July 17–19in & around Coastal Alabama & Northwest Florida

A free family night at the Wharf -- music, the bubble truck, and kids running around the marina as it lights up for the evening. No cover and an easy start to a very big weekend.

The Alabama Southern-metal band plays The Handlebar in Pensacola -- loud, sweaty, and a real touring act in a proper rock room. An adults' night out, not a family one.

The biggest draw on the whole Gulf Coast this weekend, and it's free: the U.S. Navy Blue Angels roar over Pensacola Beach in their 80th-anniversary show. Friday is the full show and Saturday is the official show day -- either way, stake out a patch of sand, look up, and don't forget sunscreen and water.

One of country's biggest current headliners brings the C Spire Concert Series to The Wharf Amphitheater in Orange Beach, with Vincent Mason and Jackson Wendell opening. A marquee Friday night under the stars -- grab tickets before it sells.

One of the Gulf's marquee offshore tournaments, and the public part is free: the dockside weigh-ins Friday and Saturday evenings at The Wharf Marina. Wander down as the boats come in and watch the day's catch hoisted onto the scale.

Buffett's longtime band keeps the party going at The Wharf Amphitheater -- margaritas, steel drums, and every Parrothead anthem you know. The perfect Gulf-Coast note to end a huge weekend on.