Crowd watching fish arriving at the Billfish Classic Fishing Tournament

Summer Festivals & Events

in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach

Published on: January 28, 2026

Updated at: February 5, 2026

Summertime on Alabama’s Beaches is more than just lounging by the shore and soaking up rays. When the weather gets warm, the area hosts a variety of fun, family-friendly events, and summer 2026 is shaping up to be a massive season on the beach. With outdoor concerts, fishing tournaments, firework shows, and sports competitions, there are plenty of memories to be made on Alabama’s Beaches this summer. Discover the best summer festivals and events in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan.

Best Summer Events on Alabama’s Beaches

Open-air night concert at The Wharf Amphitheater in Orange Beach

C Spire Concert Series: May - August

Coastal breezes, beautiful night skies, and the best musicians in the country come together at the C-Spire Concert Series at The Wharf Amphitheater. This summer’s lineup includes Hardy, Godsmack, Dave Matthews Band, Black Crowes and Whiskey Meyers, Gary Allan & Tracy Lawrence, Train, Parker McCollum, Creed, Luke Bryan, TOTO, Goo Goo Dolls, and Jack Johnson. These Orange Beach concerts promise memorable Southern nights under the stars. Add these shows to your vacation itinerary or plan a summer beach trip to see your favorite artists and bands on Alabama’s Beaches.

Kids playing baseball during the Perfect Game Baseball Tournament in Gulf Shores

Perfect Game Gulf Coast World Series: May 27 – July 31

Take me out to the ballgame – on Alabama’s Beaches. Each summer, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach welcome youth baseball teams from across the country for the Perfect Game Gulf Coast World Series. From May 27-July 31, elementary-aged to high school teams will bat, catch, and run for the title of best in the nation throughout this nine-week tournament. Even those who aren’t baseball parents will want to stop by during their summer beach vacation to witness a game played by future Hank Aarons and Babe Ruths.

Kid winners at Flora-Bama Fishing Rodeo family fishing tournament in Orange Beach

Flora-Bama Fishing Rodeo: June 5-7

Dubbed the “Funnest Fishing Tournament on the Gulf Coast,” Flora-Bama’s Annual Fishing Rodeo on June 5-7 offers participants and spectators a weekend of fishing, food, drinks, and non-stop entertainment by the water at this Orange Beach summer event. You don’t need a million-dollar boat to participate, as this laidback competition is for those of all skill levels and includes kids’ divisions, so even the youngest anglers can get in on the action. The fun continues after the fishing with a beach party during the weigh-ins.

fireworks bursting in the sky in Gulf Shores

Independence Day Fireworks: July 4

Independence Day on Alabama’s Beaches looks like barbecue on the grill, drinks in the cooler, and waves crashing on the shore. During the evening, however, the sky lights up with vibrant displays from firework shows. The City of Gulf Shores puts on an incredible free fireworks show from the Gulf State Park Pier. Bring a chair to The Pavilion public beach access and witness the sky over the Gulf burst with color. Those seeking a Fourth of July street party will love The Wharf’s Independence Day celebration, complete with live music, kids’ activities, a laser light show, and fireworks.

Aeral view of giant blue marlin caught on a boat during the Blue Marling Grand Championship fishing tournament in Orange Beach

Blue Marlin Grand Championship: July 14-19

On July 14-19, The Wharf Marina hosts the “Greatest Show in Sportfishing” AKA the Blue Marlin Grand Championship of the Gulf. This annual fishing tournament isn’t just for fishing enthusiasts, as this lively Orange Beach summer event includes street parties, giveaways, live entertainment, and record-breaking weigh-ins. Whether you watch the million-dollar boats arrive at the Marina, browse the booths set up along Main Street, or listen to the live results from a Wharf restaurant or bar, you’ll enjoy a one-of-a-kind, coastal experience.

Blue Angels flying over the beach in Orange Beach

Red, White & Blues Pensacola Beach Air Show: July 15-18

The Blue Angels are a U.S. Navy flight demonstration squadron that puts on a mesmerizing summer Beach Air Show each July. While this spectacular event takes place in nearby Pensacola, it’s a great day trip for visitors in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Many local cruises even offer private trips to Pensacola, where they’ll anchor, so passengers can witness the astonishing feat from the water.

Live local music at Flora-Bama beach bar

Flora-Bama’s Sandstock: August 8

On Saturday, August 8, Flora-Bama Lounge & Oyster Bar travels back in time to an era of miniskirts, tie-dye, mood rings, and peace signs during Sandstock, a groovy '60s beach party. Local musicians will be doling out the best tunes from the decade while bartenders serve fun, themed cocktails. It’s a laid-back summer festival where patrons of all ages can don their hippie gear and reminisce on this iconic period in history.

Plan Your Summer Getaway to Alabama’s Beaches

Boats at the Wharf Marina during the Blue Marlin Grand Championship fishing tournament in Orange Beach

With such a stacked lineup of events in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, this summer is bound to be the best one yet on Alabama’s Beaches. Whether you visit in June, July, or August, you’ll enjoy the array of fantastic summer festivals and events. On top of all the incredible happenings, this season is perfect for hitting the water, dining outside, ice cream runs, and more family fun. Book a place to stay with beach and watersport rentals, lazy rivers, or waterslides to make your summer beach trip even better.

These blogs are written by the destination experts at Alabama's Beaches. From the best restaurants and hidden gems to tips and tricks for making the most of your stay, our knowledgable team has the lowdown on our area.