Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival
in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
Presented by the South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce, the 2026 Annual Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival will be held April 30 - May 2 at OWA. This year’s event will be its 22rd year in flight, and it’s going to be incredible. Over 40 hot air balloons will soar over the Foley festival site at dusk and dawn each day of the event, weather and wind permitting. These extravagant balloons come from all over the country to fill the skies. It’s a mesmerizing sight you don’t want to miss.
2026 Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival
Tethered Rides
Tethered Rides
The pilots aren’t the only ones who can fly up in the balloons! Tethered balloon rides are offered for guests to climb into a balloon and rise 50 feet above the crowd. These special rides usually sell out fast, so be sure to secure a spot if you'd like to experience soaring above the ground.
Festival Fun
Festival Fun
In addition to the balloons, there will be tons of other fun activities at the festival including pony and camel rides, live performances, and kid’s inflatables. You’ll also find lots of food, arts and crafts, and retail vendors located on the grounds.
OWA
OWA
While at OWA, you'll want to get a little shopping and dining done at Downtown OWA. Be sure to also grab tickets to the parks at Tropic Falls to take a spin on some of the rides or plunge down the waterslides!
Festival Admission
Festival Admission
Festival admission is free with select activities available for an additional charge. For a fee, use of the VIP area gives you a place to eat, rest, and enjoy the fellowship. Free festival parking is available at OWA as well as VIP parking for $30.
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