The snow may have just melted (a sentence not often said down here), but as spring inches nearer to making its entrance into Alabama, the Ballyhoo Festival also approaches.
Now in its 11th year …
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The snow may have just melted (a sentence not often said down here), but as spring inches nearer to making its entrance into Alabama, the Ballyhoo Festival also approaches.
Now in its 11th year as a fine art and cultural history event, the festival will be March 1-2 at Gulf State Park, located on the grounds adjacent to Lake Shelby, 20110 AL-135, Gulf Shores.
In addition to the 115 artists from all over the United States, the Ballyhoo Festival focuses on various cultures from different areas.
On Saturday, March 1, the only federally recognized Native American tribe in the State of Alabama, the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, will provide historical narrative and original tribal dance in ceremonial regalia.
On Sunday, March 2, the cultural focus will be on Early Americana Appalachian music in the form of a fiddle and banjo competition. Competitors come from across the Southeast to participate in this event, sponsored by the Flora-Bama and Frank Brown International Songwriters Festival.
Food of different cultures is also a major attraction. The festival features Cajun food from New Orleans, Asian and Indian food along with local seafood and more.
The Ballyhoo stage features bands of different genres, and the Coastal Alabama Chamber of Commerce will be selling soft drinks, water and adult beverages on the West and East end of the grounds.
Parking will be at the Gulf Shores Pavilion and Gulf Shores Pier. The fee to park is $10. All parking and entrance will be handled by the Gulf Park Rangers. Additional parking will be at Gulf Shores High School. There is no fee for parking at the school. Free shuttle service will be available at all parking sites.
Visitors will want to grab a picnic table or find a grassy lawn spot both days and enjoy the fun-filled days of art, culture, music and great food.
The Ballyhoo Festival of Fine Art and Culture Inc. is made possible in part through a grant from the Alabama State Council on the Arts.