Heritage Park in downtown Foley is set to come alive with the Gumbo & Alabama Slammer Festival on January 31 and February 1. This two-day celebration will feature delicious food, lively music, and family-friendly activities.
The festival kicks off at 10 a.m. each day. Visitors can enjoy a variety of gumbo, from traditional Creole and Cajun styles to unique takes by local chefs. Besides gumbo, food vendors will offer a mix of festival favorites, including beer and wine for the grown-ups.
Music lovers will be entertained by national tribute bands, with “Private Eyes,” known for their renditions of Hall & Oates, taking the stage. Families can explore the Family Fun Zone, which includes a petting zoo and various activities for kids. Local artists will showcase their handmade crafts and artwork throughout the park.
Throughout the weekend, there will be fun competitions with prizes of $50 for winners. These lighthearted events encourage community participation and engagement. For many attendees, these competitions add an extra layer of enjoyment to the festival experience.
Saturday Schedule
On Saturday, the festivities begin at 10 a.m. with all vendors and entertainment opening their doors. Here’s what to expect:
- 10:30 a.m. — Performance by Wes Loper Country Band
- 12 p.m. — Dance performance by South Baldwin Dance
- 12:30 p.m. — “Don’t Spill the Roux” contest
- 1 p.m. — 80s rock performance by Krash Party
- 3 p.m. — “Shake It Out” contest
- 3:30 p.m. — “Private Eyes” tribute band performance
- 6 p.m. — End of the first day
Sunday Schedule
Sunday also begins at 10 a.m. with similar offerings. Here’s what attendees can look forward to:
- 11 a.m. — Krash Party returns
- 1 p.m. — “Catch the Gumbo” contest
- 1:30 p.m. — Performance by Flip City Academy
- 2:15 p.m. — “Toss the Gumbo” contest
- 3 p.m. — The Tip Tops paying tribute to Earth, Wind & Fire
- 5 p.m. — Festival concludes
This festival not only celebrates food and music but also brings the community together. It reflects a growing trend where towns are focusing on local culture and cuisine to foster community spirit. Festivals like this one contribute significantly to local economies. According to a report by the National Endowment for the Arts, festivals can provide a boost in local tourism, which helps small businesses thrive.
Held at Heritage Park, located at 200 N McKenzie St. in Foley, this festival promises a memorable outing for everyone. Keep in mind that times and contests may change slightly, so it’s a good idea to stay updated.
For more information about the festival, check out www.beachlifeevents.com. You can also find them on Facebook for the latest updates.
