Orange Beach Festival of ArtThere’s always fun to be had along Alabama’s coast, but once spring has sprung, there are more events on the calendar than any other time of year! Warmer temperatures draw folks out of hibernation, and everyone’s ready to welcome the change in season with a lot of festival fun. Planning your trip along Alabama’s Coastal Connection? Keep these upcoming festivals in mind.

Head to Gulf Shores March 3 for the annual Ballyhoo Festival, a celebration of art and culture organized by the Gulf Coast Arts Alliance. This year’s event features art demonstrations, local seafood, a petting zoo and of course, the highlight of the day, a performance by the Poarch Band of Creek Indians.

Visit Orange Beach March 10 and 11 for the Festival of Art! This free celebration of visual, performing, musical and culinary arts has been an Orange Beach tradition for more than 40 years. See live art demonstrations, grab something delectable to eat or catch a live musical performance on one of the two entertainment stages.

Fairhope’s 66th annual Arts and Crafts Festival will be held March 16, 17 and 18 this year. With more than 230 exhibitors from across the Southeast and the country, live entertainment and a food court, this three-day festival is the perfect excuse to explore downtown Fairhope.

Foley BBQ & Blue Cook-offIn the mood for some fantastic food and a rocking good time? Head to Foley’s BBQ and Blues Cook-off on March 17. Cooking teams from all over compete for bragging rights and to raise money for local school programs in south Baldwin county. Chow down on some smoking good barbeque and catch live musical performances all for a good cause.

Elberta’s fire department puts on their German Sausage Festival twice a year to raise money for the fire department, the town and a number of local non-profits. This year’s first festival kicks off March 31 with German-inspired fare, arts and crafts, carnival rides and live music. Get there early or you’ll miss out—this festival always sells every sausage they have!

Looking for ways to celebrate the new season? We’ve got you covered with events all along Alabama’s Coastal Connection. When’s your next trip along the beach byway?