ORANGE BEACH, Ala. — A change in venue and a change in the food is in store for the Orange Beach Sports Association’s 23rd annual Seafood Festival. There is no admission charge to the event which is Saturday, Feb. 28th, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

One thing that’s not changing is the benefit to local baseball and softball teams for the upcoming season.

The festival is the major fundraising event for the group and supports youth sports related activities in Orange Beach. Proceeds from the event are used to purchase uniforms, equipment, insurance and also pay officials for youth T-ball, baseball and softball programs.

“It also goes to sponsoring kids that might not be able to afford it,” OBSA President Steve Russ said.

The festival moves from the Orange Beach Sportsplex this year to the grounds of the Orange Beach Event Center at The Wharf which allows unlimited parking and access, something that was not available at the previous location.

“We appreciate all the years we were able to hold this event at the Orange Beach Sportsplex, but the event has outgrown the location,” Russ said. “This year we have over 80 arts and crafts vendors, up from 50 in previous years.  We’re also happy to turn over food preparation to area restaurateurs.  I believe festival goers will be greatly impressed with the changes.”

Volunteers won’t be manning fryers and concession stands, but Mojo’s from Gulf Shores, Cosmo’s from Orange Beach and Steve Raley’s Shrimp Zone, Bahama Breeze and Rosey’s Kettle Corn will be offering food for sale.

Mojo’s will have Island Ya Ya, mango shrimp, chicken fingers, mahi tacos, char-grilled oysters and boiled crawfish.

Cosmo’s will have its famous crab cakes, firecracker shrimp, gumbo, red beans and rice, chicken and mini cupcakes. Shrimp Zone will have shrimp and fries and Bahama Breeze will offer up shaved ice and fresh lemonade.

The food vendors pay a fee to have a presence at the festival which will benefit the sports association’s efforts.

Arts crafts vendors will be selling an assortment of wares including jewelry, pottery, metal items, candles, textile arts, etc., something for just about everyone.

Musical entertainment includes Smokey Otis, Logan Spicer and Top Hat & Jackie.  The car show has been growing each year and depending on weather could attract near 100 vehicles for festival goers to view.

A Kids Zone will feature climbing wall, inflatables, activities and games.

In addition, inside the Event Center a military display featuring memorabilia from WWII, Korea, Vietnam & more will be set up and the huge silent auction that is always a big hit with festival goers will also be inside. 

For up-to-date information visit www.obparksandrec.com.