The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce is inviting local and regional artists to help shape the visual identity of one of the Gulf Coast’s most anticipated annual events.

The committee for the 22nd Annual Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival has opened submissions for the official 2026 festival t-shirt and poster artwork. This design should reflect the following themes: Hot air balloons, art and music.

The selected artist will receive a one-time $500 commission, and their work will be featured across the festival’s promotional materials, from merchandise to digital and print campaigns.

Artists are encouraged to submit original, non-AI-generated artwork that reflects the festival’s colorful atmosphere and coastal charm. All entries must prominently include the following: “22nd Annual Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival,” the year “2026,” and “Foley, AL.” The final poster size must not exceed 18 inches wide by 24 inches tall.

Participants may submit up to three designs for consideration. Selected artwork will become the sole property of the Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival and the South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce, which reserves the right to use the art in any manner it deems appropriate, without further compensation.

Submissions must be received by Wednesday, Oct. 1.

Entries may be delivered in person to the South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce at 200 N. Alston St. in Foley or mailed to PO Box 1117, Foley, AL 36536.

For full guidelines and requirements, artists can contact Rachel Spear at (251) 943-5550 or rachel@southbaldwinchamber.com. More information is available at www.southbaldwinchamber.com.

The festival, known for filling the summer sky with a vibrant display of hot air balloons and drawing thousands of visitors each year, continues to celebrate the region’s creative spirit through this annual art contest.