Hangout Music Festival Guide: Event Tips and Important Info

In May, thousands of people come to Gulf Shores, Alabama, for Hangout Music Festival. The entire event occurs on the beach where guests enjoy live music, vendors, food and Gulf of Mexico views. After all, what better way to kick off summer than with a concert on the beach? For some insider tips, read this quick Hangout Music Festival guide and find helpful information.

Hangout Music Festival Guide: Tips, Tickets and Essential Info

hang out music festival gulf shores

Hangout Music Festival Location

Gulf Shores sits only 45 minutes from Pensacola International Airport, which offers non-stop flights from several cities in the U.S. Examples include Atlanta, Austin, Miami, Nashville and Washington D.C.

Gulf Shores is also located near large metro areas, offering easy routes for those driving. Cities located within eight hours of Gulf Shores include: Atlanta, Baton Rouge, Chattanooga, Memphis and New Orleans. Residents in Tallahassee, Montgomery and Jackson, Mississippi, can get to Gulf Shores in five hours or less, depending on traffic.

Buying Tickets to Hangout

Tickets usually go on sale a few months in advance, and there are no refunds. All ages are welcome, but children 17 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Hangout Music Festivals tickets include general admission, and each are sold until the allotment sells out. Visitors can also purchase VIP and Super VIP tickets, which come with perks, complimentary snacks and beverages, and special access. Payment plans are available, and can be selected during check-out.

After tickets are purchased, each festival-goer receives a wristband that must be worn at all times. Wristbands cannot be replaced or exchanged, so keep them in a safe place.

Parking and Shuttles

Parking is limited at the festival, so visitors should buy a shuttle pass in advance. The shuttle arrives at various locations in Gulf Shores, so everyone has easy transportation access. Additionally, the pass offers access to any line at any time, excluding Beach Line Club.

hangout music festival guide what bring

What to Bring

Hangout Music Festival occurs rain or shine, so plan accordingly. Many items, such as outside food and drink, are not allowed, however guests may bring the following to ensure everyone stays protected and comfortable. Feel free to bring:

  • Non-aerosol sunscreen and bug spray (3 ounces or less)
  • Small backpacks, purses and bags
  • Blankets, beach towels
  • Sunglasses and hats
  • One empty container for water
  • Strollers for children. For safety, only two children are admitted per supervising adult.
  • Phones and smart devices

Have more questions? Check out Hangout Festival’s FAQs.

gulf shores hangout festival accommodations

Gulf Shores Rental Accommodations

Gulf Shores offers different types of rental accommodations that provide more space and help visitors save money. Condos and houses have one to four bedrooms, ideal for all group sizes. Other amenities include TVs, full kitchens, Wi-Fi, washers/dryers, and private patios.

Rental prices tend to increase as the event draws closer, so book early and get a great rate. Those who can’t stay in Gulf Shores can also book accommodations in nearby Orange Beach. View Gulf Shores vacation rentals.

Schedule Info

Any Hangout Music Festival guide must discuss the schedule to this three-day event. The festival welcomes a new line-up every year, featuring different artists and genres, so it’s impossible to list them all. Additionally, the event hosts eight stages and tents where guests enjoy their favorite entertainers. Shows begin as early as 11:30 a.m. and last until 10:30 p.m.

In order to see it all, visitors should plan schedules in advance and save time getting between stages. Attendees should also take into account sleep schedules, bathroom breaks, food and refreshment lines, and weather.

Festival Activities

In between shows, don’t miss fun activities located throughout the festival. Groups play beach volleyball, relax on the beach, ride the Ferris wheel, play arcade games and even get married at the gazebo. Don’t forget to snap photos with works of art, friends and family.

After reading our Hangout Music Festival guide, check out the top family attractions in Gulf Shores.