Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — As October winds down and the Gulf breeze carries a hint of fall, the Alabama coast is lighting up with family fun, festive flair, and a little Halloween magic. From “Treats on the Trail” at the Hugh S. Branyon Trail to colorful chats with parrots at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, this week is packed with reasons to get outside and enjoy the season. Midweek brings thrills at The Factory’s “Jump if you dare” glow night , followed by one of the most anticipated events of the year–The Wharf’s massive “Trunk or Treat.” Cap off the week with spooky celebrations at Flora-Bama’s Halloween bash, known as the biggest Halloween party on the Coast, a flavorful stop at the Annual Gumbo Fest, and smooth Sunday sounds at Doc’s Live on the Lawn. Whether you’re dressing up, tasting gumbo, or taking in live music by the beach, there’s something for everyone along the shores this week. 

Monday, October 27th- The award-winning Hugh S. Branyon Trail is recognized not only as one of the premier trails in the U.S. but also for its annual community events that enhance visibility and engage residents. These events are vital to the trail system, fostering a sense of community and reinforcing the park's role as an important ecological and recreational resource. The combination of the trail's design, its biodiversity, and the organized activities contributes to its reputation as a significant landscape feature in the region. One upcoming event is "Treats on the Trail," where children can come dressed up to explore, collect treats, and 

create lasting memories. During the event, participants will encounter games, interactive experiences with animals, and opportunities to meet some of the animal ambassadors showcased by members of the Coastal Resources Department. Families can also enjoy delicious treats from the s'mores station, with plenty of resting areas for gatherings while the kids play. The festivities will start and end before dusk, ensuring a safe and well-lit path for everyone to navigate before sunset. For more information on this exciting community event, check out our previous article below. Happy treats and trails to you. 

Treats on the Trail

Tuesday, October 28th- Chirp Chirp what's the word bird? Join others to find out what’s being chirped about at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo’s Bird Chat this Tuesday at 9:15 AM! Attendees will need to purchase a general admission ticket to the zoo and inform the staff that they would like to participate in the 9:15 bird chat at the South American Adventure. During the chat, you'll have an up-close experience with vibrant and chatty parrots as they interact and play with their trainers, showcasing their skills and learning along the way. The bond between these birds and their caretakers is truly remarkable and alone is worth the visit to the zoo, even if it's the only activity you do that day. Guests of all ages will enjoy watching the interactions unfold as these intelligent creatures communicate with their trainers and friends. The effort and dedication put into nurturing these colorful birds is admirable and easily visible during the engaging sessions.

Start your day bright and early with these amazing birds, then take some time to stroll through and visit the other wonderful animals cared for at the zoo. Don’t forget to stop by and see the giraffes on your way out; you might even get the chance to feed them by hand! This season is perfect for exploring the zoo and enjoying the cooler temperatures that both the visitors and can animals appreciate.

Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

20499 Oak Rd E

Gulf Shores, AL 36542

Bird Chat at the Zoo

Wednesday, October 29th- Half-priced Wednesdays at The Factory have never felt more like a treat than this Wednesday, the 29th. The Factory in Gulf Shores is the ultimate destination for extreme activities and thrilling challenges. This week, they’re adding an electrifying twist with a costume contest and the glow jump special, “Jump If You Dare.” Doors will open for regular business hours, and guests who can’t make the 5 PM to 8 PM festivities are still encouraged to come dressed up to enjoy half-priced Wednesday discounts. Starting at 5 PM, the evening will shift into a series of spooktacular events, giveaways, and contests. Pub 6 will be providing complimentary witches' brew mocktails with the purchase of a ticket, along with drink specials for guests 21 and older, including the Zombie Cocktail. Put on your costume and join in for a night at The Factory unlike any other, with chances to win fantastic prizes, including year membership passes and more. Happy jumping, if you dare!

