Flora-Bama Bulls on the Beach
Three days of professional bull riding, right on the sand. Cowboys and cowgirls from across the country compete at the Flora-Bama each September in one of the more unusual—and popular—events on the fall calendar.
Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
Fall on the Alabama Gulf Coast runs on its own calendar—bull riding, shrimp, songwriters, and the occasional Blue Angels flyover. Use this month-by-month guide to plan your trip, then book a stay close to the action.
Fall 2026 Calendar
Flora-Bama, Orange Beach
Gulf Place, Gulf Shores
The Wharf, Orange Beach
Public Beach, Gulf Shores
Pensacola, FL (visible from Orange Beach)
Flora-Bama & venues across Orange Beach
Orange Beach Sportsplex & Backcountry Trail
Three days of professional bull riding, right on the sand. Cowboys and cowgirls from across the country compete at the Flora-Bama each September in one of the more unusual—and popular—events on the fall calendar.
Held in early September at Gulf Place in Gulf Shores. Brett/Robinson Vacations is the longtime presenting sponsor of this Olympic-distance triathlon, which also offers a beginner-friendly sprint distance. Phoenix All Suites sits right next to the start/finish line.
A patriotic weekend at The Wharf honoring military members and first responders, with a car show, arts and crafts vendors, live music, and food.
The signature event of the season. Held the second full weekend in October on the public beach in Gulf Shores, this four-day festival brings 100 hours of live music, 50-plus food vendors, and nearly 200 art and craft booths together on the sand—all built around the Gulf's most famous catch.
Plan Ahead
Shrimp Festival weekend books up fast—reserve early.
Staged in nearby Pensacola, but Orange Beach gets its share of flyovers throughout the year—and this early-November show is when they're most frequent. A can't-miss if you're on the beach at the right moment.
Nearly two weeks of live performances from nationally known songwriters at venues across the Alabama and Florida Gulf Coast, including the Flora-Bama. Built around the stories behind the songs.
Held the weekend after Thanksgiving at the Orange Beach Sportsplex and Backcountry Trail. A scenic route and a good excuse to burn off some holiday calories before heading home.
Fall festival weekends fill up fast—especially Shrimp Festival weekend and the Songwriters' Festival. If your trip lines up with one of these dates, book your stay early and expect a livelier atmosphere than the typical quiet fall weekend. Outside of festival weekends, fall remains one of the calmest times to visit, with mild temps and thinner crowds.
Frequently Asked Questions
The National Shrimp Festival, held the second full weekend of October, draws the largest crowds of the season with live music, food vendors, and hundreds of art and craft booths on the public beach.
Yes. Shrimp Festival weekend and the Frank Brown Songwriters' Festival both drive up demand for beachfront condos—book those dates as far ahead as you can.
Yes, Orange Beach gets frequent flyovers throughout the year, with the highest concentration around the early-November Homecoming Air Show in nearby Pensacola.
Book Direct with Brett/Robinson
Choose from Orange Beach condos, Gulf Shores rentals, Alabama beach houses, or Gulf Shores hotels—all just minutes from every event on this calendar.
Book your stay with Brett/Robinson Vacation Rentals and experience the best of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.
Brett/Robinson Vacation Rentals
Book directly with a locally operated team that has served the Alabama Gulf Coast for decades. From Gulf-front condos in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach to resort-style stays for families and groups, we focus on dependable property care, clear communication, and on-the-ground support—so your vacation feels easy from start to finish.
Consistent cleanliness and maintenance standards across our portfolio—so you can arrive with confidence.
A real team on the ground to assist with check-in questions, property needs, and stay support during your trip.
Local recommendations for beaches, dining, family activities, and day trips—so you can plan like a regular.
Browse seasonal offers, select last-minute savings, and longer-stay options when available—designed to help you book smart while staying close to the Gulf.