As preparations begin for one of the Gulf Coast’s largest spring events, Foley officials have renewed their commitment to support the Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival, set for April 30 to May 2, at OWA Parks and Resort.

Foley City Council approved plans to provide city services for the annual festival, which typically features about 55 hot air balloons soaring above the city and participating in evening balloon glows at OWA.

The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce organizes the event in partnership with OWA, with assistance from multiple city departments, according to City Administrator Mike Thompson.

“We also provide in-kind service from various departments, such as police, fire, street department, sanitation and parks,” Thompson said. “Those kinds of services that different departments provide to the chamber help make the event go smoothly. We've been doing this for a number of years now.”

City resources help manage traffic flow, ensure public safety and maintain event grounds during the three-day festival, which draws tens of thousands of visitors to Foley each year.

Earlier this year, the council increased funding for the festival to expand its marketing reach and explore additional ways to measure its economic impact on the city. Chamber reports show that in 2024 the festival drew about 32,000 attendees, up from 25,000 the previous year. During that weekend, restaurant revenue rose more than 30% and hotel occupancy reached 95%.

Rachel Spear, the chamber’s events and finance director, said the collaboration between the city, local businesses and volunteers is critical to the festival’s success.

“We're very appreciative of the city for all the support that you give us to make this signature event for Foley,” she told City Council members. “There are a lot of different parts, and a lot of people come together to pull it off and make it something that people can enjoy for our community.”

The Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival has earned statewide and regional recognition. In 2021, the Alabama Tourism Department named it event of the year. The Southeast Tourism Society has also designated the Foley festival as one of its signature events.