Gulf Shores, Ala. — (GSN) — It’s hard to believe September is almost over, and though it may be winding down, as usual, no one told the Alabama never-sleepy Gulf Coast to slow down. From dancing boots and honky-tonk tunes to fishing rods, Jeeps that shine, cornhole comps for rescued pups and a little sensory-friendly family time, and sunshine, this week is packed with plenty of reasons to keep on getting up and out and always a good time to play. So grab your calendar, your crew–and maybe your dancing shoes–and let’s see just what’s happening up and down the coast. 

Monday, September 21st- If you’re looking for a way to remember the 21st night of September and perhaps even create a fun video next year to commemorate the date with Earth, Wind & Fire’s song playing in the background—look no further than live music on multiple stages this Monday at Flora-Bama Lounge, where you can enjoy live entertainment and several bars all in one place, 365 days a year! From 2 PM to 6 PM, check out Mike Diamond, who will serenade you loud and proud with his Southern-heritage sounds—then stay tuned for a 6 to 10 PM performance by Elaine Petty and Tyler Ward, a duo of American country, rockabilly, and blues singers and songwriter-guitarists. There will be some true Honky Tonk brought to the main room for these events. Immediately following, from 10:15 AM to 2:15 PM, catch Dalton Bush, who has been writing music since his tender age of 15, blending country music and Southern rock and roll. Step out of the main room to experience something different at the Dome Stage from 9 AM to 1 AM with Patrick Cross, offering an eclectic mix of acoustic sounds and more. There’s no better place to dance the 21st night of September away than Flora-Bama, where you can eat, drink, dance, see, and hear the Gulf waters all in one location. 

Live Music for the 21st night of September at Flora-Bama- Perdido Key

Tuesday, September 22nd- Kick off your heels and loosen those laces—it's time to hit the dance floor cowboy boot and big hat style! Join the community and Friends of the Foley Library for a spirited Book Scootin' Boogie, a library benefit partnered with Soles In Sync for a dance happening this Tuesday night from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM at the Foley Civic Center. Doors swing open at 5, and you'll enjoy a fun-filled mixed-level line dancing event set to an energetic country playlist designed to get everyone in the groove—all while supporting the Foley Library. Feel free to bring your own drinks, including adult beverages, and snacks—ice, cups, and napkins will be provided. Whether you're ready to dance or want to cheer on the fun, come out and support the fantastic new library for just a $10 entry. I’m sure they hope you dance too! Check out the website below for more details, a link to buy tickets in advance, and the playlist.

Books Scootin' Boogie Library Benefit Dance-Foley

Wednesday, September 23rd- This past Wednesday, September 16, will always serve as a day of dual reckoning for locals—an uncanny anniversary in history. Residents confront a sobering confluence of memories whenever this date occurs; each year, it also brings a sense of shared gratitude—thankfulness for the external and internal aid that swiftly mobilized after each storm. One recurring memory is of how local restaurant owners Brian and Jodi Harsany immediately began emptying their walk-in coolers to feed the community with warm hot plates each day after Sally—a community outreach effort that softens the impact of the twin anniversaries of Ivan and Sally and will forever be seared into the community’s collective consciousness, alongside the waves of loss caused by those hurricanes. Any day is a great day to visit one of their delicious, distinctive restaurants, especially in September as we remember. Cosmo’s Restaurant and Bar is among their hidden gems, offering excellent cuisine in a lively neighborhood setting with twinkling lights, a boardwalk with shops through the courtyard, and then Cosmo’s itself offering menu delights such as fresh seafood, sushi rolls, even steaks, and chef-inspired specialties—just a few of the reasons why locals and visitors keep returning time and again. On Wednesday, come out to enjoy happy hour with $2 off sushi rolls, great drink specials, and appetizer deals from 3 to 5 PM. Whether dining alone or with friends, firecracker shrimp is a wonderful signature tried-and-true OG dish to share or enjoy solo. Don’t forget to visit Maggie‘s Gift Shop on your way out, located on the upper deck, showcasing local handmade jewelry, artwork, gifts, and fun items for all, including the kiddos. If you’re a pet lover, this shop is perfect for you, featuring items from Cosmos as well as pet products for your pups and you—such as shirts, hats, collars, toys, and dog portraits. Ask the staff for details if you’d like a portrait of your own pup. Come out and enjoy Cosmos, and as you take it all in, remember the kindness and generosity of the owners during a challenging time for the community, and give thanks this September.

Cosmo's and Maggie's Gift Shop-OB

Thursday, September 24th- Get ready to rock with the Velcro Pygmies! Already a sensation on the Gulf Coast, this band is guaranteed to get everyone in the crowd moving and grooving like never before, transforming a typical rock show into an interactive experience. Join others this Thursday from 7 to 9 as part of The Jeep Fest at The Hangout in Gulf Shores for an epic performance by a band that sets the bar impossibly high and leaves fans in awe. If you’ve ever been on the Alabama Gulf Coast or just visited, you've probably heard of the Velcro Pygmies. Despite life's trials and even great loss, they've remained strong, delivering beats, big hair, and more rock than you can handle. Their setlists ignite crowd participation that may leave you sore the next day and with a good reason for losing your voice! You’ll be bumping hips with neighbors you just met, singing along as if you’ve known each other forever. They do more than play music—they deliver a full-on performance complete with comedy, dancing, loud energy, and a touch of rocking danger. Don't miss this unforgettable night with the legendary Velcro Pygmies! 

