We’re so glad you’ve landed here to learn more about our 2025 Balloon Festival. We celebrate our 28th year hosting the festival. Historically, the Balloon Festival was connected to our Erie Town Fair. Three years ago, it snowed in mid May, and we moved the Balloon Festival to mid July. 

Erie, Colorado, has a strong tradition of hot air ballooning that started in 1996, and has become a significant part of Erie’s identity. The town’s history is also intertwined with coal mining which is reflected in its heritage. 

Schedule of Events:

Mass Ascension

6am - People gather in the field to watch the colorful hot air balloons take to the skies for our second mass ascension of the festival weekend.

New this year is our MC, Bobby Lindsay, giving you a play by play of the morning events, and a walk- through balloon.

Balloon Glow

7:30pm - Our Pilots will begin laying out their balloons shortly after theirbriefing. Our Night Glow will be at the same field as our morning launch this year, providing an exceptional venue for balloon viewing.

We will have lots of food trucks on the field, music, face painters, and a lighted up walk-through balloon.