ABOUT US

The Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival has brought color, excitement, and community spirit to Foley, Alabama. What started as a small gathering has grown into a beloved annual tradition, drawing visitors from near and far to experience the magic of hot air balloons.

FESTIVAL FOUNDER

Tommy Rachel

Tommy Rachel, a seasoned hot air balloon pilot from Magnolia Springs, Alabama, is the visionary behind the Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival. Drawing from his extensive experience in ballooning, Tommy proposed the idea to the South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce, leading to the festival's inception in 2005.

Beyond organizing, Tommy serves as the festival's balloonmeister, ensuring the safety and coordination of balloon activities. His dedication to the community and the sport was recognized in 2020 when he was honored as the Walton M. Vines Free Enterprise Person of the Year by the South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce.

Our Journey So Far . . .

2005

TAKING FLIGHT: THE BEGINNING

In the wake of Hurricane Ivan, the Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival lifted off for the first time at the Foley Sports Complex. Local balloonist Tommy Rachel brought the idea to the South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce, which embraced the vision. Together, they launched an event that has since become a cherished tradition. From its humble beginnings, the festival quickly became a beloved annual celebration, filling Baldwin County’s skies with vibrant color and wonder.

2010

A GROWING TRADITION

By 2010, the festival had firmly established itself as a must-attend event on the Gulf Coast. Attendance surged as balloonists from across the country participated, thrilling crowds with dazzling balloon glows and tethered rides. Family-friendly activities, arts and crafts vendors, and live entertainment enhanced the experience, creating a true community celebration. The festival’s success was a testament to the dedication of organizers, volunteers, and local businesses that helped it grow year after year.