May 16-18, 2025 – Gulf Shores, Alabama
Alabama was the ultimate destination the weekend of May 16–18, 2025, as the inaugural Sand In My Boots Festival took over the white sandy beaches of Gulf Shores. Previously known as the Hangout Music Festival, this year’s event got a country twist when superstar Morgan Wallen took the reins and rebranded it as Sand In My Boots.
Calling it an amazing experience would be an understatement—especially for country music fans. It was nothing short of incredible.
Alongside the daily mega headliners, a mix of local talent, DJs, and rising stars in the country music scene took the stage and delivered standout performances.
Just take a look at this incredible daily lineup—it was stacked with talent from start to finish.
Friday brought the heat with performances from Post Malone, T-Pain, HARDY, Ian Munsick, Treaty Oak Revival, Kameron Marlowe, Brandi Cyrus, Ole 60, Hailey Whitters, MC4D, Jake Worthington, Real Estate, John Morgan, and Disko Cowboy.
Saturday kept the energy high with a powerhouse mix of Brooks & Dunn, Diplo, Riley Green, 2 Chainz, Chase Rice, Three 6 Mafia, Ella Langley, Moneybagg Yo, Nate Smith, BigXThaPlug, Josh Ross, Brandi Cyrus, Lauren Watkins, Honky Tonkin’ In Queens, Disko Cowboy, and DJ Badash.
Sunday closed things out in epic fashion with Morgan Wallen, Wiz Khalifa, Bailey Zimmerman, The War on Drugs, ERNEST, Future Islands, Morgan Wade, Paul Cauthen, Wild Nothing, Laci Kaye Booth, VAVO, Country Night, Honky Tonkin’ In Queens, and DJ Badash.
Sand In My Boots wasn’t just about the amazing music though. It was a full-blown beach party with summer vibes and unforgettable memories.
At the heart of the action were two main stages: the Sand In My Boots Stage presented by Boot Barn, serving as the main backdrop for the weekend’s biggest moments, and the Dangerous Stage presented by Cody James, where fans were warned that leaving might mean missing something epic. For those looking for a more intimate vibe, special sets at the Malibu Oasis offered chill, beachy performances perfect for soaking in the sun.
Festivalgoers who upgraded to VIP or Super VIP passes were treated to next-level luxury. This was a shaded area with misting stations, private air-conditioned restrooms, and a complimentary bar. Dipping pools gave fans the rare chance to watch their favorite artists while floating with a drink in hand. For the ultimate view, Super VIPs could lounge at the 7 Summers Sandbar, offering shaded seating, WiFi, and panoramic stage views. Sand In My Boots definitely knows how to treat the VIPs!
The Monster Beach Club kept the party going with daytime DJ sets and dancing, while The Midway mixed fair-style fun with cold beer and beachside games. ‘98 Braves Park brought tailgate culture to life with cornhole, BBQ, and great music, and the Sunset Salon offered on-site glam with braids, space buns, and beard trims. Love was in the air at Love Somebody Lane, a beachfront wedding chapel for couples ready to make it official. Other standout features included the Up Down Cap n’ Gown ceremony for fans skipping graduation to party on the beach, the Spin You Around Ferris Wheel offering unmatched views of the festival, and Hoops for basketball lovers looking to blow off some steam between sets.
Whether you were chilling in a beach chair, diving into the Gulf, or grabbing a bite from dozens of food vendors, Sand In My Boots was the perfect blend of music, fun, and summer magic.
This festival was an absolute dream for any photographer, and I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to cover it. I want to give a huge thanks to Emily from Dīament Public Relations and the entire festival staff—they were not only professional and organized but also genuinely kind and accommodating. I’ve covered many music festivals over the years, and this team stands out as one of the best. Thousands of fans showed up and showed out, fully embracing everything the weekend had to offer. They got their money’s worth—and then some. The heat and humidity had everyone sweating, but honestly, this is what I live for. The absolute highlight for me was seeing—and getting to photograph—Post Malone. That’s a moment I’ll never forget.
This was a weekend I’ll remember for a long time. I may be exhausted, but I’m already counting down the days until next year and hoping I’ll get the chance to return.
What an unforgettable experience!