The 33rd Annual Orange Beach Seafood Festival and MAAAC Car Show, held annually at The Wharf, marks the beginning of the Gulf Coast's vibrant spring festival season. This beloved event, scheduled for Saturday, February 22nd, runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., offering a day filled with delightful activities for all ages.

Experience Unforgettable Fun and Support Local Schools

An Anticipated Fundraising Extravaganza

The car show serves as a significant fundraising event for the Makos Academics, Arts, and Athletics Club (MAAAC), directly benefiting the educational initiatives in Orange Beach schools. In 2025, Rita’s Italian Ice & Custard proudly sponsors this iconic event. Over 20,000 visitors are expected to attend, enjoying an array of attractions that cater to every interest.Each year, the festival draws a crowd eager to indulge in delectable seafood, explore over 100 arts and crafts booths, enjoy family-friendly music performances, and participate in engaging activities at the Kids’ Zone. The car show, featuring antique, classic, and hot rod vehicles lining Main Street, adds a dynamic visual spectacle to the festivities.

A Day of Culinary Delights

Food enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise at the festival. The west parking lot behind the movie theater hosts numerous food vendors serving a wide variety of seafood dishes. From succulent oysters and fried shrimp to rich jambalaya and Cajun sausage, there is something to satisfy every palate. Sweet treats like Mardi Gras beignets and bread pudding offer a delightful end to any meal. Beverage options include refreshing kettle corn, cotton candy, old-fashioned sodas, fresh lemonade, smoothies, milkshakes, and loaded teas.Two Pepsi stations, manned by volunteers from Orange Beach Elementary School, provide refreshing drinks, while MAAAC volunteers manage a beer booth on Main Street. The diverse menu ensures that everyone can find their perfect meal, making it a culinary journey through Southern flavors.

Celebrating Creativity Through Art and Craft

The festival showcases the work of talented artisans and crafters from across the region. Handmade jewelry, intricate metalwork, mixed media art, paintings, photography, leather goods, pottery, sculptures, specialty items, and woodwork fill over 100 booths. Each piece reflects the unique creativity and skill of its maker, offering visitors a chance to discover one-of-a-kind treasures.The arts and crafts area, located in the west parking lot, provides a serene environment where attendees can browse and purchase these exceptional works. Although vendor applications are now closed due to full capacity, the diversity of offerings promises an enriching experience for art lovers and collectors alike.

Musical Performances That Enchant the Crowd

Music plays a pivotal role in creating the festive atmosphere at the event. The Arts & Crafts Music Stage features three captivating performances: Strick & Nix from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Shea & Brandon White from 11:45 a.m. to 1:45 p.m., and Funky Lampshades from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Their melodies set the tone for an enjoyable day.At Portside on Main, The Destinations perform live from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., adding another layer of entertainment. These musical acts not only entertain but also foster a sense of community and shared joy among festival-goers.

Convenient Accessibility and Community Engagement

The event is free to attend, with ample parking available. Volunteers from Orange Beach schools assist with parking, accepting donations to support local education. Free shuttle services run between Orange Beach Middle/High School and The Wharf, ensuring easy access for all attendees. Shuttle pickup occurs at the school bell tower, with drop-offs at the front circle on Main Street at The Wharf, operating from approximately 9:45 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. based on demand.For those interested in participating in the car show, registration is open online via the MAAAC website. Early bird registration costs $75, while day-of registration at the Main Street entrance starts at $100 from 9 a.m. onwards. For more information or to register, contact Melaine Bennett at 251-200-8037 or via email.