Arkansas Valley Balloon Festival 2024 in Colorado

Arkansas Valley Balloon Festival takes place annually in the town of Rocky Ford in the lower Arkansas Valley during the first weekend of November. The only hot air balloon festival in Southeast Colorado, Arkansas Valley Balloon Festival attracts lots of ballooning enthusiasts as well as balloon crews and pilots from around the state.

Schedule of Events

The 35th Arkansas Valley Balloon Festival kicks off with a tissue paper balloon launch at 9 a.m. on November 1. Hot air balloon launches start at 7:30 a.m. on November 2, followed by afternoon and evening events around City Hall and Railroad Park, including candle sticking. The festival concludes with balloon launches on November 3.

The three-day Arkansas Valley Balloon Festival typically begins with a Wake Up Breakfast in downtown Rocky Ford, bringing together residents and sponsors. The festival features demonstrations at local schools, mass balloon launches from Rocky Ford High School, and various activities. Visit the Gobin Building Thursday through Sunday, from 10 am to 6 pm, to enjoy the photo contest and the art show and sale hosted by the Fine Arts League. Highlights include early morning liftoffs from the Industrial Park area, tethered rides, a balloon glow, and abundant entertainment.