Can’t‑Miss Events In 2026: Orange Beach, Gulf Shores & Panama City Beach

The Gulf Coast is gearing up for an unforgettable 2026, packed with festivals, concerts, food events, and cultural celebrations. Whether you're a local or planning your next beach getaway, these signature events bring the best of coastal living—sunshine, music, food, and community. 

Below is your curated guide to the top events you won’t want to miss. 

Orange Beach: 

Bunny Hop 5K & Fun Run — March 7, 2026 

Kick-off spring with this beloved family‑friendly race at The Wharf. The event supports local scholarships and brings the community together for a morning of fitness and fun. 

Godsmack: Rise of Rock World Tour — May 24, 2026 

Rock fans can catch Godsmack live at The Wharf Amphitheater as part of their 2026 world tour. 

Black Crowes & Whiskey Myers — May 27, 2026 

The Southern Hospitality Tour brings two powerhouse acts to Orange Beach for an unforgettable night of rock and Americana. 

Train: Drops of Jupiter 25 Years — July 12, 2026 

Celebrate 25 years of “Drops of Jupiter” with Train under the stars at The Wharf Amphitheater. 

Weird Al Yankovic — October 3, 2026 

Comedy meets music in this iconic performance from Weird Al at The Wharf Amphitheater. 

Gulf Shores: 

Annual Fort Morgan Oyster Fest — Feb 28–Mar 1, 2026 

A shell‑tacular celebration at The Beach Club Resort & Spa featuring fresh Gulf oysters and coastal entertainment. 

Ballyhoo Festival — March 7–8, 2026 

A lively cultural celebration at Gulf State Park featuring music from The Bennett Hall Band and local artisans. 

Big Beach Brewing Live Music — May 10, 2026 

Enjoy craft brews and live music from Sequoia Rose at this beloved Gulf Shores brewery. 

National Shrimp Festival — October 8–11, 2026 

One of the Gulf Coast’s biggest events, this four‑day festival brings 300,000+ visitors for seafood, art, music, and family fun. 

Coastal Alabama Food Truck & Craft Beverage Festival — November 7–8, 2026 

A two‑day celebration of gourmet food trucks and craft beverages at the Town Green. 

Panama City Beach: 

UNwineD Presented by Publix — April 3–4, 2026 

A two‑day culinary and craft beverage festival featuring tastings, live music, and a Southern Living‑hosted garden party. 

Seabreeze Jazz Festival — April 22–26, 2026 

One of the nation’s top jazz festivals, held at Aaron Bessant Park with world‑class performers and multi‑day passes. 

Seabreeze Jazz Festival Dinner Cruise — April 22, 2026 

A unique jazz‑themed cruise departing from Lighthouse Marina—perfect for music lovers seeking a luxury experience. 

Gulf Coast Jam — May 28–31, 2026 

A massive country music festival featuring major headliners like Post Malone, Chris Stapleton, Keith Urban, and Riley Green. 

Project Dance Panama City Beach — September 25–27, 2026 

A multi‑day dance event promoting hope and healing through performance and workshops. 

 From high‑energy concerts to foodie festivals and cultural celebrations, 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting years yet along the Gulf Coast. So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to the Gulf Coast in 2026 and explore all the fun these beautiful beaches have to offer!