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Get the Jump on Celebrating Spring in Gulf Shores

March is not only one of the most beautiful months that you can spend in Gulf Shores, but also one of the most entertaining! Between concerts, festivals, and more, visitors who decide to come to Gulf Shores during March will have no shortage of fun and fantastic things to do while they’re here.

Below, we’ve put together a brief list of just a handful of the many events that will be taking place in Gulf Shores during March that you won’t want to miss. We hope that you enjoy these events as much as we will!

The Emerald Coast Golf Tour Kickoff

On March 8th through 10th, the renowned Kiva Dunes Golf Club will host a tournament benefitting kids participating in junior golf. From 9:00am until 4:00pm on those days, golfers can pay $100 to play, and public spectators can watch the event for free. Lunch is provided for players during the event, and awards will be presented in the clubhouse after the event.

The 43rd Annual Festival of Art

Held in Orange Beach each year, the Festival of Art celebrates the talents of artists specializing in watercolor, textiles, wood, paint, sculpture, pottery, glass, and even culinary and musical arts. This year’s celebrations will take place on March 11th and March 12th, from 10:00am until 5:00pm daily at the Waterfront Park. Admission is free to the public, and public parking is available.

Luke Bryan Concert at The Wharf

The legendary country music performer Luke Bryan will pay a visit to Gulf Shores with special guests Brett Eldredge and Brett Young on March 17th and March 18th, playing at the Amphitheater at The Wharf from 7:00pm until 10:00pm on both nights. General admission to the pit seating costs $79.75, and reserved seating is priced at $79.75 and $39.75.

2017 Wharf Boat and Yacht Show

In March of each year, vendors and dealers in fine watercraft gather in Orange Beach to showcase the latest and greatest in marine technology to the public. Admission is priced at $10.00 per person, though kids ages twelve and under may enter for free. This event will take place on March 23rd through March 26th, from 10:00am to 7:00pm each day.

The Original German Sausage Festival

During the last Saturday of March and October of every year for the past forty years, the nearby town of Elberta hosts a free, fun, and delicious German sausage festival that benefits Elberta’s volunteer fire department and other local nonprofit organizations. This year, the festival will be on March 25th from 8:00am until 5:00pm.

Harris Properties – Your Guides to Gulf Shores

To learn more information about the exciting upcoming events that Gulf Shores has to offer when you book your stay in one of the lovely local Harris Properties vacation rentals in the area, contact our team of dedicated reservation specialists and ask about what you can expect to do or see during your time here!

The 43rd Annual Orange Beach Festival of Art is Coming!

For the last 43 years in Orange Beach, Alabama, you always knew that spring had arrived when the incredible festivities of the Orange Beach Festival of Art ensued. Well, it is about that time of year again, and the festival goers around here can barely contain their excitement because they know that 43rd annual celebration will be just as memorable as each one before it! Here is what you can look forward to at this year’s two-day celebration on March 11th and 12th, 2017 at Alabama’s premiere art festival.

Amazing Art

As the name suggests, the festival is all about celebrating art, and the featured artists will not disappoint. Between the over 100 artists that show up at the festival, you will find every type of art imaginable, such as wood-working pieces, watercolors, oil paintings, jewelry, clay, fish prints, and everything in between. There is so much variety that everyone in attendance is sure to be captivated by the work here—even those who are not artistically inclined.

While you are being visually captivated, you can also enjoy amazing live music acts. You can experience everything from solo folk artists to 8-piece rock bands, all of which embody the casual pace of life on Orange Beach. The best part of this amazing festival is that it is completely FREE!!

The Featured Artist of 2017

This year’s featured artist is Bobby Goldsmith, who happens to be the Best of Show Winner of 2016. He is a known pencil artist, and works with graphite to make his beautiful art. He strives to bring the viewer into his life. He invites them to see and feel things from his perspective, at that particular point in time. He’s an amazing landscape artist, and we are more than happy to have him this year!

Things to Do

Between enjoying the sights and sounds of all the amazing art here, you can enjoy some leisurely activities. There are endless opportunities to do some art of your own, with crafts and painting lessons, and the kids art alley makes this the perfect event for the whole family.

Of course, no celebration in Alabama would complete without amazing food with great friends. That is why the festival provides some of the most delicious food that you will find at any festival. Countless food options with a special emphasis on Southern and coastal cuisine will be available at affordable prices. Some of the area’s favorite restaurants and specialty food and drink shops will be attendance. You will find that the events and displays here all share an emphasis on easy coast living, something that is not difficult to embrace on this beautiful beach.

What you have at the Annual Orange Beach Festival of Art is an amazing collection of artists and the people who love art. It is an unforgettable experience that will have you coming back to this amazing location year after year. Make the trip out to the Alabama coast and experience the best ever Orange Beach Festival of Art.

