The Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival kicked off its weekend of events Thursday evening at Tanger Outlets in Foley with a colorful Balloon Glow.
The glow featured eight hot air balloons, giving visitors a close-up look at the brightly lit aircraft. Each year the festival draws thousands of visitors to Foley.
The weekend continues Friday afternoon at 2 p.m. at the Foley Sports Complex in Baldwin County, with activities running 2 to 10 p.m. Saturday’s events run 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. The schedule includes a hot air balloon race, an awards ceremony, arts and crafts and a dog show.