Festival Operations Update: Friday, May 1, 2026
- Lori
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
12:30 Announcement From OWA Parks & Resort
Still happening TONIGHT: Live entertainment is still happening indoors tonight! A FREE show with the M-80s from 7:00–9:00 pm inside OWA Theater. Also, opening the show at 6:00 pm is Renee Amelia, don't miss it! Stay dry and rock on with us at the OWA Theater!
11:30 AM Festival Announcement
Following the 10:00 AM meeting with festival committee members, balloon pilots, and local officials, the difficult decision has been made to cancel all Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival activities for Friday, May 1, 2026.
This decision was made in the interest of safety for our guests, vendors, volunteers, balloon pilots and crews, and festival property, based on the latest forecast from direct communication with the National Weather Service, which includes scattered rainstorms and the potential for wind gusts. These types of conditions are difficult to predict and track in real time, making it unsafe to proceed with today’s activities.
Additionally, Saturday morning balloon flights are also canceled, and our pilots share in the disappointment. Many travel from across the country to be here and to provide the beautiful balloon experiences our community looks forward to each year.
We understand this is disappointing and share in that sentiment, but safety must always remain our top priority.
We extend our sincere thanks to our presenting sponsor, Columbia Southern University, the City of Foley, along with our dedicated volunteers, vendors, partners, and event team for their continued support, flexibility, and commitment to this event.
Looking ahead, Saturday’s festival schedule will have a delayed opening, moving from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM (noon). We are encouraged by the current forecast, which is expected to bring cooler temperatures and improved conditions, and we are excited for the opportunity to continue the festival!
Guests are encouraged to check the updated event schedule and follow our official Facebook page and press releases for the latest information regarding Saturday’s timing and activities.
Some good news: OWA Parks & Resort is currently working to provide live entertainment indoors for tonight! We encourage guests to follow OWA’s Facebook page for updates on those activities.
7:00 AM Announcement
Festival officials and pilots met this morning at 5:30 AM to assess weather conditions. Based on that meeting, hot air balloons will not be flying this morning due to unfavorable conditions. We know this is disappointing for many, and it is for us as well—but unfortunately, weather is something we cannot control.
A small number of balloons may be inflated briefly this morning on the grounds at OWA Parks & Resort for sponsor photo opportunities. This will not be a full balloon display, but if you are already in the area, you may catch a brief glimpse during these limited moments.
Festival officials will meet again at 10:00 AM to evaluate conditions and determine plans for today’s festival opening. We will update this news release following that meeting, along with any additional announcements for the day.
As always, conditions can change quickly. For the most timely updates, please follow our official website & Facebook page, where information is shared as soon as decisions are made.