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< Back 2023 Poster Designed by Ragan Winsor This is placeholder text. To change this content, double-click on the element and click Change Content. Want to view and manage all your collections? Click on the Content Manager button in the Add panel on the left. Here, you can make changes to your content, add new fields, create dynamic pages and more. You can create as many collections as you need. Your collection is already set up for you with fields and content. Add your own, or import content from a CSV file. Add fields for any type of content you want to display, such as rich text, images, videos and more. You can also collect and store information from your site visitors using input elements like custom forms and fields. Be sure to click Sync after making changes in a collection, so visitors can see your newest content on your live site. Preview your site to check that all your elements are displaying content from the right collection fields. Previous Next

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Festival Vendors Shop, Eat & Explore! Discover a vibrant marketplace filled with arts & crafts, delicious food, retail finds, and specialty treats! From handcrafted goods to festival favorites, our vendors offer something for everyone. Come shop, snack, and soak in the fun! Vendors listed below will be located on the festival grounds, see festival map . Want to Be a Vendor at the Festival? Complete the online application linked below, and our team will carefully review your submission. While booth locations aren’t guaranteed and past participation doesn’t ensure approval, you’ll only be charged once your application is accepted. Food Vendor Applications Arts & Retail Vendor Applications ALL VENDOR SPACES ARE FULL FOR 2026 If you would like to be added to the vendor WAITLIST, please reach out to Reagan at reagan@southbaldwinchamber.com NOTE: VENDOR APPLICATIONS FOR EACH YEAR WILL BE OPEN MID-NOVEMBER. 2026 VENDOR LIST Arts Sharon Seawright Home Decor Link Sealife Home Decor Arts Blade and Grain Wood Works Link Premium Woodworking Arts Below Zero Treats Link Freeze Dried Candy Arts Bethlehem Shop Link Wooden Figurines Arts Sassy Dip Sisters Link Packaged Dips Arts Southern Pearl Boutique Link Pearl Jewelry & Accessories Arts Bamagrl & Co Link Boutique Women's Clothing Arts Cat's Crafts Link Glass Flowers & Art Arts Lana Rae Permanent Jewelry Link Permanent Jewelry Arts Exotic Woodcrafts by John G Link Woodworking Arts The Velveteen Moose Pawty Animals Link Build-A-Bear type stuffed animals Arts Palmer Williams Group Link Former NFL Player Arts Barb's Bakery Link Snacks - Butters, Jam, Jellies Arts Bethany's Best Link Jams, Jellies, Pickles Arts JOz Designs Co Link Hats, Dog Collars, Accessories Arts One-Offs Creations Link Tie-Dye Clothing Food Burger Box Link Burgers & Sandwiches Food Da Shrimp Pimp Link Shrimp & Seafood Promotional T-Mobile Link Cellular Service Promotional LeafFilter Gutter Protection Link Promotional Retail River and Ray Link Athletic T-Shirts & Hats Retail Back Road Boutiques Link Boutique Women's Clothing Retail Bella Mila Link Anti-Aging Products Snack/Treats Travelin' Toms Coffee Link Coffee Truck Snack/Treats Suzie Q's Lemonade Link Lemonade Truck Snack/Treats Rocket City Popperz Link Gourmet Popcorn Arts Biblical Art Link Biblical Art Arts Fiery Fables Booktique Link Book Related Merchandise Arts Sea Salt & Lavender Link Poster Design Winner / Hand Painting Artwork Arts Do It All Designs Link Clothing - T-shirts & Leisure wear Arts Beachin' Vibes Jewelry Link Handcrafted Jewelry Arts The Glue & Glitter Gang Link Handmade paint kits for kids & adults Arts Joe Diaco Art Link Glass Art (Out of Liquor Bottles) Arts Arts by Donna Link Knitted Plushies Arts Done with Diamonds Link Decor, Balloon Decor, Wall Hangings Arts Sandy Beach Inspirations Link Glass Sea Art Arts KARI KARI Otaku Boutique Link Japanese Anime Clothing & Collectibles Arts Joyfull's Bakery Link Snacks - Cookies, Cupcakes, Etc. Arts Barry's Bees Link Honey Arts Pond of Pearls Link Jewelry, Fishing Game Arts Harvest Gourmet Foods Link Sauces & Dips Arts Wild Kokoro Arts Link Botanical Jewelry Food SugarLove Link All of the Above Food Rice Rice Baby Link Asian Flare Promotional TidalWave Auto Spa Link Auto Spa, Giveaways & Coupons Promotional A&R Group Link Accommodations Retail Alabama Adult & Teen Challenge Link Hats & Accessories Retail Kat & Eddie's Balloon-tique