Hangout Music Festival is canceled — at least for now.
The festival, renamed Sand in My Boots, was scheduled for May 2026, but Gulf Shores Mayor Robert Craft announced Monday that the town’s annual music festival will not be held this upcoming year.
Craft said the reason for the cancellation was the inability of the festival organizers to obtain confirmations of artists who play the desired style of music.
“We will refuse to let them go back to the acts that we’ve had before, so they couldn’t do it,” Mayor Craft said. “So they cancelled 2026. They’ve got time to pursue the type of talent we want on our beaches, to invite the right audience that we want on our beaches.”
For more than a decade, the festival has not only been a staple in the Southeast, but an incredibly large profit stream for Gulf Coast businesses and tax revenue.
Hangout Music Festival has showcased various genres over the years and given the stage to musicians of all kinds, from bands like the Red Hot Chili Peppers to singers like Zach Bryan.
Craft said the city and production company are already working toward a lineup and event for the spring of 2027.
The event was called Hangout Music Festival from its inception in 2010, and only in 2025 was it rechristened Sand in My Boots by country singer Morgan Wallen.
The event has run annually, except for two years of cancellations during the COVID outbreak — and now again in 2026.
Jim Zig Zeigler is a contributing writer for Yellowhammer News. His beat includes the positive and colorful about Alabama – her people, events, groups and prominent deaths. He is a former State Auditor and Public Service Commissioner. You can reach him at ZeiglerElderCare@yahoo.com
Alabama travelers will soon have a new way to reach the beach.
Allegiant Air announced it will launch a nonstop route between Huntsville International Airport (HSV) and Gulf Shores International Airport (GUF) starting May 21, 2026, according to a company press release.
The new route gives North Alabama travelers a welcome shortcut to the coast — just an hour in the air instead of spending most of the day on the road. Allegiant said introductory fares will begin at $39.
The Huntsville–Gulf Shores route is part of Allegiant’s latest network expansion, which includes 30 new leisure-focused connections nationwide. Gulf Shores was among the destinations selected for new service as the airline continues to target high-demand vacation markets.
“We’re thrilled to continue Allegiant’s growth by adding these new routes,” said Drew Wells, Allegiant’s chief commercial officer, in the release. “Our mission has always been to connect travelers to world-class destinations at an affordable price. These additions provide convenient options for leisure travelers and reflect our commitment to expanding service where demand is strong.”
The company said tickets for the new Huntsville–Gulf Shores nonstop flight are now available at Allegiant.com.
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at sherri@yellowhammernews.com.
The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) is inviting members of the Alabama shrimping industry and the public to weigh in on a new shrimp fishery management plan. The agency’s Marine Resources Division will host two listening sessions in November to collect input from stakeholders before the plan is finalized.
“The Alabama shrimp fishery is undergoing an external certification process to demonstrate the resource is managed sustainably,” said Chris Blankenship, ADCNR Commissioner.
“The new shrimp fishery management plan is a requirement for that certification. It is important that we receive input from participants in Alabama’s shrimping industry. If adopted, the new plan will be used by ADCNR to manage the state’s shrimp fishery.”
MRD staff will present proposed goals and objectives during each listening session. Attendees will have the opportunity to share feedback, offer additional ideas, and participate in multiple public comment periods aimed at shaping the final plan.
The first session will take place Wednesday, Nov. 12, at the Bayou La Batre Community Center, 12745 Padgett Switch Rd., Bayou La Batre, from 12 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
A second session is set for Thursday, Nov. 13, at the Gulf Shores Activity Center, 260 Clubhouse Dr., Gulf Shores, from 12 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Anyone needing Americans with Disabilities Act accommodations or additional details about the listening sessions can contact John Mareska at john.mareska@dcnr.alabama.gov or (251) 968-9737. Requests should be submitted at least two days before the meeting.
ADCNR manages Alabama’s natural resources through its Marine Resources, State Lands, State Parks, and Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries divisions.
The raid at an Alabama high school construction site had illegals rappelling off the roof, in California, an illegal died trying to flee ICE, and these situations will continue as long as people lie about what ICE is doing.
Resisting law enforcement while they conduct operations is a dangerous thing to do; it is time to arrest the people who are being violent.
The concerns over the quality of the construction being done by companies that do not follow the law are legitimate, as well.
Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.
For the third year in a row, the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail has been chosen as the top recreational trail in the country in the 2025 USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards. The 29-mile multi-use trail connects Gulf State Park with Gulf Shores and Orange Beach in Baldwin County.
“This year’s win is especially exciting as we celebrate the Year of Alabama Trails,” said Matthew Capps, State Parks Director for the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR).
“We are honored that USA Today’s readers chose the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail for a third straight year. The trail provides access to some of the most unique habitats and recreational opportunities in Gulf State Park and along Alabama’s coast. We thank our partners in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores and everyone who voted for the Backcountry Trail again this year.”
