Alabama Best Food and Drink Festivals 

Mobile Food and Wine Festivals:

​Orange Beach Seafood Festival: February

The beloved annual seafood celebration in coastal Alabama draws over 10,000 visitors to The Wharf entertainment complex. The Orange Beach Seafood Festival features more than 200 diverse vendors, including local favorites like Doc's Seafood Shack and Fisher's at Orange Beach Marina. Fresh Gulf shrimp, oysters, and locally caught fish are prepared in various styles, from traditional fried baskets to innovative fusion dishes, while craft beer selections from regional breweries complement the maritime feast.

Live music echoes throughout the venue as artists like The Red Clay Strays and Roman Street perform on the main stage, creating a lively atmosphere for festival-goers. Kids enjoy the dedicated children's area complete with face painting, balloon artists, and interactive marine life exhibits provided by the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. Local artisans display their nautical-themed crafts and artwork, while cooking demonstrations by area chefs showcase the versatility of Gulf Coast seafood.
 
Wine on the River: October

This waterfront festival along coastal Alabama brings wine enthusiasts to the heart of downtown Mobile. Wine on the River features over 40 carefully selected wine vendors, offering samples from both regional favorites like Perdido Wine Company and international vintners. The outdoor event, hosted at Cooper Riverside Park, typically welcomes around 2,000 attendees who can taste various wines while enjoying the Mobile River views.

Local restaurants, including NoJa, Dauphins, and The Royal Scam, provide gourmet food pairings such as artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, and seafood small plates. Live jazz and acoustic performances from regional musicians create an elegant backdrop for the evening. The festival incorporates a unique riverboat component, where VIP guests can take short scenic cruises while sampling exclusive wine selections not available at the main event.
 
Mobile Beer and Bourbon Festivals:
 
Dauphin Street Beer Festival: August

This downtown Mobile ale celebration has grown into one of Alabama's most anticipated craft beer gatherings, drawing over 3,000 enthusiasts annually to the historic entertainment district. The Dauphin Street Beer Festival features more than 30 venues, including favorites like O'Daly's Irish Pub, The Merry Widow, and Pat's Downtown Grill, each offering unique beer selections from regional and national breweries. Local breweries like Serda Brewing and Iron Hand Brewing showcase their signature craft beers alongside national brands, with over 90 different beer varieties available for sampling throughout the evening.

Festival-goers enjoy live music performances on multiple stages, with past performers including local bands like Red Clay Strays and The Underhill Family Orchestra adding to the vibrant atmosphere. Participating restaurants serve specially curated food pairings designed to complement the beer selections, with many venues offering exclusive festival-only menu items. The festival features a commemorative tasting glass for attendees, a convenient mobile app for venue navigation, and designated areas where beer enthusiasts can meet and discuss with master brewers about their craft.
 
​Bourbon on the Bay: November

The Gulf Coast's premier bourbon tasting event is set to return for its eighth annual celebration. Hosted at The Temple in Mobile, Alabama, this popular gathering offers attendees the opportunity to sample a wide variety of premium bourbons and whiskeys from over 30 vendors, including renowned distilleries like Maker's Mark and Four Roses. Guests can indulge in gourmet paired food samplings, featuring local delicacies such as fresh Gulf oysters and Southern-inspired hors d'oeuvres.

The event also showcases craft cocktails prepared by skilled mixologists, as well as a selection of wines and local brews to cater to diverse tastes. While enjoying the libations, attendees can peruse a unique silent auction and groove to live music, though the specific lineup has not been announced. VIP ticket holders are treated to an exclusive early access hour, allowing them to enjoy high-end bourbon tastings and champagne in a more intimate setting before the main event begins.

Whether you find yourself in the heart of Birmingham, the innovation hub of Huntsville, or the coastal charm of Mobile, Alabama's diverse culinary festivals offer a feast for every palate.