Alabama Jubilee Hot-Air Balloon Classic Celebrates 35th Anniversary in 2012

For the past 35 years, the Alabama Jubilee Hot-Air Balloon Classic has been a tradition in the River City, bringing with it 65 colorful, giant balloons, live music, and family-fun all in celebration of Memorial Day. Along with the hot-air balloons, the annual, free event features competitive races between hot-air balloonists from across the country, tethered rides, live entertainment, an IDOL competition, a military tribute an evening “balloomination” and a spectacular fireworks show at Point Mallard Park in Decatur. This year’s event is set for May 26-27, 2012.

The two-day event kicks off Saturday at 6:30 a.m. with the Hare and Hound Balloon Race. Saturday’s activities include an antique car show and the Southland Flywheelers Tractor Show featuring engine demonstrations, a tractor parade, pedal tractor pull, and tractor games. At dusk, the Balloon Glow is a must see as the towering balloons of all colors light up the night sky. The day wraps up at 10:30 p.m.

Another round of friendly competition between the pilots is scheduled for Sunday beginning at 6:30 a.m. with the Hot-Air Balloon Key Grab Race. Free tethered rides are offered at 5:30 p.m. and a spectacular fireworks show by Pyro Shows is set to launch at 9:30 p.m.

Live music from 14 bands representing a variety of genre, a children’s area with games and inflatables (some activities require a nominal fee to participate), and the Decatur Art Guild arts and crafts show offering only original artwork are scheduled throughout the weekend.

Headlining this year’s event is 7 Bridges Band, an Eagles tribute band from Nashville who will take the stage at 8 p.m. on Sunday, just prior to the fireworks show. A special recognition will be made to the Wounded Warriors on Sunday and the U.S.Army Materiel Command Band is also set to perform. Picnic blankets and lawn chairs are encouraged.

For those who can carry a tune (ages 16 years and older), the North Alabama Idol competition returns in 2012 for the second. The contest, offering cash and prizes to the top contender, will take to the stage on Saturday beginning at 12 p.m. Advance registration is required and is available at www.wzyp.com along with complete rules.

Free parking will be available at Wolverine Park and GE with shuttle service to Point Mallard Park from 4 to 10 p.m. for $1/person each way. Admission to the Alabama Jubilee is free. Please note all balloon activities are weather permitting.

For more information and a complete schedule of events, visit www.alabamajubilee.net  or check out its other online presences at myspace.com/alabamajubilee.net and on Facebook (Alabama Jubilee Hot Air Balloon Classic).

Point Mallard Park is a 500-acre municipal park providing year round recreation facilities in Decatur, Alabama. The Water Park, home to America’s first wave pool, is also scheduled to open for summer enjoyment May 26, 2012. For more information, visit www.pointmallardpark.com.

About The Decatur-Morgan County Convention & Visitors Bureau (DMCCVB)

The Decatur-Morgan County Convention & Visitors Bureau is a not-for-profit organization promoting tourism and economic growth in Morgan County.  For information on special events and attractions in Decatur and Morgan County, contact the DMCCVB at 800.524.6181 or 256.350.2028; or visit its website at www.decaturcvb.org and click on the “Things to Do” link.