LAISSEZ LES BON TEMPS ROULER!

Get your purple, green and gold out because it’s Mardi Gras Time for Orange Beach!

And, I can’t think of a better way to start the season off right than at The Conference Center at The Wharf, which was opened last night with The Mystical Order of Mirams Goddess of The Seas 2009 Mardi Gras Ball. Over 300 people enjoyed the Rockin’ Moroccan Nights with their Queen Dana Day and Emblem Virginia Lynn at this new complex at The Wharf. Accompanied by a setting of extravagant Moroccan decorations, Vince Vance and the Andy Smith Band entertained the Gulf Coast guests for their 3rd annual ball. Doors opened at seven o’clock that evening and the Tableau was held at eight. What a spectacular first night at The Conference Center at The Wharf!

The Mardi Gras celebration does not stop there. Kicking off Saturday night at 8 p.m., The Mystics of Pleasure will have their ball at The Conference Center at The Wharf as well. Their “Nine is Fine” Masquerade Ball is the MOP’s ninth Mardi Gras celebration as the largest society on Pleasure Island, and the only society that parades and has its grand ball on the same night!

The Wharf is also celebrating Joe Cain Day this upcoming Sunday, February 22nd. During the onset of Civil War, Mardi Gras celebrations on the gulf coast came to an abrupt halt. In 1866, Joseph Cain paraded down the streets of Mobile to bring Mardi Gras celebration back to the Gulf Coast, and his successful ambition to revive the surrounding cities is observed each year on the Sunday before Mardi Gras Day, dubbed Joe Cain Day. Participating retailers and restaurants are offering raffle tickets for a chance to win an $800 prize pack from The Wharf. Everyone that comes to The Wharf will receive raffle tickets at any of the participating stores, bars, and restaurants with each purchase. The more stores you visit, the more chances you have to win! Participating retailers and restaurants include: Big Easy, Distinctive Kitchens, Fish on A Dish, Frick-n-Frac, Ginny Lane, Guy Harvey, Fusion Spa, Johnny Rockets, Live Bait, Ooh La La, Our Cigar Bar, Papa’s Pizza, Pensacola Blues, Rafters, Sand Dollar Lifestyles, Sassy Britches, Tropic Sol and Villaggio. The drawing for the grand prize winner with be held at 7 p.m. at Palm Plaza at The Wharf. Check out all of these participating tenets for promotions and specials all day, starting at 1 p.m.

GREAT LIVE MUSIC!

And speaking of a good time, The Amphitheater is rolling in some great entertainment for the rest of the year! Thousands jumped at the tickets this past Saturday as the tickets for Kenny Chesney went on sale. Contrary to rumors, there still are tickets BUT NOT MANY! So HURRY UP AND GET THEM BEFORE ITS TOO LATE! If you miss out, The Wharf Rental Management Company has a block of tickets that are available to purchase when you rent a condo for the weekend! Don't miss out on this incredible concert experience!

But wait—there’s more! Don’t forget you can still reserve a spot to experience the most exciting lineup ever at The Amphitheater at The Wharf with a view from the premium box seat program. This program offers box seating for THE concerts of the year on the Gulf Coast (including Kenny Chesney), the ability to purchase additional tickets for most concerts before anyone else, close and convenient parking for the show, access to VIP pre-parties, and personal wait service for your box! Boxes are perfect for entertaining guests and VIPs, rewarding your employees, or even enjoying the concert experience with your friends and family. Boxes have from x to x number of seats in each box. Reserve your spot to see your favorite acts with guaranteed seating to all of the 2009 Pepsi Star Series Concerts including the following upcoming acts and the many more that will soon be announced:

SAT MAR 14 COREY SMITH
With Special Guest: Rhett Akins

FRI APR 17 WIDESPREAD PANIC
With Special Guests: Keller Williams & Pretty Lights

SAT APR 18 WIDESPREAD PANIC
With Special Guests: North Mississippi Allstars & Pretty Lights

SUN APR 19 WIDESPREAD PANIC
With Special Guests: The Avett Brothers & DJ J-Boogie

FRI MAY 8 311
With Special Guests: Hinder & Theory of a Deadman

FRI MAY 15 SUGARLAND
With Special Guests Billy Currington and Matt Nathanson

SAT JUL 4 MONTGOMERY GENTRY

THUR AUG 6 KENNY CHESNEY
With Special Guests: Miranda Lambert & Lady Antebellum

SPRING AND SUMMER ARE IN THE AIR!