RELATED: Spring filled with activities, upgrades at Alabama State Parks
The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail took first place over nine other trails located throughout the United States, including the 78-mile Little Miami Scenic Trail in Ohio and the 150-mile Great Allegheny Passage that connects Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Cumberland, Maryland.
Established in 2003, the Backcountry Trail is a system of paved and unpaved paths and boardwalks providing trail users with access to several distinct ecosystems and outdoor recreational opportunities. Named in honor of Hugh Branyon, who served as superintendent of Gulf State Park for more than 30 years, the Backcountry Trail system features 29 miles of trails that are located within the park. Plans are currently in the works to expand the Backcountry Trail system.
Recreational opportunities along the trail include biking, hiking, wildlife watching, playgrounds, fishing, camping, and more.
“It’s fitting that the Backcountry Trail has been recognized as the top recreational trail in the country during Alabama’s Year of Trails,” said Chris Blankenship, ADCNR Commissioner. “This honor from USA Today’s readers puts a spotlight on just how important access to outdoor recreation has become nationwide. Trails generate many positive benefits for our communities and our economy by connecting cities and residents with the natural environment and providing access to recreational opportunities that are important to our well-being.”
ADCNR’s State Parks and Forever Wild tracts are home to hundreds of miles of multi-use trails located throughout the state. Trail system highlights include the mountain biking and hiking trails at Chewacla State Park in Auburn and the 18-mile hiking trail at the Forever Wild Perdido River Wildlife Management Area in Baldwin County.
RELATED: Alabama State Parks celebrates winners of 2025 Eagle Awards
ADCNR also offers a variety of horseback riding and paddling opportunities such as the horseback trails at Wind Creek State Park on the shores of Lake Martin and the State Lands canoe trail system that includes a 19-mile stretch of the Perdido River and the Bartram Canoe Trail on the Mobile-Tensaw Delta which is accessible from Meaher State Park.
Outside of the ADCNR trail system, the state is home to many of the top hiking, biking, and paddling destinations in the Southeast, including the 630-mile Alabama Scenic River Trail, the 33-mile Chief Ladiga Trail, and the Alabama section of the Pinhoti National Recreation Trail.
“We are very excited about the many trail projects in the works throughout Alabama,” Commissioner Blankenship said. “Recreational trails are one of the best ways to explore the wide variety of landscapes that our beautiful state has to offer. Alabama offers trails that are suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to the most experienced trail users. We encourage everyone to celebrate the Year of Alabama Trails by hiking, biking or paddling one of our state’s great recreational trails.”
To view the results of the 2025 USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards for best recreational trail, visit https://10best.usatoday.com/awards/best-recreational-trail.
Every October, thousands of seafood lovers head to Gulf Shores for one of the South’s most beloved culinary events: the National Shrimp Festival. The annual celebration of fresh Gulf Coast shrimp and coastal culture was recently recognized as one of the top specialty food festivals in the country, coming in at No.5 on USA Today’s 10Best Specialty Food Festivals list. The publication highlighted the festival’s mix of delicious seafood, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities.
Shrimp takes center stage at the festival, with vendors serving up local favorites like shrimp po’boys, shrimp gumbo, and other coastal delicacies. Beyond the food, visitors can enjoy a relaxed, beachside atmosphere with live music, art exhibits, craft vendors, and shrimp cooking demonstrations.
Festival-goers of all ages can also participate in interactive activities, including a sandcastle contest right on the beach, making it a fun event for families and food lovers.
If you missed this year’s festival, don’t worry—the 52nd Annual National Shrimp Festival is already scheduled for October 9-12, 2025. The event takes place at the public beach access where Highway 59 meets Highway 182, offering the perfect setting to enjoy fresh seafood with an ocean breeze.
The National Shrimp Festival is among the best events on USA Today’s 10Best list, alongside Picklesburgh (Pittsburgh, PA), the National Buffalo Wing Festival (Buffalo, NY), and the Delta Hot Tamale Festival (Greenville, MS).
With its combination of great food, coastal charm, and community spirit, it’s easy to see why Alabama’s National Shrimp Festival continues to be a favorite year after year.
For more details, follow the festival on Facebook and Instagram or visit their official website.
Sherri Blevins is a writer for Mountain Valley News and a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at sablevins@farmerstel.com.
The Gulf State Park Pier will re-open to sightseers and anglers as of today, August 19, as the renovation work that began in November 2023 has been completed.
Reporters, photographers, and videographers are invited to visit the pier on Monday morning when a representative from Gulf State Park will be available for interviews beginning at 7 a.m. Most of the pier’s amenities, including the gift shop, restaurant, and beach access, will re-open Monday, although the pier’s elevated observation deck remains closed and won’t be accessible until a new elevator is installed to make it compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
A formal ribbon-cutting and community celebration is being planned for a later date.
