Thunder on Water Balloon Festival 2024 in Mississippi

The Thunder on Water Festival is an annual event held at Grenada Lake, Mississippi, that draws over 110,000 park visitors from across the United States. This lively event, held from June 12 to June 16, promises an unforgettable experience for attendees of all ages, offering thrilling rides, delicious BBQs, captivating fireworks, and much more.

2024 Schedule of Events

The festivities kick off on Wednesday, June 12. Families are invited to enjoy a night of wholesome fun at the Carnival from 6 pm until 10 pm. Admission is made easy with $25 wristbands, granting unlimited access to the rides and attractions.

The excitement of carnival rides and games continues on Thursday, June 13, with another thrilling evening from 6 pm until 10 pm. Wristbands for Thursday through Sunday cost $30. From Friday through Sunday, June 14-16, the festival grounds host an all-day Arts & Crafts showcase and an array of delectable Food Vendors, offering a fusion of creativity and culinary delights for attendees to enjoy throughout the weekend. The Carnival continues from 7 pm until 11 pm on Friday and noon until midnight on Saturday, offering excitement throughout the day and into the night.

Saturday, June 15, promises yet another day of festivities with additional entertainment, including a Car and Truck Show, Tractor Pull, and Kids' Fishing Rodeo. Wrapping up the festival on Sunday, June 16, 2024, attendees can enjoy one final day of Arts & Crafts, delectable treats from Food Vendors, and exhilarating rides at the Carnival. Families can make the most of their Sunday, soaking in the last moments of joy and camaraderie before bidding farewell to another memorable festival year.

Tethered Balloon Rides.

As the sun begins its descent on Friday and Saturday, festival-goers are treated to a whimsical experience with Tethered Balloon Rides. From 6 pm until the commencement of the Carnival on Friday and from 6 pm until the Balloon Glow on Saturday, attendees can embark on an enchanting adventure. Ascending gently into the sky, tethered to the ground, participants enjoy panoramic views of the festival grounds and surrounding landscapes, all while basking in the golden glow of the setting sun.

BBQ Championship Contest

Sanctioned by the Memphis BBQ Network, the two-day BBQ Championship Contest takes place on Friday and Saturday (downtown). Participants from far and wide gather to showcase their skills, each vying for the coveted title of BBQ Pitmaster. Visitors can immerse themselves in a bustling atmosphere filled with the tantalizing aroma of slow-cooked meats and the sizzle of barbecue grills. With cash prizes and gleaming trophies awaiting the top five winners, the competition is fierce.

Firework Show

One of the festival's highlights is the spectacular Pyrotecnico fireworks show. On Friday, June 14, a display worth $25,000 lights up the night sky over Grenada Lake. For the best view, visitors gather along the levee or in boats, enjoying the spectacle choreographed to music provided by Grenada's radio station, B100.

Safety and Services

Safety and well-being of the visitors are paramount at Thunder on Water. The event is supported by Grenada County Sheriff's Department, Mississippi National Guard, and Tie Plant Volunteer Fire Department, ensuring a secure and orderly environment for all attendees. Additionally, medical services are provided by Adoration Hospice and MedStat Ambulance Service, with a mobile medical services trailer stationed near the Sheriff's mobile command post.