Where You Can Find It

The easiest way to get there is to find parking at the Wharf, take a $2.00 shuttle to:

26389 Canal Rd, Orange Beach, AL 36561

(251) 981-2787

Or, click here for further directions! To learn more, check out the website: orangebeachartcenter.com today!

The Top 5 Can’t-Miss Events in Gulf Shores

No matter what time of year you decide to come visit, there are several constants in Gulf Shores: the beautiful climate of tropical weather, the breathtaking natural environment, and the plethora of fun-filled activities and events that you can experience here.

With as many events as there are in Gulf Shores, there are some that naturally rise to the top of our list of the events you won’t want to miss. Continue reading on to learn more about five of the events that you should absolutely check out in Gulf Shores!

The Gulf Shores Mardi Gras Parade

When: February 28, 2017 from 10:00am until 11:00am

Where: Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores, AL 36542

Each year during Mardi Gras, the city of Gulf Shores kicks off its celebrations in style with its very own parade. Beginning with the famous Pleasure Island Players and the Mystic Order of Shiners, this annual end-of-February parade—one of the oldest in all of Baldwin county—has thrills and entertainment galore.

The Wharf Boat and Yacht Show

When: March 23-26, 2017 from 10:00am until 7:00pm daily

Where: 4550 Main St., Orange Beach, AL 36561

Taking place near the end of March every year, the Wharf Boat and Yacht Show showcases the latest models from boat manufacturers and dealers throughout the southeastern United States. With vessels, marine electronics, engines, outdoor equipment, and fishing gear on display worth millions of dollars, there’s no shortage of cool items to see!

The Hangout Music Festival

When: May 19-21, 2017 from 11:00am until 12:00am daily

Where: Gulf Shores Public Beach at 101 E. Beach Blvd., Gulf Shores, AL 36542

This annual three-day music event takes place every May, the weekend before Memorial Day, on the beach of Gulf Shores and highlights the musical talents of a myriad of artists across multiple genres. Ranging from local up-and-comers to musical giants, the lineup of this fantastic festival includes artists like Weezer, Shaggy, Chance the Rapper, Twenty One Pilots, Band of Horses, The Strumbellas, and more.

The Blue Marlin Grand Championship of the Gulf

When: July 12-16, 2017 daily

Where: 4673 Wharf Parkway, Orange Beach, AL 36561

Each July, Orange Beach becomes the home of one of the most incredible fishing competitions in all of the Southeast. Anglers from all over gather to attempt to catch the greatest-sized blue marlin of them all, according to specifications set by the competition. Come test your skills out on the water!

The Annual National Shrimp Festival

When: October 12-15, 2017 from 10:00am until 10:00pm daily

Where: Gulf Shores Public Beach at 101 E. Beach Blvd., Gulf Shores, AL 36542

Attracting upwards of three hundred thousand people each fall, the Annual National Shrimp Festival brings together musical entertainment from all around the country, freshly caught seafood prepared by award-winning chefs, sand sculpture contests, activities for children, arts and crafts, fine art, car shows, 5k and 10k races, outdoor activities like fishing and hunting, and a singing competition involving local high school singers competing to win scholarships. It’s got something for everyone!

Let Harris Properties Help You Plan Your Next Tropical Escape!

Contact our team of reservation specialists to find out information about these events and more of the exciting activities and attractions that await you in Gulf Shores when you decide to choose the lovely vacation rental properties that are available through Harris Properties for your trip accommodations today.

Plan your Wedding in Gulf Shores, Alabama

Celebrate the Beginning of Your “Happily Ever After” in a Tropical Paradise

Nothing puts you in the perfect carefree mindset for the happiest day of your life quite like having your wedding somewhere warm, tropical, and lovely. No matter what time of year you decide to plan your special day, chances are good that the weather and the scenery in Gulf Shores, Alabama is better than any other venue you might be considering at home.

Situated along the pristine white sand along the Gulf of Mexico, the beachside city of Gulf Shores is replete with wonderful locales for holding your ceremony and reception. It’s the ultimate seaside destination for a wedding on the beach!

However, if you’re considering having your wedding in Gulf Shores, there are a few insider tips that you may want to consider to make your life easier! Continue reading on below to learn more!

Tips for Planning a Destination Wedding in Gulf Shores

If you’re an Alabama resident and are planning your wedding in Gulf Shores, you’ll need to get your license in your home county or at the Baldwin County Courthouse in Bay Minette. The address for the courthouse is 220 Courthouse Square, Bay Minette, AL 36507, and the phone number is (251) 937-0260. To receive your license, you’ll need to bring two forms of identification, such as a certified copy of your birth certificate and a valid driver’s license. The marriage license itself costs $70.00.

Location

If you are having a smaller ceremony, 10 – 20 people, renting a beach front home and having the wedding right there may be the best option. The beaches of West Beach in Gulf Shores and the beaches out in Fort Morgan are perfect for this because they are more secluded and uncrowded.