Link Balloon-Themed Decor Snack/Treats Cups For a Cure Link Lemonade Truck Snack/Treats Allergy Friendly Treats Link Sweet Treats Snack/Treats Summertime Snow (Funnel Cakes ONLY) Link Funnel Cakes Snack/Treats Juicy Lemons (Waffle Desserts) Link Waffle Desserts Arts Milton Cross Woodworking Link Custom Woodworking (Birdhouses, License Plates) Arts Custom Face Painting Link Premium Face Painting Arts Wildcat Soaps & Candles Link Soaps & Candles Arts Kimberly Madison Designs Link Jewelry Arts Bailey & Co Link Children's Clothing; Embroidered Decor & Clothing Arts Guy's Gourmet Twists Link Licorice Arts Karen's Custom Creations Link Wooden Door Signs Arts Willow Farms / Dip'N Good Dips Link Honey, Dips Arts Space Air Airbrushing Link Airbrushed Tattoos Arts BFF Designs Link Sea Glass Decor Arts Charmed & Linked by Hannah Link Permanent Jewelry Arts The Grove Link Paintings Arts His & Hers Custom Trucker Hat Bar Link Custom Trucker Hat Bar Arts Henna by Sabah Link Henna Tattoos Arts Mae Grace & Company Link Children's Clothing Food Anna's Cafe Link American Fare Food Vagabond Food Truck Link Award-Winning Handhelds Promotional Columbia Southern University Link Education Promotional Young's Suncoast Link Accommodations Retail A&O Boutique Link Boutique Women's Clothing Retail Ryp Tyd Outfitters Link Clothing - Men's, Fishing, Hats Retail Rebex Cutlery Link Cutlery Snack/Treats Kona Ice Link Shaved Ice Snack/Treats Copeland's Ice Cream Link Ice Cream Snack/Treats Grandma's Shaved Ice Link Shaved Ice

Foley is the spot for high-flying adventure and family fun at the Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival! EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC SOAR INTO FUN AT THE GULF COAST HOT AIR BALLOON FESTIVAL! Foley is your destination for high-flying adventure and unforgettable family fun at the Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival! Explore daily entertainment, vibrant arts and crafts displays, and much more at the festival site. Admission is FREE—don’t miss this one-of-a-kind experience! Balloon flights and glows are weather-dependent, occurring only at dawn and dusk when conditions allow. 2026 PRESENTING SPONSOR As an innovator in online education for 30 years, CSU was established to provide an alternative to the traditional university experience. CSU offers online associate, bachelor’s, master’s & doctoral degrees. THANK YOU! The Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival wouldn’t be possible without the support of our incredible sponsors. Their generosity helps bring the magic of hot air balloons, live entertainment, and family fun to life for everyone to enjoy. We are deeply grateful for their commitment to making this festival a memorable experience for our community and beyond! Read More MEET OUR PILOTS & SEE THE BALLOONS Balloon pilots are the heart of the Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival, bringing skill, passion, and a love for flight to the event. These talented individuals operate a diverse range of balloons, from classic shapes to creative designs, and share their expertise with guests during exciting flights, glows, and tethered rides. Whether they’re seasoned veterans or first-time participants, our pilots are eager to meet festival-goers and share the wonder of hot air ballooning! Read More OUR LOCATION In its early years, the Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival was held at the Foley Soccer Complex, quickly becoming a beloved local tradition for families and ballooning enthusiasts alike. In 2021, the festival moved to OWA Parks & Resort, elevating the experience with OWA's diverse entertainment options, restaurants, and attractions. This exciting partnership and new location created a more accessible, vibrant setting, allowing the festival to grow, offer even more activities, and welcome a larger audience. Read More UPCOMING FESTIVAL DATES APR 29 - May 1, 2027 Balloon flights and glows are weather-dependent, occurring only at dawn and dusk when conditions allow. Catch the Action in the Skies! Stay updated on early morning and evening balloon flights by tuning in to WHEP Radio Baldwin 92.5 FM or the WHEP app . Get live updates on planned launch sites and flight paths, announced each morning and evening, so you never miss a moment of the magic! KNOW BEFORE YOU GO PLAN YOUR VISIT Planning your visit to the Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival? Check out our FAQ section for any questions you might have! From event schedules and parking to balloon displays and safety guidelines, we’ve got answers to the most common questions to help make your experience smooth and enjoyable. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, feel free to reach out—we’re here to help! Read More OUR VENDORS: Crafts, Creativity, and Cuisine 5 FOOD VENDORS 46 ARTS & CRAFTS 10 SPECIALTY TREATS 14 RETAIL, PROMOS