If you aren’t exhausted yet from our lineup of events and specials here at The Wharf, check out our Spring Break and 4th of July Plans. They will be sure to knock your socks off. For the week of March 15-21, The Wharf is hosting a Spring Break Boardwalk Concert Series – and best of all, it’s F-R-E-E! Spend your spring break 2009 with The Wharf in Orange Beach, AL. With deals on rentals, the best shopping and dining on the Island, nightlife and CONCERTS AND EVENTS ALL WEEK LONG -- where else would you want to stay?

March 14th - Corey Smith with special guest Rhett Akins - tickets only $20

March 15th - Adam Holt - Boardwalk Concert Series - FREE!

March 16th - The Relics- Boardwalk Concert Series - FREE!

March 17th - St. Patty's Day at The Wharf - Boardwalk Concert Series - FREE!

March 18th - Adam Holt - Boardwalk Concert Series - FREE!

March 19th -Wes Loper- Boardwalk Concert Series - FREE!

March 20th - Jason Justice and The Hung Jury - Boardwalk Concert Series - FREE!

March 21st - A Free Boardwalk Concert to be announced soon!

March 22nd - LA Corvette Show

The 4th of July will also be a blast with Montgomery Gentry in concert, a firework spectacular to celebrate Independence Day, family activities on Main Street all day, and there’s rumors of a hot-dog eating contest? Make your condominium reservations now so you can don’t miss out on all the fun! Check back for updated lists of events going on all summer long at The Wharf!

The Fishing Corner with Captain Robby Walker

February is a good month for Speckled Trout fishing in creeks and rivers along the Gulf Coast since the water temperture is cold enough to keep the fish pushed in the creeks for a few more weeks. Bull Reds are still migrating along the beaches of Alabama's Gulf Coast. Weather permitting charters from The Wharf Outfitter are running the beach in search of schools of bait fish, or anchovies, on which the Reds will be feeding.

Bull Reds are great catches through Febuary, and sometimes into March. As Spring arrives, changes in this environment allow for more species to be caught near the pass. These species include Pomano, Flounder, Bluefish, Spanish Mackrel, and Trout.

Kenny Chesney Tickets On Sale This Saturday!

Four-time Academy of Country Music Entertainer of The Year, Kenny Chesney, will bring his 2009 Sun City Carnival Tour, presented by Corona Extra, to The Amphitheater at The Wharf on Thursday, August 6th as a part of The Wharf’s Pepsi Concert Series. This hotly anticipated tour promises to be just as exhilarating as his prior tours that have thrilled over a million fans each of the past seven years.

Chesney was recently recognized by Pollstar as the number one ticket seller for all 2008 concert tours. Chesney’s tours boast sell outs at stadiums and large arenas all over the country including Boston's Gillette Stadium, which sold with over 68,000 seats in less than 10 minutes five years in a row. Miranda Lambert, whose ‘Crazy Ex-Girlfriend’ won the ACM Album of the Year in 2008, and Lady Antebellum, who won the 2008 CMA Best New Duo/Group Award and was nominated for a Grammy for Best New Artist, will also perform at the concert.

“The Wharf is thrilled to be a part of this tour, which includes stops at several NFL stadium sized venues. This validates The Wharf’s growing reputation in the music industry and we think this is a sign of more great things to come for The Wharf and the Gulf Coast area. This concert, being right before schools start back, will make a perfect ending to what promises to be a great summer season at The Wharf and at The Amphitheater,” says Pete Bryan, General Manager of The Amphitheater at The Wharf.

Tickets for this concert go on sale at 10 a.m. Saturday, February 14th online at Ticketmaster.com, charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000, or at The Amphitheater Box Office Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. or at The Dock Store at The Marina. Tickets purchased at The Wharf outlets will incur no Ticketmaster fees. Watch, too, for more information on Kenny Chesney’s 2009 Sun City Carnival Tour as well as announcements of upcoming concerts by visiting www.thewharfal.com or text the word ‘WHARF’ to TEXT ME (839863) for all Wharf events.