If your party is going to be larger, you will want to consider having the ceremony at one of the State Park beaches. You will need to contact them for a permit at (251) 948-7275. They also have venues to host the wedding ceremony and/or the reception. Please provide a hyper link that will load in a new-tab: http://www.alapark.com/Gulf-State-Park-Beach-Weddings

Photography

If you’re planning a wedding on the beach, the best time to hold the ceremony is generally around sunset, when you’ll encounter the best light for photography. Local photographers like the ones listed below can help you plan the perfect shots for your wedding.

Paisley Studios Photography
Julie Adamson:
Paisleystudiosphotography.com
(251) 622-8085

Andrea McDaniel Photography:
ajmphotography.net/
(850) 687-5773

Shore Shooters Beach Photography:
232 Professional Court, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
(866) 856-2435

In Gulf Shores, you’ll also find a number of ministers, wedding planners, and photographers eager to assist you with your big day. Below, we’ve put together a list of a few great businesses to help you get started.

A’Gape Wedding Service:
(251) 709-8220

Tammi May – Ordained Minister:
800-215-6695

Gulf Coast Wedding Minister:
(251) 709-5007

Event Rentals

Southern Sass Weddings & Events – Intimate Beach & Vintage Weddings:
Tammi May
southernsass.weddings@yahoo.com

Big Day Weddings:
orangebeachgulfshoresweddings.com
(251) 223-7430

Sand Dollar Beach Weddings & Receptions:
sanddollarbeachweddings.com
(251) 223-9013

Let Harris Properties Help You with Your Dream Wedding!

Contact our reservation specialists to find out more information on the best spots in Gulf Shores for breathtaking sightseeing and other extraordinary touches to your special day when you book your stay today in one of the gorgeous vacation rental properties that are available through Harris Properties.

Make the Resolution to Travel More and See the Splendor of Gulf Shores This Year!

As people around the world begin to tally up their list of New Year’s resolutions, you may find yourself searching for a resolution that will provide you with the change of pace that you need to make life more exciting and enjoyable. This year, instead of focusing on just losing weight and living healthier physically, why not resolve to treat yourself to something fun and good for the soul as well?

Weight-loss, exercise, and living healthier are fine and all, but nothing beats the experience of sharing fun-filled vacation memories with your loved ones in a beautiful tropical locale like Gulf Shores, Alabama. Now more than ever, Gulf Shores is the perfect place to plan the vacation of a lifetime. Continue on to learn more about why 2017 will be the best year to visit Gulf Shores!

5 Reasons Why 2017 Will Be the Best Time to Plan Your Gulf Shores Vacation

Below, we’ve put together a list of just a handful of the many reasons why this year will be an exciting time to visit Gulf Shores. If you’ve been waiting for the right time, consider these reasons as a motivation to plan your vacation here now instead of later!

Festivals, Events, and Attractions Year-Round

No matter what time of year you decide to come visit, 2017 has plenty to offer in terms of Gulf Shores entertainment. Watch college football at the 2017 Reese’s Senior Bowl, live it up at the Gulf Shores Mardi Gras Parade, or angle your biggest catch yet at the Blue Marlin Grand Championship. The options are endless!

Great Weather in Every Season

All year long, Gulf Shores experiences fantastic weather, complete with sunshine-filled days and clear, breezy nights. Never too hot or too cold, it’s the ideal place to make your tropical getaway. Book your stay in September or October and see why the locals call this the best time to be at the beaches. The fall season features weather in the mid 80’s, low humidity, and lower prices!

Outdoor Activities Galore

In such a warm and sunny place, you’ll find that there are all sorts of fun things to do outside. Boating, fishing, kayaking, and lounging in the sand are some of the best ways to take advantage of the wonderful weather.

Incredible Music Heading Your Way

You don’t have to drive all the way to Coachella to encounter good times and great tunes! With musicians like Luke Bryan coming into town this March, Gulf Shores will be a concert hotspot. The annual Hangout Music Festival held each May is also a hit. This year’s lineup will feature artists like Weezer, Band of Horses, MGMT, Mumford & Sons, Twenty One Pilots, Young the Giant, Bishop Briggs, Joseph, The Strumbellas, and Franz Ferdinand.

Awesome Vacation Rentals for You to Enjoy

Gulf Shores is home to a multitude of incredible vacation rentals, such as those offered by Harris Properties. In a vacation rental, you can have more space and privacy than a single hotel room could possibly offer, all situated in the tropical beauty of Gulf Shores.

Harris Properties – Your Guide to Gulf Shores

Contact our reservations team to find out more information about what you can expect during your time in Gulf Shores when you book your stay in one of the fabulous vacation rentals available through Harris Properties today!