Schedule of Events 🎈 Stay Up to Date on Balloon Activities! Hot air balloons fly only at sunrise or within an hour of sunset when winds are calm and predictable. Factors like heat thermals and atmospheric pressure also play a role in flight decisions. So, what does this mean for the festival? If the weather permits, look to the skies between 6:00 AM – 9:00 AM on FRIDAY and SATURDAY for breathtaking balloon flights. In the early evening, enjoy the mesmerizing Balloon Glow on the festival grounds (all 3 nights weather permitting). Plus, wind and weather permitting, interactive balloon activities are available throughout the day! REMINDER: All Balloon activities are weather dependent. Flights & Glows take place only at dusk and dawn when conditions permit. THURSDAY Apr 30, 2026 * Amphitheater on the Island ** Meet & Greet Tent in Festival Field 4:00 pm – 9:30 pm Festival Opens with vendors: Food, Retail, Arts & Crafts 4:00 pm – 7:30 pm 🍴 VIP Tent Only: Dinner available to VIP ticket holders 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm Arts & Crafts Vendors Open in Downtown OWA 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm Free Kids Activities throughout Downtown OWA 4:30 pm - 8:00 pm Free Lawn Games on the Island 4:30 pm - 6:00 pm 🎵 Live Music by Yeah Probably at OWA Amphitheater* 6:30 pm – 7:00 pm Disc-Connected K9 Frisbee Dog Show 🐾 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm 🎵 Live Music by Justin Jeansonne at OWA Amphitheater* *UPDATE: 6:30* 7:30 pm 🎈 Balloon Glow (weather & wind permitting) *UPDATE: 8:30* 9:15 pm ✨ Drone Show (weather permitting) FRIDAY May 1, 2026 * Amphitheater on the Island ** Meet & Greet Tent in Festival Field *Canceled* 4:00 pm – 9:30 pm Festival Opens with Vendors: Food, Retail, Arts & Crafts *Canceled* 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm 🎵 Live Music by Shrimp Shack Shooters at OWA Amphitheater* *Canceled* 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo Meet & Greet** *Canceled* 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm Free Lawn Games on the Island *Canceled* 4:00 pm – 7:30 pm 🍴 VIP Tent Only: Dinner available to VIP ticket holders *Canceled* 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm Free Kids Activities throughout Downtown OWA *Canceled* 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm 🎈 Interactive Hot Air Balloon Display (weather & wind permitting) *Canceled* 5:00 pm – 5:35 pm Disc-Connected K9 Frisbee Dog Show 🐾 *Canceled* 7:00 pm – 7:35 pm Disc-Connected K9 Frisbee Dog Show 🐾 *Canceled* 🎈 Tethered Rides & Balloon Glow (weather & wind permitting) 🤘🚨 NEW TIME & LOCATION: 6 PM at the OWA Theater! 🎵 Live Music by Renee Amelia at OWA Theater 🤘🚨 NEW TIME & LOCATION: 7 pm – 9 pm at the OWA Theater! 🎵 Live Music by The M-80's at OWA Theater! SATURDAY May 2, 2026 * Amphitheater on the Island ** Meet & Greet Tent in Festival Field ***UPDATE 12 PM*** Festival Opens at Noon with vendors: Food, Retail, Arts & Crafts [NOTE: Some Vendors may close at 9 PM] 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo Meet & Greet ** ***Canceled 1:00 PM*** Disc-Connected K9 Frisbee Dog Show 🐾 **canceled ** 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm 🎵 Live Music by Symone French at OWA Amphitheater* 2:30 pm – 4:30 pm 👨✈️ Hot Air Balloon Pilots Meet & Greet** 3:00 pm - 3:35 pm Disc-Connected K9 Frisbee Dog Show 🐾 4:00 pm – 7:30 pm 🍴 VIP Tent Only: Dinner is available to VIP ticket holders *Canceled* 🎈 Interactive Hot Air Balloon Display (weather & wind permitting) 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm 🎵 Live Music by JB Dyess Trio at OWA Amphitheater* 6:30 pm – 7:05 pm Disc-Connected K9 Frisbee Dog Show 🐾 7:00 pm – 9:15 pm 🎵 Live Music by The Molly Ringwalds at OWA Amphitheater* 7:30 pm 🎈 Tethered Rides & Balloon Glow (weather & wind permitting) UPDATE 5/2/26, 7:00 PM: Tethered rides have been canceled. BALLOON GLOW - Pilots are setting up for a glow, but if the winds are too strong, they will candlestick! 🔥 9:15 pm ✨ Drone Show (weather permitting) FUTURE FESTIVAL DATES: APR 29 - MAY 1, 2027