“It’s wonderful to know Gulf State Park Pier will again be available for everyone to enjoy,” said Chris Blankenship, commissioner of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR). “Our goal was to have the pier open by Labor Day weekend, and it’s gratifying to know we accomplished that goal.”
WHAT: Opening for the Gulf State Park Pier
WHEN: Monday, Aug. 19, 2024, at 7 a.m.
WHERE: 20800 E. Beach Blvd., Gulf Shores, AL 36542
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: There are fees for members of the public to access the pier, as follows:
- Parking: $10 (All Day)
- Sightseeing (All Day)
- Adult – $2
- Veteran – Free
- Children under 12 years – Free
- Gulf State Park Campground/Lodge Guests – Free
- Fishing (All Day)
- Adult – $9
- Veteran – $6
- Campground/Lodge Guest – $6
- Children under 12 years – Free
- Weekly Fishing Permit – $41.00
- Monthly Fishing Permit – $81.00
- Six Month Fishing Permit – $161.00
- Annual Fishing Permit – $321.00
In addition, all anglers must possess a valid fishing license.
Courtesy of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.
An ancient underwater forest just off the coast of Gulf Shores could soon be granted increased protection if new legislation introduced by U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) is passed and signed into law.
The Alabama Underwater Forest National Marine Sanctuary Act would classify the submerged woodland as a “Marine Sanctuary” allowing a higher level of conservation for the unique ecosystem. The National Marine Sanctuary System is made up of 16 sanctuaries. Currently, there are only two in the entire Gulf of Mexico.
“I am proud to introduce this legislation that ensures Alabama’s distinctive could receive more underwater Forest remains intact,” said Senator Tuberville. “Alabama boasts of rich biodiversity, and we want to be good stewards of God’s creation. By establishing it as a National Marine Sanctuary, we will preserve this historic forest while ensuring recreational anglers and divers can continue to enjoy the abundant reefs and fish that Alabama offers.”
Alabama Conservation and Natural Resources Commissioner Chris Blankenship detailed what the bill will accomplish if enacted.
“I am thankful to see Senator Tuberville introduce this bill in the Senate that will protect the natural treasures of the Underwater Forest off the coast of Alabama,” said Blankenship. “This legislation will preserve the ancient trees and stumps from harvest or removal while still allowing recreational anglers and divers access to the abundant reefs and fish in the world-class Alabama Artificial Reef Zones.”
RELATED: Rep. Jerry Carl’s bill protecting underwater forest in Gulf of Mexico passes U.S. House
“The bill will also ensure that the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources will have a seat at the table to protect local interests when the management plan for the area is developed.”
Mark Berte, Executive Director of the Alabama Coastal Foundation, was pleased with the efforts of elected officials and noted the positives of classifying the forest as a sanctuary
“The Alabama Coastal Foundation is delighted to see the Underwater Forest legislation move forward in the Senate after the immense bipartisan support in the House,” said Berte. “Designating this area as part of our National Marine Sanctuary System is not only good for Alabama’s growing eco-tourism, but also has positive scientific benefits for the entire country.”
Similar legislation has also been introduced in the House of Representatives by Congressman Jerry Carl (R-Mobile).
The forest of cypress trees, uncovered by waves from Hurricane Ivan, is the only known site where trees between 50,000 and 70,000 years old have been preserved intact with the ecosystem they were growing in.
Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten
Gulf Shore State park held a ribbon cutting ceremony for new cabins that were unveiled on Lake Shelby as part of an $8.8 million project that has gone on since 2020 and Hurricane Sally.
17 damaged structures from the storm were replaced with 20 new and more modern lakeside cabins, according to OutdoorAlabama.
All 20 cabins are directly on the lake and include modern furniture, appliances, and screened porches as well as the ability to hold up to 8 guests.
“This is a special day because we’re finally open for business again at the Lakeside Cabins,”
said Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Commissioner Chris Blankenship.
“We’re committed to creating a first-class guest experience at every state park, and these gorgeous cabins definitely deliver on that promise. It’s rewarding to see these cabins looking better than ever.”
The park already had 10 cabins, making the total available at 30.
“Gulf State Park is one of our area’s top attractions, and these projects show the deep commitment that the Alabama State Parks system has to Alabama’s Gulf Coast,” Gulf Shores Mayor Robert Craft said. “It’s wonderful to have such fantastic partners who make our area better by improving and expanding offerings for those visiting from near and far.”
Michael Brauner is a Senior Sports Analyst and Contributing Writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @MBraunerWNSP
Alabama Gulf Seafood has opened registration for its ninth annual Alabama Seafood Cook-Off.
