I've Lived In Alabama Half of My Life And I've Never Been To Flora-Bama
By Lisa Battles|Published May 22, 2024
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Lisa Battles
Author
Lisa has traveled the U.S. for over a decade, seeking out and sharing the stories of its most interesting places, people, and experiences. A journalism graduate of Auburn University, she has been a content strategist, editor, and writer for more than 25 years. Lisa has worked in community news, PR, and marketing with a focus on tourism, hospitality, and economic development. Besides following her curiosity around every corner, she's a devoted dog mom of two and advocate for animal welfare.
Growing up in Alabama from birth through college, I didn’t hear much about the beach bar Flora-Bama, despite it being around far longer than I’ve been alive. I took several Gulf Coast trips in my teens and early 20s, and yet, somehow, I’ve never been to this iconic beach bar on the Alabama-Florida line. It seems like I heard a lot more about it when I lived in Nashville and how it’s a must-do for music, oysters, beach bumming, and raising a toast – or several.
So, what’s all the fuss about? Let’s dive into the history and highlights.
This restaurant, bar, oyster bar, and lounge opened in 1964 on the Florida-Alabama border, technically in Pensacola, Florida, and within six feet of Orange Beach, Alabama. I am curious if Floridians also feel like they've missed out if they've not paid a visit.
And since we are talking about the state line, I'll touch on one of the bar's most famous events – the annual Interstate Mullet Toss, which marked its 40th year in April 2024. The competition is exactly what it sounds like. People of all ages compete over three days throwing thousands of dead, frozen fish to see who can toss one the longest distance across the state line. If you're just not into that sort of thing, there's also live music by over 40 bands and plenty of revelry and socializing.
If you wonder what happens to the dead fish, they're donated to a local alligator sanctuary, according to local reports. Entry fees for the competition raise money for local charities, with the 2024 total topping $30,000.
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I can't believe I've not been to a place where people have been throwing dead fish at us for all these years! I kid. I do think I'd be more inclined to visit for a music event, and Flora-Bama has plenty of them, from local artists to big-name performers that have included Kenny Chesney, Jimmy Buffett, and Kid Rock over the years.
Every single day, you will hear live music on multiple stages at Flora-Bama. Part of its perennial appeal is this spot keeps rocking past the spring/summer season.
It's during the cooler months when Flora-Bama hosts one of its most popular draws for music lovers. The Annual Frank Brown International Songwriters’ Festival is held over 11 days in mid-November and marks its 40th year in 2024. More than 200 songwriters from all walks of life and levels of fame play at Flora-Bama and other venues along the coast.
And of course, there's the beach food. It's not called "Flora-Bama World Famous Oyster Bar" for nothing. Supposedly the oysters are legendary. While I've never been a fan of them anywhere, I'd definitely be interested in the veggie burger or big Blue Chair Bay Shrimp Taco.
As you might imagine, the drink options are plentiful and yet the when-at-Flora-Bama beverage is the famous Bushwacker. The cold, creamy concoction is a boozy milkshake said to be a blend of vanilla ice cream, milk, rum, amaretto, Kahlúa, and crème de cacao.
While I sadly have yet to take the first step, loyal customers can get perks like a free first drink on Thursday nights, free admission year-round (excluding special events besides the Mullet Toss), and a gift shop discount with the purchase of a membership card. I bet I'd become a card-carrying member about midway through the second Bushwacker!
Are you a veteran of this iconic beach bar on the Alabama-Florida line? Give me some first-timer tips before I make a plan to go! I’ve already got my eye on this blanket-sized beach towel.
If you’re considering a first visit yourself, you can see the full menu on the Flora-Bama website and stay up-to-the-minute on events via the Flora-Bama Facebook page.
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