Gulf Shores, AL Travel Guide: The Best Places for Eating, Sightseeing, and Hitting the Beach

Nestled along the Gulf Coast of Alabama, Gulf Shores is a lively beach town with plenty to do and see, making it the ideal vacation destination for when you want to escape to the beach for a long weekend. While you’re here, be sure to check out some of the area’s best restaurants, sightseeing hotspots, and scenic beach locales! Below, we’ve put together a brief list of just a few of the many great places that you should visit when you want to have a great time in Gulf Shores. We hope that you enjoy these spots as much as we do!

Restaurants

Bahama Bob’s Beach Side Café has some of the freshest, most delectable seafood around. When you’re feeling peckish for cuisine straight out of the ocean, try Bahama Bob’s coconut shrimp, fried crawfish, or the fresh shrimp salad po’ boy sandwich. Wash it all down with the restaurant’s signature cocktail, the Bahama Bob.

If you’re in the mood for something other than seafood, try the hearty breakfast and brunch options at Kitty’s Kafe. Their eggs benedict and country breakfast dishes are to die for, and their Bloody Mary cocktails are a steal for only two dollars.

Attractions

For a taste of local natural environment of the Gulf Coast, you’ll want to visit the beautiful and tranquil Wade Ward Nature Park. Between its breathtaking views of the wetlands from the boardwalk and its fascinating wildlife, Wade Ward Nature Park is a fun way to experience Gulf Shores outdoors. If you have your pet with you, you may also want to check out the Gulf Shores Dog Park, where your furry companion can explore to their heart’s content.

Beaches

No trip to Gulf Shores is complete without soaking up the warm Alabama sunshine on the beach! Gulf Shores Public Beach is renowned for its pristine, soft white sand and its idyllic views of the Gulf of Mexico. Stretching for over six miles, this beach connects to West Beach, both of which provide unbeatable sightseeing opportunities. Here, you can gaze out over the crystal-clear waters and let the tide wash your cares out to sea.

Plan the Vacation of a Lifetime with Harris Properties

Contact our dedicated reservations team to learn more about what awaits you in Gulf Shores when you book your stay in one of the fabulous beach homes available through Harris Properties!

Come Experience the Warm Sun and Holiday Cheer of Gulf Shores, Alabama!

As temperatures drop and the rest of the country begins to turn chilly, the lovely beach town of Gulf Shores is far, far removed from the frigid winds, icy rain, and slowly building snow you might see elsewhere. Our temperatures may feel more like a summertime beach, resting comfortably in the 60s to mid-70s and dropping to the low 50s to high 40s at night for the majority of the season, but we still celebrate the winter season in style. Read on to learn more about the fantastic events and other holiday festivities coming to Gulf Shores in 2016!

Gulf Shores Activities During the Holiday Season

Beginning November 3rd and ending November 13th, Gulf Shores will host the 32nd Annual Frank Brown International Songwriter’s Festival, where festival-goers can have an intimate concert experience, attend listening rooms, and learn more about the stories behind the songs written.

On November 4th and 5th, you can satisfy your oyster cravings at the 9th Annual Oyster Cook-Off at The Hangout, where celebrity chefs and breweries from across the country team up with local chefs and brew masters to cook delicious seafood and serve delectable craft beers with live music.

Local institution Flora-Bama hosts its annual Thanksgiving Potluck on November 24th to take the stress out of your Thanksgiving preparations and share with the community, while the Santa Drop on December 10th allows kids to see Santa drop into Gulf Shores by airplane and safely land on the gorgeous white sand beaches behind Flora-Bama!

From November 25th through December 31st, the Bellingrath Gardens and Home—a beautiful historic home with extensive and exquisite gardens—are open for the Magic Christmas in Lights event, with the exception of Christmas Day. This holiday light display features over 15 scenes comprised of 1,000 set pieces and 3 million lights, spread throughout the entirety of the 65-acre estate gardens and accompanied by nightly choral performances, free-flowing hot chocolate, and opportunities to take photos with Santa!

To make the trip to Bellingrath Gardens even more memorable (and save yourself a few hours of driving), take the beautiful Mobile Bay Ferry from Fort Morgan at Mobile Point to Fort Gaines on Dauphin Island. This scenic trip takes just 40 minutes and offers a breathtaking view of the Bay and its inhabitants, including various birds and marine life. To learn more about the Mobile Bay Ferry, visit www.mobilebayferry.com.

Let Us Help You Plan the Trip of a Lifetime!

At Harris Properties, we love sharing the beauty of our little town on the Alabama Gulf Coast by providing high-quality vacation rental properties and superior customer service. Having a nice to place to stay and friendly staff members to help you out only sweetens the vacation experience!

Contact our dedicated team of reservation specialists today to reserve a slice of tropical paradise along the Gulf of Mexico in Gulf Shores!