Top February and March Events on the Florida and Alabama Gulf Coast

Discover the top February and March events on the Florida and Alabama Gulf Coast, from Mardi Gras parades to seafood feasts, art festivals, and marathons.

The Florida and Alabama Gulf Coast comes alive in February and March, trading winter's chill for festival heat. Parades burst in color, seafood sizzles straight from the Gulf, and art shows turn beaches into open-air galleries. The air is warm with salt breezes, the streets alive with jazz, and every corner hints at Southern hospitality in full bloom.

From family-friendly Mardi Gras floats to marathons with sunrise views over the water, these months blend culture, cuisine, and community in unforgettable ways.

Curious where to begin? Here's a gist of what there is to do.

Quick-Scan Gist List

• Celebrate Mardi Gras in Mobile, Gulf Shores, and Pensacola Beach
• Feast at the Orange Beach Seafood Festival and Car Show
• Immerse Yourself in the Orange Beach Festival of Art
• Run the We Run This Beach Marathon in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach

At Luxury Coastal Vacations, we provide amazing rental options along the Gulf Coast. We're local experts, and if you ever need more tips on the Gulf Coast, head over to our destination blog. We've covered a variety of topics, including the top pet-friendly spots, kid-friendly activities, and tips for a perfect beach day.

In this guide, we'll dive into February and March events on the Florida and Alabama Gulf Coast to help you make the most of your adventure.

1. MARDI GRAS

Parades, Music, and Coastal Revelry

Mardi Gras on the Gulf Coast is more than a party — it's a cultural tradition with roots older than New Orleans itself. Mobile, Alabama, hosted America's first Mardi Gras in 1703, and the city still leads the way with elaborate parades, jazz music, and an atmosphere that feels equal parts festive and historic. Families in Gulf Shores, Pensacola, and Panama City Beach add their own spin, offering coastal parades that toss Moon Pies and beads under palm trees. This blend of history and beachside revelry makes Mardi Gras here unlike anywhere else.

The Festive Pulse of Mobile

The Order of Myths parade, dating back to 1867, remains the crown jewel of Mobile's carnival season. Jazz bands echo through downtown, beads rain from floats, and bakeries fill with the scent of King Cakes. For those looking to dress up, formal balls hosted by krewes bring an elegant side to the celebrations.

Coastal Twists on Tradition

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach keep the focus family-friendly, with daytime parades that children adore. Pensacola Beach's Krewe of Wrecks transforms sugar-white sand into a makeshift carnival ground. Over in Panama City Beach, the Beach Bash merges Mardi Gras color with coastal energy, complete with seafood stands and live bands.

Insider Scoop

• Arrive early to secure a prime viewing spot.
• Bring a tote bag for beads, toys, and Moon Pies.
• Best viewing is near parade starting points where krewes have full energy.
  
  

2. Orange Beach SEAFOOD FESTIVAL AND CAR SHOW

Fresh Gulf Flavors and Classic Cars

If your idea of a perfect day involves fresh shrimp, oysters, and crab cakes, the Gulf Coast delivers in February with the Orange Beach Seafood Festival. Held at The Wharf, this event draws more than 15,000 people each year for a mouthwatering celebration of Gulf bounty. Visitors savor gumbo, fish tacos, and fried grouper, while car enthusiasts admire rows of classic vehicles and hot rods nearby. It's a rare pairing of culinary joy and Southern car culture that keeps growing every year.

Flavor of the Festival

• Dozens of food vendors showcase Gulf seafood.
• Local chefs share gumbo and taco secrets in cooking demos.
• Over 100 classic cars roll in for display alongside the food.

Local Flavor Secrets

Arrive early for cooking demonstrations — locals know the seats fill up fast. Vendors often offer deals near closing time, making the final day perfect for stocking up on sauces, spices, and packaged seafood specialties. Above all, pace yourself: it's tempting to fill up on the first shrimp basket, but the best flavors are often waiting at the next stall.

3. Orange Beach FESTIVAL OF ART

Creativity by the Coast

Art lovers will find their paradise at the Orange Beach Festival of Art in March. This event turns Gulf State Park into a living canvas, where more than 100 artists display everything from watercolors to jewelry. The setting, framed by coastal pines and breezes off the Gulf, gives the festival a relaxed charm that encourages lingering. Families come for the art but stay for the live demonstrations and interactive workshops that allow kids — and adults — to create their own works of art.

