8 things to do around the Gulf Coast this weekend, Jan. 22-24

By WHISPER EDWARDS
Editorial Assistant
whisper@gulfcoastmedia.com
Posted 1/20/26

Looking for fun ways to spend the weekend? From wine tastings and festive food events to family-friendly festivals, nature walks and a free documentary screening, the area is packed with things to …

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8 things to do around the Gulf Coast this weekend, Jan. 22-24

Posted

Looking for fun ways to spend the weekend?

From wine tastings and festive food events to family-friendly festivals, nature walks and a free documentary screening, the area is packed with things to do. Whether you want to sample king cake, browse handmade art, meet adoptable cats or enjoy an evening out with friends, there is no shortage of options to fill your calendar and make the most of the days ahead.

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.

FIELD TRIP FOR GROWN-UPS: BIRDING WALK

What: Weeks Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve will host an easy guided stroll along the boardwalk with opportunities to look for birds and learn about the local environment. The walk lasts approximately one hour and features easy terrain. Participants should wear comfortable weather-appropriate clothing and bring binoculars. The event is free, open to the public and does not require registration. For questions, call (251) 928-9792 or email kathy.hicks@dcnr.alabama.gov.

When: Thursday, Jan. 22, 9 a.m.

Where: Weeks Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, 11300 U.S. Highway 98, Fairhope

Price: Free

WINE AND CHEESE BOOK SALE PRESALE

What: Friends of the Library members are invited to enjoy wine and cheese while getting first access to upcoming book sale selections. The presale is free and only open for members. Want to join? Nonmembers may sign up in advance at the library or at the door during the event. Memberships are available for $12.

When: Thursday, Jan. 22, 6 p.m.

Where: Orange Beach Community Center, 27235 Canal Road, Orange Beach

Price: Free for Friends of the Library members

SALLIE’S ASHES FILM SCREENING

What: A free screening of the award-winning short documentary “Sallie’s Ashes,” an Oscar-qualifying film that follows an Alabama group’s fight to protect Mobile Bay from toxic coal ash. The film explores environmental justice, courage and community activism as it examines the threat coal ash poses to coastal ecosystems. The documentary is currently showing at film festivals nationwide. For more information, visit https://movetheash.com or email MoveTheAsh@gmail.com.

When: Thursday, Jan. 22, 6-7:30 p.m.

Where: St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 28788 N. Main St., Daphne

Price: Free

FRIED CHICKEN, SEAFOOD AND CHAMPAGNE DINNER

What: Foley Brunch and Supper Club presents a Low Country–to–Gulf Coast culinary experience crafted and hosted by Chef O’Veigh. The intimate dinner features house-seasoned fried chicken, fresh Gulf seafood favorites and refined Low Country classics paired with curated champagne selections. Set inside the newly reimagined restaurant, the evening celebrates Southern coastal heritage, community and comfort with a modern twist. Tickets and details are available at www.eventbrite.com/e/champagne-coastline-classics-tickets-1979660016400.

When: Friday, Jan. 23, 6:30-10 p.m.

Where: Foley Brunch and Supper Club, 213 N. McKenzie St., Foley

Price: $65 per person

OWA ARTS AND CRAFTS FESTIVAL

What: Downtown OWA will host its sixth annual Arts and Crafts Festival featuring local artists, vendors and small businesses showcasing handmade goods. The family-friendly festival includes live music and a wide variety of booths offering unique items and gifts. The event encourages visitors to support local creativity while enjoying a relaxed weekend atmosphere. More information is available at https://visitowa.com/arts-and-crafts-festival/.

When: Friday, Jan. 23, 2-8 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Where: Downtown OWA, 100 N. OWA Blvd., Foley

Price: Free

KING CAKE-OFF

What: The annual King Cake-Off returns with a sweet competition featuring local bakeries, eateries and grocery stores vying for Best King Cake and Best King Cake-Inspired Treat. Attendees will sample a wide variety of king cakes while enjoying live music, local vendors, kids’ activities, specialty cocktails and family-friendly fun. The event benefits Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Central Gulf Coast. Tickets at www.centralgulfbbbs.org/kco.

When: Friday, Jan. 23, 5-7:30 p.m.

Where: Mobile Convention Center, 1 S. Water St., Mobile

Price: $15 adults; $5 children ages 3-10

COASTAL CAT SANCTUARY OPEN HOUSE

What: Coastal Cat Sanctuary invites the community to a drop-in open house to meet the cats, learn how the sanctuary operates and explore compassionate ways to live alongside community cats. Guests can learn about the organization’s mission and see the sanctuary during the only hours it is open to the public. Donations of cat food are welcome, with Purina Cat Chow preferred though all donations are appreciated. The sanctuary does not accept surrendered animals. For more information, contact coastalcatsandcritters@gmail.com or call (251) 210-8446.

When: Saturday, Jan. 24, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Where: Coastal Cat Sanctuary, 13350 County Road 49, Foley

Price: Free

WINE CLUB MEET AND GREET AT GULF BABE

What: Gulf Babe Wine Boutique will host an exclusive Wine Club meet and greet for wine lovers looking to sip, socialize and connect. The relaxed evening welcomes current wine club members and those curious about joining. Guests can meet fellow members, learn about club perks and enjoy a laid-back night filled with wine and conversation in the boutique setting.

When: Saturday, Jan. 24, 6-8 p.m.

Where: Gulf Babe Wine Boutique, 4593 Main St., Suite C-101, Orange Beach

Price: Contact for more information