It's May and you know what that means. A stretch of mild spring weather offers a final window to get out and enjoy the Gulf Coast before the heat and humidity of summer settle in. This weekend’s …
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It's May and you know what that means.
A stretch of mild spring weather offers a final window to get out and enjoy the Gulf Coast before the heat and humidity of summer settle in. This weekend’s calendar is packed with options, from outdoor festivals and nature-focused programs to live music and family-friendly gatherings, giving residents and visitors plenty of reasons to stay active and engaged.
Highlights include the Fort Morgan Seafood Festival, which brings fresh coastal flavors, live entertainment and activities for all ages, and the Good Life Ride, inviting cyclists to explore the scenic trails of Gulf State Park. Educational opportunities such as Welcome Back Monarch Day in Foley provide a chance to learn about conservation and the region’s natural environment while enjoying the outdoors.
Mother’s Day weekend also features several ways to celebrate, including a coastal brunch at Tide & Table and community events like the Village of Hope Jamboree. In Mobile, the debut of Boyington Oak Day adds a dose of local history and storytelling, followed by the annual Boyington Oak Festival next weekend.
And don't forget, Foley’s Art in the Park returns this weekend, promising a vibrant showcase of regional artists, handmade works and more in a relaxed outdoor setting.
These events, along with many others happening throughout the region, can be found on these Happenings pages and online at www.GulfCoastMedia.com/things-to-do-events. Most events make it online in advance of the event, so it is easier for you to make plans.
To see your event on our website even quicker, post it to our online calendar. If you would like to see your event included in future listings, submit it at www.GulfCoastMedia.com/calendar. Up to 10 events are selected each week.
What: Riviera Utilities and the city of Foley will host Welcome Back Monarch Day, an educational event focused on monarch butterfly migration and pollinator conservation. The program includes a presentation by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, followed by guided tours of the Riviera Utilities Native Pollinator Garden. Attendees will receive milkweed plants and seeds, and families can enjoy hands-on crafts and activities. Complimentary water and light snacks will be provided. For more information, visit www.rivierautilities.com.
When: Saturday, May 9, 9-10 a.m.
Where: Foley Civic Center, 407 E. Laurel Ave., Foley, and Riviera Utilities Native Pollinator Garden, 413 E. Laurel Ave., Foley
Price: Free admission
What: The Baldwin County Genealogical Society will host a program featuring flutist Andra Bohnet, presenting “Revolutionary War Music.” Bohnet, a professor of music at the University of South Alabama and principal flutist with the Mobile Symphony Orchestra, will perform and discuss music connected to the Revolutionary War era. She is known for her work across classical, Celtic and world music styles and has performed nationally and internationally with multiple ensembles. Seating is limited to 42 and reservations are required. RSVP by email at BaldwinGenealogy@gmail.com. Learn more at www.andrabohnet.com and www.trebuchetwindtrio.com.
When: Saturday, May 9, 10 a.m.
Where: Foley Public Library, 319 E. Laurel Ave., Foley
Price: Free admission
What: The Village of Hope Jamboree is a community event focused on raising awareness of foster care needs in Baldwin County. Organized in collaboration with local leaders and organizations, the event will provide information, outreach and family-friendly activities aimed at supporting children and families in the foster care system. For more information, contact Cecilia Hammond at (251) 253-9427 or email charrison200405@gmail.com.
When: Saturday, May 9, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Where: University of South Alabama Fairhope Campus, 111 St. James St., Fairhope
Price: Free admission
What: The Alabama Coastal Foundation will host the 17th Annual Good Life Ride, a nine-mile cycling event through the backcountry trails of Gulf State Park. The ride promotes bicycle safety and encourages community engagement with the coastal environment. Registration information is available at www.goodliferide.org. Learn more about bicycle safety and involvement at www.joinACF.org/lcc.
When: Saturday, May 9
Where: Gulf State Park, Gulf Shores
Price: Registration required
What: The Fort Morgan Seafood Festival will feature fresh Gulf Coast seafood, live music, arts and crafts vendors and family-friendly activities. Food vendors will offer a variety of local fare, while retail and craft booths will showcase local artists, makers and organizations. A Kid Zone will include free face painting and hands-on activities such as oyster shell painting. Educational exhibits from environmental groups will focus on coastal conservation. Live music is scheduled throughout the weekend, with additional evening performances at Tacky Jacks 2 for ages 21 and older. Proceeds benefit the Fort Morgan Volunteer Fire Department. Highlights include the Splash-4-Ca$h fundraiser and optional boat tours to the Sand Island Lighthouse for $25 per person.
When: Saturday, May 9, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, May 10, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: Fort Morgan Marina, 1577 State Highway 180, Gulf Shores
Price: Free admission
What: Tide & Table will host a Mother’s Day brunch featuring a chef-curated buffet with Southern favorites, brunch classics and interactive food stations. Guests can enjoy a range of dishes from savory selections to desserts in a coastal setting designed for families and celebrations. For more information, contact Embassy Suites Gulf Shores at hhall@peachtreegroup.com or visit www.exploretock.com/tide--table-gulf-shores/detail/603201/mothers-day-brunch.
When: Sunday, May 10, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Where: Tide & Table at Embassy Suites Gulf Shores, 112 W. Beach Blvd., Gulf Shores
Price: $49.99, free for children 5 and under
What: The inaugural Boyington Oak Day will celebrate one of Mobile’s oldest legends with living history performances, a short theatrical skit and appearances by the Azalea Trail Maids and Mobile Belles. Secret History Tours will offer a free guided tour. The event highlights the story of Charles Boyington and the historic oak tree tied to local folklore. For questions or reservations, email info@boyingtonoaksociety.com.
When: Sunday, May 10, 2 p.m.
Where: Boyington Oak, 102 Bayou St., Mobile
Price: Free admission
