Looking for an unforgettable event during your Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, or Fort Morgan vacation? Add Bulls on the Beach at the world-famous Flora-Bama Lounge, Package & Oyster Bar to the top of your travel itinerary.

Every September, the iconic "Honky Tonk on the Beach"—sitting right on the Florida-Alabama state line—transforms its sugar-white sand into a high-energy rodeo arena. It is one of the most unique beach events in the nation, bringing professional bull riding directly to the edge of the Gulf of Mexico.

What is Bulls on the Beach?

Bulls on the Beach is a multi-day, family-friendly spectacle featuring professional cowboys testing their grit against some of the toughest bulls in the Southeast.
 
Instead of a dusty indoor arena, picture this: bull riding right on the beach with waves crashing in the background, live country music filling the air, and thousands of fans cheering with an ice-cold beverage in hand.

Event Highlights

• Professional Bull Riding: Top-tier riders compete for prize money right on the Gulf Coast sand. 
  
  
• Mutton Bustin': A crowd-favorite children's sheep-riding competition held on family night. 
  
  
• Everyday Entertainment: Live music across multiple indoor and outdoor stages before and after the main rodeo events.

The Heart of Flora-Bama: A Legacy of Hospitality

You cannot experience Bulls on the Beach without appreciating the rich history and hospitality of the venue that hosts it.

Originally established in 1964 following the construction of the Perdido Pass Bridge, the Flora-Bama evolved from a small roadside package store into a world-renowned cultural landmark. Much of that success stems from its foundational owners—visionaries who turned a simple dive bar into a welcoming, beachside community.

The Flora-Bama family and our community honor the memory of Flora Bama's legendary leaders who made events like this possible:

• Joe Gilchrist, who purchased the bar in 1978 and championed live music and songwriters, passed away in 2022.
• Pat McClellan, a Navy veteran who joined as co-owner in 1984 and helped launch iconic staples like Bulls on the Beach and the International Mullet Toss, passed away in July 2026.

Pat was known across the Gulf Coast for treating every visitor like family—a philosophy that continues to define the warm, welcoming atmosphere at Flora-Bama today.

Essential Tips for Vacationers Attending

To make the most of your night at the rodeo, keep these quick travel tips in mind:

1. Purchase Tickets Early: Weekend nights frequently sell out. Check the official Flora-Bama event calendar to reserve your passes ahead of time or buy your tickets here!
2. Plan Your Transportation: Parking along the state line fills up quickly on event nights. Consider booking local ride-shares or shuttle services from your rental property. Also, note to call a ride-share or shuttle service early to allow enough time for them to come down to Fort Morgan!
3.  Bring the Family on Thursday: Opening night typically features kid-friendly events, making it ideal for families traveling with young children. 
4.  Try the Famous Bushwacker: No trip to the Flora-Bama is complete without sampling their signature frozen cocktail. We love to add a yummy peanut butter floater on top, too!

Come for the Action, Rest in Peace & Quiet

When the rodeo dust settles and the music winds down, retreat to the serene beaches of Fort Morgan. Enjoy all the excitement at the Flora-Bama, then head back to your private vacation home to unwind away from the crowded strip. 

Ready for an unforgettable Gulf Coast getaway? Book your stay with Reed Real Estate for beach homes offering the perfect balance of local fun and peaceful coastal relaxation.