F.A.Q. We want you to have an unforgettable time at the Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival! To help you plan and make the most of your experience, we’ve put together answers to the most frequently asked questions, along with helpful event tips. See Festival Map Frequently Asked Questions & Answers FAQ How do I get to the festival? The festival grounds are at 100 N OWA Blvd., Foley, AL. See our Map & Parking page for details. When do balloons fly? You can see balloons fly for sponsor flights early in the morning (around dawn) and late in the afternoon (around dusk). These are a sight to see! (Most launch sites TBA morning of.) All flights are weather-dependent and require certain wind speeds. When balloons fly, where do they launch and land? Scheduled Flights (typically): Friday, Saturday, and Sunday mornings between 6 AM – 8 AM (weather permitting). Launch Locations: Vary daily and are announced before each flight via our Facebook & WHEP Radio. Landing Spots: Determined by the pilot based on wind direction and conditions. For Viewing Only: Full hot air balloon flights during the festival are reserved for sponsors only. 📢 Stay Updated: Follow our Facebook page and WHEP Radio for real-time announcements! Why are balloons not visible during the day (Approx. 10 AM - 5 PM)? Hot air balloons do not inflate during the day due to thermals—rising columns of warm air that make it difficult to control the balloon. The safest conditions for inflation and flight occur at dawn and dusk when winds are calmer. ☀️ Daytime Interactive Balloon Display: Guests can experience a walk-through balloon display, where a balloon is inflated with a fan and lays on its side. Weather permitting, visitors can step inside the envelope for a unique, up-close look! The weather seems fine. Why can’t the balloons fly? While conditions on the ground may appear ideal, hot air balloons require stable winds between 4-6 mph and clear visibility for safe flight. Our balloonmeister carefully monitors upper-level winds and other atmospheric conditions that aren’t always visible from the ground. Safety is our top priority, and flights will only proceed if all conditions meet strict safety standards. When do you decide whether balloons will fly? Our experienced balloonmeister continuously monitors weather conditions leading up to scheduled flight times. Wind speeds, visibility, and other factors must be assessed in real time to ensure safety. Because conditions can change quickly, the final decision is made just before takeoff and before any hot air balloon activities begin. Can I bring my pet to the festival? Pets are not allowed on the festival field for safety reason. However, leashed pets are permitted in Downtown OWA. Owners must clean up after pets and ensure they are never left unattended. Where can I purchase handicap parking, VIP parking, or general parking passes? Handicap (ADA) Parking is free (enter via N. OWA Blvd, OWA Theater entrance). This parking area fills up quickly! VIP Parking is available online while supplies last. General Parking is free! See the map for details. Are golf carts allowed? Golf carts are not permitted on the festival grounds or around OWA Parks & Resort. Only wheelchairs, mobility scooters, strollers, and wagons are allowed. Our event staff and OWA will have golf carts for festival use only. Where can I park my bicycle? Bikes must be parked outside the park. No bikes are allowed in Downtown OWA or the festival field. OWA does not provide bicycle racks, so riders must secure their bikes themselves. I’m traveling from out of town, what is the weather like in May for the tethered balloon rides? On average in Foley, Alabama, April & May bring warm, pleasant weather with highs in the mid-70s to mid-80s°F and lows in the upper 50s to mid-60s°F. Expect moderate humidity, occasional rain showers, and plenty of sunshine! Where should I look for weather updates? Stay updated on local weather conditions that will affect glows, flights, and interactive hot air balloon activities by following our Facebook page. WHEP Radio Baldwin is our local radio station that will be broadcasting festival updates. What are tethered balloon rides? Tethered hot air balloons are securely anchored to the ground, rising 35-50 feet for a 3-5 minute hot air balloon experience. Ticket holders will have the chance to meet the pilot, step into the basket, and take in the view from above. 