If you thought Gulf Shores was a paradise for sunbathers and beachgoers, wait until you experience it during the inaugural "Sand in My Boots" Festival! We caught up with the festival's producer, Reeves Price, to learn about the inspiration, local partnerships, eco-friendly initiatives, and the festival's promise to enrich our vibrant community.
So, what sparked the idea for a festival that makes you want to kick off your shoes and dance in the sand? According to Reeves, it all started with country music superstar Morgan Wallen. "Morgan approached us with a vision for his own festival, and his description matched perfectly with the beaches of Gulf Shores," Reeves said. Lucky for us, Reeves and his team have been making waves with Hangout Fest for years. With their expertise, it’s no wonder they jumped at the chance to help Morgan bring his festival dream to life.
One of the best aspects of the Sand in My Boots Festival is the commitment to supporting local businesses. "We work with local businesses whenever we can," Reeves explained. From Kutter’s Ground Maintenance, who will keep the grounds looking pristine, to Island Coastal, ensuring safety during the event, the festival is a community effort. It’s not just about music; it’s about uplifting the local economy and showcasing the talents of Gulf Shores entrepreneurs.
The festival's impact on local businesses is already roaring. Tickets for Sand in My Boots sold out in under four hours last November, including hotels and condos in the area. “We’ve spoken with local businesses who all see a significant impact during festival weekend,” Reeves shared. The festival isn’t just a weekend event; it’s part of a larger vision to extend visitors’ stays in Gulf Shores, encouraging them to explore fishing trips, beach activities, and more. Who wouldn’t want to add a little adventure to their festival experience?
Considering our pristine beaches, the Sand in My Boots Festival is stepping up. With an on-site recycling program, festival-goers can pick up recycling bags, fill them with waste they find, and return them for prizes! “The person with the most bags filled over the weekend will receive a grand prize,” Reeves promised. The festival also collaborates with local conservation efforts such as Share the Beach (a local sea turtle conservation program) to protect our beautiful beaches and marine life. It’s a win for the environment and the community.
Reeves and his team are not just in it for the short haul. “We hope to always have a festival here in Gulf Shores,” he stated. With the successful Hangout Fest as a foundation, the new Sand in My Boots Festival is set to become a cherished tradition. The duo of festivals promises to keep Gulf Shores on the map as a destination for music lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Reeves emphasized the importance of listening to the community: “We work closely with the City of Gulf Shores to enhance the festival experience based on feedback.” With a customer service hotline available during the event, attendees will have a direct line to share their thoughts. It’s all about creating a festival that reflects the spirit of Gulf Shores. "Gulf Shores is an amazing town – white sandy beaches, generous hospitality, and so many opportunities for adventure,” Reeves explained.
As the excitement builds, Reeves has one heartfelt message for the community: “Thank You! The support we’ve already seen has been amazing!” With a sell-out event on the horizon, it’s clear that Gulf Shores is ready to embrace this new festival. So, get your sunscreen ready, and prepare for an unforgettable experience. Sand in My Boots is here, and it’s going to be amazing!
With local businesses and the community at heart, Sand in My Boots Festival promises to create lasting memories while embracing sustainability and support for the Gulf Shores area. Together, we’re not just hosting an event; we’re building a movement rooted in music, fun, and togetherness!