Last weekend I was in Montgomery watching the top whitewater athletes in the county compete in hopes of punching their ticket to the 2024 Paris Olympics. Now the decision of what to do this weekend looms.
Our list of weekend events ranges from celebrating and experiencing history to bird banding. Start the weekend at Manci's Antique Club in Daphne as they celebrate 88 years of business and the building's 100th birthday. Take a drive to Fort Morgan and watch as the experts with Alabama Audubon band birds or head to Fort Gaines and experience the 160th Battle of Mobile Bay. We didn't forget about the family pooch in this week's list. Leash up your four-legged pal and head to Gulf Shores for Doggy Fest.
If our list missed the mark for you, visit our event calendar at www.GulfCoastMedia.com for more events happening this weekend or beyond. Search for events by distance from your home city or vacation spot.
Manci's Antique Club 100-Year Celebration
- What: Manci's Antique Club has been around for 88 years, but the building is turning 100 years old. Both milestones call for a celebration. The celebratory weekend kicks off Friday with a ribbon cutting at 4 p.m. and Symone French for entertainment. The whole weekend will feature drink specials and entertainment. Don't miss the fun.
- When: April 19-21, times vary
- Where: Manci's Antique Club, 1715 Main St., Daphne
Coastal Bird Banding
- What: See migrant birds up at the Alabama Audubon's Coastal Bird Banding event at Fort Morgan State Historic Site. Get the rare opportunity to see a banding station in action, enjoy the bird and nature walks and visit organization tables. Don't forget your camera. For more information, visit www.alaudubon.org.
- When: April 15-20, 10 a.m.
- Where: Fort Morgan Historical Site, 110 Hwy. 180 W., Gulf Shores
- Price: Parking fee is $5. The event is free.
Under the Stars 2024
- What: Under the Stars is the Baldwin County Child Advocacy Center's annual fundraising evening at Oak Hollow Farm. The Six Piece Suits Band will entertain this year's guests, eat great food, dance and vie for top-notch items in a silent auction. All the funds raised during the 15th annual event help the BCCAC continue to help child abuse victims in Baldwin County. Tickets are still available, visit www.baldwincountycac.org.
- When: Friday, April 19, 6-10 p.m.
- Where: Oak Hollow Farm, 14210 S. Greeno Road, Fairhope
- Price: $75 per person
Thunder on the Bay
- What: Experience the 160th Battle of Mobile Bay this weekend as Fort Gaines brings history to life and highlights Fort Gaines' role in the Battle of Mobile Bay. Experience living history throughout the day, cannon fire, soldiers in period uniforms.
- When: April 20-21
- Where: Fort Gaines Historic Site, 51 Bienville Blvd., Dauphin Island
- Price: Adult admission is $10, children $5
Doggy Fest
- What: Gulf Shores' Meyer Park will go to the dogs Saturday. Spend the morning enjoying live music, crafts, doggy obstacle course, prizes, a community mural and more. Pre-register your pooch if you would like a pet caricature and swag bag (just $10). For more information, visit www.gulfshoresa.gov.
- When: Saturday, April 20, 10 a.m. - noon
- Where: Meyer Park, 400 East 22nd Ave., Gulf Shores
- Price: Free to attend
Sunday Sunset Concert Series
- What: Wrap up your weekend with a Mobile Bay sunset and live music. The Sunday Sunset Concert Series presents the City Rhythm Big Band at Bayfront Park. Bring your family, chairs, blankets and enjoy an evening of community and music.
- When: Sunday, April 21, 6-7:30 p.m.
- Where: Bayfront Park, 6200 Bayfront Drive, Daphne
- Price: Free to attend