Teams will participate in the two-day event May 5-6 with the winner receiving the state title, a $2,500 cash prize and the opportunity to represent the state on a national stage in late summer.
“As we approach our ninth year of ASCO, we are very excited to watch the competition continue to be bigger and better,” said Chef Jim Smith, chairman of the Alabama Seafood Marketing Commission and 2011 winner of the Alabama Seafood Cook-Off and Great American Seafood Cook-Off. “Submissions from last year’s Cook-Off showcased some of the best seafood chefs in the Southeast, and we are not only lucky that many of them are right here in Alabama — but also that chefs of their caliber choose to compete in this event each year.”
According to the contest rules, dishes will be judged on presentation, general impression and serving methods; creativity; composition and harmony of ingredients; correct preparation and craftsmanship; and flavor, taste and texture.
Registration for the competition is available here.
The Alabama Seafood Marketing Commission provides advice, oversight, management and encouragement to the marketing of Alabama seafood.
Led by Chris Blankenship, commissioner of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, the all-volunteer commission is appointed by the governor. The members include fishermen, processors, charter boat operators, retailers, restaurant owners and others directly and indirectly related to the Alabama seafood industry.
Michael Brauner is a Senior Sports Analyst and Contributing Writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @MBraunerWNSP
In big Gulf Coast real estate news, Crye Leike Gulf Coast Real Estate & Vacation Rentals has announced that it has acquired vacation rental management company Flip Flop Vacations and Real Estate based in Gulf Shores.
Crye*Leike Gulf Coast President David Stidham said that the acquisition grows his company’s inventory on the Gulf Coast by close to 60%.
“We are excited to announce this acquisition, as the staff at Flip Flop Vacations and Real Estate is a great addition to our team, as both companies cultures align with a focus on boutique style service with an emphasis on customer service, leveraging our team of experienced staff with technology to bring the best experience for both our Owners and Guests,” said Stidham.
Bill and Casey Buckner at Flip Flop Vacations and Real Estate briefly described their approach to business and expressed their gratitude towards Crye Leike.
“At Flip Flop Vacations, our goal has been to treat our owners like family, our visitors like house guests, and the properties we manage like they are our own,” said the Buckners. “We are blessed today to join our family with the Crye*Leike Gulf Coast family and are excited to be a part of the best management team on the beach.”
The acquisition is effective January 31, 2024.
Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News.
The Alabama Supreme Court has given the green light for the continuation of the intracoastal bridge construction in Baldwin County. The ruling, handed down today, permits the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) to carry on with the project.
In May, a Montgomery Circuit Judge imposed a halt on the construction. Today, the state’s highest court determined that the lower court did not possess the authority to stop the two-lane bridge project in Gulf Shores.
The 31-page judgment leaned on the “doctrine of State immunity” from the Alabama Constitution – asserting that the state and its entities have “absolute immunity” against lawsuits. This principle protects both the Alabama Department of Transportation and its Director, John Cooper.
RELATED: Judge halts bridge project, accuses ALDOT chief of bad faith
“This is an important victory for Alabama’s coastal residents and millions of visitors to our state. The need for a new, free bridge is obvious,” said Tony Harris, a spokesman for ALDOT. “The Supreme Court’s decision means construction can restart on this project that will help relieve traffic congestion and provide an additional evacuation route.
“Construction can move forward in the coming weeks.”
The Baldwin County Bridge Company previously accused Cooper of handling past negotiations dishonestly.
In May, Judge Jimmy Pool ordered an 80-page directive stating that ALDOT Director John Cooper had concealed intentions to bankrupt the company and kept these endeavors hidden from the public.
Pool halted the construction of the bridge, maintaining that “evidence overwhelmingly demonstrates that Director Cooper has acted in bad faith towards BCBC in connection with his decision to build a new bridge.”
On Friday, Neal Belitsky, president of Baldwin County Bridge Company said, “Today’s decision sends an unfortunate message to businesses across this nation — come to Alabama on notice that anything an unelected government official chooses to do to you, he can do and you are powerless to stop him even if he is acting in bad faith.
“Chief Justice Parker’s concurrence delivers a terrifying reality ‘…you shall hear the small and the great alike’, unless the Alabama government is the defendant.”
While “disappointed” by today’s ruling, Belitsky said the company is pleased the higher court “rejected Cooper’s effort to avoid any accountability for his actions.”
The ambitious bridge project, inclusive of related roadways, is estimated to cost upward of $120 million.
In its ruling, the Alabama Supreme Court said, “we now conclude that BCBC’s claim on which the preliminary injunction is based is barred by State immunity. Accordingly, the trial court has no subject-matter jurisdiction over that claim and the preliminary injunction must be reversed.”
RELATED: Dauphin Island project to restore oyster population
However, the court denied Cooper’s request to raise the preliminary injunction bond above $100,000. It also ruled against the Scott Bridge Co., the contractor, which sought to claim damages on the bond.
