Balloons Over Marine is an annual hot air balloon event taking place in the village of Marine in Madison County, Illinois. The hot air balloon festival, which usually takes place in late September, features take-offs on Friday and Saturday evenings and a sunrise launch on Saturday morning. Other highlights of Balloons over Marine include a spectacular Balloon Glow on Saturday evening.
Festival Highlights
In addition to hot air balloon launches, the festival features various aviation activities and displays, delicious food, drinks, a bounce house for kids, and much more. Activities take place in the Village Park on Duncan Street. The festival draws many families from the surrounding area thanks to star balloon attractions, such as Drifting Dolphins, Bumble Bee & Bubblegum, or Captain “A.” The Kids' Area features bounce houses, face painting, games, and barrel rides.
2024 Festival Schedule
The festival is kicked off at 5 pm on Friday, September 27, with an evening balloon launch, followed by a spectacular Balloon Glow at dusk, from 7 to 11 pm. However, the gates of the festival grounds at the main Village Park (Duncan Street) will be open from 4 pm, with various kids' activities and food vendors available till 11 pm.
The festival's schedule is jam-packed with fun on Saturday, September 28. The Sunrise Balloon Launch is planned for 6:45 am. From 10 am to noon, the Marine Fire Department holds a fire safety presentation for kids. Kids Area and Food Court will be open from 10 am to 10 pm. Car Cruise and Kid's Cruise will take place from noon to 3 pm. The afternoon Balloon Launch will take place at 5 pm. The festival wraps up with the thrilling Balloon Glow, running from 7 pm to 11 pm. All ballooning events will take place, weather permitting.
Festival History
Proceeds of the Balloons Over Marine benefit the Marine Community, particularly by funding improvements in the park and the school, helping send children to camp, and assisting victims of human trafficking and families in need. The event was founded in 2014 by Mr. Bill Weder, owner of the marine coin company, while sitting at a Historical Society meeting. The festival is supported by many local community organizations and groups, such as the fire department, ladies' auxiliary, Masonic Lodge 355, and local 4H.
