Residents and business owners in Gulf Shores have spoken, and the majority want the city to continue hosting the Hangout/Sand in My Boots Music Festival.
Following the expiration of the contract with AEG Presents, city officials said they wanted to hear from residents before deciding on a new contract. Years of traffic and noise complaints concerned city leaders.
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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