🚨 Important: A non-transferable waiver must be signed at the time of purchase. Is there an age requirement to ride a tethered balloon ride? There’s no age limit, but there is a HEIGHT requirement! Riders must be able to stand in the basket on their own and cannot be held by an adult for safety reasons. Are my tickets for the Tethered Balloon Rides refundable? All ticket sales are final and non-refundable. A signed waiver is required at the time of purchase, and tickets are non-transferable. Tickets are available on-site only. All rides are weather-dependent, with safety decisions made by our balloonmeister up until the scheduled flight time. How many people can ride during a tethered balloon ride? The number of riders per flight is determined by total weight, with the pilot making the final decision for safety. Typically, two adults can ride at a time, weather permitting. 🚨 Important: Riders must be physically able to climb in and out of the basket without assistance. When and where can I buy tethered ride tickets? Tethered ride tickets are available on-site only on a first-come, first-served basis—and they sell out fast! Ticket sales typically begin about two hours before the scheduled event, weather permitting. 🎟 Prices: $25 for adults $20 for kids (must be taller than the basket and able to stand on their own) All rides are weather and wind-dependent, with final decisions made by our balloonmeister for safety. Can we bring our lawn chairs & blankets? And, can we leave them overnight? Guests can bring lawn chairs and blankets! However, all personal belongings must be taken with you when you leave the festival. NOTE: No chairs or blankets will be allowed on the 'balloon glow field' – see the map for that location! Can I fly my drone at the festival? No, drones are not allowed during the festival for the safety of pilots and balloons. Can we bring a pop-up tent or canopy? No, tents and canopies are not allowed on the festival grounds. Is smoking allowed at the festival? 🚭 Smoking is prohibited on the festival grounds. Can we bring a cooler, snacks, or drinks? No outside food or drinks are allowed. A variety of food vendors will be available on site! Where can I get VIP passes? The Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival is FREE to attend, but for those looking to enhance their experience, we offer VIP Passes and VIP Parking for purchase. Check out our Plan Your Visit webpage for more info! REMINDER Balloon flights and displays are weather-dependent. Flights take place only at dusk and dawn when conditions permit. Displays will take place during scheduled times when conditions allow. Tune into WHEP Radio Baldwin 92.5 FM or the WHEP APP for live updates regarding morning and evening flight information. Find out details on planned launch sites and flight paths so you can catch them in the skies!

Balloons & Pilots See Our Beautiful Balloons and the Pilots that Fly them! Discover an incredible array of hot air balloons, from whimsical special shapes and classic leisure balloons to sleek racers and uniquely themed designs. Our talented pilots, including both festival newcomers and long-time favorites, will be onsite during the mesmerizing balloon glows, ready to meet and share their passion for ballooning with you! 🎈 Morning Balloon Flights – Where to Watch During the Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival, our morning competition flights take place at sunrise when conditions are best for flying. While balloons launch from various locations based on wind direction, spectators can often catch a great view of the action over the soccer fields off Highway 98 between approximately 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM (weather permitting). Because balloon flight paths are determined by real-time weather and wind conditions, locations and timing may vary. For the most up-to-date information each morning, we encourage you to tune in to WHEP Radio, where live updates will be shared as pilots prepare for flight. It All Depends on the Weather! Hot air balloon flights and displays are all about the right weather! Flights are scheduled at dawn and dusk when conditions are just right, and even our daytime balloon displays (where balloons stay on the ground) depend on Mother Nature’s cooperation. And yes—tethered rides? Same deal! If the weather says “no-go,” we listen. The safety of our pilots, crews, equipment, and most importantly, you—our amazing attendees—is always our top priority! Tethered Rides