From Sand to Saddle: September Is Here and Showing Off

Jessica A. Taylor • September 7, 2026

Labor Day, beachside bull riding, local legends, and plenty of Gulf Coast goodness.

Things to do this week on the Gulf Coast.

Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) —  September has officially arrived, y’all–and Coastal Alabama is wasting no time keeping us busy. From holding on tight to a long Labor Day weekend to swapping flip-flops for cowboy boots, gathering in remembrance, celebrating a beloved local fisherman for a good cause, and wandering the beautiful, less busy coastal boardwalks, this week brings a little of everything and then some. So grab your calendar and round up your people; we’ve got some great coastal events to fill up your days. 


Monday, September 7th-
Nobody does a Monday holiday like the Alabama Gulf Coast! Take this well-deserved break from work and join in for an exciting evening. The Six Piece Suits will be performing live on the big outdoor stage under the stars at The Hangout in Gulf Shores. The band starts their set at 5 PM and keeps rocking until 9 PM, filling the air with their fantastic tunes. You'll enjoy a fun mix of classic favorites and popular songs everyone can sing and dance along to, making it perfect for the whole family. Bring a friend, have some dinner, grab a drink, and relax where 59 ends and the fun begins. Happy Memorial Day!


The Six Piece Suits Live @ The Hangout-GS


Tuesday, September 8th-
Every day is a wonderful day to celebrate the blessings of grandparents. With the upcoming national day just around the corner, Foley Library is getting a head start on the festivities! If your grandparents visited for the holiday weekend, why not invite them to stay an extra day? Join others this Tuesday from 10 to 11 AM at the Foley Community Library for grandparents' Storytime and craft in the kids' area. It promises a warm morning filled with engaging stories, lively songs, and lots of intergenerational love. After the main story, families can head over to the Maker Meadow to create a special keepsake craft—perfect to give to a grandparent, a loved one, a neighbor, or even a special teacher. Whether you bring your special guest or make something to send later, everyone is welcome.  Enjoy the event and then explore all the wonderful things this brand-new library has to offer! 


Grandparents Day Story Time and Craft - Foley


Wednesday, September 9th-
Attention all local business owners, entrepreneurs, and community members: the third Coastal Alabama Business Expo, presented by Southern Sands Printing Company and powered by Printing Pros, is approaching this Wednesday. This event provides an excellent opportunity for local businesses and entrepreneurs to showcase their products and services through dedicated booths. Attendees can network, build new connections, and gain insights into the offerings of various businesses. Each booth will feature demonstrations or visuals of what they offer, along with one-on-one interactions with representatives, allowing visitors to learn more about individual businesses firsthand. The expo also offers attendees opportunities to make purchases, schedule appointments, and book with vendors for upcoming events, fostering a spirit of community and collaboration among entrepreneurial neighbors. The event is open to the public from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM and will be held at the Orange Beach Event Center. This is an exceptional occasion to gain visibility for local businesses and strengthen community ties. Do not miss this valuable event highlighting the entrepreneurial spirit of Coastal Alabama.


Coastal Alabama Business Expo - OB 


Thursday, September 10th-
Well, we’ve all heard of bull riding, and we’ve all heard of the beach, and most people have heard of Flora-Bama, but have you ever heard of Bulls of the Beach at Flora-Bama? That’s right, toss your sandals to the side and grab your boots for this one, cowboys and cowgirls, and get ready for this 13th annual showdown. Tickets are on sale now, with a portion of proceeds going to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. This three-night event starts on Thursday, September 10th. Each night, attendees are encouraged to dress up with a theme for this one-of-a-kind bull riding extravaganza right on the line — that’s right, no dirt here. These bulls are kicking up sand, baby. Thursday night is Camo Cowboy, Friday is Patriotic Tribute in honor of September 11, and Saturday is 90s Country, a fan favorite! Thursday night is also Kids’ Night — children ages 12 and under can participate in a coloring contest for a chance to win a bike, with one lucky boy and one lucky girl. The night concludes with a professional bull event, where Friday and Saturday will feature the professional bull riders in the adult bull riding competition. Come out for the show — whether you’ve been before or not, this is an ultimate experience and one of Flora-Bama’s most anticipated events. This rodeo action draws crowds from across the country, both as spectators and competitors. So giddy up, y’all — it’s time to ride Gulf Coast beach style. 


Bulls on the Beach tickets - Perdido Key


Friday, September 11th-
Join others this Friday at the National Naval Museum Blue Angels Atrium for a heartfelt commemorative program—“The Service and Sacrifice." This poignant 25th anniversary event honors the bravery and sacrifice of those who lost their lives and those whose lives were forever affected by the tragic events of September 11, 2001. The program will include personal reflections from CDR Steve Scheibner, USN (Ret.), American Airlines Captain (Ret.), “Captain Steeeve," along with VADM John B. Totushek, USN (Ret.), former Chief of Naval Reserve and Commander, Naval Reserve Force, Pentagon Survivor. The Naval Aviation Alumni Choir will also be present, offering uplifting hymns throughout the event. The event will conclude with a wreath-laying ceremony and the sounding of Taps, as a sincere tribute to all who were lost. This free event is open to everyone who registers in advance. All are invited to come together with others for this moment of remembrance and homage from 9 AM to noon. Afterward, please consider exploring the museum. To register, simply visit the link below. 


