5 things to do around Baldwin County this weekend, Aug. 20-22

By WHISPER VAUGHN-EDWARDS
Editorial Assistant
whisper@gulfcoastmedia.com
Posted 8/17/26

Ready to paddle, party and pig out? This weekend's lineup has a little bit of everything, from pickleball battles and bacon-filled tailgate treats to community celebrations and an evening of live …

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5 things to do around Baldwin County this weekend, Aug. 20-22

Posted

Ready to paddle, party and pig out?

This weekend's lineup has a little bit of everything, from pickleball battles and bacon-filled tailgate treats to community celebrations and an evening of live music, auctions and good food. Whether you're looking to get competitive, discover something new, support a good cause or simply find an excuse to get out of the house, there's no shortage of options.

Grab your friends, rally the family and dust off those weekend plans. You can cheer on first responders, sample creative tailgate dishes, explore Downtown Foley or hit the pickleball courts — and if all else fails, just follow the smell of bacon. With this many events packed into one weekend, the hardest part may be deciding which one to attend first.

DOWNTOWN FOLEY THIRD THURSDAY

What: Downtown Foley's Third Thursday event brings together local businesses and entrepreneurs for an evening of art, refreshments, fashion and fun. Participating businesses may offer discounts, free samples and drawings. A list of participating businesses is available at https://downtown-foley-third-thursdays-25323.grwebsite.com/.

When: Thursday, Aug. 20, 5-7 p.m.

Where: Downtown Foley

Price: Free admission

THE FOUNDATION PADDLE CLASSIC

What: The annual Foundation Paddle Classic, presented by Vulcan Inc., is a one-day gender doubles pickleball tournament for players of all skill levels. The fundraising event will feature community competition, court-side fun and networking while raising funds to support local education initiatives, including resources, grants and opportunities for students and teachers. Teams of two are invited to participate. Contact the South Baldwin Chamber Foundation at (251) 943-1062 or email Christy Bledsoe at christy@southbaldwinchamber.com. Visit www.sbchamberfoundation.org/paddle-classic for more information and tickets.

When: Saturday, Aug. 22, 7:45 a.m.

Where: Foley Pickleball Courts, 671 Kenny Stabler Ave., Foley

Price: $40 per player

4TH ANNUAL COASTAL TAILGATE COOK-OFF CHALLENGE

What: The Coastal Alabama Business Chamber will host its fourth annual Coastal Tailgate Cook-Off Challenge, presented by Columbia Southern University and Sunny 105.7 FM. The World Food Championships qualifier will feature a game-day atmosphere where attendees can sample tailgate-style foods featuring bacon from culinary teams and individuals. Competitors will vie for a golden ticket to the World Food Championships in Indianapolis to compete in the bacon category. Attendees also will vote for a People's Choice Award, with the winning team receiving a trophy and prize package. An award also will be presented to the best-dressed fan. Tickets are available at https://tinyurl.com/2s4y87t3.

When: Saturday, Aug. 22, noon-3 p.m.

Where: Marina Lawn at The Wharf, 4685 Wharf Parkway West, Orange Beach

Price: See website for ticket information

COMMUNITY SAFETY DAY

What: Community Safety Day will celebrate the people and organizations that help keep the community safe. Attendees can meet local first responders, watch K-9 training demonstrations and enjoy a live DJ on OWA Island. The event also will feature the Heroes Hunger Games, a friendly competition in which first responder teams race to finish a sub sandwich, milkshake, pretzel and large soda before putting on full gear. Winning departments will receive a station banner, trophy, park tickets and bragging rights. More information is available at https://visitowa.com/community-safety-day/.

When: Saturday, Aug. 22, 4-7 p.m.

Where: Downtown OWA Parks & Resort, Foley

Price: See website for admission information

26TH ANNUAL LOWER ALABAMA CHAPTER BEACH PARTY

What: The Coastal Conservation Association Alabama's Lower Alabama Chapter will host its 26th annual Beach Party featuring a catered dinner, drinks, live music, a live auction, silent auction, raffles and more. Each ticket includes a one-year CCA membership, dinner and drinks. Sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information, email info@ccaalabama.org. Tickets are available at https://ticketstripe.com/LABeachParty26.

When: Saturday, Aug. 22, 6-9 p.m.

Where: Heron Pointe at The Wharf, 4985 Wharf Parkway East, Orange Beach

Price: $90 for a single ticket or $120 per couple