Major Concert Announcement at The Wharf

Widespread Panic will appear live at The Amphitheater at The Wharf Friday April 17th, Saturday April 18th and Sunday April 19th as part of the Pepsi Star Series.

Opening acts include Friday April 17th with Keller Williams, Saturday April 18th with North Mississippi Allstars, and Sunday April 19th with The Avett Brothers.

Showtime is set for 7 p.m and tickets go on sale February 7th at 10 a.m. online through Ticketmaster, charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000 or purchase tickets at The Wharf at The Amphitheater Box Office or the Dock Store at The Marina.

Spring Break ‘09 Fever Hits The Wharf with Corey Smith

Spring Break fever hits Orange Beach with the announcement of Corey Smith appearing live at The Amphitheater at The Wharf Saturday, March 14th as part of the Pepsi Star Series. The Wharf, taking on its mission to offer something for everyone this season, knows that distinctive musical flair combined with Smith’s pensive, well-crafted lyrics and soulful Southern voice will kick off the best Spring Break yet!



Smith describes his innovate musical talent as a little of everything. “I like to think my songs reflect the variety of musical styles that have impacted my life in Georgia,” Smith said. “Gospel, country, blues, rock, hip-hop – strands of all these are there.” His album Undertones birthed the college anthem “Twenty-One”, and his hit “I’m Not Gonna’ Cry” was chosen by over 200 schools as their graduation anthem in 2007. Other popular songs such as “Carolina” and “If I Could Do It Again” maintain the honest, emotional connection of Corey Smith and his fans. His most recent album The Good Life shows the maturation of this artist, awarding him respect and appreciation from all ages.

Rhett Akins will perform with Corey Smith. From well known hits “That Ain’t My Truck,” “She Said Yes” and his #1 single “Don’t Get Me Started” to his current success in songwriting including “Put A Girl in It,” “Home Sweet Home” and “Country Song,” Rhett’s emotionally honest communication and warm evocative voice will connect to his Spring Break audience to hallmark this year’s activities at The Wharf.

Every age of Spring Break visitors to The Wharf can enjoy Corey Smith’s original strands of music genres and the rowdy, energetic tunes of Rhett Akins. General admission tickets for this concert are only $20 and will go on sale Saturday, January 31st! Tickets are available through TicketMaster online or charge by phone at 1-866-448-7849. Tickets are also available at The Wharf at The Amphitheater Box Office Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tickets purchased at The Wharf outlets will incur no Ticketmaster fees.

Watch for more information on Spring Break ‘09 as well as announcements of upcoming concerts at The Amphitheater at The Wharf by visiting www.TheWharfAL.com or text the word ‘WHARF’ to TEXT ME (839863) for all Wharf events.

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The Top 10 Reasons The Wharf is The Ultimate Vacation Destination

10. Home sweet beach home! On-site waterfront condominiums are fully furnished; feature balconies, grills; range from one to four bedrooms; and are conveniently located within walking distance of the largest selection of restaurants, shopping and entertainment on the Island!

9. End the road trip! Park your car and walk away as The Wharf has hours of entertainment, shopping, dining, and unparalleled resort amenities within a convenient walking distance. Plus, The Wharf offers F-R-E-E seasonal shuttle services for resort guests to offsite amenities.

8. You deserve some R &R! The Wharf can meet your pampering needs with its on-site Aveda/Fusion Spa Salon and Top Nails Nail Salon. Sit back, relax, and treat yourself to your favorite service, including a “buy one, get one” special from Aveda/Fusion Spa Salon. You deserve it!

7. The ultimate family vacation! Kids will enjoy movies, swimming, toy shopping, sweet treats, airbrushed souvenirs, and more. Don’t stop with the kids! Mom, Dad, and the grandparents will all find their perfect vacation amenities and activities at The Wharf too!

6.Chow time! The Wharf has the largest dining selection on the Gulf Coast including pizza, sushi, steaks, pasta, seafood, tacos, wings, burgers, and more! Choose from fine, waterfront, casual or late night dining at over 15 restaurants all at The Wharf!

