*** Sand Castle Showdown has been postponed due to weather. New dates TBA. ***

Mother Nature has really been toying with the weather along the Gulf Coast this January, but you shouldn't let that keep you at home. The weather this weekend looks promising, so get out for a date night or an afternoon. Here are a couple of our favorite events happening this weekend.

January LoDa ArtWalk celebrates National DJ Day

What: This event will highlight creatives within the community including visual artists, musical performers and local restaurants. Visit Cathedral Square in Mobile for a lineup of area DJs throughout the evening. The event is family friendly. Select restaurants and retailers will have sidewalk sales and have expanded outdoor seating available. Masks are encouraged for those not vaccinated.
When: Friday, Jan. 14 from 6-9 p.m.
Where: Cathedral Square, Mobile
Price: Free

Sandcastle Showdown
What: Local businesses will compete in a fun and friendly sandcastle building competition to vie for a year's worth of bragging rights, trophy and a custom sand sculpture created by Sandcastle University. Participants will benefit from a two-hour training session with Sandcastle University's Janel Hawkins before the competition begins at 1 p.m. Come out and cheer on the competitors and enjoy the day on the beach at the Flora-Bama. Visit sandcastleshowdown.com for more information or to register.
When: Saturday, Jan. 15, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: Flora-Bama Lounge and Package, Perdido Key, Florida
Price: $100 per team. Proceeds benefit Clothe and Children, an organization providing clothing to children in need in Foley, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.

Lighting of the Mardi Gras Tree
What: Let the Good Times Roll with some festive Mardi Gras Music as the Mardi Gras Tree is lit to celebrate the season. Following the tree lighting head over to Cooper Riverside Park from 7-10 p.m. for live music featuring the band Six Piece Suits.
When: Saturday, Jan. 15 from 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Where: Mardi Gras Park, Mobile. Mardi Gras Park is a municipal park in downtown Mobile. The park is bounded by Government Street to the north, Royal Street to the east, Church Street to the south and St. Emanuel Street to the west.

Price: Free

The 35th Annual Baldwin County Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration
What: The 35th Annual Baldwin County Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration, Memorial Program will be held at St. James Episcopal Church in Fairhope. All are welcome.
When: Sunday, Jan. 16 at 6 p.m.
Where: St. James Episcopal Church, 860 N. Section St., Fairhope