Gulf Shores Events and Seasonal Activities

Oct 28 2020

10 of the Best Things to Do in Gulf Shores in December

Are you dreaming of a white-sand Christmas? Perhaps you need a warm-weather escape from the frigid temperatures of your hometown. With fewer crowds, lower rates, and mild weather, winter is one of the best times of the year to visit the Alabama Gulf Coast! Keep reading to learn about some of the best things to do in Gulf Shores in December and during the holiday season. There are plenty of festive activities and Christmas events for the whole family to enjoy!

When it comes to finding a home away from home for the holidays in Gulf Shores, Fort Morgan, and Orange Beach, Harris Vacation Rentals has you covered. Browse our list of gorgeous vacation rentals and find the perfect one for your group.

Top 10 Things To Do in Gulf Shores in December

From ice skating to boat parades to holiday celebrations, there are so many fun-filled things to do in Gulf Shores in December.

1. Christmas Lights at Bellingrath Gardens

If you’ve never visited Bellingrath Gardens and Home during the Christmas season, you are missing out on the experience of a lifetime! There are over three million twinkling lights and 15 holiday scenes spread throughout the 65-acre estate. As stroll through the gardens and past the Bellingrath Home that are completely decked out for the holidays, you’ll be dazzled by the phenomenal display.

2. Gulf Shores Christmas Parade

One of the most beloved December traditions in Gulf Shores is the annual Lighted Christmas Parade and Holiday Celebration. Each year on the first Friday of December, the street is lined with festive floats, marching bands, and all your favorite holiday characters. There’s no better way to get into the holiday spirit! Don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for Santa Claus sightings!

3. Annual Snowball Drop

Immediately following the Gulf Shores Christmas Parade is the highly-anticipated Snowball Drop, a human-made “blizzard” of over 4000 ping pong balls dropped from above. This family-friendly celebration includes photos with Santa, holiday treats, unique crafts, and more.

Note: This event has not yet been confirmed for 2020. Be sure to check the event website for up to date details.

4. Ice Skating at The Wharf

No winter season is complete without a day or night spent on the ice rink! Thankfully, The Wharf in Orange Beach features a fabulous ice-skating rink. Whether you’re celebrating a day out with the family or a romantic date night, grab a pair of skates and brace yourself for an exciting time on the ice.

5. Holiday Horse and Carriage Rides

Is there anything more magical than a horse-drawn carriage ride beneath the moonlight? When it comes to magical things to do in Orange Beach in December, this should be at the top of your list! Head to The Wharf for an enchanting evening. You’ll trot along the streets and gaze at the holiday lights and decorations with your loved ones.

6. The Baldwin Pops Christmas Concert

There’s no better way to get into the holiday spirit than by listening to a concert with all your favorite traditional Christmas tunes! The Baldwin Pops is an organization of volunteer musicians whose mission is to share music in a concert band format free of charge to Baldwin County citizens, and each year they perform in a highly-anticipated holiday concert. Seats are first-come, first-served, so we suggest arriving early!

Note: This event has not yet been confirmed for 2020. Be sure to check the event website for up to date details.

7. Christmas Lighted Boat Parade

Did you know that Gulf Shores hosts one of the largest holiday boat parades in the Southeast? The Annual Christmas Lighted Boat Parade occurs on the second Saturday of December 13th from 5 P.M. until 8:30 P.M. Line up and watch more than 45 decorated vessels sail along the Intracoastal Waterway.

8. Holiday Shopping

You can cross everyone off your shopping list when you go shopping along the Alabama Gulf Coast. From amazing deals at the Tanger Outlets to specialty boutiques at The Wharf to holiday gifts at the Merry Market, the shopping possibilities are endless!

9. Flora-Bama Christmas Potluck

If you’re visiting the Alabama Gulf Coast, you must visit the famous Flora Bama Lounge. One of their most popular annual events is their delicious Christmas Potluck. This event is perfect for those that don’t want to stay at home and do all the cooking on the holiday. Whether you’ve been naughty or nice, this potluck is a time for a gathering of friends and family! Bring a covered side dish or dessert to share and enjoy live music while you dine!

10. Enjoy the Great Outdoors

With uncrowded shorelines and beautiful weather, winter is one of the best times for a Gulf Shores vacation. Many of our first-time guests ask us if you can swim in Gulf Shores in December. The average temperatures range from the low 50’s to mid 60’s during this time of year, which is a bit too chilly for swimming. However, the weather is perfect for strolling the shoreline, golfing, fishing, or simply enjoying the sunshine!

Make It a December to Remember With Harris Vacation Rentals

Now that you know about all the best things to do in Gulf Shores in December, it’s time to start planning your trip! If you’re searching for accommodations along the Alabama coastline, Harris Vacation Rentals has got you covered. We offer a wide array of sizeable family-friendly vacation rentals in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan. Whether you prefer a pet-friendly rental or a beachfront home, we are sure to have the ideal property for your group!