5.Lights, camera, action! Catch the newest blockbusters at Rave Motion Pictures, located in the heart of The Wharf on Main Street. With 15 big screens, surround sound, and a killer snack bar, movie-goers are in for the best movie experience on the Island.

4. Experience the outdoors! Ready to entertain outdoorsmen of all interests, The Wharf offers the best round of golf at The Golf Club, the best inshore fishing charters and lessons led by Orvis-endorsed guides, and the best destination marina on the Gulf Coast.

3. Age is just a number! Ice cream, airbrushed t-shirts, and a ride on the tallest Ferris wheel in the Southeast! At 112’, a ride on the Ferris wheel at The Wharf gives you great views of The Wharf, the Intracoastal Waterway, the Gulf of Mexico, and the entire Orange Beach/Gulf Shores area.

2. Throw your hands in the air! The Amphitheater brings the most unique concert experiences to the Gulf Coast. See big names, in live performances all year in this 10,000-seat outdoor venue. 2009 will rival 2008’s performances by Alan Jackson, Widespread Panic, Kid Rock and others.

1.Get more for your money! Check out weekly events and live entertainment that are F-R-E-E! Hear live music weekly, and check out our scheduled events (many hosted by Wharf retailers) that will put a smile on your face, pep in your step and keep those pennies in your pocket!

Click here for a powerpoint with more info on The Wharf!

A Look into 2009

Exciting times are waiting for you at The Wharf for 2009! From free events to big name concerts to spring and summer breaks, we are preparing for an entire year of fun!

Beginning January 7th, The Wharf is starting something new for every Wednesday January through February: Wind Down Wednesdays at The Wharf. This Wednesday event will include exclusive A.M. and P.M. specials every Wednesday for a limited time from different restaurants. Come spend your Wednesdays at The Wharf and take advantage of these great specials! You can visit any of the following restaurants for great deals and specials:

Rafters – A sports bar with BBQ, seafood, wings burgers and even a kids menu, this local favorite has happy hour every Wednesday night until 9 p.m. They are also offering $6.99 lunch specials Monday through Friday!

Guy Harvey Island Grill and Boat Bar – This restaurant features very popular seafood entrees served in a comfortable setting that overlooks the Intracoastal Waterway. On Wednesdays, it will offer Bud Light Drafts and Early Bird Specials from 4-6 p.m. They will also have BINGO on Wednesday nights! What fun!

Live Bait II – Offering casual waterfront dining with lunch & dinner specials, this restaurant is sure to please and is located at the end of Wharf Parkway. For their Wind Down Wednesday, there will be a chance to win a $50 gift card from 5 p.m. until close. Also, all service industry employees can received 25% off their bill(must have pay stub to be eligible).

Villaggio Bar and Grill –This unique dining option allows you to experience a Mediterranean and Italian fusion of flavor with a new approach and an old world charm. In the A.M. you can receive a complimentary cup of coffee and from 3-6 p.m. there will be early bird specials and wine by the glass for $5 from 3-6 p.m.!

Ginny Lane Bar and Grille – Ginny Lane will offer lunch specials for only $8 Monday through Friday, and early bird specials from 4-6 pm every Wednesday! With classic continental cuisine, you could find gourmet salads, sandwiches, & delectable entrees for this special deal. It’s located right at the end of Wharf Parkway.

Our Cigar Bar – The Cigar Bar will offer $1.50 Corona and Corona Lights for the p.m. special for Wind Down Wednesdays as well as $1 off all St. George Wines and $1 off all mixed drinks! What a deal!

Distinctive Kitchens – This neat place located upstairs on Main Street is offering $2 glasses of wine and $2 imported beers from 4-7 p.m. each Wednesday. They are also offering a 10% discount on all store purchases from 4-7 p.m.


Check our website for other local deals and updated specials at these great restaurants for any day of the week.

