A Week of Fireworks, Streamers and Polar Dips
Jessica Taylor • December 30, 2024
Locals welcome 2025 with many festivities
The Alabama Gulf Coast kicks off the New Year with an exciting lineup of events that cater to a variety of interests, from whimsical family outings to thrilling traditions and relaxing coastal escapes. Spanning from Foley to Orange Beach and Gulf Shores, the week ahead offers a blend of community celebrations, dining experiences, and outdoor adventures that highlight the unique charm of the region. Whether you're a local or a visitor, there's something to enjoy every day.
Monday, December 30th - Not ready to let go of the all that “glitters is gold” holiday feeling, check out the wonderfully wacky whimsical world of Yabba’s where everything feels a bit magical. A family-owned business dedicated to creating a timeless candy store experience for everyone started with humble beginnings as many do and rapidly grew. The passionate owners saw the need to expand joyfully, responding by offering thousands of candies, a diverse food menu, milkshakes and sundaes, homemade fudge, and over 15 varieties of handcrafted flavored popcorn at their now downtown Foley location that honors the original building's rich history. Stop by today and take a whirl in the wonder of hot fudge, candy scoops, shakes and more at Yabba’s. Never pass through downtown Foley without checking out some of the historical “trains, planes and automobiles” all around this more than a snack shack.
Yabbas Wacky Snack Shack
100 W Laurel Ave
Foley, AL 36535
Tuesday, December 31st - The last night of the year is fast approaching and the Alabama Gulf Coast has curated activities for each and every one to ring the new year in even those unable to hang until midnight. There are so many options, though some may be sold out due to the late date. Check out the article below for some top choices in the area.
RSVP or Buy Tickets to New Year's Events
Wednesday, January 1st - The “baby it’s cold outside” season isn’t over just yet get suited up to get dipped, polar dipped that is. Plunge into the new year at Flora-Bama with a free plate of food and drink for your chillin' participation. Every January for the past 40 years, natives, travelers, journalists and media come to the line and be a part of this nationally recognized event. The idea is washing off the old and bringing in the new fresh and a tad cold. The Hangout in Gulf Shores recently jumped on the bur wagon, partnering with Kiwanis, bringing the West side an option to dip as well. Doors open for both events at 10AM with the actual plunge taking place at noon. Feeling extra motivated, join others for the annual “Nature Connect”, a two-mile trek through the state park stepping off at 9AM. Begin the year with excellent outdoors resolutions and wash off the old year refreshed and ready for a great 2025.
Flora-Bama Polar Dip
17401 Perdido Key Dr
Perdido Key, FL 32507
Thursday, January 2nd - It’s never too early to get a head start in the tax race. Since the latter part of the 70s Grant Sanders & Taylor have been serving the locals with quality guidance ranging in all manner of financial business including security, viability, with a personal dedication to showing each client how to reach goals while also being proactive in their own businesses' success. Not only is Grant Sanders & Taylor a full-service accounting firm you can trust from their history, it’s one you can call a neighbor. Completely locally sourced, owned and operated, this is one local business worth placing your stock and barrel in. Open availability as this is an online provider offering resources and assistance in the process of tax and any and all financial decision-making. Future clients may visit the website listed below as well as call or email with any questions. Get ahead of the rush and push your taxes through by contacting Grant Sanders & Taylor, a local brand name you can count on.
Grant Sanders & Taylor
1530 West 2nd St
P.O Box 2109
Gulf Shores, AL 36547
(251) 968–2727
Fax- (251) 968-7430
Friday, January 3rd - The Sunliner is excited to announce new weekly fun with Card Night every Friday from 4-6PM. The whole family can get in on the action and make it a memory making event. Bring your loved ones, friends, or make some new ones for this free night of card games. While you're at it, indulge in the mouth-watering Friday Fish and Chips special. Savor the crispy beer battered North Atlantic cod paired with crispy fried pickles, golden french fries, and zesty tartar sauce. It’s a great meal to fuel your competitive spirit to win the games. Don’t let Friday pass you by without experiencing this perfect blend of thrilling games, tasty food and good company seconds from the white sandy beaches of Gulf Shores. Make the Sunliner your go-to spot for fun with the whole crew, no age cap.
Sunliner Diner
100 E 2nd Ave
Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Saturday, January 4th - Throughout the year the Gulf State Park offers opportunities for the public to meet and ask questions about some of the local wildlife. Often these are rescues being rehabilitated that you may or may not see again though sometimes you get lucky enough to meet a lifer like the one-eyed Archimedes, a female Eastern Screech-Owl. These incredible animals get the honor of being official animal ambassador’s during their time at the center and Archimedes has represented 14 years and counting, which makes her an "old lady" for a screech owl. In the wild outdoors, screech owls typically live to 5–7 years old as a result of their small size making them easy prey, which makes Archi one very unique screech owl. When you live full-time indoors as an outdoor raptor, the team at the park makes sure to etch out plenty of time for fun with ‘Raptor Recess.’ Located at the Nature Center, onlookers can meet up and take play time with these special raptors like Archimedes soaking up the sun with them while watching as they participate in some enriching fundamental activities offering great insight into their day to day. Registration is not required but preferred, begins at 10AM, come out to meet and greet while enjoying watching these raptors play.
Gulf State Park Nature Center
Sunday, January 5th - Nothing beats brunch by the water catching waves while getting caught in the breeze. The Gulf in Orange Beach represents an ideal coastal retreat great for slow Saturday and Sunday’s. Pop by the enchanting Gulf side venue offering a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere that ensures all guests feel comfortable and cozy. The special brunch menu offers a similar showcasing to the main menu with elegant rustic cuisine, establishing The Gulf as a destination known for its seasonal menus crafted from the freshest local ingredients by top local chefs year round. The venue’s design incorporates shipping containers, along with reclaimed, recycled, and salvaged materials, which harmoniously blend with the surrounding “leave only footprints” nature first overall aesthetic appeal of locals protecting the sand and land around the Alabama Gulf Coast. Be sure to check out the bar adeptly reflecting the ambiance and preferences of the moment, watching boats and cruises pass by in an unofficial wave parade, while sitting back while attentive staff work to create a harmonious atmosphere for each guest's personal occasion no matter what day of week.
The Gulf - OB
27500 Perdido Beach Blvd
Orange Beach, AL 36561
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