Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — This week, the Gulf Coast offers a diverse range of activities and events focused on art, culture, culinary experiences, music, and community engagement. At the Coastal Art Center, visitors can immerse themselves in creative expressions and artistic exhibitions. Additionally, a business workshop featuring a prominent speaker from Gulf Shores International Airport provides a unique opportunity for networking and professional development among local leaders. The upcoming week aims to foster connections, celebrate regional culture, and enhance the overall coastal experience as we enter the fall season. From enjoying premier waterfront dining to participating in distinctive competitions that reflect the heritage of the local fishing village, there is no shortage of exciting activities to enjoy. The community's enthusiasm is palpable, driven by festivals, environmental initiatives, and fishing tournaments. These events, while some are competitive, all serve to unite both residents and visitors. Whether your interests lie in family-oriented activities, cultural explorations, or simply relaxing by the water, the Alabama Gulf Coast has a wealth of offerings tailored to satisfy everyone’s diverse preferences.

Monday, September 15th- Orange Beach offers more than just typical coastal activities like sunbathing, fishing, and enjoying local cuisine. It presents a unique blend of island heritage and sophisticated cultural experiences. While major cities are often known for their fine arts and theatrical productions, smaller Southern towns, like Orange Beach, show a strong appreciation for artistic innovation and cultural engagement. This region demonstrates how local traditions can support and celebrate high art, all set against its beautiful natural landscapes and relaxed coastal vibe. The Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach reflects this spirit, showcasing artworks inspired by local culture alongside other representation pieces in a welcoming gallery environment. Visitors can explore the exhibits, shop for unique art pieces, and engage with local artists in various multi-studio settings.The campus features an open-access Hot Shop, where patrons can watch the intricate process of glassblowing and gain insights into both the technical and creative facets of this art form. There are also hands-on workshops available for those interested in participating. Additionally, the Clay Studio invites individuals of all skill levels to explore ceramics, offering instruction in techniques ranging from wheel-throwing to hand-building. With classes available for both adults and kids, the Coastal Arts Center serves as a comprehensive platform for artistic exploration. Engage with this exceptional facility to discover a multitude of artistic possibilities and choose unique works from the Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach.

Coastal Art Center of Orange Beach

2635 Canal Rd

Orange Beach, AL 36561

Coastal Art Center

Tuesday, September 16th- Are you a business owner in Baldwin County, or are you dreaming of becoming one? When dreamers come together, great things happen. Bringing these individuals into a room to share their success stories and lay out the details of what’s next creates opportunities for leadership development in the communities they serve. The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce is excited to introduce the Leadership Series, a collaborative initiative for local leaders. This series aims to strengthen goals and shape the towns where we live and work by bringing together great minds. In this week’s session, they will feature Jesse Fosnaugh, the Airport Director at Gulf Shores International Airport, which has recently been a topic of local buzz. During the scheduled hour and a half, he will provide insightful information on important subjects relevant to his platform and discuss their impact on the larger community, particularly for business leaders. Whether you are a current member and local business owner, considering becoming one, or are not yet a member, tickets for this event are available to everyone, but seating is limited. Tickets for members of the SBCC are $30, while non-members can attend for an additional $5. Join other business owners and others from the community to hear from experts in real-time, eliminating the need to sift through online forums for information. They hope to inspire unity with bold leadership in Baldwin County!

Foley Civic Center 

407 E Laurel Ave

Foley, AL 36535

Leadership Series Tickets 

Wednesday, September 17th- Are you struggling to reach a consensus on meal choices? Do you need an efficient way to streamline the decision-making process while accommodating various dietary preferences within your family? We’ve all been there—one child excitedly shouts “yes!” to a meal suggestion, while another adamantly expresses their opposite feelings. Or perhaps it's just the two of you, and one person wants something light, leading to compromises that result in agreeing to a meal you’d rather avoid. Well, we have the perfect solution for you! Whether you have a large group of undecided family members or squabbling kids each trying to win you over, GT’s on the Bay has something for everyone. How is that possible? Imagine craving a fresh fish fillet while the rest of the group is calling for pizza. No matter how you look at it, the menu at this waterfront restaurant offers a wide variety of options at an unmatched quality. When you enter, whether you choose to sit inside or outside, one of the first things you'll notice is the fresh salad bar filled with delicious topping options, pastas, and more. Next, you'll be drawn in by the enticing aromas coming from the brick oven. The menu features everything from pastas and steaks to sandwiches and, of course, seafood—available fried, grilled, or blackened. Not only does GT’s versatile menu make it a must-visit spot in town, but the ambiance and views also elevate the dining experience. Inside, you’ll find a water tank that runs the length of the dining room, attracting plenty of attention. Outside, to the right, there’s a large sand pit, interactive oversized family games, a ropes course, a pirate ship play station, live music, and a dock where you can stroll out for photos. Depending on the time, you might even catch one of the most breathtaking coastal sunsets. Wednesday’s live music features Smith and Kern, starting at 5 PM and lasting until 9 PM. Visit GT’s this week and say goodbye to the “where should we eat?” arguments. Kick back, relax, and enjoy your meal!