Spring Break is fast approaching as well, and we have big plans in store at The Wharf! There will be free concerts on the Marina Boardwalk, a big concert on The Amphitheater stage, a St. Patty’s Day Blowout Party at all the bars and restaurants, and who could forget one of best ways to spend your vacation -- laying around at The Oasis – which offers a lush tropical setting were you can play in the water all day or just relax on Hammock Island. Make your plans now to visit us on Spring Break by renting one of our luxurious condos or even to just come enjoy all the exciting events on property, which will bustle with visitors from all over taking in the sites of The Wharf. With free events and entertainment every night, The Wharf will be sure to knock your socks off for Spring Break ‘09. You don’t want to miss out!

And even though you might think it’s a little early, it is never too soon to begin planning your summer vacations either. There are always great deals for booking a vacation at The Wharf by calling 251.224.1500. With events on property constantly, everything you need at your fingertips, entertainment at every spot – where else could you find a better vacation?

Check us out at www.TheWharfAL.com for more details, deals and specials. Get ready for a great 2009!

Top 10 Reasons You Need to Spend New Years at The Wharf

#10 It’s not just any old block party, it’s an experience
#9 There is something for everyone
#8 Where else can you eat, shop, stay and play in one place? Stay in one of our luxurious condo, and never have to get in your car to go anywhere
#7 Over 15 Bars and Restaurants to celebrate- you can pick one or try them all
#6 There are 87 TV’s on property to watch any bowl game you want
#5 You can get here by car, plane or boat. Located at the end of the beach express toll bridge and canal road. Jack Edwards Airport is about 4 miles away from the resort. And you can even get here by boat. Pull right up on the Intercoastal Waterway between mile markers 158-159 and dock for the night
#4 It's THE place to see and BE seen- Look at our pictures from last year—Main Street and Wharf Parkway are always packed
#3 Not one, but two bands are performing on Main Street. Country, rock and roll and Motown from John Stone and Crystal Clear– so there will be plenty of dancing all night long
#2 You’ll see the best firework show on The Island

And the #1 reason to spend you New Year’s Celebration at The Wharf:

It’s FREE!!!

Getting Ready for the Biggest Block Party on The Island

Ah, ah, hem. 5! 4! 3! 2! 1!

Happy 2009!

Yes, I am already so excited that I'm practicing for the grand countdown to 2009 at The Wharf’s New Years Eve Block Party.

And why wouldn’t anyone be excited? If you haven’t ever been before, this third annual event will knock your socks off – and yes it might be a little chilly, even at the beach, for those of you that may be first-timers!

Best of all it’s FREE!

Not one, but TWO bands will hit the stage for New Years this year at 7 p.m. – John Stone and Crystal Clear! The streets will be rocking and rolling with sound from country, rock and blues to a Motown extravaganza. You can dance on the streets to your favorite tunes and sensational sounds as The Wharf brings in the New Year!

Screens on Main Street will have the countdown to 2009, followed by an explosion of pyrotechnics that rock the Island. The fireworks show – which promises to be the best ever -- will explode right over your head to celebrate the coming of a new year!

But the party of the year doesn’t stop on the streets. Retail shops and restaurants will join in the celebration! Where else can you go wherever you want and do whatever you want without ever having to leave. If you want to watch your favorite team in a bowl games that night – we’ve got 87 TV’s to do it. Want to drink and dance the night away in a safe atmosphere – we’ve get all types of bars, restaurants, and don’t forget, there is always dancing in the streets! You may want fine dining and a glass of champagne to bring in the New Year – yep you guessed it, all here at The Wharf!

If you are in the mood to grab a bite to eat, watch your team on the big screen, or socialize a little, don’t worry about missing the entertainment on Main Street from John Stone or Crystal Clear. We’ll have live feed from bands on Main Street with huge screens, so you’ll be able to see them performing wherever you are!

The stage for the bands will be at the end of Main Street, at the roundabout meeting Wharf Parkway – right where the Christmas Tree is now! You won’t be able to miss it.

Coming by car? Instead of worrying about driving home after the party is over, why not book a condo for your stay? And hey, if you don’t really want to get out in the crowd of people on Main Street and Wharf Parkway for the block party – you can enjoy the tunes from your balcony! A reservation specialist can help you to some great deals for this fabulous night. Call one today at 251.224.1500. Be sure to mention this blog!

