Got your sunscreen ready?
Because there are too many things happening this weekend for you to stay home.
This weekend features a lineup that’s equal parts uplifting, entertaining and just …
This item is available in full to subscribers.
Please log in to continue |
Got your sunscreen ready?
Because there are too many things happening this weekend for you to stay home.
This weekend features a lineup that’s equal parts uplifting, entertaining and just a little bit high stakes.Watch balloons rise and drones light up the night sky, try your hand at casino games where the odds are fun-first, or go all in on community connection at expos and fundraisers.
Prefer something more thought-provoking? A documentary screening takes a closer look at an issue making waves closer to home.
From maypoles to mint julep vibes, pet blessings to powerhouse performances, this week offers plenty of ways to get out, stay engaged and maybe even hit the jackpot on a new favorite event.
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: The award-winning documentary “Sallie’s Ashes” will be screened, highlighting an Alabama group’s fight to protect Mobile Bay from a potential coal ash spill at Plant Barry. The film examines the environmental risks posed by coal ash, which contains heavy metals such as arsenic, mercury, lead and cadmium. The Barry Plant ash pond spans an area equal to 451 football fields and sits near the Mobile River, separated by an unlined dike. Organizers say a major weather event could cause a breach, sending toxic material downstream. The screening is sponsored by the League of Women Voters in association with the Coal Ash Action Group and will be followed by a brief discussion. For more information, visit MoveTheAsh.com.
When: Thursday, April 30, 6-7:30 p.m.
Where: Graham Creek Interpretive Center, Foley
Price: Free admission
What: Friends of the Arts will host its annual Grand Event fundraiser with a Casino Royale theme, featuring games such as craps, blackjack and roulette, along with a silent auction and split-the-pot raffle. Guests are encouraged to wear cocktail attire and enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres provided by Wharf Catering Group and signature cocktails. Proceeds will support local arts programming, scholarships and events including the Orange Beach Festival of Art. For more information, contact Fred Armstrong at fva567@gmail.com.
When: Thursday, April 30, 6 p.m.
Where: Coastal Arts Center, Orange Beach
Price: $100 per person
What: The Eastern Shore Business and Home Expo will bring together local businesses and residents for an afternoon of networking, collaboration and community engagement. Exhibitors will represent industries including home services, retail, health and wellness and finance. Attendees can explore products and services, meet business owners and attend breakout sessions led by local professionals. A VIP happy hour will follow for vendors. For more information, visit www.easternshorebusiness.com.
When: Thursday, April 30, noon-4:30 p.m.
Where: Fairhope Civic Center, Fairhope
Price: Free admission
What: The 22nd Annual Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival will feature hot air balloon glows, live music, tethered rides and a new drone light show on select evenings. Entertainment includes musical acts, animal encounters, frisbee dog shows and a pilot meet and greet. Additional attractions at OWA Parks and Resort include rides, dining and shopping. Balloon activities are weather dependent. For more information, visit https://visitowa.com/event/gulf-coast-hot-air-balloon-festival/ or www.gulfcoastballoonfestival.com.
When: Thursday, April 30, 4-9:30 p.m.; Friday, May 1, 4-9:30 p.m.; Saturday, May 2, 10 a.m.-9:30 p.m.
Where: OWA Parks and Resort, Foley
Price: Free admission
What: Hope Community will host a May Day Celebration honoring local history and community traditions at the historic Anna T. Jeanes School site. Activities include a maypole dance, live entertainment, games, face painting, a cake walk and free food while supplies last. The event celebrates cultural heritage and community unity. Guests are encouraged to bring picnic baskets and lawn chairs.
When: Saturday, May 2, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Where: Anna T. Jeanes School property, 6925 Twin Beech Road, Fairhope
Price: Free admission
Rescheduled to Saturday, May 16, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
What: Puppy Palooza will return with pet-friendly activities, vendor booths, live music and on-site pet adoptions benefiting the Baldwin Humane Society. Activities include a pet marketplace, splash zones, children’s activities and giveaways. Donations to Baldwin Humane Society are encouraged. For more information, visit www.easternshorecentre.com or contact (334) 714-0259.
When: Saturday, May 2, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Where: Eastern Shore Centre, The Green near California Dreaming, Spanish Fort
Price: Free admission
What: The Swift Coles Historic Home and Baldwin County History Museum will host a Derby Day Party featuring Kentucky Derby fare, drinks, vintage lawn games and a hat contest. Guests are encouraged to wear themed attire, including fascinators and Southern-style clothing. Reservations are required by calling or texting (251) 609-4578.
When: Saturday, May 2, 2-4 p.m.
Where: Swift Coles Historic Home, Bon Secour
Price: $60 per person
What: Fairhope Christian Church will host a Blessing of the Pets event welcoming all animals and their owners. Activities include pet adoptions, children’s activities and refreshments such as snow cones. All are welcome to attend with or without a pet. For more information, contact (251) 928-8495 or email office@fairhopechristian.org.
When: Saturday, May 2, 3-5 p.m.
Where: Fairhope Christian Church, 349 Fairwood Blvd., Fairhope
Price: Free admission
What: “Hope Blooms for Eleanor” is a benefit event supporting a child diagnosed with Osteogenesis Imperfecta. The family-friendly event will include live music, food, a petting zoo, bounce houses, a photo booth, raffles and a silent auction featuring donated items from local businesses. Proceeds will help cover medical care and travel for specialized treatment. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/events/s/hope-blooms-for-eleanor/1588718509096301/.
When: Sunday, May 3, 2 p.m.
Where: Bella Sera Gardens, 25049 County Road 49, Loxley
Price: Donation-based event
