2026 Freedom Festival Balloon Fest

Gather with more than 25,000 spectators to experience approximately 25 of these magical giants close-up as part of the ever popular Balloon Fest. Balloons fly each morning on July 2, 3 and 4 from 6:00am to 8am. Families and children may walk around the balloons as they inflate. Come and collect balloon cards from each pilot and answer the questions on the back and enter the drawing for prizes. Make sure and arrive at 6:00am to see the balloons inflate! Pilots participate in the Hare and the Hound competition where “hound” balloons drop bean bags onto a target laid out by the “hare.” Pilots obtain additional points by scoring in designated target areas. Top pilots from around the nation come to compete in this unique and difficult event. Also see the Balloon Glow Friday night from 8:30pm to 10:30pm at Fox Field!