Every summer, hot air balloon festivals fill Illinois skies with color and excitement.
From dawn launches to evening glows, these events draw spectators and pilots from across the country. Pack a blanket to watch balloons drift above Galena's hills or reflect in Lake Shelbyville's waters, and take part in the community festivities.
Ready to fly yourself? Some Illinois operators offer balloon rides throughout the ballooning season—your chance to see our state from a thousand feet up, where familiar towns and prairies stretch out like a living map below.
Hot Air Balloon Festivals in Illinois
Great Galena Balloon Festival and Race (June)
Each June, dozens of balloons paint the skies above Galena's historic district. Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa hosts this three-day celebration, where you'll watch morning races send pilots soaring above the Mississippi River valley. As twilight falls, stake out a spot for the Night Glow Extravaganza, when tethered balloons transform into glowing beacons against the darkening sky.
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Balloons Over Vermilion (July)
Feel the excitement build at this two-day festival in Danville. Your festival ticket supports local charities while granting access to dawn launches and evening glows. Between flights, follow the music to local bands and sample specialties from food trucks lining the grounds.
Balloons Over Vermilion (July) -
Lake Shelbyville Balloon Fest (October)
Every Columbus Day weekend, hot air balloons fill the autumn skies above Lake Shelbyville. Start your day with dawn launches over the water and fall foliage. The festival continues through sunset with evening flights, live music, and the captivating Balloon Glow.
Lake Shelbyville Balloon Fest (October) -
Centralia Balloon Fest (August)
Southern Illinois's summer sky fills with color as balloons rise above the festival grounds. Browse regional crafts from local artisans between launches, and save room for hometown cooking from food vendors. At dusk, you'll witness the magic of evening glows as pilots light up their balloons.
Centralia Balloon Fest (August) -
Balloons Over 66 (August)
Step into classic Americana at this unique festival in Lincoln. Start Saturday with the local biscuits-and-gravy breakfast before the dawn launch, and as night falls, enjoy the magical glow the balloons create above Route 66.
Balloons Over 66 (August)
Where to Hot Air Balloon in Illinois
Galena on the Fly
Watch fog-filled valleys unfold beneath your basket during dawn flights, or catch golden light painting the Mississippi River bluffs at sunset. Your pilot guides you above Galena's historic architecture and rolling countryside.
Hot Air Balloon Tether Rides (Bolingbrook)
Experience ballooning in a uniquely accessible way. These gentle rides lift you 35 to 40 feet above the ground while staying secured by strong ground tethers. Walk right through the basket door—no climbing required—and float skyward for a three-minute taste of flight.
These pop-up events happen throughout the season, and are a great way to get a taste of ballooning without committing to anything too lofty.