Sponsor Flights 2026 LINEUP 🎈 Amaluna PILOT: Dave Sullivan Location: Fayetteville, GA America PILOT: Frank Anger Location: Belden, MS Bourbon Flight PILOT: Dan Gerbus Location: Lewisville, NC Briar Rose PILOT: Ben Noyce Location: Bolivar, TN Carolina Twist PILOT: Anthony Seeger Location: Travelers Rest, SC Dolphin Legacy PILOT: Jason Myers Location: McKinney, TX Dreams & Legacies PILOT: Matthew Hunter Location: Lake Wells FL Flip Flop Fantasy PILOT: Roger Clark Location: Greer, SC Foley PILOT: Ken Walter Location: Waukesha, WI Freedom Flyer PILOT: Mark Fritze Location: Tallahassee, FL Geaux Biggs PILOT: Colton Krause Location: Pride, LA Georgie Girl PILOT: PaddyNilz Location: Tucson, AZ Gravity's Rainbow PILOT: Geoffrey Jones Location: Meridian, MS HiLeigh Kentagious PILOT: Ken Johnston Location: Canton, MS Holocron PILOT: Luke Van Camp Location: Tallahassee, FL Hosanna Pinwheel PILOT: David Koenig Location: Menasha, WI Hot Ta Molly PILOT: Molly Richardson Location: Brandon, SD Hyggelig PILOT: Dale Pattyn Location: Kennesaw, GA IVO Justin Cox Carmel, IN JOurneY PILOT: Fred Poole Location: Meridian, MS Karen’s Dream PILOT: Karen Kent Location: Port Allen, LA Knight Rider PILOT: Steven Stokoe Location: Lutz, FL Kubi PILOT: Rob Nutting Location: Ackworth, GA Koola Koala PILOT: Frank Anger Location: Belden, MS Laska PILOT: Tom Warren Location: Land O Lakes, FL Marilyn PILOT: Chad Hebert Location: Zachary, LA Marvelous PILOT: Andrew Nels Location: Smyrna, GA Miss Lou PILOT: Mike Hanson Location: Greenwood, MS Night Fury PILOT: Erik Eaton Location: Lakeland, FL OWA PILOT: Jason Gaines Location: Foley, MO RE/MAX PILOT: Jason Jones Location: Overland Park, KS Really!?!? PILOT: Shawn Krause Location: Zachary, LA Screwed Up Gator II PILOT: Bud Person Location: Gainesville, FL Seasons PILOT: Benjamin Drennan Location: Cordele, GA Ski Lift PILOT: Bob Pulaski Location: Pineville, LA Sky Walker PILOT: Carlton Sumner Location: Rincon, GA Spirit of The Lord PILOT: Tom Tomasetti Location: Raleigh, NC Stained Horizons PILOT: Marshall Gower Location: Town Creek, AL Stairway To Heaven II PILOT: Rick Ferrall Location: Lawrenceville, GA Stars and Stripes PILOT: Rusty Miller Location: Atmore, AL SunCatcher PILOT: Joseph Hurdt Location: Shelby, NC The Castaway PILOT: David Griffin Location: Frisco, TX Tickled Pink PILOT: Kay Gaines Location: Foley, MO Touchstone Energy Cooperatives PILOT: Cheri White Location: Lakeway, TX Walter PILOT: Phillip MacNutt Location: Winston Salem, NC Walter PILOT: Brian Critelli Location: Webster, TX Wind Waker PILOT: Gary Jones Location: Diamondhead, MS The Wisdom Racer PILOT: John Good Location: Praireville, LA Yutta Hey PILOT: Todd Hastie Location: Fleming Island, FL Hot Air Balloon Rides We do not offer FULL hot air balloon rides to the public at our festival. Morning (dusk) flights are reserved exclusively for our generous sponsors. We encourage the public to tune in to WHEP Radio Baldwin for flight updates so you can find them in the skies over Baldwin County! Here's more info on our A.M. flights If you're interested in becoming a sponsor, please contact Director Rachel Spear rachel@southbaldwinchamber.com . Visitors can still experience the magic of ballooning with our TETHERED RIDES , where you can rise into the sky while remaining securely anchored to the ground. All flights are weather-dependent and subject to safety conditions . Looking for a Full Hot Air Balloon Ride? During the festival, full hot air balloon rides are exclusively available to sponsors. However, several of our experienced commercial pilots in the Southeast region offer private ballooning adventures for the public! Check out the list to connect with a pilot and schedule your own unforgettable flight. Commercial Plots Frank Anger fjanger@yahoo.com 662-321-1669 Tupelo, MS Facebook Chad Hebert & Shawn Krause Really Hot Air Balloon Team reallyhotairballoon6769@gmail.com 225-772-9575 Zachary, LA Website Fred Poole fly@champagnesunrise.net 601-685-0205 Meridian, MS Website Karen Kent dkballooning@aol.com 225-202-0352 Port Allen, LA