Browse our availability and find the perfect property for your holiday beach vacation. We’ll see you soon!

Sep 14 2020

Here Are the Best Things To Do in Gulf Shores in November

The Alabama Gulf Coast is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the summer. Fort Morgan, Gulf Shores, and Orange Beach are all top-notch cities with a plethora of things to do. We don’t think you should overlook this area if you’re looking to get away in the fall, though. We’ll tell you about some of the best things to do in Gulf Shores in November and other surrounding areas.

Don’t forget to book your Gulf Shores vacation home with Harris Vacation Rentals. We’ve got the best properties around!

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The Best Things To Do in Gulf Shores in November

Dine at Outstanding Restaurants

It isn’t out of the norm in July and August to wait an hour for a table at local restaurants. Although we think it’s worth the wait, you can also avoid the crowds and visit in the off-season. In November, you won’t have to wait for your name to be called while your stomach is growling. Some of our favorite mouthwatering eateries are:

Taste Delicious Oysters

If you’re a fan of oysters, you know that you’re not supposed to eat oysters unless it’s during a month that ends in the letter “r.” That means November is the perfect time to slurp down this seafood delicacy. Some fantastic spots to get your hands on fresh oysters from the Gulf of Mexico are:

Visit Alabama Gulf State Park

Temperatures in Gulf Shores in November usually sit between 60 and 70 degrees. Although that means it’s too chilly to swim, it’s still an ideal climate to enjoy outdoor activities. At Alabama Gulf State Park, you’ll find a plethora of things to do, including:

Paddleboard and kayak on Lake Shelby
Play a round of golf
Explore the Nature Center and take a guided tour of the park
And more!

Participate in the Vacasa Coastal Half Marathon & 5k Run

There’s no better way to burn off those turkey and mashed potato calories than with a fun-filled race during Thanksgiving weekend. You’ll run through the scenic Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail system and be surrounded by breathtaking scenery. With three different courses/distances, there really is something for everyone!

1-mile fun run
5k run
Half marathon

Finish Your Christmas Shopping

If you visit Gulf Shores in November, Christmas is right around the corner. Make a dent in your Christmas shopping list and head to the outlet mall in Foley, AL. You’ll head north and drive for about 20 minutes, and then you’ll arrive at Tanger Outlets. Shop until you drop and receive significant savings on many name brands, including:

Nike
Polo Ralph Lauren
Vera Bradley
And more!

Don’t forget to check out these stores on Black Friday for even bigger discounts!

Enjoy a Memorable Thanksgiving

What’s the best part about November? Thanksgiving, of course! When you stay in one of our Alabama Gulf Coast vacation rentals, you’ll have everything you need for a magical holiday. Our homes offer cozy living rooms where you can watch the parade, fully-equipped kitchens for preparing a delicious Thanksgiving dinner, and spacious dining areas where you can gather to enjoy your meal together. If you want to get out of the house and let someone else do the cooking, there are plenty of things going on in the area during Thanksgiving, such as:

Flora-Bama Annual Thanksgiving Potluck
Traditional Thanksgiving menu served at Doc’s Seafood Shack & Oyster Bar
Thanksgiving buffet at The Hangout

We Offer the Best Vacation Rentals Around

Now that you know about the best things to do in Gulf Shores in November, it’s time to book your vacation home. Harris Vacation Rentals offers outstanding rental properties throughout coastal Alabama. Many of our rentals are pet-friendly and offer an array of amenities, such as private pools, hot tubs, game rooms, and more!

Check our availability and start planning your fall trip today. We can’t wait to have you!

Aug 31 2020

Everything You Need To Know About Thanksgiving in Gulf Shores

Is a hassle-free holiday calling your name? Sit back and relax and spend Thanksgiving in Gulf Shores. Amazing fall weather and even better fall rates on your favorite Gulf Shores condos are just two of the perks of a holiday at the beach. What else do you need to know about spending Turkey Day on Alabama’s beaches? We have the details!

Are you looking to spend Thanksgiving in Gulf Shores, but don’t want to miss out on quality time with family and friends? No problem! We offer an impressive selection of large group vacation rentals throughout Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan.

How To Spend Thanksgiving in Gulf Shores

Wide-Open Beaches and Fantastic Fall Weather

One of the perks of the fall season is our mild weather. The humidity is reduced, and temperatures range from the low-70s to mid-80s. Plus, you’ll benefit from fewer crowds on the beach during this season. You’ll have more than enough room on the sand for a game of football, volleyball, or horseshoes before you settle in for your Thanksgiving meal.

