day to explore local museums and libraries. The Orange Beach Indian and Sea Museum is a great place to learn a little about our early area and set your eyes on ancient and not that long ago local artifacts. The museum is filled with memorabilia that dates back to Orange Beach’s “Native American and fishing heritage” before the island was even named. Learn about the struggles of first fishermen trying to feed their families and sow roots on ever shifting ground. Over the years, early fisherman and their families have donated their collectible and their stories and compiled them into a one-stop remarkable history lesson. Immerse yourself in local history while remembering in the shadows of the museum the “challenges and achievements” of the island’s early days.
The Orange Beach Indian and Sea Museum
25805 John Snook Dr.
Orange Beach, AL 36561
https://www.orangebeachal.gov/246/History-Museum
(251) 981- 8545
Tuesday, Oct. 10th - Well October is upon us and though our mid-island days are still a bit warm, our mornings are beginning to be somewhat crisp and enjoyable. What better way to ring in fall than by grabbing a warm brew of your favorite blend and spice from a top coffee shop BuzzCatz in Orange Beach. Not only do they offer some of the best home brews in Baldwin, they know how to whip up some to die for fresh pastries and their mascot happens to be a black cat. You’ll catch all the October feels when dining in or out at BuzzCatz. Inside one of the walls is dedicated to tacky yet purposeful gifts and fresh beans to purchase for yourself or a friend. This is a pet-friendly buzz so bring your mate,“ Pluto– this was the cat’s name– my favorite pet and playmate.” Edgar Allan Poe, The Black Cat.
BuzzCatz Coffee and Sweets
25753 Canal Road, Suite B
Cosmo’s courtyard
Orange Beach, AL 36561
https://www.buzzcatzorangebeach.com
(251) 980 - 2899
Wednesday, Oct. 11th - Fall Sunset Cruises bring a relaxing festive feel that makes you want to bundle up and enjoy the cooler salty air breathed through the bundle. Our nights haven’t quite reached the bundle faze however Southern Rose Dolphin Cruise offers the best of both in cabin and outboard boat rides that accommodate in any weather. The Rose is one of only a few cruises to cross the jetty’s of the pass and take guests for a tour to the deeper waters of the Gulf of Mexico. All aboard will get the chance to see some of our local Atlantic Bottle Dolphins and always a chance of other sea life in the Gulf. Guests that prefer to stay inside the cabin where snacks including sandwiches, drinks, adult beverages and other treats can enjoy the outside views from screens placed inside air-conditioned cabins. Have a large group, not to worry, the Southern Rose holds the record on the island for number of passengers aboard with plenty of room to move around in and out if you want or just get pampered inside and still see the show. Don’t forget to call or go online to reserve your spot for an evening of adventure and majestic views.
Southern Rose Dolphin Cruises & Parasailing
27212 Marina Road
Happy Harbor Marina
Orange Beach, AL 36561
https://southernrosedolphintrips.com
(251) 981- 7673
Thursday, Oct. 12th - South Baldwin Community Theatre is doing their first-ever age recommendation erie stage performance. Director Ashley Nowling has put out a disclaimer all in the name of renowned author Edgar Allan Poe. Setting the tone for the short stories will be that of loss. Among the pieces adapted for the stage by Eric Coble are some of Poe’s most popular and well-known narrations including, The Raven and The Tell-Tale Heart. Audience discretion is advised and recommended for ages 16 and up.
George C. Meyer Performing Arts Center
2022 W 2nd St.
Gulf Shores, AL 36542
To reserve your seats go online
https://www.sbct.biz.
Thursday, Oct. 12th - Sunday Oct. 15th - It’s the big 50 for the mucha-nticipated Annual Shrimp Festival this year in Gulf Shores. The mostly volunteer-driven event starts Thursday 12th, dubbed locals day, and runs through Sunday 15th with Friday and Saturday being the highest trafficked days. The Shrimp Festival evokes community vibes not just for the island locals but also for travelers who have made it one of their own traditions. Something more than the Gulf Coast looks forward to all year. Expect to rub elbows “with nearly 250,000 of your closest friends” for one of the best beach events of the year. Vendors from local artists to hobby enthusiasts, and fashion booths will all have their goods set up for guests to peruse through daily. There will be music and dancing and singing, great coastal and fair like food and views.
For more details about the 50th Annual National Shrimp Festival, click here.
For Shuttle information
click here.
National Shrimp Festival at the Gulf Shores Public Beach
October 12th - 15th Thursday-Sunday 10 AM- 10 PM and Sunday 10 AM to 5 PM.
101 Gulf Shores Pkwy
Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Sunday, Oct. 15th - It’s time for the 7th annual Oktoberfest polka down at Luna’s Eat and Drink starting at 2 PM. The event takes place in the open courtyard, so all ages are welcome; however, tickets will be required for ages 21 and up for admission to partake in the craft beer selections. Tickets are $12 and include a beer glass and Luna’s koozie, dress up or come as you are to celebrate an age-old heritage. Alongside the Oktoberfest style beers offered, guests can enjoy some traditional German food, Polka music and games. For more details on this event click here.
Luna’s Eat and Drink 7th Annual Oktoberfest
25689 Canal Rd. Ste. B
Orange Beach, AL 36561
(251) 980- LUNA
Sunday, Oct. 15th - OWA has filled up the month of October with ghosts and goblins, spooky shows and even pet costume shows. They have themed the entire month with events happening all over the Park. Kids outdoor activities start at 4 PM - 7 PM, take the Hay Bale Maze challenge and have a fall themed face cut out photo opt with special Tropic Falls admission. Island Movie nights every weekend on the lawn, 3 D movie nights and Dive in Movie nights. Sunday, October 15th’s Dive in feature is Disney’s film Coco (2017) and starts at 5 PM. Don’t forget to check back each week for more weekly features on OWA’s spooktacular events going on this month.
OWA Parks and Resort
101 S OWA Blvd
Foley, AL 36535
(251) 260 - 0812
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