A Guide to Alabama's Two Must-Visit Hot Air Balloon Festivals

Photo by Austin Ban

Introduction

Known best for college football and southern hospitality, Alabama has a secret that only the locals know about; beautiful hot air balloon festivals.

These two hot air balloon festivals are happening in May and you don’t want to miss out on the beautiful sights of bright, colorful hot air balloons soaring through the gorgeous Alabama skies.

Even if you or a family member aren’t a fan of hot air balloons, you’ll find each of these hot air balloon festivals offer live entertainment, arts and crafts vendors selling their wares, and plenty of delicious food from local food vendors.

Alabama Jubilee Hot Air Balloon Classic 2024

Dates: May 25th, 2024 - May 26th, 2024 9am- 6pm

Location: Decatur, Alabama

Price: Free admission and free parking

Head on over to the Alabama Jubilee Hot Air Balloon Classic from May 25th to May 26th, 2024 from 9 AM to 6 PM each day for two fun days jam-packed with festive activities for the whole family to enjoy.

This festival offers two days of gorgeous balloon displays and fun activities and events. The skies above Decatur will be filled with a beautiful array of colors as dozens of hot air balloons take flight from 9 am to 6 pm each day. 

Head over each day to witness the breathtaking display of hot air balloons soaring against the stunning backdrop of the Tennessee River. 

Both parking and admission to this hot air balloon festival are free so the event is accessible to all. 

Free tethered rides, food vendors, live entertainment, arts and crafts shows, tractor and automobile shows are all available to attendees looking to enjoy two fun-filled days of family-friendly activites.

You won’t want to miss your chance to be a part of this popular community event and create memories that will last a lifetime at the Alabama Jubilee Hot Air Balloon Festival.

Photo by carlos aranda

Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival

Dates: May 2nd, 3rd & 4th, 2024

Location: OWA, 100 N. OWA Blvd, Foley, AL 36535

Price: Free admission

Head to Foley, Alabama this May 2nd, 3rd, and 4th for the Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival. Located at OWA, 100 N. OWA Blvd, Foley, AL 36535, this festival combines the exhilarating thrill of hot air balloons with the relaxing views of the gulf shores. Admission to this one is also free, making for another financially accessible celebration for Alabamans to enjoy.

Hot air balloons at the Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival take flight each day at dawn and dusk, allowing visitors multiple opportunities to see these modern marvels take flight and fill the Alabama skies against the backdrop of beautiful white sand beaches. At the dusk show, festivalgoers will enjoy a unique glowing balloon show as the fire from the hot air balloons illuminates the skies above.

Aside from the breathtaking hot air balloon shows, guests can participate in a myriad of exciting activities for the whole family. Live entertainment, face painting, a balloon artist, and even a zoo meet and greet will all be held during the festival.

You can also tune into WHEP Radio Baldwin 92.5 FM for live updates regarding morning and evening flight information each day.

Photo Guilherme Garcia

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a unique, memorable experience for the entire family to enjoy, you won’t want to miss the two free hot air balloon events in Alabama this May.

Whether you’re viewing beautiful hot air balloons floating over the Tennessee River and enjoying a tethered ride at the Alabama Jubilee Hot Air Balloon Classic 2024 or enjoying the glow flights, face painting, and zoo meet and greet at the Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival, you’re sure to have a great time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the largest hot air balloon festival located?

The biggest hot air balloon festival in the world is the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta held annually in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Where is the Alabama Jubilee?

The Alabama Jubilee is held in Decatur, Alabama, and is one of Alabama’s two famous hot air balloon festivals that take place every May.

Where is the most famous hot air balloon festival?

The most famous hot air balloon festival in the world is the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta held annually in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Where is the Natchez Balloon Festival held?

The Natchez Balloon Festival is held in historic downtown Natchez in Southwest Mississippi from October 18th to the 19th, 2024.

Where is there a hot air balloon festival in Alabama?

There are hot air balloon festivals in Decatur and Foley, Alabama.