Sand in My Boots Festival Draws 40,000 in Gulf Shores

The inaugural Sand in My Boots festival, curated by country superstar Morgan Wallen, took place from May 16-18 on the beaches of Gulf Shores, Alabama, drawing large crowds and selling out tickets quickly. The festival featured a country-heavy lineup alongside rock, rap, and pop acts, with Wallen himself headlining the final day, energizing the audience and highlighting the collaborative effort behind the event. Country artists Nate Smith and Kameron Marlowe also performed, engaging fans with crowd sing-alongs and covers, while Smith previewed his upcoming heartfelt single “Dads Don’t Die.” Despite the intense heat, the festival's atmosphere remained vibrant, with themed food and venues inspired by Wallen's songs, and a smaller, more intimate layout reminiscent of the Hangout Fest’s early years. The Gulf Shores Police noted large public beach crowds and reminded attendees to stay hydrated, underscoring the event's popularity as a significant May concert. The festival’s successful launch marks a new chapter for Gulf Shores’ spring music scene, replacing the Hangout Music Festival with a fresh, country-focused experience.