Schedule

The National Balloon Classic is a weather-dependent event. All ticket purchases are final and non-refundable, regardless of weather conditions or flight status. Schedule is subject to change. The safety of our guests, pilots, and crew is our top priority when determining whether balloons can fly. If weather conditions are not safe for flight, balloon activities will be canceled; however, other scheduled entertainment and amenities will continue as weather permits. Pilot briefings take place approximately 30 minutes prior to each scheduled flight. Flight decisions are not made or announced until after this briefing. Updates on flight status will be shared as soon as they are available on the official National Balloon Classic social media channels.

MORNING FLIGHTS: (beginning Saturday, August 1)
Gates are open from 6:00 a.m. until 9:00 a.m., so guests can enjoy watching the competition flights (weather permitting). Pilot briefings, including a weather report, are held 30 minutes before flights. Flight announcements are not made until after the pilot briefing. Please be aware that parking and viewing are at your own risk (no parking/ gate attendant); guests are responsible for their own safety and belongings. All National Balloon Classic policies are in force: no pets, smoking/vaping, or outside food or beverages. Select vendors are open for food, coffee, and other beverage purchases. Chair rental is available. Admission and parking are free-will donations, available only on mornings.

EVENING FLIGHTS: Gates open at 4:00 p.m.
Weather permitting, hot air balloons are scheduled to launch each evening at 6:30 p.m. Pilot briefings, including a weather report, are held 30 minutes before flights. Flight announcements are not made until after the pilot briefing. General Admission tickets include all evening entertainment. If weather conditions are not safe for flight, balloon activities will be canceled; however, other scheduled entertainment and amenities will continue as weather permits.

WEATHER or not to fly?
All National Balloon Classic events are subject to weather and may be delayed or canceled. Safe flying requires surface winds below 8–10 mph, but conditions can change quickly, especially winds at higher altitudes. Safety is always our top priority, so last-minute decisions are common in ballooning. We recommend arriving as scheduled, as waiting for updates could mean missing the experience. Whether balloons are launching or landing at the balloon field, the sights and sounds are enchanting. The anticipation and wonder can only be experienced at the balloon field — only there can you feel the whoosh!

One low ticket price = fantastic value!
The National Balloon Classic is a nonprofit organization dedicated to building community and sharing the joy of hot air ballooning. Purchasing a General Admission ticket allows guests to enjoy entry to one evening session (choose from nine nights) free access to watch morning competition flights (free will donation appreciated), FREE parking, and access to all evening entertainment.