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Our family has explored numerous locations and participated in various events, but one experience stands out among our adventures as full-time RV travelers: the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta! This festival is truly enchanting, and we will always cherish the thrill of waking up to hot-air balloons soaring above us during this incredible event.
Inspired by this unforgettable experience, I have started compiling a list of balloon festivals to visit across the nation. Below are my current favorites, organized by date for the upcoming year. Begin planning your ultimate balloon festival journey using RV Trip Wizard today!
Labor Day Lift Off
Colorado Springs, Colorado
August 31–September 2, 2024
Set against a stunning backdrop, the Labor Day Lift Off in beautiful Colorado Springs showcases around 70 balloons taking to the skies, with the Rocky Mountains providing a picturesque setting. The event features live entertainment such as skydivers and aerial performers, plus a lively donut-eating contest that’s sure to bring laughs.
No onsite camping is available. However, you can find accommodations at the nearby Foot of the Rockies RV Resort.
The Great Reno Balloon Race
Reno, Nevada
September 6–8, 2024
If you’re looking for an affordable option, the Great Reno Balloon Race is the world’s largest free hot-air ballooning event, attracting up to 140,000 attendees. Over four days, visitors can enjoy paid balloon rides, illuminated balloon displays, quirky contests, and much more.
No onsite camping is available. Nearby accommodations include the River West Resort.
Carolina BalloonFest
Statesville, North Carolina
October 18–20, 2024
Fall is a breathtaking time in North Carolina, made even more vibrant by the Carolina BalloonFest, which fills the skies with colorful balloons. Visitors can enjoy mass ascensions and nighttime balloon glows, ride in a hot-air balloon, partake in live entertainment, and sample local wine and beer, all while kids have fun in a dedicated area. Onsite camping is highly recommended to enhance your experience!
Learn more about onsite camping.
Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
Albuquerque, New Mexico
October 5–13, 2024
This festival is the main event! As the largest and longest-running balloon festival in the United States, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is nothing short of spectacular. Each day, over 500 uniquely shaped hot-air balloons gracefully take to the skies, creating a dazzling array of colors. The “night glow” allows attendees to see the illuminated balloons, and staying at one of the official camping spots may grant you the unique opportunity to see balloons fly directly over your campsite.
Due to its popularity, it’s essential to reserve your campsite as soon as they are available. If you’re unable to secure a spot, consider trying one of these RV parks.
Arizona Balloon Classic
Phoenix, Arizona
January 24–26, 2025
The Arizona Balloon Classic is one of the few winter balloon festivals, held in January. It offers a variety of entertainment, including a laser light show, fireworks, and a family-friendly fun zone open all day.
Alongside this festival, the Desert Winds Kite Festival features beautiful show kites, parachute racing, and more.
No onsite camping is available. Nearby accommodations include the Covered Wagon RV Park.
Jubilee Hot Air Balloon Classic
Decatur, Alabama
May 2025
Conveniently located within a day’s drive for nearly half the U.S. population, the Jubilee Hot Air Balloon Classic is likely the most accessible festival on this list. While smaller, attracting around 60 balloons, this event offers a charming atmosphere without the overwhelming crowds. Attendees can also enjoy antique vehicle showcases, balloon races, and more.
No onsite camping is available. Nearby options include Point Mallard Park.
Temecula Valley Balloon & Wine Festival
Lake Skinner, California
May 2025
If you love food and wine, the Temecula Valley Balloon & Wine Festival is perfect for you. This three-day festival features stunning balloon displays alongside opportunities to taste over 20 California wines, enjoy local beers, and indulge in delicious food.
Unique wine-barrel races, top-quality live performances, and convenient onsite camping make this event a must-visit.
Learn more about onsite camping.
Chester County Hot Air Balloon Festival
Kenneth Square, Pennsylvania
June 2025
Set in the lush Brandywine Valley, the Chester County Hot Air Balloon Festival is another smaller but enjoyable event. Established in 1998, this three-day festival features multiple balloon flights, balloon rides, live music, local vendors, a children’s area, and plentiful food options.
No onsite camping is available. Nearby options include the Philadelphia/West Chester KOA Holiday.
Lottery Festival of Ballooning
Readington, New Jersey
June 2025
Another festival worth attending is the Lottery Festival of Ballooning, North America’s largest hot-air balloon festival during the summer. In addition to over 100 stunning balloons, this event features spectacular musical performances from artists such as The Barenaked Ladies, The Jonas Brothers, and KC and the Sunshine Band in past years.
No onsite camping is available. Nearby accommodations include the Mountain View Campground.
Teton Valley Balloon Rally
Driggs, Idaho
July 2025
If you’re looking for a summer event, the Teton Valley Balloon Rally is a fantastic way to celebrate the Fourth of July. The Teton Mountains provide a breathtaking backdrop for the balloons, and camping on nearby grounds makes it easy to catch the early morning launches. Additional events include a pancake breakfast, a fiddling contest, and fireworks in the evening.
Learn more about onsite camping.
Float On!
As highlighted, there is an abundance of wonderful hot-air balloon festivals across the country. Why not choose one from this list and organize your own magical RV getaway centered around hot-air ballooning?
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