New Year, New Thrills to Experience on the Gulf Coast
Jessica Taylor • January 1, 2024
From Chilly Dips to Hot Beats… This Week’s Things to-Do List
It’s a brand-new week and the first day of the new year. We’ve lined up several fun things to start this year off with a bang.
This week is filled with interesting traditions, great food, beach cruising and a touch of reminiscing for those oldies but goodies classics.
Monday, January 1st - Schools out, but some chaps will be diving into the Gulf of Mexico to test the waters at high noon. That’s right, it’s Flora-Bama's 40th annual Polar Bear Dip. The tradition itself dates back hundreds of years and many will take place all across the globe on January 1st and the Bama’s Polar Dip has become one of the most recognized in the nation. The dip will take place directly in front of the Bama and crowds are expected to reach numbers as high as thousands. Many will show up in costumes for a chance to outdo last year's highlights and possibly make a publication as national and local journalists come out to cover this mega event. Come as a spectator and enjoy one of the biggest beach parties of the year free draft and hot plate for those that brave the cool waters. For more on this event click here
https://www.obawebsite.com/historic-polar-bear-dip-on-january-1st
In Gulf Shores, Alabama, the annual Polar Bear Dip beckons brave participants to the Hangout, where they welcome the new year by plunging into the chilly Gulf waters. This beloved tradition, often characterized by costumes and festive cheer, draws a diverse crowd of locals and visitors alike, all eager to embrace the invigorating experience. The event not only marks a communal celebration of courage and renewal but also serves as a quirky and spirited testament to the unique coastal culture of Gulf Shores. Following the dip, attendees are typically treated to warmth and hospitality, with the Hangout providing hot drinks and live entertainment to complement the day's exhilarating start.
Flora-Bama Lounge
17401 Perdido Key Dr
Perdido Key, FL 32507
The Hangout - Gulf Shores
101 E Beach Blvd.
Gulf Shores, AL 36542
https://www.thehangout.com/hangout-gulf-shores/
Tuesday, January 2nd - Get ready to cut loose and put on your best dance moves, it's time for a sock hop. The Sunliner Diner in Gulf Shores serves up hot fried delights and mild shakes every day of the week. On Tuesdays, they also clear the floor so everyone can get their boogie on. Originally started in the 50s and popular throughout the 60s, sock hops broke out mostly in old gymnasiums and the teens would take off their shoes and slide to the beats. Some eras never die or at least they see a comeback and good old-fashioned cheeseburgers shakes and cool cats are one pastime worthy of embracing. So come on down to the Sunliner and throw back to the good old days while hopping forward in the new year. The event starts at 8 AM for all your early birds and lasts all day. Admission free with full menu items available for purchase.
Sunliner Diner
100 E 2nd St
Gulf Shores, AL 36542
https://www.sunlinerdiner.com/
Wednesday, January 3rd - Why stop the chill with the Polar dip, try your hand with the automatic Polaris slingshot and cruise the beach roads and beyond in style. Gulf Coast rentals takes care of all the sandy beach needs as well as beach street needs, wants and desires. The slingshot is considered one of the best exotic vehicles that are available today. The shots and other bright-colored rentals like the jeep will amp up any visitor's vacation or locals' dream to own. Several rental period lengths are available to schedule the best cruising time for each family's needs. Let’s tighten up and get strapped in for one incredibly unique island expedition. Available for special event nights as well.
Gulf Coast Rental Co.
25150 Canal Rd suite B
Orange Beach, AL 36561
https://gulfcoastrentalco.com/
Thursday, January 4th - Family owned for 36 years, Mikee’s seafood is still one of the best and well-known seafood shacks on the island. Serving seafood is the specialty with a small amount of beef and chicken options for the land lovers. Mikee’s is also one of the few kitchens that offers the “you catch 'em we cook 'em” menu option. Such success over the years prompted owners Eddie Spence and David Cahoon to open up another success with the same great tastes and flavors on a no fry menu. The Steamer is located off the beaten path nestled behind souvenir city in Gulf Shores. This menu ranges from steamed crab, sweet royal reds, and palatable baked oysters with several between the bun options. No matter which restaurant you choose, your taste buds will thank you.
Mikee’s Seafood / The Steamer
205 E 2nd Ave / 124 W 1st Ave
Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Friday, January 5th - The new year is known for fresh shots and new beginnings. And it may be just the time to consider a different kind of fresh shot, a headshot that is. C-Shelz Photography has been capturing eloquent photos of beach goers and locals since she moved here in 2012. Her work also includes our island's sports, school photos and even events like the Flora-Bama’s famous Polar Dip. Revamp your business website, prepare the perfect portfolio or just update your LinkedIn account photo with a brand-new headshot. Call or book online today and start planning now for a brighter, better new year headshot and all. For more on C-Shelz and the work she offers, click here.
https://www.obawebsite.com/local/c-shelz-photography
C-Shelz Photography
25870 Bonito Ave
Orange Beach, AL 36561
Saturday, January 6th - Roll back the clock and join the crowd for a sensational performance encompassing the sounds of household favorite band, The Beatles. It’s not likely you'll run into anyone who hasn’t heard of this epic band of the time whose tunes still echo through generations. It's called The Return- A Tribute to The Beatles. OWA is dubbing it a transcending time performance that will “transport you back to the era that shaped a generation.” This promises to be more than just a tribute, just like the Beatles were more than just a band. Sit back or stand up for one night only and go back to a time when the music was art and the band a walking canvas causing listeners to take the time to think, to live and, “All you need is love.”
OWA Theatre
205 N OWA Blvd
Foley, AL 36535
https://visitowa.com/the-return/
Sunday, January 6th - Fireside Cocktails at The Gulf… Head over to the Gulf Restaurant for an unforgettable evening of cocktails by the fire. Sip on your favorite drinks, including specialty winter cocktails, while enjoying the cozy ambiance of a crackling fire. Whether you're a cocktail connoisseur or just looking for a fun night out, this event is perfect for you. The Gulf’s talented bartenders will be serving up a variety of delicious and creative craft cocktails that will tantalize your taste buds. So gather your friends and come on down to Fireside Cocktails for a night of warmth, laughter, and of course, amazing drinks!
• White Cranberry Margarita
• Coconut Pomegranate Mojito
• Peppermint Hot Cocoa
• Hot Buttered Rum See less
https://www.thegulf.com/locations/orange-beach/
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