Balloons Over Bama

If you’ve ever stared out your office window and thought, “Maybe I’ll just float away and start over,”—you’re not alone. While we can’t offer you a one-way ride to Oz (Dorothy didn’t even get to take the balloon, remember?), we can recommend something that might lift your spirits: The Alabama Jubilee Hot-Air Balloon Classic, happening Memorial Day weekend, May 24–25, in Decatur.

It’s a free festival filled with flying giants, funnel cakes, antique tractors, and enough good vibes to send your daily stress straight into the stratosphere.

A Festival That’s Truly Up There

There’s nothing ordinary about standing in a field at sunrise while a giant, technicolor bass-shaped balloon rises into the sky—and that’s just the beginning. The Alabama Jubilee packs two full days of flight events, glowing displays, live music, and family-friendly chaos into one unforgettable weekend. Here’s what’s floating your way:

• Mornings (6:00–8:00 a.m.): Competitive balloon flights like the Hare & Hound race (Saturday) and the Lynn Layton Key Grab (Sunday).
• Evenings (5:00–8:00 p.m.): Balloon fun flights, tethered rides, and the famous balloon glow
• Sunday night: Fireworks show at 9:30 p.m.

Tethered rides are free but limited! Show up early, caffeinated, and ready to wait—and float.

More Than Balloons (But Also, So Many Balloons)

Down on the ground, the Jubilee celebration brings all the charm of a small-town fair with a side of unexpected fun.

• Food trucks and vendors (think fried Oreos, lemonade, pizza, and more).
• Arts & Crafts Show by the Decatur Art Guild.
• Antique Tractor Show with pedal tractors and hands-on demos.
• Auto Expo on Saturday with classic and custom cars.
• Live music: JED Eye plays Saturday, The Beasley Brothers on Sunday.
• And Sunday afternoon karaoke, because your voice deserves a moment, too!

What You Need to Know Before Liftoff

• Admission and parking are free!
• Shuttle service runs from remote parking lots for $5 round-trip (kids under 3 ride free).
• Bring lawn chairs, blankets, snacks, and sunscreen!
• Pets are allowed but not recommended—balloon burners and fireworks can be overwhelming.
• No drones, smoking near balloons, or wandering into tie-down zones unless you’re invited!

Where to Stay

For a comfy place to crash after a day of balloon chasing, the Courtyard by Marriott Decatur is a favorite. Located at 1209 Courtyard Circle, it’s close to the launch field, downtown eats, and everything else you’ll want for the weekend. You’ll get free Wi-Fi, cozy rooms, and a solid breakfast at The Bistro—plus a pool and gym if you somehow still have energy to burn.

Ready for Liftoff?

So maybe you don’t need to float off to Kansas to reset. Maybe you just need a good funnel cake, a glowing balloon, and a reason to wake up before sunrise for something other than emails. Whether you’re five or ninety-five, there’s something a little magical about watching the sky fill with color—and remembering that a weekend in Decatur can still make you feel like you’re flying.

Find more high-flying fun near you at www.guidetoalabama.com/art-classes-workshops.