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From Music to Nature to Education, Here’s What’s Happening This Week

Jessica A. Taylor • February 10, 2025

Enjoy music, dancing and outdoor fun across the Gulf Coast this week

From Music to Nature to Education, Here’s What’s Happening This Week

Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – As we roll into mid-February, the calendar is packed with a dynamic mix of events celebrating music, nature, history, and community. From educational workshops to lively concerts, scenic nature walks, and festive gatherings, there’s no shortage of ways to soak up the vibrant culture of our coastal region this week. Whether you're in the mood for an intimate jazz performance, a Valentine's Day dance, or a scenic stroll to spot majestic bald eagles, this week’s lineup offers something for every interest and age group.


With technology constantly evolving, Monday kicks off with a crucial workshop on avoiding online scams, while Tuesday brings a nostalgic tribute to the legendary musical duo Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong. Midweek, nature lovers can embark on a guided tour searching for nesting eagles, and Valentine's revelers can dance the evening away on Thursday. The weekend brings live music with local favorites Sugarcane Jane, a tree-planting celebration for Arbor Day, and a laid-back Sunday of craft brews and soulful tunes at Big Beach Brewing Company. No matter your plans, there’s a way to make the most of every day on the Gulf Coast this week!


Monday, February 10th -
Generative AI is increasingly being utilized to make scams more difficult to identify. As we move on into 2025, we can expect the ugly world of scams to be a threat now unfortunately in new and more advanced ways, like a rise in investment and impersonation scams plus more yet to be identified. It's apparent that these scams are becoming more intricate, propelled by technological advancements and new channels of attack via social media, including fake contests, not forgetting the common phishing emails and text messages. Visit the Orange Beach Library for a complimentary ‘Adult Technology Class’ to gain first-hand knowledge on how to steer clear of some of today's most widespread scams. 


Orange Beach Public Library

2667 Canal Rd

Orange Beach, AL 36561 

Orange Beach Public Library


Tuesday, February 11th -
Take a stroll through history while enjoying timeless music that honors one of the most significant alliances in jazz. In October 1956, a landmark album titled “Ella and Louis” was released. This collaboration marked the first of three successful partnerships between Ella Firzgerlad and Louis Armstrong. Their musical connection played a crucial role in reviving The Great American Songbook, showcasing their exceptional artistry amidst societal challenges. The performance will feature renowned trumpet master and vocalist Longinue Parsons, alongside the esteemed Tina Fabrique, who is best known for her portrayal of Ella Fitzgerald and as the voice behind “Reading Rainbow.” TOgether, accompanied by an exceptional ensemble, they will present a performance filled with classic holiday tunes and popular songs that pay tribute to two of jazz’s most significant icons. These performances are a part of the City of Gulf Shores Winter Concert Series, “What a Wonderful World.” For more information, please visit the website below. 


Erie Meyer Civic Center 

1930 W 2nd St

Gulf Shores, AL 36542

Winter Concert Series | Gulf Shores, AL - Official Website


Wednesday, February 12th -
The Eagles have landed in the Gulf State Park and there is one nest stirring up quite the buzz on the Lakeview trail. Join the GSP naturalist and other nature enthusiasts for a 1.5-mile journey through the park winding up at the Eagle's Nest. During the journey, walkers will stop at the Lake Shelby Overlook to admire the breathtaking scenery. The knowledgeable guides will provide information about the flora, fauna, and avian species that cross their paths. At the Eagle's Nest, the naturalist will explore the intriguing realm of Bald Eagles, and with some luck, maybe even spot the impressive birds of prey in the wild. Don’t miss out on this incredible guided walkthrough learning and commending all the beautiful sights and creatures in their natural habitats. Registration is recommended but not required, please visit the link below. 


Lakeview Trailhead

Gulf Shores, AL 36542

Gulf State Park | Alapark


Thursday, February 13th -
Valentine's dancing has a rich history that dates back to the 14th century, beginning with courtly dances and evolving through the 20th century into competitive dance-offs. In the early 1900s, Chicago hosted marathon dances that attracted large crowds but were eventually banned due to health concerns. Organizers responded by hiring doctors to supervise these events, thus keeping the hype alive.  While such marathons are no longer held today, dancing remains a popular way for couples to connect. The Orange Beach Senior Center is hosting a special dance event to celebrate Valentine's Day. Doors will open at 4:30 PM, and the event will begin at 5:30 PM. Please bring a covered dish to share, your favorite beverage, and your dancing shoes! RSVP 251-981-3440


Orange Beach Senior Center. 

26251 Canal Rd 

Orange Beach, AL 36561

Adult / Senior Activity Center | Orange Beach, AL


Friday, February 14th -
Sugarcane Jane, led by Anthony Crawford and Savana Lee from Loxley, Alabama, has been enchanting audiences as America’s Gulf Coast sweethearts for over ten years. They captivate listeners with their love, talent, and impressive musical legacy, having collaborated with renowned artists such as Neil Young, Steve Winwood, and Dwight Yoakam. Their unique sound blends elements of country, rock, and soul, all enriched by their beautiful and heartfelt harmonies. This makes them the perfect entertainment for Valentine’s Day with your favorite companion. They will be performing in the main room from 2 PM to 6 PM at the world-famous Flora-Bama bar. For more on this dynamic duo, check out their webpage below. 


Flora-Bama Lounge & Package

17401 Perdido Key Dr

Pensacola, FL 32507

Flora-Bama

Sugarcane Jane


Saturday, February 15th -
Traditionally Arbor Day falls on April 25th each year, though many cities choose to observe the day when the soil is best suited for planting. For the island, that date falls this year on Feb. 15th. Come out celebrate with your neighbors as the City of Gulf Shores proudly commemorates its 38th year as a Tree City. The 38th Annual Arbor Day Celebration, organized by the Gulf Shores Beautification Board, promises to be an exciting event. Located at the Erie H. Meyer Civic Center from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Residents may come by to pick up your tree and take part in this wonderful community tradition—trees will be handed out until supplies last. Let’s unite to honor nature and reaffirm our dedication to making this coastal city greener. To find out if you qualify to receive a free tree or for some specialty fruit trees and for more information, please visit the link below for our article. 


Erie Meyer Civic Center

1930 W 2nd St

Gulf Shores, AL 36542

Free Trees for Gulf Shores Residents on Arbor Day 


Sunday, February 16th -
Sunday’s on the Gulf Coast still bring a vibrant vibe with live music belting from water view restaurants to cook offs, festivals and more. The same is true for the outdoor venues that keep it real year round despite the temperature changes, offering warming stations when necessary and plenty of good time amusement. Big Beach Brewery, the southernmost brewery in Alabama, is a family owned local business and the “first and only Neighborhood Craft Brewery.” What started out as something to share with friends soon sparked a dream where the humble beginnings of what is now one of the most popular corner hangouts in Gulf Shores. Some might even call it destiny after the evolving of the company into the crafting powerhouse it is today. Come out to see yourself at the beautiful open air distillery and enjoy live tunes with the one and only Destiny Brown from 3-7PM. Brown musical influences range from alternative to blues and everywhere in between, don’t forget to ask about the seasonal brewing process and find out what's new and what’s coming up. 



Big Beach Brewing Company

300 E 24th Ave

Gulf Shores, AL 36542

Big Beach Brewing Company

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