Balloon Glows at the Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival: Experience the Magic
- Lori
- May 1
- 2 min read
One of the most breathtaking and crowd-favorite moments of the Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival is the Balloon Glow — an unforgettable experience that lights up the night sky with vibrant color, glowing flames, and community wonder.
What Is a Balloon Glow?
A Balloon Glow is a special event where tethered hot air balloons are inflated and lit from within using their burners after dark. While the balloons remain grounded, their brilliant colors illuminate the night as they “glow” in rhythm with music or crowd countdowns, creating a magical spectacle for all ages. It’s a perfect opportunity to experience the size, beauty, and artistry of hot air balloons up close—without leaving the ground.
This glowing display offers fantastic photo opportunities and a truly unique atmosphere as the fields light up with a kaleidoscope of color. You’ll often hear the crowd cheer as pilots fire up their burners in sync, creating a dazzling dance of fire and light.
When and Where Do the Glows Take Place?
📍 Glow Field near S. OWA Blvd (see map)
🎈 Thursday, May 1 | After Sunset (approximately 7:30 PM)
🎈 Friday, May 2 | After Sunset (approximately 7:30 PM)
🎈 Saturday, May 3 | After Sunset (approximately 7:30 PM)
All hot air balloon activities — including the Balloon Glows — are weather and wind permitting. Safety is our top priority.
The Balloon Glows typically begin shortly after sunset, when the skies darken just enough to allow the balloons to shine at their brightest.
Tips for Enjoying the Balloon Glow
✨ Arrive early to grab a great viewing spot and enjoy food, vendors, and live entertainment leading up to the glow.
🚫 NO PETS are allowed on the balloon field.
📸 Bring your camera or phone — these glowing giants make for stunning photos!
🧥 Dress for comfort — evenings can be breezy, sometimes hot and humid.
🚫 Please remember that balloon glows (like all balloon activities) are subject to change or cancellation depending on weather and wind conditions. We appreciate your understanding as we prioritize the safety of our guests, pilots, and crews.
Stay Informed
Any updates or changes to the glow schedule will be posted on our Facebook page. Please note that due to the high volume of messages, we may not be able to respond to private inquiries—check our posts for the latest information.
