Experience the Excitement of Mardi Gras Along the Gulf Coast

Mardi Gras is more than just a celebration; it’s a vibrant fusion of tradition, culture, and community spirit, especially along the Gulf Coast. From Orange Beach to Gulf Shores, the festivities are in full swing, offering something for everyone—from lively parades and unforgettable live music to exciting family-friendly events.

Kick Off the Fun with Moon Pies on Main

Mardi Gras festivities begin in full swing on Monday, March 3rd, with the exciting “Moon Pies on Main” event at The Wharf in Orange Beach. This lively celebration, held on Lundi Gras, offers something for everyone, whether you’re a local or a visitor. The event kicks off in the early afternoon with a fun-filled parade that includes kids, pets, and of course, dazzling floats. The parade itself is a feast for the eyes, with vibrant colors, music, and laughter filling the air.

One of the highlights of this event is the fantastic lineup of activities for families. If you have little ones or furry companions, the day promises endless entertainment. Enjoy pony rides, bouncy houses, a rock wall, face painting, and more. The walking and strolling parade for kids and pets begins at 4 PM, so be sure to arrive early to gather in Palms Plaza, which is conveniently located near the Ferris wheel. And don’t forget to deck out your kids and pets in festive Mardi Gras attire—decorations and beads are encouraged!

As the evening progresses, the fun doesn’t stop. At sunset, stick around for the bead-catching night float parade, which begins at 6 PM. It’s a magical way to cap off the day and kickstart the Mardi Gras season in style. Whether you’re enjoying the activities or catching beads during the parade, Moon Pies on Main offers a fantastic way for families to immerse themselves in the festive spirit.

Fat Tuesday: The Heart of Mardi Gras Celebrations

The fun continues on Fat Tuesday, March 4th, with two major parades that will get your Mardi Gras spirit soaring. First up is the Gulf Shores Mardi Gras Parade at 10 AM. This iconic event, hosted by Baldwin County’s oldest parade organization, draws large crowds eager to witness the vibrant floats and spirited performances. As with all great Mardi Gras parades, it’s a day of fun and excitement for the whole family.

Following the Gulf Shores parade, head over to Orange Beach for the second parade of the day, which kicks off at 2 PM. This parade is equally thrilling, featuring floats from local krewes like the Order of Disorder, Order of Aurora, and the fabulous Maidens in Pink Stilettos. In addition to the eye-catching floats, you’ll see energetic performances from local high school bands, cheerleaders, and other community groups that add to the charm and excitement of the event.

If you’re looking for a great spot to enjoy the Orange Beach parade, consider heading to CoastAL Restaurant, where you can indulge in delicious treats like free king cake and jambalaya while taking in the festivities. Fat Tuesday is a day of celebration, and these parades are just the beginning of the Mardi Gras fun.

Midweek Relaxation at Midday Melodies

After the whirlwind of Mardi Gras parades, why not unwind a bit? On Wednesday, March 5th, head over to Foley’s Heritage Park for Midday Melodies, a delightful live music event that takes place every Wednesday in March. The event kicks off at 11 AM and features an eclectic mix of tunes that will help you relax and enjoy the beautiful spring weather.

This is the perfect opportunity to grab your picnic blanket or lawn chair, relax under the sun, and soak in some great live music. Whether you’re enjoying lunch with friends or simply basking in the festive atmosphere, Midday Melodies offers a calming break from the more action-packed Mardi Gras events. Each week, the music lineup changes, and this week you’ll get to enjoy the tunes of Zack Chavers. The best part? It’s free to attend, and the surrounding park offers plenty of free parking, making it easy for everyone to enjoy.

Happy Hour at Cosmos in Orange Beach

For those looking to enjoy some fantastic food and drinks while continuing the celebration, Thursday, March 6th, presents the perfect opportunity. From 4 PM to 6 PM, head over to Cosmos Restaurant in Orange Beach for one of the best happy hours on the island. The casual yet stylish atmosphere of Cosmos is perfect for relaxing with friends or family.

During happy hour, you can enjoy craft beers, house wines, and the restaurant’s signature Firecracker Shrimp, lightly dusted with spicy rémoulade. If you’re not in the mood for seafood, don’t worry—Cosmos has a wide selection of dishes to satisfy any palate. Try the cheese dip, indulge in decadent cheesecake, or opt for something heartier like banana-wrapped sea bass or chicken Alfredo. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick snack or settling in for a full meal, Cosmos offers the perfect setting to enjoy delicious food and drinks while taking in the laid-back atmosphere of Orange Beach.

Barbecue and Blues Cook-Off

Friday, March 7th, ushers in one of the Gulf Coast’s most popular events—the Barbecue and Blues Cook-Off. Taking place in Foley’s Heritage Park, this annual event is a must-visit for anyone who loves great food, great music, and a good time. Since its inception in 2009, the Barbecue and Blues Cook-Off has grown into one of the region’s most anticipated events. The cook-off is a Kansas City Barbecue Society-sanctioned competition, where teams battle it out for bragging rights while serving up mouthwatering barbecue for festival-goers.

What makes this event even more special is the combination of live blues performances and delicious food. Whether you’re a fan of smoky ribs, tender pulled pork, or juicy brisket, the food at this event will not disappoint. The festival also features fun activities for children, making it a family-friendly celebration that everyone can enjoy. Tickets are sold at the gate for $10, with the proceeds benefiting the South Baldwin Chamber Foundation and local schools, so you can feel good while indulging in some of the best barbecue around.

Orange Beach Festival of Art

On Saturday, March 8th, the Orange Beach Waterfront Park plays host to the 51st Annual Orange Beach Festival of Art. This prestigious event, open from 10 AM on both Saturday and Sunday, is a celebration of creativity and culture, bringing together the work of both local and national artists. Recognized as one of the top 100 fine art and design shows in the country, the festival showcases a diverse range of visual art, from paintings and sculptures to jewelry and photography.

But this festival isn’t just about art—it’s also about entertainment and community. With two stages featuring live music and performances, the festival offers a full sensory experience for all attendees. Plus, there’s a kids’ art gallery where young ones can explore their creativity, as well as a shaded playground area for toddlers. The best part? The festival is completely free to attend! And if you’re feeling hungry, the festival offers a wide range of delicious food options, including local seafood and homemade frozen treats.

The Quirky Adult Spelling Bee at Flora-Bama

Rounding out the Mardi Gras festivities on Sunday, March 9th, is the quirky adult spelling bee at Flora-Bama. This unique event is not your average spelling competition. Participants, who must be 21 or older, will face off in a high-stakes spelling challenge that will have everyone laughing, cheering, and maybe even second-guessing their spelling skills. It’s a fun, lighthearted event that brings a little bit of humor to the end of a busy Mardi Gras weekend.

Even if you’re not competing, this event is open to the public, so you can join in on the fun as a spectator. Whether you’re there to cheer on a friend or just to enjoy the hilarious atmosphere, the adult spelling bee at Flora-Bama is a must-attend for anyone looking for a good laugh.

Celebrate Mardi Gras on the Gulf Coast

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time resident, there’s no better time to experience the Gulf Coast than during Mardi Gras. From parades and cook-offs to art festivals and quirky competitions, this season is filled with something for everyone. So, grab your beads, put on your best Mardi Gras attire, and get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime. The Gulf Coast’s Mardi Gras celebrations are waiting for you!