The Factory 

18948 Oak Rd W 

Gulf Shores, AL 36542

Jump if you Dare at the Factory

Thursday, October 30th- A beloved community event that has been enriching families both on and off the island for years is back for its annual "Truck or Treat" at the Wharf, hosted by the Island Church and its families. This welcoming, safe, and friendly night under the stars began with just a few trunks serving the community and has now grown so large that it draws over 5,000 attendees. Main Street will be closed to car traffic at the Wharf, where activities will be set up along the west side by the Ferris wheel. Families can enjoy free bounce houses, exciting kid-friendly activities, and various purchasable fun. It's recommended to arrive early to enjoy these attractions and secure a good spot in line before the festivities begin. The night will feature costume contests, music, candy, allergy-friendly gifts from the turquoise trunks, and much more. Join the Island Church and their families for a night where you can run freely, indulge in sweets, receive a Bible, get prayed over, sing, dance, and have a blast. The celebration starts at 5 PM, the candy line opens at 6 PM, fireworks will light up the sky at 8:45 PM, and they’ll wrap up the evening with the SPECTRA Laser Light Experience. Come out and celebrate life, family, and all the sweet things it brings!

The Wharf

4830 Main St

Orange Beach, AL 36561

Trunk or Treat with the Island Church

Friday, October 31st- The island offers a plethora of engaging activities for children, facilitated by vibrant neighborhoods and local enterprises that orchestrate a range of events—some entertaining, others a bit more thrilling—catering to both residents and visitors alike. Choosing an activity often proves more challenging than selecting a venue. However, it’s not just the kids that like to dress up, cut up, get spooked and have fun, which is where Flora-Bama can come into play. They are hosting a premier costume contest on the Gulf Coast, and all are encouraged to attend.

Scheduled for Friday, October 31st, the event allows entry at no cost for those arriving in Halloween attire, enticing participants with a straightforward costume requirement. Individuals, couples, or groups that sufficiently distinguish themselves will have the opportunity to earn one of three cash prizes: $400 for third place, $500 for second, and an impressive $600 for first. Every party is a good one on the line particularly a Halloween bash with carefree vibes and happiness. Attendees can enjoy ghostly drink specials, live music, and an overall vibrant atmosphere, in addition to the possibility of taking home a substantial prize. This is one night at Bama you won’t want to miss, good luck. 

Flora-Bama Lounge and Package

17401 Perdido Key Dr

Pensacola, FL 32507

The Biggest Halloween Party on the Gulf Coast

Saturday, November 1st- If you're a gumbo enthusiast, the Annual Gumbo Fest at CoastAL in Orange Beach is an event you won't want to miss. This festival showcases a diverse range of gumbo recipes, catering to various palates—whether you prefer your gumbo spicy or mild, seafood-laden, protein filled or vegetarian. The event not only features a tasting experience of some of the best gumbo dishes in the region but also contributes to the local community by supporting students pursuing careers in hospitality. For each $25 ticket purchased—providing ten tasting tickets, one voting ticket for the “People’s Choice” award, and another for the “Best Decorated Tent”—$5 is allocated to fostering future professionals in the field. Join in for this culinary journey and enjoy the stunning views of the picturesque white sandy beaches right at CoastAL’s doorstep while savoring exquisite gumbo flavors.

CoastAL Orange Beach 

25722 Perdido Beach Blvd

Orange Beach, AL 36561

Gumbo Fest

Sunday, November 2nd- Are you ready to experience a seamless blend of outdoor and indoor environments that transports you to various settings—whether it's a beach, your backyard, a bustling pub, a vibrant nightclub, or a sophisticated restaurant? Coastal venues excel at creating spaces that capture the essence of al fresco dining while providing the comforts of an indoor atmosphere sprinkled along the shores and beyond. Doc’s Seafood and Steaks on Beach Road exemplifies this concept with its thoughtfully designed venue, diverse entertainment options, and expertly crafted menu that enhances the overall dining experience. One highlight is Sunday’s Live on the Lawn, featuring music from 5 to 8 PM with Cedric Brooks. Whether you're looking for a place to relax alone or with friends and family, the lawn at Doc’s offers an inviting atmosphere for doing just that. There's no rush—just pure enjoyment stemming from the laid-back setting, the outdoor fresh breezes, and the friendly service that makes you want to stay a while.

Doc’s Seafood and Steaks 

24221 Perdido Beach Blvd 

Orange Beach, AL 366561

Live on the Lawn