As we roll into the first weekend of 2024, there aren't as many events happening as you might imagine. However, Gulf Coast Media has put together a list that will keep you busy.
This weekend's events will keep you on track with those New Year's resolutions. Did you resolve to take in more culture and art? If you said yes, head to Fairhope for the First Friday Art Walk of 2024, and don't miss the newest exhibition at the Eastern Shore Art Center. If you are trying to purchase more local food, visit the Coastal Alabama Farmers Market for Saturday Market Day. Those are just a few of the fun ways to enjoy the first weekend of 2024.
If our list missed the mark for you, visit our event calendar at www.GulfCoastMedia.com for more events happening this weekend or beyond. Search for events by distance from your home city or vacation spot.
First Friday Art Walk
- What: Kick off the New Year with the first art walk of the 2024 season. Shops and art galleries around Fairhope will host local artists to display their work. Stop into the Eastern Shore Art Center to see the newest exhibition called "Southern Spirits: Capturing the Essence of Home."
- When: Friday, Jan. 5, 6-8 p.m.
- Where: Downtown Fairhope
- Price: Free to attend
Market Day
- What: Are trying to decide on an obtainable New Year's resolution? Make 2024 the year to shop as locally as possible. The best place to start would be the Coastal Alabama Farmers and Fisherman's Market. Each Saturday, local farmers and vendors converge in one location to make supporting local businesses that much easier.
- When: Saturday, Jan. 6, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Where: Coastal Alabama Farmers and Fisherman's Market, 781 Farmers Market Lane, Foley
- Price: Free to attend
2024 Annual Fried Chicken Dinner
- What: The Sonora Masonic Lodge #634 F & AM will host its delicious fundraiser this Saturday. Enjoy a meal of fried chicken, mashed potatoes with gravy and green beans. Proceeds support the lodge, provide scholarships, support local community and school activities.
- When: Saturday, Jan. 6, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Where: Sonora Masonic Lodge #635 F & AM, 202 E. Jackson St., Summerdale
- Price: Adult plates are $12 and child's plates $6
Lighting of the Mardi Gras Tree
- What: Kick off the start of Mardi Gras season on the Gulf Coast. The annual lighting of the Mardi Gras tree in Mardi Gras Park is the first of the coastal Mardi Gras festivities. Bring your family, friends and a chair and enjoy an evening of music from "The Juke Box Brass Band."
- When: Saturday, Jan. 6, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
- Where: Mardi Gras Park, 109 Government St., Mobile
- Price: Free to attend
Coastal Wedding Expo
- What: If you are planning a wedding in 2024 or 2025, the annual Coastal Wedding Expo is the place to be. Connect with photographers, venues and local vendors all in one location. To purchase tickets, visit www.ticketmaster.com.
- When: Sunday, Jan. 7, 11 a.m.
- Where: Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E. Gregory St., Pensacola
- Price: Tickets are $5
