Hangout Music Festival will not take over Gulf Shores beaches in 2025 as "Hangout Music Festival." Instead, one of the most famous country artists, in partnership with Hangout producers, is set to debut his new, personally curated, multi-genre lineup to celebrate the event's 15th year.

Morgan Wallen is bringing his Sand in My Boots music festival to the Hangout Festival site May 16-18, 2025. This new beachside event will feature some of Wallen's closest friends, favorite artists, those who have inspired him and artists he has always wanted to perform with, according to a press release from AEG Presents, the company that has produced Hangout and managed it on-site for the since 2015, as well as Stagecoach and California's Country Music Festival. Every artist, activity and experience will be handpicked by the 15-time Billboard Music Awards-winner and current CMA Awards Entertainer of the Year nominee. In addition to Wallen's 15 chart-toppers on country radio, he has played in 10 countries across four continents.

Wallen said in a video message announcing the festival that he and his team have been working on the event "for a while y'all." It will be "equal parts vacation and a deep dive into Morgan Wallen's inner world and inspirations."

"Creating a festival with Morgan has been a dream come true... and some of the most fun I have ever had booking a show," Stacy Vee, EVP of Goldenvoice and producer of Stagecoach, said in the release. "I can't wait for fans to come and experience one of the most eclectic and electric lineups and on-site experiences the world has ever seen."

Sand In My Boots' complete lineup and ticketing details will be announced soon, the release from AEG stated.

"The opportunity to bring Morgan's world to life on the beach in Gulf Shores is something very special," AEG Presents and Hangout Festival Producer Reeves Price said. "The fact that it coincides with the 15th anniversary of the Hangout Festival only makes it more special."

Grant Brown, director of recreation and cultural affairs for Gulf Shores, echoed Price’s enthusiasm, stating, "The concept that the music fest is talking about is doing something special for the 15th anniversary. I think it will be a very successful endeavor." He also noted that Wallen’s influence will be a key factor in the event’s success.

"Morgan (Wallen) is the driving force for this event. I’m not sure what types of acts that that will be coming along with him," he added.

Brown also discussed the city’s partnership with AEG Presents, the company overseeing the festival.

"We do (enjoy working with them). You talk about an unbelievably professional group of people. They’ve been consistent for the past 10 years," he said, praising AEG's attention to safety and quality. Brown added that AEG is very responsive and “on it” with safety and quality.

As for the impact of the festival, Brown said the increased media exposure will benefit Gulf Shores.

"And we ask, what’s the benefit back to the public? Well, there’s been increased media exposure. The world now knows Gulf Shores has beaches and just how beautiful they are," he said.

He also said the city anticipates a positive economic impact from the festival, although he did not offer specific projections. According to Brown, Hangout Music Festival normally makes the month of May almost as successful as the month of July.

But for those wondering about the future of Hangout Music Festival, Brown noted that a public meeting will be held later in the fall or spring to discuss the future of Hangout Music Festival, allowing residents to weigh in on its future in Gulf Shores.

GCM's Ruth Mayo and Whisper Edwards contributed to this story.