Local officials across the Coastal region are likely celebrating today’s decision.
In May, Gulf Shores Mayor Robert Craft said the need for the bridge was urgent, citing Baldwin County’s growth and Highway 59 bridge’s inefficiencies.
“The Highway 59 bridge is F-rated and woefully over capacity nine months out of the year,” Craft said. “This is a problem not just for tourist traffic flow, but for residents, emergency vehicles, and for hurricane evacuations.”
Grayson Everett is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270
It’s been a momentous six years since Big Beach Brewing Company in Gulf Shores opened its retractable doors to the public and pulled the first beer from its distinctive hand-blown glass tap handles.
Envisioned as a small neighborhood pub, Big Beach instead blossomed into a mid-sized, family-friendly 12-tap microbrewery and music venue where head brewer Rod Murray cooks up 310-gallon batches, mostly ales, for a growing mix of tourists and locals.
Murray also specializes in German-style beers such as Big Beach’s Surrender Cobra Schwarzbier, a dark, malty lager that won first place or the style in the World Beer Championships in May.
Alabama’s southernmost brewery has had success in state brewing competitions since opening in October 2016. But winning the international contest for the German-style Schwarzbier category put the proverbial feather in Murray’s Tyrolean hat.
“That’s a big deal,” says Julie Shamburger, who founded Big Beach with her husband (and recently retired dentist), Jim. “It was a crazy thing that this little brewery in south Alabama won something at that level.”
With son Ryan running daily operations, the Shamburgers—“It’s pretty much ‘S’ with ‘hamburger,’” Julie jovially says when asked to confirm the spelling—strive to create a comfortable setting inspired by neighborhood pubs they’d visited in Europe.
“Our goal is to have people sit down and talk to each other,” Julie says. “We joke it’s a place for important and unimportant conversation, to come sit and chew the fat.”
(Big Beach Brewing Company/Facebook)
Garage doors that open send Gulf breezes through the taproom. Ryan owns a food truck with a constantly changing menu, The Gnarwhal, which is open at the brewery Thursdays through Sundays. Children have an area to play. Dogs are welcome at the outside seating.
“Because we live in a beautiful place we wanted to capture as much of the outdoors as we could,” Julie says. “It also creates a sense of community. You can come, bring your kids, bring grandma—it’s multi-generational.”
The stage at Big Beach attracts local bands and regional touring acts, with performances Thursdays through Sundays.
Jim, Julie, Ryan and his sister, Millie, already were craft beer fans when Millie bought her dad a beginner’s beer-making kit for Christmas about 15 years ago. An inveterate tinkerer, Jim quickly put his chemistry background and basic curiosity to work, learning how to make beer from scratch (think of it as preparing homemade soup versus canned).
Believing the Gulf Shores area needed its own brewery—the nearest then was in Fairhope—Jim and Julie decided to turn his hobby into a business. “I got tired of brewing equipment in my bathtubs and in my pool,” Julie quips.
The original plan was for Jim to make the beer and Julie to run the front of the house. But a health scare led the couple to alter plans, ultimately deciding to bring in a brewer.
Murray happened to stop by one day, wondering if the Shamburgers wanted someone to help brew. Hiring him turned out to be a big factor in Big Beach’s success.
“He is magic,” Julie says. “He comes with lots of experience and is super-talented. It’s funny how the universe turns around and gives you what you need. It brought Rod to us.”
(Big Beach Brewing Company/Facebook)
Big Beach’s unique tap handles—created by local glass-blower Kerry Parks—depict nautical images, including a current set that resembles octopus tentacles.
The brewery’s basic portfolio is Hundred Daze IPA, Rod’s Reel Cream Ale, Dixie’s Heart Irish Red Ale, and Area 251 Hazy IPA. Murray also makes a variety of seasonal batches. The world-class Schwarzbier, first brewed as a seasonal, is likely to join the regular lineup.
Beer lines run directly from the finishing tank to the taps to keep the brew as pristine as possible. “Every time you transfer beer it alters its qualities,” Julia says. “This way we bring the freshest beer to the public.”
Six years in, the Shamburgers are considering an expansion to meet the growing demand for Big Beach beers.
“It’s just taken off with the support of the community,” Julie says. “It started as a small business model, and it’s evolved into a good-sized brewery. We’ve been so fortunate.”
(Courtesy of SoulGrown)
New inventory mean more jobs for Realtors and (hopefully) better pricing for homebuyers. But what could it mean for developers and investors? Over the last year, low inventory has contributed to rising home prices across the state. We know that prices can soar due to demand in a desired area. And while it might be more expensive to break ground in one of these cities, it also could be a ripe opportunity for developers to cash-in on the demand.
