Calling all shrimp lovers, it’s that time of year again. The 46th Annual National Shrimp Festival takes over Gulf Shores this weekend. From October 12-15, shrimp and seafood lovers of all kinds overtake the beaches of Gulf Shores, Alabama. With seafood lovers arriving from across the country, this year will be another one to remember.

More than 50 food vendors and 200 arts and crafts booths line the event. For four days, get your fill of Gulf Coast seafood and sunshine. For those looking to burn off some calories after trying every fried, grilled, and boiled shrimp available, lace up your running shoes for the annual 5K and 10K races. All proceeds of the run benefit the Coastal Baldwin Education Enrichment program. Your participation helps local Gulf Shores and Orange Beach public schools. So not only can you burn some calories, you can contribute to a great local cause.

Of course, what’s a Southern seafood festival without a little live music? Musical acts include bands playing the blues, Motown funk, Southern rock, jazz, Zydeco and country. Other activities this year include Outdoor World and Singing for Scholarships.

Outdoor World hosts vendors, seminars, and activities on fishing, boating, and hunting. They also offer a kids’ play area with face painting and karaoke. Oh, and did we mention the sand castle contest? Get your buckets and shovels ready! There’s nothing like sculpting a work of art from the sugar white sand of the Gulf Coast.

Meanwhile, Singing for Scholarships brings talented high school singers  to the stage. They compete in American Idol style elimination rounds for the grand prize of a scholarship. The top three contestants win scholarships.

So don’t miss out on a single minute of fun at the 46th Annual National Shrimp Festival. If you’re not already vacationing in Gulf Shores, book your Gulf Shores condo or vacation home today, for next year!