The Service and Sacrifice - Pensacola


Saturday, September 12th-
The first full week of September is filled with annual events that deeply unite our community, not just drawing outside visitors but bringing us together through meaningful traditions like the Kenny Vines Memorial Fishing Tournament, which spans two days, starting September 11 at 4 PM and continuing until Saturday, the 12th. This event holds a special place in many local hearts. It honors Kenneth Lane Vines, affectionately known as KV, a passionate and lively fisherman who not only loved to reel in the big ones but also brought joy and laughter to everyone at the docks. A devoted community member, Vines was a founding figure in the Elberta Sausage Festival and the Orange Beach Seafood Festival, and he was active in the Mobile Big Game Fishing Club, as well as in conservation and other foundations. Celebrating all he loved, this weekend event is a heartfelt tribute to his memory. Whether you're participating as an angler, including young, aspiring fishermen, or simply there to watch, the weigh-ins promise to be a lively celebration. The event will be centered at Tacky Jacks Orange Beach on Saturday, the 12th. Scales open at 5 PM, with all vessels planning to weigh in and clear through Perdido Pass by 7 PM. Spectators are encouraged to arrive early at Tacky Jacks, find a cozy spot, grab a menu to dine, and enjoy the evening’s camaraderie. It’s bound to be a night filled with warmth, community, and celebration of a beloved friend.


Kenny Vines Memorial Tournament - OB


Sunday, September 13th-
Though the Alabama Gulf Coast hasn’t experienced its last hot, sunny days for 2026, I’m sure you’ve noticed things are getting a little breezier. Don’t get too excited; you still need to pack your water and pray for the wind. However, outdoor strolls are becoming extremely inviting, with fewer folks on the streets, sidewalks, and boardwalks—taking long walks looks good. This Sunday, check out Wade Ward Nature Park located in Gulf Shores. Here, you’ll really get a feel for Hometown Gulf Shores. As you walk along the elevated boardwalks, you can take your time looking east, where you might spot local marshbirds, plants, and even the occasional alligator. Sunrise and sunset are some of the most beautiful times to enjoy the sky; however, any time of day is perfect for exploring these outdoor paths. Whether you lace up your walking shoes, rent or ride your own bike to pedal along, this stroll is sure to please. Make stops if you'd like, or cruise through; there's no wrong way to enjoy. Pack a lunch or stop in at Picnic Beach, Mikee’s, Desoto’s, or many other great spots nearby for lunch or dinner. Enjoy the still warm air, soak up the salty breeze, and don’t forget to bring your camera—you never know what nature might gift your lens. Happy trails. 


Wade Ward Nature Park - GS


Well, that’s the week ya’ll! Good times, good people, and plenty of Gulf Coast memory- makers. Now get out there and make some. 


Share this article w/ Friends...

Orange Beach Shoreline Cleanup Barge
By OBA Staff September 7, 2026
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — A long-running marine cleanup effort in Orange Beach is showing strong results again this year. The city's Waterways and Shoreline Enhancement Program (WSEP) has already collected 65,000 pounds of debris from local waterways and shorelines. The program covers more than 46 miles of beach, m
Celebrating Labor Day on the Gulf Coast
By OBA Staff September 7, 2026
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — Labor Day has been part of American life for more than a century, and it means different things to different people. For some, it's a cookout, a trip to the beach, or a day off work. For others, it's a moment to reflect on the workers who built this country. The holiday carries a history t
Life South Blood Mobile
By OBA Staff September 6, 2026
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — Orange Beach will host a community blood drive this month, offering residents the chance to help save lives close to home. The LifeSouth Bloodmobile will be parked at Orange Beach City Hall for the one-day event. Donors can walk in or schedule an appointment in advance. All donors will rec
Alabama Beach Mouse
By OBA Staff September 6, 2026
Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) — The South Alabama Land Trust is bringing two wildlife experts together to discuss one of Alabama's smallest yet most important coastal residents. The organization, known as SALT, is hosting a free public event focused on the endangered Alabama Beach Mouse. The event is part of SALT's ongoin
National Shrimp Festival Live Music Stage
By OBA Staff September 6, 2026
Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) — The Annual National Shrimp Festival is inviting people to help create a new name for its fans. Organizers have launched an online contest for submissions. The winning entry will receive a swag bag from the festival’s merchandise tent. The contest aims to replace the usual term for attendees
National Battery Take-Back Day
By OBA Staff September 5, 2026
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — The Solid Waste Disposal Authority of Baldwin County will waive battery disposal fees during a local collection event. The effort aims to provide residents with a safe way to dispose of batteries. Officials ask residents not to place batteries in household trash or recycling bins. The free
Low-Cost Spay/Neuter in Baldwin County
By OBA Staff September 5, 2026
Baldwin County, Ala. — (OBA) — Baldwin County pet owners now have access to a discount voucher program to help cover the cost of spaying or neutering their animals. The Baldwin County Animal Shelter offers vouchers to residents across the county. The program has operated for nearly two years and continues to help thou
Experience the Oyster
By OBA Staff September 5, 2026
Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) — Experience the Oyster is returning to The Hangout in Gulf Shores, Alabama, for its fifth year, bringing together some of the South's best chefs and oyster farmers for a full weekend of coastal cuisine. The event is presented by Murder Point Oysters, a well-known Alabama oyster company that
Brett/Robinson Alabama Coastal Triathlon
By OBA Staff September 4, 2026
Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) — Swimmers, cyclists and runners are gearing up for one of Alabama's most beloved endurance events. Registration is now open for the 19th annual Brett/Robinson Alabama Coastal Triathlon in Gulf Shores. The Hangout will serve as race headquarters for the event. Athletes of all experience level
Baldwin County Fair in Robertsdale
By OBA Staff September 4, 2026
Robertsdale, Ala. — (OBA) — The Baldwin County Fair has been a fixture in south Alabama since 1948, drawing tens of thousands of visitors to Robertsdale each fall. Organized by the Baldwin County Cattle & Fair Association, the event features carnival rides, agricultural exhibits, livestock competitions, and locally pr
Show More