GTs on the Bay

26189 Canal Rd

Orange Beach, AL 36561

GTs on the Bay 

Thursday, September 18th- Inquiring about the conclusion of the fishing season may seem unconventional to casual enthusiasts, yet for professional anglers and those immersed in tournament circuits, fishing is distinctly categorized by seasonal rhythms throughout the year. This structure is not merely a suggestion but a guiding principle for local fishermen, especially in regions where extreme weather is the only considerable deterrent to their activities. To mark the transition between bustling seasons—particularly the summer season—local fishing communities often host celebratory events, including highly anticipated kick-off parties. Among these, the "Captain Olympics" stands out as a premier competition that pays tribute to the local fishing community while providing an engaging platform for both seasoned professionals and spectators. Set against the backdrop of Zeke’s Landing in Orange Beach, Alabama—the largest fleet hub on the Gulf Coast—this event not only fosters camaraderie but also serves as a showcase for maritime skills through a series of competitions specifically designed for captains and their deckhands. Attendees can gather on the east side of the marina at Mo’s Fishing Bar, where they can enjoy food and drink specials while cheering for their favorite teams, accompanied by live music from Mid Life Crisis from 5-9 PM. The competitive events will rigorously test various maritime skills, offering both entertainment and insight into the techniques employed by local anglers. As the competition culminates, winners will be recognized with rewards and prizes, further incentivizing participation. This gathering promises a vibrant mix of community spirit, gastronomic delights, and the opportunity for newcomers to consider entering next year’s competition. All are invited to join in supporting local talents while celebrating the end of a successful season and the anticipation of what lies ahead with the fall season.

Zeke’s Landing Marina

26619 Perdido Beach Blvd

Orange Beach, AL 36561

Captain Olympics Fall Kick off Party

Friday, September 19th- The Orange Beach Sportfishing Club is excited to announce the return of the Kenny Vines Memorial Tournament, a highly regarded event in the sportfishing community. The entry fee is $350 per boat, accommodating up to four anglers, with an additional charge of $50 for each extra participant. All entrants must attend the captains' meeting this Friday from 5 to 9 PM at Tacky Jacks in Orange Beach, where the tournament rules will be outlined with logistics to ensure a well-organized competition. This tournament exemplifies the fusion of competitive angling with a deep-seated respect for camaraderie and shared experiences on the water. In honoring the memory of a fellow fisherman, the stakes are heightened, imbuing the event with a sense of purpose that strives to reflect Kenny Vines' legacy. His impact on the sport has inspired a growing tradition, as evidenced by the increasing participation levels each year. This tournament not only celebrates his contributions but also elevates the standards of competitive fishing in our community. The haul weigh-ins and awards will occur Saturday evening for those who are not competing but want to revel in the weekend's big wins with scales opening from 5-8PM at Tacky Jack’s. Come out and join the community as they honor the late Vines and showcase their best way to celebrate a man of the water, by reeling in and sharing in victory with fellow anglers and their families. Live music and a full menu with bar options will be open at usual times, spend the whole day or come closer to weigh-ins and enjoy, however you choose to join, it will be a rock and reeling good time. 

Tacky Jack’s 

27206 Safe Harbor Dr

Orange Beach, AL 36561

Kenny Vines Memorial Tournament

Saturday, September 20th- The Orange Beach Sportfishing Club is excited to announce the return of the Kenny Vines Memorial Tournament, a highly regarded event in the sportfishing community. The entry fee is $350 per boat, accommodating up to four anglers, with an additional charge of $50 for each extra participant. All entrants must attend the captains' meeting this Friday from 5 to 9 PM at Tacky Jacks in Orange Beach, where the tournament rules will be outlined with logistics to ensure a well-organized competition. This tournament exemplifies the fusion of competitive angling with a deep-seated respect for camaraderie and shared experiences on the water. In honoring the memory of a fellow fisherman, the stakes are heightened, imbuing the event with a sense of purpose that strives to reflect Kenny Vines' legacy. His impact on the sport has inspired a growing tradition, as evidenced by the increasing participation levels each year. This tournament not only celebrates his contributions but also elevates the standards of competitive fishing in our community. The haul weigh-ins and awards will occur Saturday evening for those who are not competing, but want to revel in the weekend's big wins with scales opening from 5-8PM at Tacky Jack’s. Come out and join the community as they honor the late Vines and showcase their best way to celebrate a man of the water, by reeling in and sharing in victory with fellow anglers and their families. Live music and a full menu with bar options will be open at usual times, spend the whole day or come closer to weigh-ins and enjoy, however you choose to join, it will be a rock and reeling good time. 

38th Annual Alabama Coastal Cleanup

Gulf Shores, AL 36542

Alabama Coastal Cleanup

Eco-Clean Marine

Sunday, September 21st- Orange Beach’s Freedom Fest has blossomed into a lively celebration of our freedoms since it started four years ago. This event brings people together to enjoy a variety of fun activities and showcases, all while creating a friendly and safe atmosphere filled with patriotism. As with any good festival, there will be a variety of vendors offering knickknacks and collectibles, along with plenty of food and drink trucks and tents. The coastal community values artistic expression and showcases it in many ways, allowing guests to purchase unique pieces and take home a shared delight. From high-end artworks to more craft-oriented items, this weekend will offer plenty of affordable keepsakes for everyone to enjoy or gift it to someone else. On Saturday and Sunday, vintage and classic cars and trucks will line Main Street, where you’ll also find the Kid Zone next to the Ferris wheel. Join the community both days to experience the freedom flutters that take over as the wharf transforms the parking lots and streets to accommodate this event, featuring interactive military booths scattered throughout the set-ups on both sides. This year, the Gulf Coast Gun Collectors Association will host a show displaying collectible firearms at the Orange Beach Event Center. Admission is just $10 for those over the age of 15, while children under 15 can enter for free with adult supervision. Invite a friend, plan to stay for the day, or come both days to fully experience everything this weekend of freedom has to offer!

The Wharf 

4830 Main St. 

Orange Beach, AL 36561

Freedom Fest