Maybe you’d rather come by boat – since we are on the Intercoastal Waterway! Why not book reservations for a slip too? We are also having a special for slip leases as well for New Years -- $3 a foot – you can’t beat it! Call 251.224.1900 for info!

Our supporting sponsors for this event include Alabama Big Print, Fox 10 and the CW, and MGD 64 – who is having a Resolution Revolution. Did you know 3 MGD 64’s are only 1 Weight Watcher ® point? Well, that’s what I’ve heard, and regardless – it’s a great alternative to start off the new year right with a good taste that won’t kill you on the scale the next morning!

Mark your calendar and come celebrate at the intersection of Canal Road and the Beach Express! Come on over, down or up – and don’t forget, it’s FREE!!!

What A Weekend!

What a weekend!

The Pleasure Island Christmas Parade was a HUGE success. So many smiling faces from the community came to watch performers march down Wharf Parkway and Main Street, catch candy and Christmas memoirs, sing-a-long with bands and music, and even to wave at good ol’ St. Nick! The day was filled with delight and surprises, even from the sky—as soon as the parade started down Wharf Parkway, it began to snow!

With the beautiful weather, the crowds of people stayed around even after the parade had finished to count their candy, chat with friends old and new, and grab a bite to eat before they left.

After the parade, we had musical entertainment from the Starlight Theater group, Cary Laine performed at Palm Plaza, and Santa even stayed for free pictures.

Later that night, I enjoyed the whimsical sights and sounds of the Nautical Night of Lights Parade on the Intercoastal Waterway.


We had a perfect view of all the decorated boats that paraded by The Marina at The Wharf on their route, with the boats passing by a little after 6. It was truly a beautiful sight, and while here, people could watch from the privacy of their own condo or while enjoying a meal at one of our 15 restaurants! This was the perfect place to watch them.


Two parades in one day really gets everyone in the Christmas spirit. Speaking of Christmas spirit, it won’t be too long until you’ll need all of your Christmas presents. For those of you that are last minutes shoppers, come to any of our retailers for a nice surprise for your loved ones or even get a gift certificate from one of our fine restaurants! You can find something for everyone on your list with over 45 stores in one convenient location at the largest shopping center on The Island, and in turn, you can give back to The Island by keeping your tax dollar revenue from shopping local when you shop at The Wharf.

The Wharf’s Christmas festivities are not complete yet though. We still have Santa taking FREE pictures next Saturday, and have Christmas music this Thursday. And, I’ve noticed that it always seems to snow from 5 to 6 in the evenings here. Maybe you should come check it out!

Don’t forget to be making plans for our New Years Block Party! With John Stone and Crystal Clear, it will be sensational! Keep checking back for more updates on our New Year's Plans.

New Year's Eve Block Party at The Wharf

The annual New Year’s Eve Block Party at The Wharf is set for Wednesday, December 31st and is FREE to the public! This exciting Island tradition is the only place in Alabama to hear live performances by up and coming country star John Stone and Motown sensation Crystal Clear, as well as see the Gulf Coast’s largest fireworks display at midnight!

Live music begins at 7 p.m., so plan to come early and stay all evening! The Wharf has the Island’s largest selection of restaurants, cafes, and bars all in one place that are great for dinner, snacks, and drinks.

A northern Alabama native, John Stone picked up the guitar when he was six and as time progressed, he has learned to play the bass, drums, harmonica and piano. He has in fact championed the hurdles before him to become a seasoned performer. He’s a singer/songwriter who delivers a live performance with magnetism, energy and honesty.

Setting a standard with already notable career achievements, recording artist John Stone is off to a good start with his released his debut album on Tootsie’s Records in October 2004 (MEET JOHN STONE), and he has proven himself as a world-class songwriter with the success of his first self-penned single “Shame On Me.” He visited more than 200 radio stations across the nation as well as toured with and opened for some of today’s hottest country acts.

John made an appearance on the Today Show, performed at six presidential campaigns for President George W. Bush, and he made a special appearance for Tim McGraw’s NFL halftime highlights segment taped for Monday Night Football (by NFL Films).


Crystal Clear will join the stage that night to perform exciting blends of Classic R&B, Jazz, and current dance favorites as a party band that delivers for any occasion. Tight rhythms and great vocals highlight the music that this Birmingham dance band performs.