Research done by Stacker takes a deeper look into 50 Alabama cities and their rising home prices. The top five cities from this list are listed below:
- Owens Cross Roads
Considering Huntsville-Metro was just named the best US city to live in by US News & World Report, it’s not surprising that a surrounding suburb of the area has shown up high Stacker’s list.
In just one year, Owens Cross Roads saw a 22.9% increase in home pricing, making its typical home value $444,491. That is a 73.2% price increase over the last five years.
Also unsurprisingly, Alabama’s beautiful sandy beach towns can be found ranking number three and four on this list. The initial investment in these homes for developers could be more, but so could the payout, considering the short-term rental market is still thriving in 2022.
- Gulf Shores
In the last year, Gulf Shores saw its typical home value increase 25.5% to $474,310. It’s five-year price increase coming in at an astounding 111.8%. But Gulf Shores isn’t the only Daphne-Fairhope-Foley Metro making the list.
- Orange Beach
In one year, Orange Beach saw a 22.9% increase in home prices, taking its typical home value from five years ago, up 152.5% to $635,667.
- Equality
In the last year, Equality’s average home price increased 21.5% making its typical home value, $726,102. That’s an increase of 60.7% from five years ago.
- Mountain Brook
The typical home value in Mountain Brook, a Birmingham-Metro suburb, stands at $939,200. In the last year, pricing has increased an average of 16.4% and over the last five years has increased 46.6%.
Football and chicken wings connect like quarterbacks and receivers.
Whether you’re watching the game in a sports bar, joining friends at a tailgate, or rooting with family at home, chomping down on a few chicken wings earns a No. 1 ranking in many fan polls.
With college and professional teams kicking off, a lot of people around the country are devoting deep thought to chicken wings. They’re pondering questions such as which part people prefer, and which states crave them the most.
Alabama, it turns out, is high in the crave standings. The Yellowhammer State is tied with Maryland for fourth in average annual wing consumption, according to research by the online food site, Pantry & Larder.
At 109 per person, that’s some 553 million wings during the year-long period that runs pretty much from the Super Bowl until the college National Championship.
South Carolina ranks first (128 wings per head), followed by Georgia (124) and North Carolina (116). Like No. 4 Alabama, all are in football-fervent SEC and ACC territory. That can’t be coincidence.
Exhibit A: The state in last place, Idaho, consumes a mere 43 wings per capita. Its Boise State Broncos play on a blue-hued football field. Case closed.
Nationally, we average 84 wings a year, says Pantry & Larder, which recently published an interactive map of wings over America. That totals some 28 billion flats and drumettes.
Speaking of those two wing segments, the research group OnePoll recently asked 2,000 people about their preference in a survey for the makers of Hidden Valley Ranch.
Drumettes are the faves, preferred by 33 percent. A quarter like the flats better. Mixed orders hit the spot for the remaining 42 percent.
OnePoll’s survey, reported in Talker.news, dips deeper into wing culture and mores.
Tell us if this describes you: Nearly eight in 10 respondents say they gnaw the meat to the bone and 73 percent admit licking sauce off their fingers.
Wings were the most popular among all dining-out snacks, with nearly 60 percent even saying they’re apt to get an order each time they go out.
“Boneless” versus bone-in? The former has a slight edge (33 percent vs 29 percent), but even more (38 percent) say they aren’t picky either way.
The issue nonetheless remains a bone of contention in parts of the wingdom. While 44 percent accept those unflappable all-meat nuggets as wings, 38 percent say they’d give their tablemate grief over ordering some, and 24 percent wouldn’t even consider a second date with a person of such taste.
Ultimately, it really doesn’t matter if you go boneless or traditional, much less lick your fingers or pick the bone clean. When your game plan calls for wings, here are a few places around Alabama you’ll want to try.
Baumhower’s Victory Grille (Multiple locations)
It’s appropriate we start this list with the state’s original wing restaurant, opened in Tuscaloosa in 1981 by former University of Alabama football All-American Bob Baumhower. Tackle their six-, 10- and 14-count orders (or platters with 24 or 48) of traditionally-sauced bone-in wings in heat levels from Mild to Bring Da-Pain. Boneless and Fire-Roasted options are available too.
Cricket’s (Madison)
Basic orders at this sports bar range from six to 20, with “Wings Party” options from 30 to 100. Its 10 sauce flavors cover the basics, along with habanero, jerk, and honey gold. Wash it down with $2.52 a pop PBR.
Hog Wild Beach and BBQ (Gulf Shores)
The couple behind Hog Wild apply a dry-rub and smoke their wings low and slow. It’s a barbecue joint, after all. Everything is made in-house, down to the six styles of barbecue sauce. Wing platters are sold by the half-pound and pound.