Cook a Mouthwatering Thanksgiving Feast

If you love to prepare a big, traditional Thanksgiving dinner for your family, we’ve got you covered. You’ll find plenty that we offer many beach houses throughout the Gulf Coast that feature fully-equipped kitchens fit for a chef. When you stay in a Harris Vacation Rental, you’ll have everything you need for the perfect holiday with spacious living areas, accommodating dining rooms, and pristine kitchens.

Let Someone Else Do the Cooking

If you’d prefer someone else to take care of the cooking, you’ve got options. Plan ahead and pre-order your Thanksgiving meal at Rouses Market or Publix in Gulf Shores. Both locations are open on Thanksgiving Day and offer traditional delectable meals prepared and ready to go. Simply heat them up, and you’ve got a feast fit for the family.

If you want to get out of the house, load the family up and head to Flora-Bama for their Annual Thanksgiving Potluck. Bring your favorite covered dish and indulge in all the turkey and ham your appetite can handle. The event is free, all ages are invited, and you’ll feel like family the moment you walk through the door.

Shop ‘Til You Drop

Is the day after the holiday your favorite part of Thanksgiving? You’re in luck! You can have the ultimate Black Friday shopping adventure at Tanger Outlets in nearby Foley. You’ll find more than 120 stores, including Banana Republic, Columbia, Express, and more!

Get Active

After eating lots of delicious food, you might be craving an active day. Rent kayaks and paddle your way around the back bays of Orange Beach, or get your adrenaline pumping on the Hummingbird Zipline at The Wharf. Many of the activities and attractions you love during the summertime are still open for business during the fall months. However, days and hours of operation may be more limited. Be sure to call ahead.

Where To Stay During the Holiday

As you plan your vacation to the Alabama Gulf Coast, many questions might immediately pop into your head:

How large is my group? Will we need multiple vacation rentals near each other?
Does the rental have enough indoor seating in a dining room, plus counter seating? Does the balcony or deck have dining furniture, as well?
Is the television in the living room large enough for watching the big game?

Harris Vacation Rentals is here for you to take all of your stress away. With our large selection of Gulf Coast rentals, we’ve got all of those bullet points covered! Our large group vacation rentals have everything you need to enjoy the holiday and will be the ultimate home away from home. When you end Thanksgiving in Gulf Shores, a hassle-free holiday at the beach is sure to become your family’s new favorite tradition.

Sep 17 2019

5 of the Best Things to Do in Gulf Shores in Winter

Are you tired of shoveling ice and snow out of the driveway? Escape the freezing temperatures with a relaxing winter getaway to beautiful Gulf Shores, Alabama! While summer is peak season along our Gulf Coast paradise, winter is secretly one of the best time to visit. Are you ready to enjoy lower rates, fewer crowds, warmer weather, and endless activities? Here are some of the best things to do in Gulf Shores in winter!

Top 5 Things to Do in Gulf Shores in Winter

1. Golfing

Gulf Shores experiences mild winters, and the beautiful weather is ideal for enjoying outdoor activities. Are you looking to play a round of golf? You’ll find an array of award-winning golf courses here. Spend a fabulous day teeing off on the 36-hole Arnold Palmer-designed course at Craft Farms Golf Club. Or, visit the links-style course at Kiva Dunes in Fort Morgan. Ranked the #1 public golf course in Alabama by Golf Advisor, this course promises to be a challenging yet rewarding play every time.

2. Fishing

While it’s too cold for swimming during the winter months, you can still enjoy fishing in the Gulf! Cast a line right from the dock or embark on a thrilling deep-sea adventure with one of the local charters. During the winter months, the waters are teeming with species like redfish, pompano, and sheepshead. See if you can reel in all three!

3. Hiking

Calling all nature-lovers and outdoor enthusiasts! Winter is a spectacular time to take a stroll along the shoreline or the many nature trails in Gulf Shores, Alabama. Visit the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge and hike along miles of winding, scenic trails. Keep an eye out for rare birds, alligators, nesting turtles, and the flora and fauna of these coastal habitats.

4. Visit The Wharf in Orange Beach

Are you looking for the best things to do in Orange Beach? From shopping and dining to attractions and events, The Wharf in Orange Beach offers year-round family fun. Soar on a zipline adventure at the Hummingbird Zipline Course, enjoy ice skating with the whole family, or play a game of laser tag at Arena The Next Level. Afterward, enjoy delicious cuisine at one of the local restaurants.

5. Attend a Holiday Event

If you’re visiting during the holiday season, you’re in for a treat! There are tons of fun holiday events in Gulf Shores, and you won’t want to miss a single one! If you’re searching for the best things to do in Gulf Shores, Alabama, in November, the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting at The Wharf should be at the top of your list. Enjoy cookie decorating, hot cocoa, the lighting of the tree and visits with Santa at this festive celebration. Are you spending Christmas in Gulf Shores? Mark your calendar for the Annual Lighted Christmas Parade, Christmas Boat Parade, and the Flora-Bama Santa Drop!