The Velcro Pygmies-GS

Friday, September 25th- Let’s face it, we can all get a little overstimulated in today’s world of constant expectations, calls, texts, socials, and so on. It's no wonder that a world so loud can make even neurotypical children and adults feel overwhelmed. Therefore, getting together for your kids, whether divergent or not, that promotes calm and provides reset opportunities is essential for all working and stay-at-home families. The Orange Beach Library has exactly what you need this Friday from 10 - 10:30 with Sensory Storytime. Bring the family and relax in a welcoming environment that caters to busy little bodies by engaging them with stories, handing out sensory-friendly items, and offering a brief play session afterward with sensory activities. Plan ahead and stay for an outdoor adventure next door at the Edward H. Carroll Sr. Kids Park, now featuring new shade sails to keep things cool and comfortable. Pack a lunch or some snacks and plenty of drinks—Fridays at the corner of Waterfront Park and OBPL strike the perfect balance of indoor and outdoor space, movement, and nurturing to help you start the weekend right. Enjoy. 

Sensory Storytime for families-OB 

Now shaded Kids Park-OB

Saturday, September 26th- Saturday sparkles with lively opportunities, including mini angler comps where every kid's a winner, fishing rodeos, dog benefits, cornhole tournaments on the line bayside, and more—let’s reel it all in and bark it all out! First up is the Salty Kids’ Fishing Rodeo at Gulf State Park Pier, running from 8 AM to noon. Capped off at 150, young anglers can join for a small fee through registration. This youth fishing event is open to children aged 5 to 14. It’s designed to encourage and educate. Little anglers will learn more about their environment through skills, conservation, camaraderie, and stewardship, as they compete against one another individually. Participants will be paired with older volunteers to guide them and show them the ropes.

More on Salty Kidz Fishing Rodeo-GS

Next is the Kids Win Fishing Tournament, costing $55 per contestant. Children aged 3 to 10 will compete in two age groups: the small fry and the large fry. In this tournament, every kid is a winner; they’ll have the chance to collect a multitude of prizes and some trophies. The Wharf is the meet-up and stopping point and will provide space for activities, snacks, and drinks, courtesy of Rouses Market and Bryant Bank. During the weigh-in, starting Saturday shortly after 10 AM, participants can enjoy the facilities. If you’d like to take part, be one of the first 100 kids to sign up—all proceeds benefit the Make-A-Wish Alabama Foundation. Fishing begins Friday at 5 PM and ends Saturday at 10 AM. If you simply want to come down on Saturday to watch the weigh-ins and cheer on these young anglers, be sure to visit The Wharf in Orange Beach this Saturday at Marlins Circle.

Kids Win Fishing Tourney-OB

Just East on the Alabama-Florida line from 11 AM to 1 PM at The Yacht Club - Flora-Bama, join participants and onlookers for the sixth annual Barks Bags and Bushwackers Cornhole Tourney and Social. Come out and test your cornhole skills for a chance at prizes and a whole lot of fun. Every participant will receive a complimentary Bushwacker drink ticket, and all proceeds benefit Zeke’s Rescued Paws, a Baldwin County nonprofit that helps save displaced dogs, providing medical care and foster homes while they search for their forever families. The entry fee is $40 for a team of two, or just $20 to come along and join the fun, which also comes with a drink ticket. Good luck. 

Flora-Bama Yacht Club- Perdido Key

Sunday, September 27th- Calling all Jeepers and Jeep enthusiasts, it’s time for the Gulf of America Jeep Fest happening this week from Thursday to Sunday at The Hangout in Gulf Shores. This festival is a premier destination for Jeep enthusiasts from across the UK and beyond. The four-day event will be full of excitement and purpose. You might ask, what’s the purpose? Proceeds from the event support several non-profit organizations that back meaningful causes, including Warrior Legacy Ranch, Operation Reconnect, and the Dash Foundation. The kick-off on Thursday will feature the lively band the Velcro Pygmies, along with other live music acts throughout the event days. A show and shine event will let Jeep owners display their beloved vehicles while spectators enjoy the views, competitions, entertainment, community spirit, and connection. There will also be raffles and awards. If you’re a Jeep owner, register your vehicle. Each registration includes swag bags and T-shirts available at check-in. This event offers a chance to meet fellow Jeep lovers and show off your wheels, but it’s more than that. Every registration also grants you a spot in the Poker Run, and it’s all for noble causes. Whether you plan to participate or simply observe, you can roll in any day from Thursday through Sunday. Each day and evening promises excitement and stunning Jeeps for spectators to enjoy for free. Join us for four days of Jeeps, live music, competitions, and good times, where the fun begins as the countdown ends.