As the days get longer and the weather warms up, it’s the perfect time to get outside and shake off the winter blues. From wandering along scenic boardwalks and spotting birds to browsing vibrant …
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As the days get longer and the weather warms up, it’s the perfect time to get outside and shake off the winter blues.
From wandering along scenic boardwalks and spotting birds to browsing vibrant outdoor markets and enjoying live music at local festivals, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the season. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly adventures, chances to support local causes or just a fun day out with friends, this weekend offers something for everyone.
Grab your sun hat, pack a picnic and get ready to explore all the events that make this time of year so special.
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. You can also add it to our online calendar at www.GulfCoastMedia.com/calendar.
What: Weeks Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve hosts an easy guided stroll down the boardwalk to look for birds. The walk lasts about an hour and is considered easy. Participants should wear comfortable clothing appropriate for the weather and bring binoculars. This event is free and open to the public. No registration required. Questions? Call (251) 928-9792 or email kathy.hicks@dcnr.alabama.gov.
When: Thursday, March 5, 9-10 a.m.
Where: 11300 US Highway 98, Fairhope
Price: Free admission
What: Bellingrath Gardens and Home hosts the 47th Annual Orchid Show and Sale, featuring society members' finest orchids. Experts will be on hand to answer questions and give advice on care and cultivation. Vendors will offer orchids, supplies and accessories for sale. Guests can also browse new spring merchandise in the Bellingrath Gift Shop. Magnolia Café serves lunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission to the orchid show is free; visiting the gardens is optional. Visit bellingrath.org for details.
When: Friday, March 6, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, March 7, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, March 8, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Where: Magnolia Café, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road, Theodore
Price: Free admission
What: Players are invited for a night of Mahjong, laughter and social connection. Tables, chairs and game sets are provided along with light refreshments. Registration is required. Space is limited. Register online at https://orangebeach.activityreg.com or call (251) 981-2228.
When: Friday, March 6, 5:30-8 p.m.
Where: Orange Beach Recreation Center, 27235 Canal Road, Orange Beach
Price: $5 residents, $10 non-residents
What: Sonora Masonic Lodge #635 F&AM holds its final annual fried chicken dinner fundraiser. Plates include chicken, mashed potatoes with gravy, cole slaw, green beans and complimentary tea and dessert for dine-in guests. Delivery is available for multiple plate orders. Proceeds support lodge expenditures, scholarships and local school and community events. Contact Dean Mott at edeanmott@gmail.com or visit the lodge’s Facebook page for more information.
When: Saturday, March 7, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. or until supplies last
Where: 202 E. Jackson St., Summerdale
Price: $12 adults, $6 children
What: The family-friendly Gulf Coast Diabetes Walk raises awareness for Type 1 diabetes while supporting Camp Seale Harris. Participants can register at OWA Island, explore educational vendors, enjoy welcoming remarks and take part in activities. Kids living with Type 1 diabetes receive special recognition and a prize bag. Register at https://visitowa.com/gulf-coast-diabetes-walk.
When: Saturday, March 7, 10 a.m.-noon
Where: Downtown OWA, Foley
Price: Free to participate
What: The VFW Post 5658 Auxiliary hosts the Elberta Outdoor Market, featuring local vendors. The market is held the first Saturday of every month and offers shopping, entertainment and opportunities to learn about becoming a vendor.
When: Saturday, March 7, 7 a.m.-3 p.m.
Where: 24230 US Highway 98, Elberta
Price: Free admission
What: The Ballyhoo Fine Art and Culture Festival is a juried show with 110 artists from across the country. Attendees can enjoy live music, food trucks, cultural performances from the Poarch Creek Indians and a fiddle/banjo competition. Shuttles are available from Gulf State Pier, Gulf State Pavilion and Gulf Shores High School. Handicapped parking is located inside the festival site. Free to the public.
When: Saturday, March 7, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, March 8, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: 20110 State Park Road, Hwy 135, Gulf Shores
Price: Free admission
What: Guests enjoy an afternoon of fine wine, champagne, craft beer, handcrafted mocktails and gourmet tastings at Pensacola Blue Wahoos Stadium. Proceeds benefit women and children through Sacred Heart. Tickets start at $150. Learn more at www.wowpensacola.com.
When: Saturday, March 7, 1-4 p.m.
Where: Pensacola Blue Wahoos Stadium, 351 W Cedar St., Pensacola
Price: Tickets start at $150
What: Camp Dixie hosts a fundraiser to support its children’s summer camps. Meals include fried chicken, mashed potatoes, green beans, corn and dessert. Eat-in or take-out is available.
When: Sunday, March 8, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Where: 29711 Josephine Dr., Elberta
Price: $15 per plate
What: Brides, grooms and wedding planners are invited to explore vendors, enjoy exclusive discounts and get expert advice at the wedding expo. The event includes a grand prize giveaway, VIP early access at noon and general admission from 1-5 p.m. Tickets available at www.eventeny.com/events/ticket/?id=22244. Contact Amanda Spann at hello@bayareaevents.co or (251) 465-0200. More information at www.BridesbytheBay.com.
When: Sunday, March 8, VIP noon, general admission 1-5 p.m.
Where: Fairhope Civic Center, 161 N. Section St., Fairhope
Price: $10 early bird, $15 general admission, VIP upgrade $10
