Summer is quickly fading and fall is just around the corner. That means it’s time to plan for all the exciting events that take place once the temperatures drop a little along the Alabama coast!

One of the biggest activities of the fall is the annual National Shrimp Festival, set for Oct. 11-14 at the main beach in Gulf Shores. This is the 47th year for the event, which attracts 300,000 people each year, serves up thousands of pounds of shrimp and brings 100+ hours of entertainment to several stages. In addition, more than 200 fine arts and arts & crafts vendors offer their wares, and the Children’s Activity Village provides arts, crafts, games and entertainment specifically for the youngsters.

The World Food Championships take place Nov. 7-11 at The Wharf in Orange Beach. General admission is $10 each day, and children 12 and under get in free. Or just purchase a weekend pass to join in the action as 1,500 chefs and cooks battle it out for fame and fortune.

Another huge fall event is the 34th Annual Frank Brown International Songwriters’ Festival, playing this year from Nov. 8 through 18 at dozens of venues along the coast. Attendees get a chance to hear more than 200 songwriters who come from around the world to perform at the gathering. It’s truly up close and personal, and you get to enjoy learning from the songwriters themselves the stories behind some top hits. While most venues are free to attend, a few do charge a modest cover.

Come on down to enjoy the fun, food and festivities. We just ask that you Leave Only Footprints behind while enjoying our beaches.