An annual favorite that takes to the skies is back in 2021! Mark your calendars for the upcoming Alabama Jubilee Hot Air Balloon Classic in Decatur Memorial Day Weekend!
The Details
This free event is open to the public Saturday, May 29th, through Sunday, May 30th. Watch as pilots inflate huge, bright hot air balloons. Cheer on your favorites during the daily races held at 6 a.m. and 6 p.m.
There will be arts and crafts, food vendors, live entertainment, an antique tractor and engine show, antique car show and more. Some balloon pilots are even open to tethered rides! For a complete listing of the events and times, click here.
Hot air balloons aren’t the only thing filling the air at the Alabama Jubilee Hot Air Balloon Classic in Decatur. Live music is also back! There will be local and featured bands throughout both days. Not to name drop, but featured acts include DNNY, Jake Miller and Entice.
Plus, Saturday afternoon, half of the 60 balloons stay and glow and the other half light up the sky. Sunday night will spark with fireworks at the end! Click here for more on entertainment.
Noteworthy Rules
There are a few rules worth noting ahead of time. The safety of the hot air balloon pilots, crews and guests is a top priority. First, it is a no drone zone! Second, there is no smoking on the launch field due to propane in use. Third, leashed pets are welcome, but according to event coordinators, pets aren’t fans of the balloon burners.
Last to note: lawn chairs, wagons and small picnic items are allowed. Set up around the edge of the field is permitted with the understanding that you may have to move. Tents can be set up along the tree line.
Click here to review the full set of rules for the Alabama Jubilee Hot Air Balloon Classic in Decatur.
Decatur’s Hot Air Balloon History
Did you know that the Alabama Jubilee Hot Air Balloon Classic is the oldest hot air balloon race in the area? As the story goes, the city of Decatur decided to purchase one of the first city-owned hot air balloons. The salesman agreed to train a few local pilots. A few years later in 1978, the first hot air balloon classic was held.
Today, the Jubilee is considered a Top 20 Tourism Event in the Southeast for May. In fact, it’s made the Atlanta-based Southeast Tourism Society listing in the past.
Location
Make plans to head to Point Mallard Park located at 2901 Point Mallard Drive Southeast Saturday and Sunday of Memorial Day Weekend.
Summary
Hot air balloons shouldn’t be the only things on the move soon. If it’s time for you to make a move, come to Summer Key. Our three-, two- and one-bedroom apartments offer affordable comfort. Find out more about us and cool community events by reading our blogs!