Residents and Business Owners in Gulf Shores All For Holding Future Concerts on the Beach
By Rick McCann
Blue RAM Media/Gulf Coast News
June 10, 2025
GULF SHORES Ala. Despite some inconveniences, heavy traffic, and some rowdiness, both area residents, short-term condo owners, and local businesses have told city leaders during a meeting that they believe that the city should continue hosting the Hangout or the Sand in My Boots Music Festival. Some even said that the area could successfully host both of them each year.
The consensus of residents after the first Sand in My Boots concert was that it wasn’t as rowdy or as loud as previous Hangout Music Festivals and that many attendees both shopped at local businesses and ate at area restaurants, something that was not done as frequently during the Hangout festivals.
After the expiration of the Hangout contract, city leaders wondered if they should host any future concerts because of the many complaints that they had received throughout the years of having the event in Gulf Shores
However, data from an online survey of 1,431 residents showed that 76% supported the festival. A survey of business owners showed that 86% were in favor of the city continuing the festival.
The city also held a public meeting last week, allowing individuals to share their thoughts. Out of 22 speakers, 19 were in favor of the festival.
Blake Phelps, the director of economic development and public affairs, said paid occupancy of hotels and vacation rentals increased from 25-30% before the festival to 85-90% during the festival in 2025.
The city council will consider the public’s input before making further decisions on the festival
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