Montana Balloon Festival has changed several names and locations, yet it remains the only hot air balloon fiesta in the state. Presently, Big Sky International Balloon Rally occurs annually in late July at Amend Park in the city of Billings. The festival is supported by local sponsors and offers completely free admission to the public.
Over a dozen balloons ascend to the sky every morning, Friday through Sunday. The flights take place at Amend Park at 6 am, weather permitting. The pilots come from across the United States, Canada, and beyond. To behold the launch, you have to get up early, but as a pleasant bonus, you can get a substantial pancake breakfast.
The highlight of the long-weekend celebration is Balloon Glow taking place at dusk on Saturday. The field at Amend Park opens for visitors at 6 pm with live music entertaining the guests while the pilots prepare their balloons. In addition to the core program, in recent years, the festivities have expanded to include food trucks, face painting, and other entertainment. Big Sky International Balloon Rally is the largest Montana ballooning event, which has become a beloved tradition for local families!