Jefferson’s (Multiple locations)
Prepared to order and double-dipped in any of Jefferson’s 20 sauces, orders range from five to 50 bone-in wings and six to 24 boneless. The menus at Jefferson’s list your costs—in money and calories. The multi-state Alabama based chain (the original is in Jacksonville, with nine total in Alabama) specializes in burgers and oysters, as well as wings.
On Tap (Multiple Birmingham-area locations)
With outlets in Inverness, Liberty Park, the Galleria area, and Fultondale, this old-fashioned beer bar with up to 100 taps has been known for its meaty wings since the original opened in 1996. Choices include six- and 10-packs for bone-in, and either eight- or 12-piece boneless options, with a baker’s dozen sauces.
Proud Willie’s Wings and Stuff (Auburn)
Proud Willie’s was founded in 1996 by an Auburn alum and her husband, an Ole Miss grad. Open until 2 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays and midnight the rest of the week, it’s the go-to late-night wing spot in The Loveliest Village on the Plains. Order from a dozen to 100, with 15 sauce options.
Wemo’s Wings (Mobile)
A handy chart on Wemo’s website list how many wings you’ll need to feed a crowd (if you expect 500 guests, order 4,000). Both kinds—bone-in and the other—come in quantities from 10 to 100. The impressive array of 30 flavors at Wemo’s include “That” Sauce, Korean BBQ, and traditional sauces with heat levels that start at mild and flame up to We-Hot, then Mo-Hot, and finally Insane.
(Courtesy of SoulGrown)
Alabama’s vast terrain ranks above average according to AirDNA’s market research among short-term rentals in the U.S. The national average occupancy rate is just 60.2%, but investors and second-home buyers will find higher rates throughout rentals in Alabama’s beach, mountain, lake and urban locations. Below is a breakdown of the four places you might want to consider spending money to make money.
Beach
Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are spring break and summer vacation meccas for beach lovers. Gulf Shores lists over 5,000 active rentals bringing in an average of $271/night and an occupancy rate of 74%. If you can manage to snag a nearby property in this market, that could be over $4,000/month in additional revenue.
Mountains
Mentone is making its way up as one of Alabama’s highest ranking destination locations. Because of its low inventory of short-term rentals, this small mountain town sees the highest occupancy rate on our list at 77% throughout the year. With only 145 current active rentals, Mentone is a great spot for new or experienced investors to snag a second home and start making money.
Lake
Realtor.com ranked Guntersville, Alabama as the 9th most affordable lake town in the U.S. in 2021. Glenn S. Phillips, CEO of Lake Homes Realty stated, “lake homes have always been a popular, aspirational home. The events of the past year drove additional interest.” And that additional interest in lake houses means additional rentals. Guntersville also ranks higher than the national average with an occupancy rate of 65%. Your dream lake house for family fun over the long weekends could also mean a $2,880/month raise.
City
Birmingham is a growing hub for foodies and remote working millennials. With Barber Motor Sports (Alabama’s largest tourist attraction) right on the outskirts, Birmingham is a high traffic area with rich culture… and a lot of visitors. Micro-lofts, condos and community living are up-and-coming in the city’s urban center and make the perfect spot to invest in a vacation home. With an overall occupancy rate of 65% (higher in more desired zip codes of downtown), Birmingham city and surrounding suburbs continue to prove their ROI.
So, whether you are considering a vacation home for family or an investment property to list on AirBnB or VBRO, the vast Alabama terrain has endless opportunities for personal and economic growth.
Officials with the Hangout Music Festival have unveiled the lineup for the 2022 event, which will hit the beaches of Gulf Shores the weekend of May 20-22.
Pre-sale registration is now open for the popular festival, which is back after being canceled in 2020 and 2021. The musical feast, which had grown to become an unofficial kickoff for summer along Alabama’s Gulf Coast since its start in 2010, draws a diverse array of pop, rock, hip-hop, electronic and country artists. General ticket sales are scheduled to open Monday, Dec. 13.
The festival’s headliners for its comeback include singer and rapper Post Malone, Australian psychedelic rock act Tame Impala and Grammy award-winning vocalist Halsey. Others scheduled to perform include R&B and rap sensation Doja Cat, Chicago pop-punk group Fall Out Boy, dance music standout Illenium, Houston hip-hop artist Megan Thee Stallion, country vocalist Kane Brown, Louisville rapper Jack Harlow, Grammy-winning German-Russian DJ and producer Zedd, and soul singer and songwriter Leon Bridges.
In all, 70 acts are scheduled to play at this year’s festival. Find the full lineup at www.hangoutmusicfest.com.
Organizers say that, beyond the music, the community aspect of Hangout “remains at the core of the festival’s experience” with a variety of events and activities planned, and a focus on social and environmental responsibility and community engagement. Events and options include food; art exhibits; dancing; recreation, including disco roller skating and swimming; and even the opportunity to get married at the festival.
