GULF SHORES, Ala. (WALA) - Parrot Heads are back in Gulf Shores for the annual Meeting of the Minds festival, celebrating late singer Jimmy Buffett.
Thousands of people from across the country are attending the weekend event, which includes live music, games, and other activities.
John McDonald, a performer at the festival, said Gulf Shores takes on a party atmosphere during the event.
“Gulf Shores is a wonderful party town, and the Parrot heads take it over during Meeting of the Minds. So, we’re on that kind of Jimmy Buffett spirit party mode,” McDonald said.
McDonald said attendees also raise money for charity during the weekend.
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“Party with a purpose is the slogan of the parrot head community. We have a good time, but we always raise money for charity. It’s good to be in the original birthplace of Jimmy himself. This is where it all started,” McDonald said.
Donna Dibongrazio traveled from Florida for the festival.
“It definitely is the people. And when everyone gets together, they just love being together, partying together, but also raising money for charity. That’s what it’s all about. And the music, of course,” Dibongrazio said.
Most attendees are festival veterans, but for first-time attendees, fellow Parrot Heads offered advice.
“Do as much as you can. It’s hard to choose, but do as much as you can and get the full experience,” Dibongrazio said.
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