An excuse is never needed to plan a getaway to one of the South’s many unique coastal destinations. But if you’re looking for one, here we share 10 of the best festivals going on this fall. From the flawless fall weather and beautiful beach backdrop to the can’t-find-it-anywhere-else culture and cuisine, these unique events will most certainly have you planning a weekend getaway—or two!

National Shrimp Festival

Gulf Shores, Alabama

It’s not fall on the Alabama Gulf Coast without the Annual National Shrimp Festival. To be held October 6 through 9 in Gulf Shores, this annual event—now in its 49^th year—is all about the food: shrimp prepared practically any way possible, crab cakes, conch fritters, lobster, and so many other seafood favorites, as well as many typical festival foods like fried Oreos and funnel cakes. The offerings continue with all sorts of musical entertainment, from local and regional acts to major national bands. Also on the agenda is an arts and crafts festival with 200-plus vendors, children’s activities, sand sculpture contest, and even 10K and 5K races.

Inaugural Gumbo Fest

Gulfport, Mississippi

New to the landscape of Gulfport, Mississippi, is the Inaugural Gumbo Fest. This new event was established as a celebration of the many communities in the region that are different and distinct, yet come together as “One Coast.” To be hosted November 19 at the 48-acre resort complex Centennial Plaza (a formerly military installation), the festival will crown a winner for best gumbo in the “Stir Da Roux Gumbo Cook-Off,” as well as a Mayor’s Cup competition between all of the local mayors. In addition to sampling all the gumbo, attendees can peruse arts and crafts from regional artists and listen to live music from a variety of musicians.

Jekyll Island Shrimp & Grits Festival

Jekyll Island, Georgia

There may not be a festival more food-forward than the Jekyll Island Shrimp & Grits Festival. This annual favorite—which is celebrating its 15^th anniversary this year—returns November 4 through 6 to bring live music, an artist market, kids activities, and, of course, coastal cuisine. Throughout all three days, chefs will be serving up their unique variations of one of the South’s most renowned dishes, shrimp and grits. Also going on during the weekend is the Craft Brew Fest, which will feature a wide array of breweries.

Beaufort Shrimp Festival

Beaufort, South Carolina

The beautiful backdrop of downtown Beaufort will be hosting the 28^th Annual Beaufort Shrimp Festival. The festival will be the prime destination for all things shrimp on October 7 and 8 as some of the region’s top restaurants and chefs will be dishing out a variety of shrimp dishes. Also on hand: an arts and crafts market and lots of live music.

The Fall Tours of Architecture, History and Gardens

Charleston, South Carolina

There’s perhaps no better way to take in the incredible homes, architecture, and landscaping in Charleston than with The Fall Tours. Put on by the Preservation Society of Charleston, The Fall Tours feature a range of potential activities, from piazza and garden tours to tours that take visitors inside some of the Holy City’s most unique properties. Now in its 46^th year, The Fall Tours will be held October 5 through 29. Advanced tickets are recommended. 

Miami Carnival

Miami, Florida

Culture meets celebration at Miami Carnival. Held October 1, 7, 8, and 9, this multi-day event features four signature events: Junior Carnival, Panorama, J’ouvert, and Parade of Bands and Concert. Caribbean culture will be on full display, drawing visitors and participants from around the world.

Alys Beach Crafted

Alys Beach, Florida

Everyone has a story to tell, and that’s precisely what Alys Beach Crafted aims to help do when it comes to crafted beverages and cuisine. Planned for October 21 and 22, Crafted will bring together artisans, distillers, brewers, mixologists, and chefs to showcase their craft and the creativity behind it. The weekend will feature a variety of unique events, including Firken Fete, which includes beer samples, live music, and delicious eats.

Nola x Nola

New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans is known for its music, and this fall the Big Easy comes alive with a musical celebration. Scheduled for September 23 through October 9, venues all over the city will feature must-see live music events that speak to the unique culture and history of the historic southern town.

Outer Banks Bluegrass Island Festival

Outer Banks, North Carolina

One of the newest events in the Outer Banks has quickly become one of its favorites: the Outer Banks Bluegrass Island Festival. The three-day festival—to be hosted October 20 through 22—packs a musical punch thanks to the long list of scheduled bands that will be playing at Roanoke Island Festival Park. In addition to enjoying some of the best bluegrass around, the festival also offers a picturesque backdrop along miles of coastline. 



Foo Foo Fest

Pensacola, Florida

Whether you’re looking for arts, culture, cuisine, theater, music, history, or just a beautiful beach, you’re sure to find it in Pensacola during Foo Foo Fest. Held over the course of 12 days each fall, the event’s agenda has more offerings than the beach does sand. This year the festival takes place November 3 through 14.