Gulf Shores City Council will consider extending an agreement with Hangout Music Fest, LLC. and approving festival dates for the next two years.
The festival franchisee first entered into an agreement with the city in 2015 to bring the Hangout Music Festival. In 2025, the festival was changed to the Sand in My Boots Festival. The agreement expired following the festival.
City officials said they were considering the future of the festival based on how the operation was conducted. Concerns included noise, waste, traffic and the impact on the quality of life for residents. Gulf Shores received positive feedback from residents following the completion of multiple surveys.
During the regular council meeting on Monday, the city will consider an amended agreement that extends the current contract for two years and ensures the City Council will have the ability to review and approve the festival name and genre of music going forward.
"The 2025 music festival attracted a diverse and engaged audience, positively contributing to the cultural tourism appeal and economic impact of our community," the agreement states. "This positive reputational and economic impact has set a benchmark for the type of event the Franchisee shall offer in order to attract a similar diverse audience for future Music Fests."
The initial term of the agreement will be one year, and both parties must mutually agree to extend the term for the second year. The amendment is described as an "interim solution," and another long-term franchise agreement may be decided upon after the two years.
The festival dates are scheduled for May 14-17, 2026, and May 20-23, 2027.
The Gulf Shores City Council meets at 4 p.m. at City Hall.
Hangout Agreement Proposed by Erica Thomas on Scribd
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