Book Your Winter Getaway With Harris Vacation Rentals

Now that you know about all the best things to do in Gulf Shores in winter, it’s time to start planning your trip! When it comes to the best local lodging, no place can compare to Harris Vacation Rentals. We offer a wide array of vacation rentals throughout Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, and Fort Morgan. Why settle for a generic chain hotel when you could be enjoying luxurious beds, full kitchens, and all the comforts of home? Plus, all of the best activities and attractions are just minutes away!

Whether you’re dreaming of a property with Gulf Views, an intimate villa, condo, or a large family home, your dream vacation awaits. Browse all of our incredible properties and contact us to start planning your winter getaway today. We can’t wait to welcome you!

Aug 18 2019

What Are the Best Things to Do in Gulf Shores in October?

Are you looking for the best things to do in Gulf Shores in October? With exciting festivals, beautiful uncrowded shorelines, and endless activities, fall is one of the best times to visit this Gulf Coast paradise. Get a taste of Alabama at Shrimp Fest, enjoy the Halloween festivities, or take a romantic sunset stroll along the beach. Here are some of the best fall events and activities to add to your itinerary!

Top Things to Do in Gulf Shores in October

1. Shrimp Festival

Autumn in Gulf Shores marks the return of the most-anticipated event of the year! For nearly half a century, the Shrimp Festival has been a beloved tradition for locals and visitors alike. Held right on the beach, the festival includes fresh-from-the-Gulf seafood prepared by top chefs, a sandcastle contest, live music, family activities, arts and crafts, 5k and 10k races, and the Miss Shrimp Festival Pageant. The 2019 dates are set for October 10th – 13th, so start making your plans to attend now!

2. Have A Spooktacular Halloween in Gulf Shores

Are you looking for the best thrills and chills in Gulf Shores, AL? You’re in luck! There are endless ways to celebrate spooky season along our sugar-white shores. On the weekends, visit the Town of Terror in Foley for twists, turns, and other haunted house horrors. Are you searching for Halloween family activities? Take the kids for a ride on the Pumpkin Patch Express. During the daytime, you can enjoy kid-friendly train rides, pony rides, a bounce house, pumpkin decorating, a haunted maze and more. After nightfall, however, this train ride takes a turn for the terrifying. From 7 p.m. until close, enjoy a scary ride with Halloween monsters and other things that go bump in the night!

3. Alabama Festival of Flavor

Not to be outdone by the Shrimp Festival, the Alabama Festival of Flavor is one of the tastiest events of the year. Held in the neighboring Foley, this epicurean event features an array of mouthwatering cuisine prepared by local chefs. Offerings include everything from sandwiches and sauces to main dishes, craft beer, and wine. The event is scheduled to take place on October 5th, 2019.

4. Alabama Coastal Birdfest

Calling all nature-lovers and outdoor enthusiasts! October is the prime time to see migrating birds in Gulf Shores. And the best way to see them is at the Alabama Coastal Birdfest! This event offers a unique opportunity to get an up-close look at native birds, alligators, dolphins, wildflowers, and more wildlife. Mark your calendar for October 2nd – 5th, 2019!

5. Enjoy Outdoor Activities

From hiking and biking to paddle boarding and kayaking, there are endless ways to explore Gulf Shores, Alabama in October. The mild weather is ideal for enjoying outdoor activities and attractions. Get out and explore miles of scenic trails at Gulf State Park or Bon Secour Wildlife Refuge, tee off on one of the fabulous golf courses, or take the kids to the zoo. This is also a great time to visit one of the theme parks. Have a blast playing mini-golf or race go-karts at The Track. The possibilities are endless!

6. Visit the Beach

Many of our guests ask us if it is warm enough to swim in Gulf Shores in October. The answer is — it depends. The weather in Gulf Shores in October varies year to year. Typically, the temperatures range from the 60’s to low 80’s. While it may be too chilly to swim, this is one of the best times to visit the beach! Enjoy the uncrowded shoreline while you comb the beach for shells and other treasures. Or, cast a line from the pier or a charter and reel in your next trophy fish!

Book Your Fall Getaway With Harris Vacation Rentals

When it comes to the best lodging in the area, no place can compare to Harris Vacation Rentals! We offer a wide array of accommodation options in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan. From luxury beachfront rentals to intimate cottages and condos, we are sure to have the perfect property for your stay. We can also accommodate large groups, so feel free to bring your family and friends. Are you ready for an unforgettable fall getaway to beautiful Gulf Shores? Take advantage of our current deals and discounts. Then, browse our condo rentals and contact us to start planning your trip! We look forward to seeing you soon.

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