Experience the 33rd Annual Orange Beach Seafood Festival & MAAAC Car Show

Get ready for one of the most anticipated events of the year in Orange Beach, Alabama! The 33rd Annual Orange Beach Seafood Festival and MAAAC Car Show will take over The Wharf on Saturday, February 22nd, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This exciting day is packed with food, fun, and festivities for the whole family, making it a perfect way to kick off the spring season. Whether you’re a seafood lover, a car enthusiast, or someone just looking to enjoy the local community spirit, this festival has something for everyone.
What is the Orange Beach Seafood Festival and MAAAC Car Show?
For over three decades, the Orange Beach Seafood Festival has become a cornerstone of the Gulf Coast’s winter festival calendar. Every year, more than 20,000 attendees flock to The Wharf to enjoy a full day of delicious seafood, live entertainment, local arts and crafts, and of course, the star of the show—the MAAAC Car Show.
The event is much more than just a day of fun and entertainment—it’s also a major fundraising opportunity for the MAAAC (Mainland Association of African American Citizens). All funds raised from the car show go directly to support Orange Beach Schools, helping to improve educational resources and opportunities for students in the area.
This year’s presenting sponsor for the car show is Rita’s Italian Ice & Custard, a beloved local treat that adds to the festive atmosphere. Whether you’re attending to enjoy the music, explore the food booths, or admire the cars, you’re also helping to make a real difference in the community.
More Than Just Great Food
When you hear “seafood festival,” you might think of shrimp, oysters, and fried fish, and you’re absolutely right—but that’s just the beginning.
The Orange Beach Seafood Festival offers an expansive array of fresh Gulf seafood prepared by local restaurants and food vendors. From crab cakes to shrimp boils, there’s no shortage of mouthwatering dishes to sample. Seafood lovers can indulge in their favorite coastal dishes, while those with other tastes will also find plenty of food options to enjoy, including non-seafood selections, desserts, and cold drinks.
But food isn’t the only highlight of the day.
Arts & Crafts Booths
In addition to the food, you’ll also find over 100 arts and crafts booths showcasing the work of local artisans. From handmade jewelry and pottery to photography and woodwork, there’s no shortage of unique, one-of-a-kind items to browse. If you’re looking for a special souvenir or gift, this is the perfect place to do some shopping and support local creators.
Family-Friendly Music and Entertainment
The festival is designed for people of all ages, and one of its main draws is the live music that fills the air throughout the day. You’ll hear everything from local bands to well-known performers, covering a variety of genres to keep the mood lively and engaging. The music is family-friendly, ensuring everyone can enjoy the sounds while they explore the festival grounds.
Kids’ Zone
For families with younger children, the Kids’ Zone is a must-visit area. It features plenty of interactive activities and games to keep the little ones entertained, including face painting, bounce houses, and other fun experiences. It’s a great way to make sure the kids have just as much fun as the adults while you enjoy the festival.
The MAAAC Car Show
One of the biggest highlights of the event is undoubtedly the MAAAC Car Show. This exciting showcase brings together car enthusiasts from all over to display their prized vehicles along Main Street at The Wharf. Expect to see a fantastic array of antique cars, classic rides, and hot rods, each one more impressive than the last.
Car Show Categories and Trophies
Whether you’re a die-hard car fan or just enjoy admiring beautiful vehicles, the car show offers something for everyone. Vehicles are showcased in various categories, with trophies awarded for the best in each class. From vintage muscle cars to custom-built modern rides, the car show is a thrilling experience for car lovers of all ages.
To get in on the action, participants can register their vehicles for the show by visiting the MAAAC website. The registration fee is $75, which includes entry into the car show and the chance to win one of the coveted trophies. If you decide to register on the day of the event, be prepared to pay a $100 registration fee at the Main Street entrance starting at 9 a.m. Be sure to get there early to secure your spot!
All Funds Benefit Orange Beach Schools
What sets this car show apart is its direct impact on the local community. All funds raised from the car show go directly to support Orange Beach Schools, helping to fund educational programs, purchase classroom materials, and provide scholarships for students. Your participation, whether as a car owner or an event attendee, contributes directly to improving the education system for local children.
The car show has been a beloved feature of the festival for years, and its continued success is a testament to the generosity and spirit of the Orange Beach community. If you love cars, this is one event you don’t want to miss.
Parking and Shuttle Service
Attending the Orange Beach Seafood Festival is a breeze, thanks to the ample parking and free shuttle services available throughout the day.
Free Shuttle Service
Free shuttles will run from Orange Beach Middle/High School to The Wharf from 9:45 a.m. to 4:15 p.m., with pick-up at the school bell tower and drop-off at the front circle on Main Street at The Wharf. This shuttle service is a great option if you prefer not to deal with parking at The Wharf itself or if you’re coming from other parts of town. It also ensures that the festival area stays as free of congestion as possible, making the experience smoother for everyone.
Parking and Volunteering
If you prefer to drive yourself, there is plenty of parking available at The Wharf, with volunteers from local schools helping to guide cars to available spots. While parking is free, donations are encouraged and accepted to help support Orange Beach Schools. By volunteering your time or making a small donation, you’re helping the local schools and ensuring the festival continues to thrive.
Why You Should Attend
Whether you’re local to Orange Beach or visiting from out of town, the 33rd Annual Orange Beach Seafood Festival and MAAAC Car Show is a must-attend event. You’ll not only have a fantastic time with your family and friends but also make a tangible impact on the future of local education. The event is a celebration of the community, its traditions, and its shared commitment to supporting local schools and students.
Mark your calendars for Saturday, February 22nd, 2025, and don’t miss the opportunity to experience one of the Gulf Coast’s most exciting and beloved festivals. Whether you’re there for the seafood, the cars, or the community spirit, the Orange Beach Seafood Festival and MAAAC Car Show is an event that will make lasting memories for you and your family.
For more information about the festival or to register your vehicle for the car show, be sure to visit the MAAAC website or reach out to Melaine Bennett at 251-200-8037. We can’t wait to see you there!
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