Privacy Policy Last update: FEB 2025 Welcome to the Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival website (gulfcoastballoonfestival.com). Your privacy is important to us, and we are committed to being transparent about how we collect and use your information. 1. Information We Collect We do not collect personal information such as names or email addresses. However, we may collect general user data through analytics and tracking technologies to improve our website and marketing efforts. 2. How We Use Data We use Google Analytics and cookies to track website traffic, user interactions, and preferences. This helps us understand how visitors engage with our site so we can improve the experience. 3. Third-Party Links & Services Our Website may contain links to third-party websites, including the South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce for VIP ticket sales. We also connect to our social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, and X). These third parties have their own privacy policies, and we encourage you to review them. 4. Cookies & Tracking Technologies We use cookies and similar tracking tools to enhance your browsing experience and provide marketing insights. You can manage your cookie preferences through your browser settings. 5. Photo & Media Usage Images used on this Website come from our official social media accounts and select photographers who partner with the festival. 6. Opt-Out Options If you prefer not to be tracked, you can: Adjust your browser settings to block cookies. Use Google’s opt-out tool ( https://tools.google.com/dlpage/gaoptout ). 7. Contact Us If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy, please contact: the South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce. 📞 (251) 943-3291

Tethered Rides: A Balloon Adventure Awaits! Experience the magic of a hot air balloon ride—without ever leaving the festival! A few select balloons will offer evening tethered rides –weather permitting– where you'll gently rise approximately 30-40 feet into the air while remaining securely tethered to the ground. It’s an unforgettable way to see the festival from a whole new perspective! Plus, you’ll have the chance to meet the pilot and step inside a real hot air balloon. Important Details: When : Friday & Saturday evenings during the festival. Weather Dependent : Rides will only take place if conditions are safe for all. Non-Refundable Tickets: Sales are final, even in the case of unfavorable weather. Arrival Time: We recommend arriving two hours before sunset (around 5 PM) for the best chance to ride. Follow our Facebook page for the latest updates! How to Get Tickets: Tickets are available ON SITE ONLY! Festival attendees may purchase tickets at the Tethered Ride Ticket Tent (marked on the festival map ). ALL SALES ARE FINAL. ALL RIDERS MUST SIGN A WAIVER. TICKETS ARE NON-TRANSFERABLE. Sales open at (approximately) 5:00 PM on Friday & Saturday of the festival. Pricing : Adults: $25 Children (12 & under): $20 Full Balloon Rides: Not available during the festival. Only balloon sponsors receive full-flight experiences. 🎈 Morning Balloon Flights – Where to Watch One of the most breathtaking sights of the Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival happens at sunrise, when conditions are best for flight. Morning flights, reserved for sponsors and select media, take place on Friday and Saturday between approximately 6:00 AM – 8:00 AM, weather permitting, before the festival grounds officially open. While balloons launch from various locations based on wind direction, spectators can often catch a great view of them soaring over the soccer fields off Highway 98 between approximately 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM. Because balloon flight paths are determined by real-time weather conditions—including wind speed, direction, and landing permissions—locations and timing may vary each day. For safety and respect of private property , exact launch sites are not announced. 📻 Stay Updated For the most accurate, real-time information each morning, we encourage you to: • Tune in to WHEP Radio Baldwin (92.5 FM / 1310 AM) or download the WHEP App • Follow our Facebook page for official updates and announcements Pilots meet daily to assess conditions, and decisions are made based on weather at that time. We do our best to provide updates as quickly as possible—so stay connected and don’t miss your chance to see these incredible balloons take flight! 🎈

Local Lodging We’re delighted to extend a warm welcome to you for the Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival in South Baldwin! Our accommodations cater to every requirement. Explore the map below of nearby hotels and campgrounds below to discover the ideal place to rest your head. Thank you to our Accommodations Sponsors for graciously hosting our Balloon Pilots!