The festival prides itself on supporting the community through philanthropy. Most recently Hangout donated $100,000 to Gulf Shores City Schools for a music lab for Gulf Shores High School students. Festival organizers say the event pumps more than $40 million into the local economy each year.
More information about the festival, and its efforts to support diversity, equity and inclusion, environmental sustainability and local charities can be found on Hangout’s website.
(Courtesy of Alabama NewsCenter)
Overall, home sales are indicating the real estate market may be cooling. NAR predicts mortgage rates will rise to 3.5% by mid-2022, as the Federal Reserve likely will begin to reduce its bond purchases before the end of the year. In addition, many first-time buyers are getting priced out of the market as median existing home prices continue to increase.
Increased vacation home and second home sales are a good sign for Alabama’s real estate economy. Because home prices are below the national average, the Yellowhammer State has seen increased activity since the pandemic has shifted more interest to small and rural markets.
Finding a solution to the long-standing traffic woes tied to crossing the Intracoastal Waterway to arrive to and depart from Baldwin County’s beaches is uncertain as a disagreement between Orange Beach Mayor Tony Kennon and Gulf Shores Mayor Robert Craft seems to have gotten personal.
Since 1972, the Alabama Highway 59 via the W.C. Holmes
As the number of beachgoers continues to increase on an annual basis and more people make Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Fort Morgan their homes, a third bridge has been proposed to alleviate the increased traffic tie-ups. However, given the limitations of the Gulf State Park boundaries, determining the proper location for a new bridge has been difficult, with some questioning if a new bridge is the right choice as a solution.
Whether it’s the Yellowhammer State or the Cotton State, whatever you call the state of Alabama, an abundance of birds call it home. “Yellowhammer” in fact refers to the common name for the northern flicker woodpecker — which just happens to be the state bird of Alabama.
Specifically, coastal Alabama is home to a treasure trove of avian species that nest on the beach and use the area for stopover on their migratory journeys around the world. Coastal Alabama is a particularly vulnerable area, as well as the other four Gulf state coasts. The Gulf’s coast is subject to battering from hurricanes and storm surge, land loss from a lack of sediment transfers, and increased development — making coastal restoration projects all that more important.
The incredible amount of bird habitat in the Yellowhammer State is good news for outdoors enthusiasts. Birding trails and hunting opportunities are prevalent, and per Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Tourism, birding as a sector of tourism is huge. Roughly $17.3 billion is spent on wildlife-watching trips and related expenses, with an estimated 20 million Americans traveling for birding. (more…)
When it comes to extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), Vitina Feo knows her stuff.
“We hand pick everything, which is very costly, but what it does is it keeps your tree happy and they keep producing good olives,” Feo said.
As CEO of Papa Vince, a small, family-owned business based out of the Alabama coastal town of Gulf Shores, Feo knows her product from growing up around olive oil production in Sicily. Her family has been making olive oil since 1935, but it wasn’t until decades later, when she was now living in the United States, that the idea to actually sell that olive oil came to be.
“When we started Papa Vince, we were committed, but the biggest problem we had is we were short on capital,” Feo said. “In the beginning, our brand was unknown; the sales were slow and when you have slow sales, your fixed costs eat the profits. That’s when Regions really helped us.” (more…)
Weary students and their equally winter-worn parents look forward to March and a little break from early classes, homework, projects and deadlines. The pandemic has added stresses like virtual learning, quarantines and limited extracurricular activities. With restrictions and safety recommendations limiting long-distance trips, Alabama has perfect Sweet Home getaways for spring break 2021. From the mountains to the Gulf of Mexico, here’s a roadmap (and a few tips for sneaking in some fun ways to learn something new) for the perfect spring break journey within a few hours’ drive.
Time is running out to book your vacation rental or hotel for the coming warm-weather months, however it is not because things are returning to a non-COVID “normal.”
The pandemic has put the national tourism and travel industry under siege for the last year, and Alabama’s 32 miles of white sands on the Gulf Coast have been especially hit hard.
With the climate still tough for communities and small businesses in Baldwin County that rely on visitors for their livelihood, another obstacle continues to play a part for the upcoming spring — and, perhaps, even summer — travel season. It’s also a reason why Alabamians looking for a beach getaway should act now and plan ahead. (more…)
Lamar Pendergrass believes in the old saying that good things come to those who wait.
The timing of the renovations to Gulf State Park Pier is not what was planned, but Pendergrass assures everyone it will be worth the wait.
“This is going to be what sets the example for any pier that is built on the Gulf of Mexico,” said Pendergrass, Alabama State Parks South Region Operations Supervisor. “If people want to see something that is state-of-the-art and done the right way, this is where they need to be.”
The $2.4 million renovation of one of the premier piers on the Gulf of Mexico is expected to be completed in July after all the decking and handrails have been replaced as the major part of the renovations. (more…)