Why It Captivates

• Over 100 artists present in mediums like clay, glass, and paint.
• Demonstrations show glassblowers, woodturners, and metal sculptors at work.
• More than 10,000 art lovers attended last year's festival.

Hands-On and Family Friendly

Parents often say the children's art tents are a highlight, with supplies laid out for young artists to try their hand. Sculptors and painters share techniques in real time, letting visitors witness the creative process. Best of all, many works are priced for accessibility, making it possible to bring home an authentic piece of Gulf Coast artistry.

4. We Run This Beach Marathon

Racing Along the Gulf Shoreline

The Gulf Coast doesn't just celebrate culture and food — it celebrates movement, too. The We Run This Beach Marathon in February takes runners along flat, scenic routes that showcase Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Participants describe sunrise views over the Gulf, with dolphins often spotted offshore as motivation. The atmosphere balances determination and festivity, capped off by a beach party with seafood, craft beer, and live music.

Run the Coastline

• Full marathon, half marathon, and 5K options are available.
• The course is flat, ideal for personal bests or first-time runners.
• Over 2,500 participants joined across all distances last year.

Beyond Running

Boat shows and outdoor expos round out the sporting season. Visitors can explore fishing seminars, gear displays, and family activities. Locals recommend visiting on weekdays to avoid crowds and have more time to chat with exhibitors about boats and equipment.

February and March Events on the Gulf Coast

If you're trying to decide which Gulf Coast events best fit your trip, here's a quick side-by-side comparison. Each festival has its own flavor — from history-rich parades to foodie feasts and art showcases — so you can pick what matches your travel style.

How Do These Events Support Local Culture and Economy?

Festivals here aren't just entertainment; they're engines of culture and economy. Visitor spending supports restaurants, hotels, and countless local vendors, from seafood purveyors to jewelry makers. The presence of tourists sustains thousands of jobs across Alabama and Florida's coastal counties. On a cultural level, events reinforce traditions like Mardi Gras and seafood feasts, keeping them vibrant for future generations.

Community at Its Core

• Tourism generated $7.3 billion in Alabama in 2022.
• More than 62,000 jobs are supported by beach tourism.
• Local artists, fishers, and chefs directly benefit from seasonal festivals.

Heritage on Display

Seafood festivals highlight the Gulf's culinary roots while promoting sustainable practices. Art shows ensure local creativity remains visible and accessible. These gatherings are as much about pride of place as they are about fun.

Travel Tips for February and March Gulf Coast Events

A little planning goes a long way to make the most of spring on the Gulf Coast. Hotels and rentals fill quickly around Mardi Gras and seafood festivals, so booking weeks ahead is key. Transportation can be tricky on parade days, and locals often suggest ridesharing or public shuttles to avoid traffic. Packing light layers also helps — days are warm, but nights can still feel cool by the water.

Smart Traveler Checklist

• Comfortable walking shoes are a must for festivals.
• Bring a tote or backpack for beads, souvenirs, and food samples.
• Folding chairs and a small cooler make parades more comfortable.

Booking Strategies

• Weekdays offer better hotel rates and thinner crowds.
• Vacation rentals are excellent for groups or families.
• Official event pages post the latest ticket and schedule updates.
  
  

Beyond Evets: Why Visit the Gulf Coast in February and March?

February and March strike a rare balance: warm enough for outdoor festivals, yet not crowded enough to feel hectic. The Gulf Coast enjoys days in the mid-60s to 70s, inviting you to stroll parades, sample seafood, or browse art tents without breaking a sweat.

Hotel rates are still reasonable before the spring break surge, and attractions are lively but not overwhelming. It's the season when everything seems to line up just right for travelers seeking authentic coastal experiences.

Why It's Special

• Daytime highs average 66–72°F, perfect for festivals.
• Crowds are manageable before spring break peaks.
• Visitors can catch a broad mix of cultural and recreational events.
  
  

Find the Best Place to Stay in Gulf Shores

Looking for an extra idea to make the most of your vacation on the Gulf Coast? Book your stay with Luxury Coastal Vacations. We offer the finest selection of luxury rentals on the Gulf Coast, spanning Alabama and Florida.

When you choose to stay in one of our homes or condos, you can expect a 5-star experience that you'll cherish forever. Browse through our options and discover what awaits you on the beautiful Gulf Coast.