Wellsville Balloon Rally 2024 in New York State

The annual Great Wellsville Balloon Rally draws crowds to the village of Wellsville in Allegany County, New York State. An array of family-friendly festivities takes place in Island Park throughout the third full weekend in July. About 35 vivid hot air balloons, operated by the best pilots in local communities, launch from different locations in and around the site. Take a vantage point on the side of the Genesee River to take in the spectacle and capture a fascinating shot of balloons mirrored in the water.

Balloon Rally Parade (July 13, 2024)

You might also want to see a Wellsville Balloon Rally parade traditionally scheduled for the Saturday a week before the launches. The marching groups make their way across Main Street in Wellsville. The parade is followed by a popular Main Street Festival in downtown Wellsville with plenty of entertainment..

The public will be offered fascinating balloon rides available for purchase at rally headquarter. Balloon launches take place at 6 am and 6 pm throughout the rally, and private rides are possible during both morning and evening flights. In addition to balloons, attendees can enjoy a marketplace with food and merchandise vendors, including the Official Great Wellsville Balloon Rally store. Kids' entertainment includes bounce houses and a games trailer.

Balloons Launches Schedule

More than 30 hot air balloons will take off from Island Park on July 19–21, flying over the Genesee River and the beautiful area of Wellsville. The balloons will take off on Friday at 6 pm; on Saturday at 6 am and 6 pm; and on Sunday at 6 am. All flights are dependent on the weather and will be the responsibility of the Pilot Relations Officer. The ride will last between 30 and 60 minutes, and the pilot can bring you back to Island Park.

Parking and Pet Policy

The shuttle parking signs will direct guests to the village's free parking and shuttle service. The organizers ask visitors to leave their pets at home, as animals can create a public health and cleanliness issues.

Wellsville Balloon Rally History

The Wellsville Balloon Rally has been a favorite family tradition since 1975. In the past, the Wellsville Aviation Club hosted an annual Fly-In Breakfast as the only aviation activity. Members gathered at one of the hangars at the airport, cooked a delicious breakfast, and swapped stories with each other.

The first balloon rally was organized by local volunteers, such as Ray Stevens, Mr. and Mrs. Karney Cochran, Sue Purga, John Embser, Ralph and Bev Stockman, Bill Childs, and many others. Inspired by the movie "The Great Waldo Pepper," this group decided to name the air show The Great Wellsville Air Show. Since then, the hot-air balloon festival has become recognized as the biggest event in the county.