This week, the Gulf Coast is bustling with an array of exciting events for everyone to enjoy. From theatrical performances and live concerts to markets, festivals, and community gatherings, there's something for all interests. Foley High School Theatre kicks off the week with their production of "Silent Sky," while Saucy Fuzz takes the stage at The Hangout for a night of indie rock vibes. Midday Melodies bring music to Heritage Park, followed by the 51st Annual National Shrimp Festival offering four days of food, art, and fun. Whether you're looking to relax with live music, explore local arts and crafts, or indulge in delicious seafood, there's plenty to experience along the Gulf Coast this week.

Monday, October 7th - Follow the true life story of astronomer Henietta Leavitt for an epic tale that explores a woman’s place in society during a time of scientific breakthroughs and personal discoveries. Foley High School Theatre Department students have risen to the challenge with music and math intertwining onstage. Lauren Gunderson’s ‘ Silent Sky’ highlights the life and work of the 19th century astronomer as she and her pals' research make some big thinking  changes. Learn about some riveting women who acted out live on stage  for remarkable performances Monday-Thursday starting at 6:30 PM and let this true story inspire a little bravery in the unknown in all of us. 

Foley Civic Center

407 E Laurel Ave

Foley, AL 36535

Click here for more information.

Tuesday, October 8th - It’s time to get saucy in the sand with ‘Saucy Fuzz’ live at the Hangout, where 59 ends and the fun begins. Join the local performers as they hype up the audience with both their instrumental talents and lyrical uniqueness. The well-known island band consists of the motley crew power trio, Mason Henderson, James Earl Henson and Kyle Thornton. All stage worthy in their own rights, the three bring a stage balance that can only be defined as a mix of rock/progressive and indie, bringing a blend of a most individual sound. Rock out under the stars with fans old and new at one of the hottest beach venues in town. Make it a night with dinner or just jams from 6-10pm.

The Hangout

101 E Beach Blvd

Gulf Shores, AL 36535

https://www.thehangout.com/events/

Wednesday, October 9th - Fall back in the swing of the season with, ‘ Midday Melodies’ live musical entertainment at lunchtime every Wednesday for the month of October in Foley. Nothing beats the crisp weather like a weekend in the park except lunch on the lawn taking in the great outdoors right in the mid-swing of the week. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to pack a picnic or check out some of the local eateries nearby and bring lunch with you for the show. The gathering will take place at Heritage park with plenty of room for blankets or chairs. The Masonic Lodge will be onsite with some concessions while ‘Wiley Pete Duo’ serenades the crowd from 11-2.

Midday Melodies @ Josh B. Foley Park

104 N McKenzie St

Foley, AL 36535

https://visitfoley.com/event/midday-melodies-2/2024-10-23/

Thursday, October 10th - Known as ‘locals day,’ Thursday opens the start of a weekend long island tradition that dates back to over half a century. Since 1971, this free festival has filled the beautiful beaches of Gulf Shores Alabama’s coastline with local and traveling vendors ready to serve. This year marks the 51st Annual National Shrimp Festival with no signs of slowing down, the event expects to see over 100,000 patrons over the 4-day-long fest. Each day and night will feature live entertainment and over 300+ food and art vendors. Guests may choose one day to peruse the shopping options where famous artists are sprinkled right alongside first time showcasers. A prime seasonal time Shrimp Festival makes it easy to snag holiday presents and stocking stuffers as well as personal purchases that support the local small-town communities. Not only is the event an anticipated date filled with traditions, the vendor's themselves have become much of a tradition, bringing back favorites such as the ‘Cajun Pistol’ or ‘Wild Bill's Soda.’ The weekend calls for many a time to see their favorite brands and bands,  grab that item they passed up the year before, indulge their taste buds, or try their hand at something new. No matter if you're a lifer at the ‘Shrimp Festival’ excited about what you know,  going for the first time, or looking to add something new to the mix, this is one worthwhile family tradition that’s not worth missing.

Shrimp Festival

Gulf Shores Public Beach

101 Gulf Shores Pkwy

Gulf Shores, AL 36561

https://www.myshrimpfest.com

Friday, October 11th - Perdido Key Area Chamber of Commerce presents the 2024 Red, White and Birdies, a Golf Scramble. Located at A.C. Read Golf Course on NAS Pensacola, starting at noon, member, non-member and military golfers will compete as individuals and in teams. Take a swing at some of the stiffest competitors on the mound all while enjoying the cool salty  October breeze for a good cause. This premier fundraising event will support military programs directly benefiting the local military community and other initiatives throughout the Perdido Key Area Chamber Foundation. Lunch will be served upon arrival and the tee off will follow immediately after. Join the town and local families for this fun and purposely golfing scramble. 

A.C. Read Golf Course, NAS
1313 Duncan Rd

Pensacola, FL 32508

Click here for more information.

Saturday, October 12th - Market isn't just for little piggies, Bear Point Fall Market is coming to the community center for one day only. Let’s go to the market. Grab your friends, it's time to jump right into the season with a spicy chili cook off where neighbors bring the best of their pots to stir up some exciting commotion with all manner of different flavors brewing up just in time for the tastings. Meet the close community as they share some of their finest woodworking, handmade jewelry, personal art and baked goods with the public. Explore the coastal scene through art and flavor in a style the way the locals do it. Experience a diverse selection of items from over a dozen vendors showcasing some crafty choice creations right in their own neighborhood from 9-4. 

The Community Center

Bear Point Civic Association 

5681 Bay La Launch Ave

Orange Beach, AL 36561

https://www.bearpointca.com/calendar.html

Sunday, October 13th - Feeling festive the season is prime for the taking with Luna’s Annual Oktoberfest. Every year the open courtyard is transformed into polka dancing, stein hoisting, and a traditional German festival operating in ticket style. Tickets to the event are $12 per person including a take home Luna’s koozie and a beer glass to use for the day and next time, with individual tickets available for other beer and food purchases. Tables will be lined up on the outside of the yard with makeshift bars and breweries to keep the glasses full and ready to toast. German food will be served while guests enjoy some modern polka music by the Brats, and plenty of festy games. The fun begins at 1PM and music halts outside around 5PM where the party can move inside to any of the courtyard restaurants. 

Luna’s Eat and Drink

25689 Canal Rd 

Orange Beach, AL 36561

Click here to purchase tickets.