Mother’s Day weekend is overflowing with fun!  

After a year of cancellations and postponements, we are looking forward to all our beautiful city has to offer in 2021. May brings us two of our most popular festivals.  

The Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival is in a new location at OWA and now includes a third day of high-flying family fun. It all starts Thursday, May 6, when OWA hosts the Balloon Glow Kick–Off event from 5 to 8 p.m. with DJ Patrick and a balloon glow starting at 7:30 p.m. (weather and wind permitting).  

That’s just the beginning, so be sure to keep your calendar clear for a whole weekend of Balloon Festival fun May 7, 8 and 9. This year’s expanded event includes retail vendors, entertainment, arts and crafts and, of course, hot air balloons. As always, tethered rides, the ascension and balloon glow are weather and wind permitting.   

But wait – there’s more! Split your time between balloons and the 49th Annual Art in the Park. On May 8 and 9, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day, Heritage Park is the place to find this juried fine arts show featuring artists and craftsmen from across the Southeast.  

After the excitement of Mother’s Day weekend, unwind with a stroll around downtown Foley. The Wilbourne Antique Rose Trail is a wonderful place to start, and you can literally stop and smell the roses along the way. Hundreds of heritage roses line the beautifully landscaped path that runs from East Section Avenue south to East Myrtle Avenue.  

More adventure awaits in downtown with museums, the Foley Art Center, shopping, and plenty of options for lunch. Take a look at our Explore Foley Downtown itinerary for more ideas on places to discover.