2026 has started off with a bang in Baldwin County, offering a wide array of events, activities and community happenings for residents and visitors alike.
From festivals and workshops to …
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2026 has started off with a bang in Baldwin County, offering a wide array of events, activities and community happenings for residents and visitors alike.
From festivals and workshops to fundraisers and family-friendly gatherings, there is something for everyone to enjoy this week.
Be advised to keep an eye on the weather, as severe conditions may lead to event cancellations or reschedules. Check with event websites, social media channels and organizers directly for the most up-to-date information before heading out.
If you know of an event coming up that deserves a spot here, send it my way. I'll do my best to share it. Email me at whisper@gulfcoastmedia.com. You can also add it to our online calendar at www.GulfCoastMedia.com/calendar.
What: The Alabama Small Business Development Center will host an in-person workshop on starting a business in Baldwin County. Entrepreneurs of all ages can learn about LLC development, business licenses, tax responsibilities, financing options and local resources to start and grow a business. Provided in partnership with Baldwin County, Cadence Bank, Coastal Alabama Business Chamber of Commerce, Hand to Hand Business Center and Coastal Alabama Community College. Registration is required. For additional information, contact Yolanda Devine Johnson, Business Advisor, at (205) 348-1582 or yolanda.johnson@ua.edu. Visit www.asbdc.org/workshops-webinars for registration and details.
When: Thursday, Jan. 29, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Where: Coastal Alabama Community College, Frederick's Building, 3301 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores
Price: No cost but registration required
What: Friends of the Arts hosts an appreciation meeting and open house with light refreshments, a recap of 2025 activities and a preview of 2026 plans. Open to current members and new attendees. Visit https://friendsoftheartsinc.org for more information.
When: Thursday, Jan. 29, 5:30 p.m.
Where: Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach, 4698 Nancy Ln., Orange Beach
Price: Free
What: A free screening of the short documentary “Sallie’s Ashes,” which follows an Alabama group’s fight to protect Mobile Bay from toxic coal ash. The film explores environmental justice, courage and community activism. For more information, visit https://movetheash.com or email MoveTheAsh@gmail.com.
When: Thursday, Jan. 29, 6-7:30 p.m.
Where: Spanish Fort Community Center, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard, Spanish Fort
Price: Free
What: The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce presents The SBs, honoring individuals and organizations shaping the region, including awards for Small Business of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, Diplomat of the Year and Lifetime Achievement. The evening includes elevated dining and networking opportunities. For tickets, visit www.southbaldwinchamber.com/sbs/.
When: Friday, Jan. 30, 6-10 p.m.
Where: 205 N. Owa Blvd., Foley
Price: $75 each; discounts for chamber members
What: The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo hosts a community plant swap with seed and plant trading, vendor booths, live demonstrations, educational talks and opportunities to meet animal ambassadors. Participants are encouraged to bring items to swap or sell. Registration forms are available at marcale@algulfcoastzoo.org. Visit www.alabamagulfcoastzoo.com/tickets for tickets and information.
When: Saturday, Jan. 31, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
Where: Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, 20499 Oak Road E, Gulf Shores
Price: Included with regular zoo admission or membership
NOTE: The 2026 Gumbo & Alabama Slammer Festival in Foley has been rescheduled to Feb. 7-8. All purchased tickets will be fully refunded, and for those unable to attend the new dates vendor fees and sponsor fees wil also be refunded. Giveaway and radio contest tickets will remain valid; details are available at www.beachlifeevents.com or on Facebook under Gumbo & Alabama Slammer Festival.
What: Heritage Park will host two days of food, live music and family activities in downtown Foley, featuring gumbo from Creole, Cajun and local chefs, plus beer, wine and adult beverages. Entertainment includes tribute bands, a Family Fun Zone, petting zoo, artists and crafters, and contests with $50 prizes. Schedule is subject to slight changes. For details, visit www.beachlifeevents.com or find the festival on Facebook.
When: Saturday, Jan. 31, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sunday, Feb. 1, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: Heritage Park, 200 N. McKenzie St., Foley
Price: Free admission
What: St. Andrew by the Sea Community Church, in partnership with the Michigan Club, will host a Low Country Boil with shrimp, sausage, potatoes, corn and green beans, served with a roll and a drink. Proceeds benefit St. Andrew by the Sea Preschool, which offers a rich learning environment fostering curiosity and school readiness. Tickets are available at the church office or by phone at (251) 968-3900.
When: Saturday, Jan. 31, noon, 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. seatings
Where: St. Andrew by the Sea, 17263 Fort Morgan Road, Gulf Shores
Price: $20 per person
What: Friends of the Fairhope Library host their largest annual fundraiser with chocolates, savory hors d'oeuvres, champagne, wine, silent and live auctions. Proceeds support library programs and services. Tickets are $50 at the library Circulation Desk or online for $55 through www.eventbrite.com/e/chocolate-and-champagne-tickets-1978849517175.
When: Saturday, Jan. 31, 7-9:30 p.m.
Where: Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Ave., Fairhope
Price: $50
What: Shades Sunglasses at The Wharf will host a social gathering for golden retrievers and their owners with opportunities for mingling, shopping and group photos. At 2 p.m., participants will take a short walk to Portside for photos and playtime. All friendly dogs are welcome. Attendees bringing their dogs to Shades Sunglasses Jan. 31-Feb. 1 will receive 10% off purchases. Contact Maddie Seale at maddie@shadessunglasses.com or visit www.facebook.com/share/187zUqN3sz/ for information.
When: Sunday, Feb. 1, 1-3 p.m.
Where: Shades Sunglasses at The Wharf, 4776 Main Street Suite 106, Orange Beach
Price: Free
What: ShoreFizz will celebrate its re-opening with lemonade, infused sparkling waters, dirty sodas, energy drinks and ice cream. Dirty sodas are soda infused with creams and other flavors. Read more about ShoreFizz at www.gulfcoastmedia.com.
When: Sunday, Feb. 1, 3-6 p.m.
Where: 251 Clubhouse Dr., Gulf Shores
Price: Free