This Motown sensation will be sure to rock the streets for New Years!


Hope you will come enjoy the block party!

Four Days Until The Pleasure Island Christmas Parade

In four days, I will host the first Pleasure Island Christmas Parade for the Orange Beach and Gulf Shores area – and I’m super excited about this event!

In four days, we are hosting the first Pleasure Island Christmas Parade for the Orange Beach and Gulf Shores area (That’s this Saturday, December 13) – and I’m super excited about this event!

Come watch your friends from the City of Orange Beach, Sheriffs, Orange Beach Fire Department, Foley Drum Line, Pride of Pleasure Island Band, Orange Beach Elementary, Church groups, members of the Lions Club and Kiwanis, and even Mardi Gras groups as they parade down Main Street on Saturday. There will be floats, music, and even Santa!

Any last minute volunteers would be appreciated. If you are interested, please contact Lesley Dethloff at 251.224.1012.

After the parade, stick around for free pictures with Santa, sponsored by Pen Air Credit Union. Also, listen to the Starlight Theater Group at Palm Plaza. It will be music to your ears!

Later in the evening, you can also enjoy the Nautical Night of Lights Parade. You’ll have a great view from our Marina as these decorated boats pass by on the Intercoastal. So hang out and grab something to eat at one of our 15 restaurants, and enjoy this event!

While we are on the subject of the holidays, I would like to encourage you to shop the Island first for all of your gift giving needs, as well as your dining and entertainment options. When you think about it, anything you spend here at The Wharf or on the Island in turn gives your community tax dollars. These tax dollars provide necessary funding for police, fire divisions and public works for our area. Shop the Island First, at the largest shopping center on the Island and support your local community.

Hope to see you here on Saturday! Just go ahead and plan on staying all day!

Last Concert of the Season!

Well, it’s a bittersweet moment for me. Today marks the end of The Amphitheater at The Wharf’s year with the last concert of the season for 2008, which is sad for patrons and staff members alike. However, it gives me the opportunity to enjoy one last concert of the musical talent of 3 Doors Down, Switchfoot, and American Bang --- I guess you can say we are going out with a bang! We will be rocking on the Island all night!

And why wouldn’t we be excited? 3 Doors Down decade plus ascension holds claim to 13 million albums sold, 3 multiplatinum albums, six #1 hits, multiple Billboard and countless other awards. Switchfoot has had #1 songs on Billboard and Christian charts, and even a Grammy nomination for “Learning to Breathe”. In 2002, the popular movie A Walk To Remember featured with several tracks on the gold selling album. Their recent album "The Beautiful Letdown" sold over 2,000,000 copies and boasted the smash hits "Dare You To Move" and "Meant To Live.” American Bang, who will hit The Amphitheater stage first, released a new hit October 23 for music fans across the country to experience what this up and coming quartet’s sizeable grass-roots following has know since 2005. American Bang built up a grass-roots audience playing locally, earning a reputation for their high-energy, no-holds-barred live shows.

The end of the season allows time to reflect on the year. And to think back --- wow! I have met some of the biggest names in music, rookies as well as legends, including Alan Jackson, Sugarland, BB King, Willie Nelson, Kid Rock, The Allman Brothers, Crosby, Stills and Nash, Taylor Swift, Widespread Panic, Heart and Journey. To think all of these great names have stood on the stage is humbling and exhilarating at the same time. And what about next year! How many great concerts will The Amphitheater stage host in 2009? When is the first concert? Rumors seem to be circulating that some very big names are promising!

I can’t wait to see what the 2009 season holds in store for The Amphitheater.

But for now, I’m getting ready for the New Year’s Block Party with John Stone and Crystal Clear. Should be a rocking good time!

Let It Snow!

Let it snow! Let it snow! Let it snow! On November 28th, visitors to The Wharf received a nice suprise to highlight the memorable event of The Lighting of The Island on Main Street. Check out this new video to see what happened!

The Lighting of The Island

Check out this clip from The Wharf as Darwin Singleton from NBC 15 and Santa countdown The Lighting of The Island on November 28th at The Christmas Tree at The Wharf, which is located at the center of Main Street and Wharf Parkway.